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2023 Sustainability Report
published 2024/08/01

VAUDE Second Hand: An Eco-Friendly and Affordable Alternative to Buying New

Since 2024, Second Hand has been a cornerstone of VAUDE's circular business models, integral to our strategy for sustainable and resource-efficient growth. In addition to our existing reuse options (FairWertung & Ebay Second Use) and the VAUDE repair service, we aim to further increase the volume of reused outdoor clothing.

Extending Equipment Use - For the Sake of the Environment

Global textile production is expanding rapidly, yet there's a growing surplus of unworn clothing. According to Greenpeace, one billion textiles languish unused in German closets alone. Textile production ranks fourth in Europe for its impact on climate change and the environment (after food, construction, and transportation), due to its significant water, land, raw material, and energy consumption, as highlighted by an EU study.

Moving towards a circular economy is a critical solution. The Greenpeace report "The Label Trap" underscores this: simply doubling the lifespan of our clothing from one to two years could cut CO2 emissions by 24 percent.


»At every level, we are dedicated to prolonging the lifespan of our products, offering a solution to combat the escalating throwaway culture that imposes severe strain on our planet. Circular concepts such as our Second Hand Shop provide a pathway to tackle global challenges like climate change, resource depletion, and biodiversity loss.«

Antje von Dewitz, CEO of VAUDE

Cost-effective Alternative for Sustainable Outdoor Products

With the introduction of an online Second Hand shop, VAUDE is successfully combining social justice with sustainability. VAUDE aims to enable as many people as possible to afford high-quality, sustainably produced outdoor products. These products reflect true production costs, incorporating stringent social standards, comprehensive chemical management, environmental certifications, and more. This makes sustainable products more expensive compared to those where standards are less rigorously enforced. By selling well-maintained, used items, VAUDE now offers a more affordable alternative to purchasing new goods.



High-Quality Used VAUDE Products

The VAUDE Second Hand webshop features a diverse selection of top-notch, used outdoor gear. In the first step, these are returned items that have already been used and can no longer be sold as new. Each item undergoes refurbishment and rigorous quality testing. Through collaboration with WKS, VAUDE ensures all products meet its high standards. A professional cleaning and repair service ensures each item is hygienic and fully functional. Multi-layered garments are reproofed as needed. Product conditions are clearly marked on the online shop: from "Like New" (minimal signs of use) to "Very Good" (minor visible wear) to "Good" (visible signs of wear), helping customers make informed decisions before purchase.
Repair of VAUDE second hand jacket
Repair of VAUDE second hand jacket
 
 
 
 

Second Hand as Part of a Comprehensive Concept

New, rental, used – all in one place at www.vaude.com. We're now offering a variety of new, rentable, and pre-owned products, making VAUDE's circular business models visible to customers and highlighting our commitment to sustainability, which extends beyond our products to embrace a holistic approach.

The current global success of the second-hand market, especially in textiles, highlights the significant opportunities this approach offers for a more sustainable future. This step not only marks a crucial milestone on our journey toward a circular economy but also reflects our strong belief that sustainability and mindful consumption go hand in hand. Looking ahead, we see our circular business models such as rentals and second-hand sales as key drivers in our effort to reduce our reliance on resources over the long term.



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GRI:   3-3
Management of material topics