Footwear giant Crocs has rolled out Retail Takeback – a pilot program that encourages customers to recycle their old Crocs shoes.
Consumers in ten US states, including Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Wisconsin, can bring their worn Crocs shoes, regardless of condition, to a designated collection box in the participating stores.
As a token of appreciation, participants can also collect a free limited-edition “Crocs Saver” Jibbitz charm for partnering with Crocs to repurpose old shoes responsibly.
Gently used Crocs received as part of this program will be donated to Soles4Souls. The international non-profit organisation is known for its 4Opportunity program, which creates local economic benefits in communities through entrepreneurship and jobs.
Pairs that are not fit for reuse will be repurposed and reimagined, giving the materials another use, such as upcycling into new Crocs shoes.
Deanna Bratter, VP and global head of sustainability for Crocs, said the initiative aims to address environmental and social challenges posed by product waste in the fashion industry.
“We’re excited to take this next step on our path toward innovating for a circular economy and a better future for footwear,” said Bratter.
“Together with our fans, we can unlock innovation and partnerships to reduce waste, reuse our materials, keep shoes out of landfills, and help people in need.”
Crocs is planning to scale and expand the Retail Takeback Program to all of its US retail and online stores.
