The North Face expands its secondhand program

In 2018, The North Face launched its “Renewed” program, an innovative initiative aimed at giving a second life to returned, defective, or damaged apparel. Initially available as an online-only platform, the program offered customers a chance to purchase high-quality, refurbished items at a lower price, reducing waste and promoting sustainability.

In 2022, The North Face partnered with resale software company Archive to enhance its circular economy efforts. Together, they introduced a takeback program that encouraged customers to return their old or worn-out gear in exchange for store credit. This not only incentivized customers to participate in the recycling process but also gave The North Face a steady supply of materials to refurbish and resell. Additionally, that year saw the launch of 20 new “circular styles,” designed with the intention of making the recycling process even easier. These garments were created to be easily disassembled and recycled into new items of the same quality, ensuring they could be reintroduced into the market without compromising on performance or durability.

Now, with the expansion of the Renewed program, The North Face is making it even more accessible for customers to participate. Shoppers can now mail in items through an online trade-in process, giving them even more flexibility in how they contribute to the program. This evolution allows customers to declutter their wardrobes while simultaneously earning credit for future purchases. If an item doesn’t qualify for renewal or resale—perhaps because it’s too worn out—the brand offers another solution: donating or recycling. By providing multiple pathways for extending the life of outdoor gear, The North Face ensures that even items beyond repair can be handled in an eco-friendly manner.

This expansion reflects The North Face's broader commitment to sustainability and its drive to minimize its environmental impact. As the world grapples with the growing waste crisis and the fashion industry’s significant contribution to it, The North Face’s efforts represent a meaningful step forward in responsible consumerism. The Renewed program not only offers customers a way to reduce their carbon footprint but also fosters a culture of conscious consumption in the outdoor community.