Otrium launches garment repair programme with Bleckmann

Online outlet, Otrium, has announced the launch of a garment refurbishment and repair programme for damaged returns in partnership with Bleckmann, the experts in supply chain management.

Working with Bleckmann’s team at the The Renewal Workshop, Otrium is taking the next step in its strategic journey to help reduce the amount of clothing ending up in landfill. Most of the returns that Otrium currently receives can be easily restored and put back on sale. However, sometimes returns are damaged.

Kevin Carolan, Director of Logistics at Otrium, commented: "Preventing waste is an important part of Otrium’s DNA, and thanks to our partnership with Bleckmann and their Renewal Workshop team, we can now repair the majority of damaged returns and put them back into circulation.

"We are happy that we can use our position in the fashion supply chain to create lasting change and accelerate towards our mission of reducing the volume of garments that go to landfill."

In April 2023, the duo started a three-month pilot at Bleckmann’s facility in the Netherlands to expand its existing programme with a broader range of repairs and optimised processes through use of data. During this period, Bleckmann's team refurbished over 1,000 returned garments, shoes and accessories for Otrium each month.

Tamara Zwart, Director of Renewal at Bleckmann, said: "Data collection and analysis can be vital in demonstrating the commercial viability of sustainability initiatives.

"Using our advanced stock tracking systems, we determined that 70% of the renewed Otrium stock had been sold within seven weeks. We’re all delighted with the results!"

What's more, carbon-tracking software Vaayu calculated that on average, a refurbished return sold on Otrium avoids 2.760kg of carbon emissions and 69g of waste proofing that this programme can have a positive impact on both: the planet and the business.