However, after-sales service has not been a priority in the sector to date. “It has never been offered on a large scale or promulgated as something accessible to everyone,” says Rea. "Even guarantees usually put up a barrier, like the purchase receipt."

In a framework in which an increasing number of countries are considering Extended Producer Responsibility legislation (already in force in France) that makes brands financially responsible for collecting, classifying and recycling products at the end of their useful life , attention to repair will increase. "It is very important that the responsibility of the company towards its garments does not end at the time of purchase," says Philips.

As circularity gains ground in public debate, repair will be an essential service for a more sustainable fashion industry. "After-sales care underpins circularity," explains Rea. "For rental and resale, the product must be clean, repaired and cared for to remain desirable."

That is why it is crucial that, just as they are already doing with resale, brands begin to integrate repair into their offer. "It is an opportunity to encourage customers to invest in the brand they like and move away from the habit of using and throwing away," concludes Rea. "Our mission is to make after-sales care as integrated as the actual act of purchase in the way of living fashion."

@surbhi944 @ANI An apology to @surbhi944 It's a combined cause, mean to say of both (girl/future mother & boy/futur… https://t.co/rxxJlwvkS5

— Narmesh Nigam Thu May 10 14:26:20 +0000 2018

This article was originally published on Vogue.co.uk

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