Discover how top outdoor brands like North Face and Patagonia are boosting profits sustainably through resale channels with insights from Trove.

The Rise of Sustainable Secondhand Fashion

The resale market is experiencing unprecedented growth. Over the last decade, the demand for pre-owned goods has steadily increased, but in the past two years, this surge has accelerated even more. In the United States alone, the resale market is projected to double by 2026, growing 16 times faster than the traditional retail sector. This explosive growth is not just a trend but a testament to the evolving consumer mindset towards sustainability and smart shopping.

Why Sustainable Resale is Gaining Momentum

Climate-Conscious Consumers Demand It

Modern consumers are increasingly aware of their environmental footprint. A recent study revealed that 55% of Americans prefer buying from brands committed to sustainability. This trend is even more pronounced in the outdoor industry, where enthusiasts are particularly mindful of their impact on the environment. Outdoor brands are leveraging resale channels to demonstrate genuine commitment to sustainability, offering eco-friendly choices that resonate deeply with their customer base.

Making Unaﬀordable Brands Accessible

High-quality outdoor gear often comes with a hefty price tag, which can be a barrier for many consumers. Resale channels effectively lower the entry cost, making premium brands like Arc’teryx more accessible. This strategy not only broadens the customer base but also attracts younger demographics, with 80% of Gen Z consumers engaging in the purchase of pre-worn goods. By facilitating access to top-tier products at affordable prices, brands can attract and retain a loyal, younger audience.

Encouraging Brand Loyalty and In-Store Foot Traffic

Branded resale initiatives foster deeper customer engagement and loyalty. Data from Trove’s Business Analytics Dashboard indicates that consumers who interact with a brand’s resale channel are more likely to return. For instance, Arc’teryx observed that 20% of customers participated in trade-ins more than once within the first eighteen months. Additionally, resale programs drive in-store traffic, as seen with REI’s expansion of its Re/Supply program and Arc’teryx’s ReBird service center in New York City, which offers cleaning, repair, and resale services.

Outdoor Brands Leading the Charge with Resale

Patagonia: Worn Wear

Since launching its Worn Wear program in 2017, Patagonia has empowered customers to repair, recycle, and trade in their gear. This initiative not only extends the life of products by at least two years but also fosters a community narrative through its blog, “The Stories We Wear.” By emphasizing the stories behind pre-owned garments, Patagonia strengthens its brand equity and commitment to sustainability.

Arc’teryx: ReBird

Arc’teryx’s ReBird program focuses on keeping “great gear in action.” Customers can trade in eligible gear either in-store or online, receiving a 20% gift card towards future purchases. Since its inception in 2019, ReBird has revitalized nearly 10,000 pounds of pre-owned gear, promoting durability and customer education on garment care through engaging video content.

REI: Re/Supply

REI’s Re/Supply program emphasizes carbon emission reduction by encouraging the purchase of pre-owned items. Customers can exchange lightly-used gear for store credit, available both online and in physical stores. The integration of rental shops within REI locations has further boosted program participation, ensuring that sustainability remains at the forefront of their business model.

Cotopaxi: Guaranteed for Good

Founded in 2014, Cotopaxi is dedicated to creating “Gear for Good.” Their Guaranteed for Good promise includes repair and trade-in options that extend product lifespans. Additionally, Cotopaxi’s RePurpose Collection utilizes remnant fabrics, underscoring their commitment to ethical production and sustainability.

NEMO Equipment: Trade-In Program

NEMO Equipment’s trade-in program, launched in collaboration with Trove, allows customers to trade in gear for estimates and kits online. As part of their mission to be Climate Neutral Certified, NEMO aims to significantly reduce emissions and promote the longevity of their products through strategic resale initiatives.

Insights from Trove

Trove stands at the forefront of facilitating branded resale for outdoor brands. As an all-in-one platform, Trove handles the technology, operations, and analytics required to create and scale a recommerce channel. Their white-label solutions simplify the complexities of logistics, transforming them into seamless customer experiences. By partnering with leading brands like Patagonia, REI, and Arc’teryx, Trove ensures that the resale process upholds the authenticity and sustainability values that these brands represent.

The Future of Sustainable Secondhand Fashion

The trajectory of the secondhand market shows no signs of slowing down. With a projected market size of nearly $64 billion by 2028, driven by sustainability awareness and digital platform efficiency, the future is bright for sustainable resale. Brands that embrace this model not only contribute to environmental conservation but also build lasting relationships with their customers.

Conclusion

Sustainable fashion secondhand is revolutionizing the outdoor industry, driving both profitability and environmental stewardship. By leveraging resale channels, top outdoor brands are not only enhancing their profit margins but also reinforcing their commitment to sustainability. Insights from Trove highlight the critical role of innovative platforms in enabling this growth, ensuring that the circular economy thrives.

Ready to sell your items the easy and sustainable way? Visit Rid today and join the movement towards a greener, hassle-free resale experience!