Balenciaga is doing its part to reduce fashion waste by launching a re-sell program that allows customers to unload old goods.
The prestigious fashion house has teamed up with Reflaunt, a company that specializes in re-distributing fashion brands. Balenciaga will allow customers to drop off previously purchased goods at select Balenciaga stores through the partnership. The brand will partner with a collection service to retrieve the items for those who cannot make it to a location.
Once retrieved, the pre-loved Balenciaga pieces will be authenticated, photographed, priced, and listed on the Reflaunt international network. All of the goods will ship directly from Balenciaga to their new home. Sellers of the items will receive a credit for the high-end store or a monetary payout.
This latest initiative by Balenciaga is meant to reduce waste and encourage the re-circulation of clothing. Recently, other luxury brands have launched re-sell programs with the same goal in mind. Coach unveiled its (Re)Loved program for people wanting to get rid of their lightly worn handbags. Michael Kors also kicked off its Pre-Loved platform with rare MK goods passed down from customers.
The fashion industry has been criticized for decades for the way it discards out-of-season products. In recent years, many practices have ceased, including the burning of outdated merchandise.
