Walmart launches into fashion resale with ThredUp

By

Gabriella Lacombe

Published
May 28, 2020

Walmart has entered into the fashion resale market through a new online partnership with e-thrift store, ThredUp.

As part of the partnership, Walmart will offer nearly 750,000 pre-owned items of women’s and children’s clothing, accessories, footwear and handbags on Walmart.com starting May 27. At first launch, available brands include Express, Guess, Cole Haan, Who What Wear, J.Crew, Lauren Ralph Lauren, Gymboree, Gap Kids and Forever 21, among others. 

All items have been inspected by ThredUp to verify their condition, and the Walmart selection offers only pre-owned clothing and shoes deemed “new” or “like new," while "gently used” accessories and handbags are also available, said Denise Incandela, head of fashion for Walmart U.S. e-commerce.

"We are excited to join forces with Walmart to power a sustainable, secondhand shopping experience unlike any other," said Jenn Volk, director of product management for ThredUp.

"From Calvin Klein and Nike to Coach and Michael Kors, this digital partnership enhances Walmart’s fashion offering with fresh brands at amazing prices that their customers will love."

Marking a first for ThredUp, customers who shop the ThredUp at Walmart selection will be able to access Walmart's free shipping on orders of $35 or more, and free returns to Walmart stores or ThredUp.

The new collaboration with Walmart also marks ThredUp's latest partnership with a major retailer, as the resale market and more sustainable shopping practices become increasingly appealing to consumers. According to ThredUp's 2020 Annual Resale Report, 70% of consumers have bought or are now willing to buy secondhand. The company also predicted that the secondhand apparel market will be worth about $51 billion by 2023. 

In April, ThredUp announced a unique partnership with Abercrombie & Fitch, which allows shoppers to send in used or unwanted clothing and accessories in exchange for gift certificates that can be used to buy new products at any of the Abercrombie & Fitch Co. brands.