With the demand for more eco-conscious choices and sustainability, repair services are becoming a critical aspects in reshaping the fashion industry. Extending the worn life of clothes is becoming key to building a more circular fashion industry and meeting the modern consumer’s needs.
However, scaling a repairs business presents several challenges, such as logistics, workforce, and maintaining high-quality standards. For many brands the question is not just whether repairs can be part of their strategy, but whether they are ready to meet this growing demand and unlock the potential of a rapidly expanding market.
The Rise of Repair Services: A Sustainability Driven Shift
In recent years, sustainability has taken centre stage in business models, as more consumers are opting to repair rather than dispose of items. This consumer behaviour and growing movement is aligning with a global push to reduce waste and environmental impact, whilst creating a booming demand for repair services. According to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, “repairs could increase a garment’s use by 75% and reduce its carbon emissions by 30%.
Although high-end luxury brands have offered repairs as part of their service for years, there is an emerging number of new brands entering this space. Businesses that embrace this demand are ultimately positioning themselves not only as service providers, but as leaders in the circular economy - a model that minimises waste by keeping products in use for longer.
Scaling a Repairs Service: The Benefits & Challenges.
According to Business of Fashion (2022), the repair sector has seen a surge in investment over the past year, with millions poured into start-ups and a growing number of brands adding repair services to their offerings.
The repairs market reflects a significant opportunity for growth, but scaling repair services comes with its own set of challenges. Many businesses encounter issues related to logistical delays, workforce shortages and untrained staff leading to longer turnaround times, and inconsistencies in service quality standards. Overcoming these challenges requires careful strategic planning, expert knowledge, and the right partnerships to ensure a smooth scaling process.
“Lucrative partnerships with brands and retailers are one way repair services are seeking to turbocharge growth and market penetration.”
(Business of Fashion, 2022)
Despite these challenges, scaling repair services offers substantial benefits. In a recent Vogue Business article, Emily Rea highlighted that offering repair services can attract new customers by boosting their confidence in the longevity and durability of their purchases. Knowing they are investing in quality products with reliable aftercare makes customers more likely to choose brands that offer these services.
Additionally, a 2022 WRAP report revealed that three in five (58%) UK consumers would be likely to use a repair service, providing businesses with a growing opportunity to reinvest into the growth and incorporation of these services into their business models.
Expert & Transparent Solutions for Proven Growth in the UK
Repair services are slowly becoming a key tool for brands in meeting the extended producer responsibility (EPR) legislation, which is already a effect in France and soon to be implemented across the EU. As the demand for repair services continues to grow, it’s crucial for businesses to have the right strategy and partners in place to scale effectively and meet the new regulatory requirements. (Link to ESG Article with Marcus)
At LLUK, we understand the unique challenges businesses face when scaling their repair services. Our expertise lies in helping businesses expand their offering efficiently and effectively through scalability and transparency.
Why Choose LLUK?
Transparent Solutions: LLUK offers a variety of services tailored to any business need, such as uniform repairs, linen repairs, garment alterations, or bespoke fixes.
Workforce Management: Our strategy involves recruiting, training, and retaining skilled talent who specialise in delivering high-quality repair work tailored to any specific requirements.
Scalable Operations: Our systems are built to grow and work closely with your business to tailor our services to your specific needs, with no minimum order quantities (MOQs), and we handle all logistics to streamline the process from start to finish.
Are you ready to scale your repair services and meet the growing needs of today’s consumers? Contact LLUK today to discuss how we can support your journey to scalable success.
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