Collecting garments

When a product reaches the end of its usefulness, the materials that it is composed of are still valuable resources that should not be thrown away.  In the circular, closed-loop economy that we are helping to build, these materials will be reused or recycled.

One way we are engaging our customers in helping us close the loop is through a program with our partner PACKMEE that gives people the chance to extend the life of their garments by donating them.

PACKMEE collects donations of usable clothing and shoes and provides free, simple-to-use shipping to send them on for a second life. When PACKMEE sells these clothes, it turns in-kind donations into real, monetary support by donating 50% of its revenue, excluding postage and logistics costs, to the German Red Cross. PACKMEE’s German collection and donation system has one of the highest donation rates compared to other programs. The remaining 50% of PACKMEE’s revenue is used to finance the operating costs, such as logistics, transport, sorting and personnel costs.

Every garment donation reduces new production, reduces waste and reduces the environment footprint of the apparel industry. Customers can also claim an Esprit voucher for a 10% discount in exchange for donating their old clothes.

In addition, we will establish a take-back system for all our European Retail stores by 2021. We are currently exploring possible cooperation partners.