Hand-in-hand with ACS we operate carbon neutral logistics services, and are on track to achieve Net-Zero by 2025 - worth it right?
In the past few years, it’s become commonplace to recline, fully outstretched below the umbrella term that describes what it means to be a good, modern, e-commerce business. Sustainable is a term most often used to describe incremental changes that contribute to the prevention of climate change. However, the specificities of what it actually means to be a sustainable business can be difficult to confront head-on for fear of needing to completely reinvent your infrastructure.
Our logistics partnership with ACS Clothing means we can confidently pitch that umbrella ourselves, actively minimising our carbon footprint moving forward. Celebrating their 25th anniversary this year, ACS is backed by material science with a dedicated research and development team. Hand-in-hand with ACS we operate carbon neutral logistics services, and are on track to achieve Net-Zero by 2025 - worth it right.
The very basis of recommerce promotes renewing the life of pre-owned items, and luxury ultimately represents a commitment to craftsmanship and quality - it is the duality of ‘luxury recommerce’ that makes up the core of Hewi - because in theory, if treated correctly, items could be expected to last a lifetime. As such, it is a priority to ensure all items are expertly maintained to the highest standards.
EVERYTHING at the ACS warehouse is preventative, so no chemicals are used on materials unnecessarily, and putting an item through a machine wash is the absolute last resort (of course, items are always sanitised - using environmentally friendly Ozone Gas Technology, the first of its kind in Europe). We saw the ACS spot stain removal service first-hand, with employees using a number of treatments to remove even the most stubborn stains from the most delicate fabrics. HEWI INSIDER TIP: Mayonnaise can be removed with a classic Blodex & Lacex chemical combo, whilst Wax is removed using Lacex alone; thank us later. The repair team worked just as confidently, ensuring even the finest repairs were undetectable in the context of the original stitching.
You can take a look at a Molly Goddard dress’ journey through the warehouse
At their Glasgow HQ, ACS include several bespoke touches that prove their conscious message extends beyond just their fulfilment and product care service. The site includes a wormery, where any waste food from the staff canteen is composted, and two beehives, the honey from which is gifted to visitors - a truly heartwarming (and delicious) takeaway.
The positive forward-thinking working environment is underpinned by their inclusionary workforce, and dedication to well-being. 16% of ACS’ current workforce have a disability and to-date they have employed 64 16-24 year olds as part of the UK government's kick-starter scheme. After a successful pilot in Easter, ACS are implementing a refugee and training programme that is due to launch this year.
We are so proud to be working with ACS as our logistics partner, to help us continue driving a new perception of what it means to shop luxury - and to ensure a truly sustainable future for fashion.
