Lululemon has entered the resale market trend, joining other major brands like Canada Goose and Arc’teryx in revamping their approach to selling second-hand clothing. The company has partnered with Tersus Solutions to process returned Lululemon items at a 25,000-square-foot facility in Calgary. This initiative, called Like New, allows customers to buy and sell pre-owned Lululemon clothing through an online platform.
The appeal of resale for companies lies in the opportunity to sell products that would have otherwise been discarded. Customers can save money on newer items while also contributing to sustainability efforts. Through the Like New program, customers can receive either 70% of the sale price in cash or 90% in store credit.
At the Calgary facility, clothing undergoes thorough inspection, cleaning, and grading using an eco-friendly liquid CO2 cleaning system. Despite focusing mainly on returned items initially, the facility has been processing a high volume of orders, exceeding expectations.
The CEO of Tersus Solutions, Peter Whitcomb, emphasized the increasing demand for recovered value from returned and used merchandise. He mentioned that many brands are exploring the resale market as a profitable business line.
Retail analysts note a growing trend of consumers buying and selling pre-owned items, with platforms like Facebook Marketplace gaining popularity. By embracing resale under their own brand, retailers can attract new customers and provide more affordable options for budget-conscious shoppers.
Anián, a clothing company based in Victoria, was an early adopter of resale, launching its own marketplace in 2021. This move aligns with the company’s commitment to sustainability, using post-consumer recycled fabrics in its products. Other companies, like IKEA Canada, have also introduced resale programs to promote circularity and reduce waste.
Overall, the shift towards resale models offers customers access to quality products at different price points without compromising the brand’s premium status. It’s a strategy that benefits both consumers and the environment while creating new opportunities for brands to engage with their audience.