In a move to expand its commitment to sustainability, Primark is bringing its recycling programme to stores in Germany and Austria.
The recycling initiative was first introduced in the UK in 2020, and according to the Irish fast fashion group, the programme has seen 23 tons of textiles already donated. The launch of the programme in Germany and Austria means that customers will now be able to donate used clothing, shoes and bags from all brands via collection boxes in Primark branches. The clothing donations are then collected, sorted, reused or recycled.
The expansion of the programme falls in line with Primark’s new sustainability strategy which was announced last month. The brand has also recently signed the Textiles 2030 initiative which aims to develop a new longevity standard for textiles through collaboration with sustainability organisation WRAP and other retailers.
Christiane Wiggers-Voellm, Managing Director of Primark Germany and Austria, commented: “Donating used clothing to make it easier to recycle is an important part of our efforts to become a more circular and more sustainable company. Expanding our recycling programme to four countries and more than 250 stores means we can give more clothing a second life and less ends up in the landfill.”
