What Happens to Returned Clothes at Retail Stores: Insights from Target and Kohl's

Retail shoppers often wonder what becomes of the returned clothing they send back to stores like Target and Kohl's. The fate of these returned items can vary greatly depending on their condition and the store's policies. This article explores the typical handling process of returned clothes at Target and Kohl's, shedding light on their re-shop programs, disposal methods, and sustainable practices.

Condition-Based Handling

The first step in understanding what happens to returned clothes is to consider their condition upon arrival at the store. Typically, about 70% of the returned clothing items at Target and Kohl's are due to size mismatches or personal preference changes. For instance, a customer buys a medium, tries it on at home, and realizes it’s too small. In such cases, the items are often placed in the 'reshop' category, where team members carefully recondition the garments and return them to the sales floor.

Handling Damaged Items

However, not all returned items can be resold or reconditioned. When clothes are significantly damaged, such as having a giant hole or other irreparable defects, they are often marked as defective. These items are then packaged, sent to a Target salvage store, and assessed by employees. Depending on the extent of the damage, the items may be either discarded or sold at a deep discount to limit financial losses.

Store Policies and Handling Methods

The handling of returned clothes can vary based on the specific policies and procedures of the store. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what typically happens:

Restocking

If the returned items are in 'new or like-new' condition, they are often restocked and resold. Retailers have strict policies to ensure that returned items are still sellable and meet their quality standards.

Discounted Resale

Some items may be marked down and sold in clearance sections or during special sales events. This approach helps recover some of the costs associated with returns and opens up opportunities for customers to purchase items at reduced prices.

Donation

Many retailers have partnerships with charities and may donate unsold or unsellable items. This is more common for items that are still in good condition but cannot be resold at full price. These items often end up in good hands, helping those in need and reducing waste.

Recycling or Disposal

If the returned clothes are heavily worn, damaged, or not suitable for resale, they may be recycled or disposed of. Retailers are increasingly focusing on sustainable practices, so some stores are now opting to recycle textiles instead of sending them to landfills. This helps mitigate the environmental impact of discarded clothing.

Liquidation

Some retailers sell returned items to liquidation companies in bulk. These companies then resell the items at discounted prices, often through outlets or online platforms. This method helps maximize the value of returned items and reduces the environmental footprint.

Sustainable Practices and Future Trends

Retailers like Target and Kohl's are increasingly adopting sustainable practices to handle returned clothes. They recognize the importance of reducing waste, promoting recycling, and supporting ethical practices. In the future, we can expect to see more initiatives aimed at improving the lifecycle of returned clothing and minimizing its environmental impact.

By understanding the fate of returned clothes, consumers can make more informed purchasing decisions and support retailers that prioritize sustainability. As consumers, we have the power to drive positive change by choosing stores that take responsible actions and practices seriously.