airCloset takes on resale of damaged United Arrows items to circulate fashion

Fashion rental service airCloset has partnered with United Arrows to take charge of the resale of slightly damaged goods as part of both companies’ efforts to reduce waste and encourage a circular economy within the fashion industry.

airCloset will leverage its proprietary circular platform to refurbish and reintroduce items with minor defects or damage sustained during in-store fittings. These products, deemed unsuitable for regular sale by United Arrows, will be cleaned, repaired, and restored to a sellable condition, reducing the need for disposal and promoting circularity.

The collaboration aligns with both companies’ commitment to sustainability and aims to tackle one of the industry’s most pressing issues of clothing waste. Re-commercializing these stock would make maximum use of existing products, minimizing their environmental footprint.

United Arrows, one of Japan’s leading fashion retailers, initiated the partnership as part of its “SARROWS” sustainability campaign. The company had previously explored methods to reintroduce “B-grade” items (products with slight imperfections) into the market. After an extensive verification process, United Arrows chose AirCloset’s circular platform, which offers customizable fulfillment services, including individual item management, repairs, and maintenance.

With this partnership, airCloset takes another step in broadening its reach beyond fashion rentals. In July, the company began managing a rental business for outdoor goods, signaling an intention to expand its circular platform into new markets.