schuh is proud to introduce Sell Your Soles in partnership with Recyclatex. The initiative, launched today, encourages customers nationwide to recycle their unwanted shoes, no matter where they are from as long as they are in a wearable condition. For every pair donated, customers will receive a £5 voucher which is redeemable against full priced items.
This scheme will be rolled out across schuh’s 130 stores in the UK and Ireland and is part of the brand’s on-going commitment to operate sustainably. Textile reuse experts, Recyclatex will collect all donations weekly, resulting in approximately 98% of all components and materials being recycled. For every tonne collected, Recyclatex will make a payment to schuh who in-turn will donate this sum to schuh’s sustainable charity of choice, World Land Trust. Our aim is to essentially create a circular economy, in an effort to make footwear more sustainable.
“As a fashion retailer, we recognise the importance of protecting the environment and are on a mission to proactively find new ways to operate sustainably. We are delighted to roll out Sell Your Soles in partnership with Recyclatex, giving customers across all regions an accessible way to recycle their end of life shoes with confidence. ” Colin Temple, Managing Director, schuh.
Earlier this year schuh formalised Purpose Pillars that support the brand’s culture of diversity, self expression and inclusivity. These include Mental Health Awareness, LGBTQ+, Fostering Young Talent and Sustainability, with each pillar supported by an internal committee consisting of representatives across schuh. The Sustainability Team have been instrumental in leading and driving schuh’s efforts forward. Following their recommendations other current initiatives include:
• Currently zero waste to landfill from HQ and Scottish stores
• Working to increase our zero waste to landfill strategy to all our stores located on the high street
• Reduction on POS print in store by 20%
• Introduction of new carrier and online bags that are 100% recyclable
• Launching a sustainable footwear range early 2020
• HQ herb garden, grown using recycled coffee grinds from staff canteen
“We are working with relevant communities and charities with regular workshops, to ensure we understand the key issues and opportunities for each purpose pillar. schuh has a huge platform and we want to utilise our reach to support positive messaging and deliver charitable donations to fuel further change. It is critical that this isn’t just for key events or times of the year, our commitment is to continually better our understanding and deliver regular initiatives. We appreciate there is always more than can be done but we are proud to share our purpose journey so far and we’ll continue to learn and drive greater impact together with our Teams and customers.” Alice Cleary, Chief Marketing Officer, schuh
