Dr Martens is considering expanding its ReWair resale platform globally after strong performance in the US market. Chief executive Ije Nwokorie told the Press Association the footwear retailer wants to "build that offering out" following the success of its second-hand sales initiative launched in March 2024.
The US platform has sold more than 10,000 pre-loved pairs since launch. Notably, 43% of resale customers were new to the brand as of the end of March. "It really plays to our strengths," Nwokorie said to PA. "And all of that is a revenue stream for us."
The move comes amid a surge in demand for second-hand products. Delivery giant Evri reported nearly 50 million more parcel deliveries in the first half of this year, driven by the boom in pre-loved shopping through platforms like Vinted.
UK operations
Dr Martens has operated a ReWair shop on Depop since April 2022 in partnership with The Boot Repair Company. The UK platform has sold more than 13,000 refurbished products. Nearly 5,800 customers have used the company's authorized repair service.
The ReWair platform repairs, restores, authenticates and sells second-hand footwear and bags through a dedicated online store. Items that cannot be refurbished are directed to recycling or donation.
Sustainability push
The expansion aligns with Dr Martens' goal for all products to have a "sustainable end-of-life" option by 2040. The company also aims to make all products from sustainable materials by that date.
In March 2024, Dr Martens introduced three products made with Genix Nappa, a new material from reclaimed leather. The initiative forms part of the company's broader sustainability strategy for its yellow-stitched boots, described as a "retro mainstay for decades."
Nwokorie indicated the company is doing "really well" with its resale efforts but did not specify which countries or timelines for potential expansion.
Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
