BPLab and Book Off unveil new collaboration to circulate textiles

BPLab, a company specializing in sustainable textile solutions through their platform “BIOLOGIC LOOP,” is expanding its reach. In a new partnership with Book Off Corporation, the company is launching a comprehensive recycling program starting September 19, where selected “Riat!” stores in Tokyo will begin collecting unwanted leather goods like shoes and bags.

The initiative is part of a broader strategy to promote a circular economy—ensuring products are not merely consumed and discarded, but rather, repurposed and reused. “This program allows for easy participation by anyone interested in reducing waste and contributing to a more sustainable future,” stated a BPLab representative.

Unlike traditional recycling projects, this collaboration aims to repurpose collected items responsibly, with an international angle. The collected goods will be sorted, cleaned, and then sold in Malaysia and other countries through Book Off Group’s reuse shop, “Jalan Jalan Japan.”

Reform Studio, a company belonging to the AEON Group, has also teamed up with the initiative. Founded in 1986, Reform Studio has long been committed to reducing waste by providing services like clothing alterations and repairs for shoes and bags. In our consumer-centric society, the focus is often on acquiring more. But, what if the new ‘more’ is actually less? Less waste, less unused items cluttering our homes.

The program will initially launch in 36 Riat! stores primarily in Tokyo. It is open to all kinds of leather and textile products: leather shoes, sneakers, pumps, boots, children’s shoes, bags, and backpacks. However, items that are deteriorated, sticky, moldy, or missing a pair will not be accepted.

As an added incentive, the first 100 customers to contribute items for recycling will receive a 100-yen discount coupon valid for various in-store services including shoe and bag repairs, as well as cleaning services.

The initiative is part of the BIOLOGIC LOOP platform, which was launched in August 2021 to build connections between the fashion industry and consumers, aiming to create a circular industry that focuses on product regeneration rather than disposal.