Selfridges to launch repair and resell services

Changes on the high street could be afoot after department store Selfridges announced its new sustainability initiative.

Project Earth builds on what the company calls “industry leading steps” that it has taken over the last decade. It aims to change the way we shop by 2025, by placing sustainability at the heart of the business and changing mindsets in the retail, fashion and beauty industries.

The initiative will help shoppers to make more sustainable choices in three key ways: addressing the materials used in products; launching new retail models such as repair and resell; and engaging with teams, partners and customers to inspire a shift in mindset.

It’s a bold move by the luxury department store, and one which we hope will inspire change among other big brands. But what exactly does it involve?

What is Project Earth?

Project Earth will kick off with an eight-week trial run of experiments, innovations and conversations in-store and online. During this time, Selfridges will work with over 300 brand partners, and will have the support of Woodland Trust and WWF.

If you’re shopping in store, you may notice Project Earth signage and displays (which are made from recycled or sustainably sourced materials, by the way!).

You can also keep an eye out for the new Project Earth labelling both in-store and online, which will replace the Buying Better label scheme. These will point you towards products that have a specific sustainable attribute, whether that means they contain recycled materials, are made with organic ingredients or are vegan-friendly.

Selfridges is also set to launch new services including a Repairs Concierge, helping customers to find a repair service to help restore their well-worn items. What’s more, Resellfridges will launch in September: the own-brand resale model aims to make it easier for customers to shop pre-loved, vintage and archive clothing and accessories.

As part of the campaign, a programme of events and activities will help people engage with sustainability through talks, takeovers and screenings. Upcoming events include The Guardian’s webinar titled Ethical Consumerism: oxymoron or opportunity on 18th September; The Future Laboratory’s Instagram takeover under the theme of Immaterial Fashion: the end of ownership? on 8th October; and How To Academy’s webinar titled Eco Innovations: future-facing ideas for our changing world on 15th October.