Primark updates its Circular Product Standard
Irish high street retailer Primark launched a first Circular Product Standard in 2023 which was inspired by a report by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation. It is now introducing an updated version, backed by three years of learning and a closer collaboration with the Circular Textile Foundation, an organisation that delivers a circular label and offers training to apparel brands and retailers. In 2024, Primark said it had stepped up its circularity training programme with the Circular Textile Foundation.
These efforts have translated into 5% of its sales by unit being ‘circular’ in its 2024/25 financial year. Jerseys (20%) and denim (8%) are the two key ‘circular by design’ product categories.
Primark has simplified certain elements of its circular design guidelines and more clearly defined different levels of circularity with regards to materials, durability and recyclability requirements. The retailer said that it was also investigating printing techniques “to identify more recyclable options”.
As part of its circular strategy, Primark has launched free repair workshops for its customers, with online tutorials for those who are unable to attend in-person events. After a trial period, in its Manchester store last year, it now plans to expand its in-store repair service, The Seamto its Bromley and Edinburgh Princes Street locations.
An in-store takeback system is also being expanded with its recycling partner, Yellow Octopus Circular Solutions.
Earlier this year, Primark launched a first jeans capsule collection made from denims having 20% recycled cotton from old jeans.
The Circular Textile Foundation was founded by Tim Cross, who is interviewed in our feature, here.
Photo shows Primark a denim set from its circular denim capsule
