Willowbrook Mall Macy’s To Carry Secondhand Items From ThredUP

WAYNE, NJ – Macy’s at Willowbrook Mall will soon be selling used clothes as part of a new pilot program between the retailer and thredUP, a large fashion resale platform.

Altogether 40 Macy’s locations across the country aim to offer shoppers “a secondhand experience you’ll want to see firsthand.” Within New Jersey, the Macy’s in Jersey City will also participate in the pilot.

Macy’s Chief Executive Officer Jeff Gennette said the partnership gives them “the opportunity to reach a new customer and keep them coming back to shop an ever-changing selection of styles and brands that we don’t typically carry.”

Since its launch in 2009, thredUP has redistributed more than 65 million articles of clothing. Millions of shoppers now use thredUP to sell unwanted clothes and purchase vetted secondhand apparel at up to 90% off retail prices, making it the world’s largest fashion resale marketplace.

thredUP is part of a growing movement that encourages consumers to live in a more collective, sharing economy.

The company acquires its clothing through its “Clean Out Kit,” which allows people to list what items they no longer want. Then, thredUP will list them online and completes the sale by either giving the seller cash, shopping credit or a donation to a charity to which the company adds $5.

Under the pilot program, Macy’s will add some of those secondhand products to select stores, giving customers the opportunity to get a good deal and browse hundreds of new arrivals every month.

Macy’s won’t accept thredUP consignments or returns, except for returns of thredUP merchandise purchased at Macy’s, according to the retailer.

J.C. Penney also recently announced a 30-store partnership with thredUP, however the company hasn’t yet said which locations are participating.

“With the rise of online resale markets, there’s no doubt that demand for great value on quality brands is at an all-time high. There’s an emotional thrill that comes with finding one-of-a-kind secondhand product for much less,” Michelle Wlazlo, executive vice president and chief merchant for J.C. Penney said in a press release. “While there are more secondhand shoppers than ever before, we’ll continue to test and evaluate how this resonates with customers. We’re excited about the prospect of creating a new in-store experience that makes high-end brands attainable, as well as catering to eco-minded consumers who want more sustainable options in their wardrobe.”