Vestiaire Collective, the prominent French resale fashion giant, has recently opened a new authentication center in the UK as part of its expansion strategy. This move is aimed at “Brexit-proofing” the British fashion industry, which has faced numerous complications following the country’s departure from the European Union. The newly launched center, which had a soft launch in late 2021, is the fourth of its kind for Vestiaire, joining existing locations in France, the US, and Hong Kong.
The impact of Brexit on the second-hand fashion market in the UK has been significant. Despite the initial intent for a tariff-free agreement, the deal has led to higher purchase fees, longer lead times, and restrictions on shipping certain categories of items across borders. In fact, a survey conducted by the UK Fashion and Textile Association (UKFT) revealed that 74% of fashion businesses have experienced setbacks due to cost increases resulting from Brexit. Since the introduction of full customs declarations and controls at the beginning of this year, the situation has further worsened.
Vestiaire Collective recognizes the crucial role of authentication expertise in providing a trusted experience for its customers. The establishment of the new authentication center in the UK aims to alleviate longer lead times and delivery fees, thereby ensuring the best customer service. As a result, the company believes it is the only major player in the fashion market capable of offering a trusted, sustainable, and Brexit-proof experience. By diverting up to 1,000 items per day from requiring authentication in France, Vestiaire Collective can significantly reduce its carbon footprint.
The launch of this new authentication center coincides with a growing demand for second-hand fashion in the UK. According to Vestiaire Collective’s data, one-third of UK fashion buyers planned to purchase or already purchased second-hand items during the festive period. Additionally, nearly one in three individuals has either started selling or increased their selling activities over the past year. Physical authentication is widely seen as the most reliable means of ensuring trust when purchasing second-hand fashion items, particularly since online shopping has become more expensive and suffered longer lead times post-Brexit.
Maximilian Bittner, CEO of Vestiaire Collective, believes that the new authentication center will make circular fashion more accessible, trusted, and sustainable. He argues that British consumers have been unjustly affected by Brexit just as the prevalence of counterfeit items has been on the rise. The company’s goal is to compete with fast fashion and minimize its impact on the environment by offering a sustainable alternative. Through its expanded presence in the UK, Vestiaire Collective hopes to contribute to the country’s pursuit of a more sustainable future in fashion.
Useful Links:
1. Vestiaire Collective
2. UK Fashion and Textile Association (UKFT)
