“Like New” is Lululemon’s concept where customers can exchange their gently used pieces in stores for credit and buy previously owned apparel online (CNN). Though trade-ins are not accepted at outlets, they are accepted in all stores in the US.
This idea uses closed-loop recycling, ensuring used clothes do not end up in landfills. Closed-loop recycling follows the process that recycles and reuses post-consumer products to supply the material used to create a new version of the same product (Road Runner).
After analyzing the program, it is clear that buyers have a better deal than sellers in this case. However, sustainability wise, 100% of this program’s profits are invested into their sustainability initiatives.
Initiatives include using less water, innovating more sustainable ideas and decarbonizing their value chain (Be Planet).
Pros: Over 12,000 women’s clothing, transparent condition communication (gently used, good as new), prices are nearly 40% lower than original, returns are accepted within 30 days and all profits go to green-initiatives.
Cons: Credit value is lower than reselling on other sites, not all items are accepted
The credit goes as follows:
•$5 – Shirts, Shorts, Skirts, $10 – Hoodies, Sweatshirts, Sweaters, Pants, Crops, Leggings, Dresses, Large Bags (Backpacks, Duffles, and Totes larger than 10L), $25- Outerwear
You can find a more detailed analysis here.
Overall, despite the lower credit value, this initiative works toward greater sustainable development goals, making it worth it long term.
Let Clothes Live Long 