ApparelXchange: Reusing school uniforms and other children’s clothing

Clothing is very often thrown away after being worn. For children’s wear and especially uniforms that is a very pressing problem. Children grow out of their garments quickly. Those clothes, most of the time still in very good condition, are generally discarded, especially, if there is no option for the family to pass the clothing on to a younger child within the family or circle of friends.

In 2018, ApparelXchange started selling pre-owned or unworn school uniforms at an affordable price. Later the company enhanced their offer to include any kind of children’s clothes and shoes.

Their stock is built up through donations of outgrown or unworn clothing suitable for ages 4 to 18. Donations can be brought to drop-off points in Glasgow South Side and City Centre and at associated schools. The enterprise also arranges a collections service. Donation items are quality checked, washed, ironed and when necessary repaired before being resold at an affordable price. Items, that do not pass the quality test, are recycled by a registered textile recycling facility. ApparelXchange is supported by volunteers who assist with retail sales in-store and online, repair items, and gather donations.

ApparelXchange wants to not only provide good value for money but also make people aware of the environmental benefits of wearing pre-worn clothes. Pre-covid, ApparelXchange went to schools and delivered learning sessions, covered aspects like global citizenship and sustainability, and organised sewing workshops. The initiative by ApparelXchange is supported by the Education Department of the Glasgow City Council.

ApparelXchange is partnered with a number of schools in Glasgow that welcome used uniform sales. The schools also believe that ApparelXchange's professional approach helps remove the stigma of wearing second-hand clothing. In addition, ApparelXchange provides families in need with free clothing, shoes, and uniform package. In summer 2020, more than 3000 clothing items were gifted to families in need.

ApparelXchange measures their carbon impacts and savings. They plan to update their carbon counter enabling customers to record their carbon savings when buying with them.