Rag News: Your Monthly Update on Secondhand Industry Trends

Supply Chain Update: ILA Port Strike Averted with Tentative Agreement The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the U.S. Maritime Alliance (USMX) have successfully negotiated a tentative six-year agreement, bringing stability to East and Gulf Coast ports after months of uncertainty. Key Highlights of the Agreement: Wage Increase: Dock workers will see a 62% wage boost […]

Rag News: Strategies for Port Disruptions + Industry Highlights

Recommendations for Wholesale Clients and Suppliers in the Secondhand Industry Amid Port Challenges With ongoing port negotiations and potential disruptions, here are quick tips to stay prepared: Diversify Logistics: Explore alternative ports, routes, and inland options. Strengthen Inventory: Build buffer stock and streamline sorting processes. Enhance Communication: Stay aligned with suppliers, buyers, and logistics partners. […]

Rag News – Your Essential Market Update: Industry Insights and Innovations

Freight Market Flash Updates Stay informed on key trends shaping the international freight forwarder market: Freight Rates Remain High Amid Ongoing Disruptions Freight rates are predicted to stay elevated in 2025, driven by persistent market disruptions, potential port strikes on the U.S. East Coast, and a significant increase in carbon taxes. Although the Red Sea […]

Shared Responsibility in the Circular Economy: Who Owns the End of a Product’s Life?

In the era of sustainability and circularity, the question of responsibility for a product at the end of its life cycle has become more pressing than ever. As industries pivot away from the traditional linear model—where products are manufactured, used, and discarded—toward a circular economy, a fundamental challenge emerges: Who is responsible for ensuring that […]

Consumer Behavior Shifts: How Circular Fashion is Redefining Brand Loyalty

As environmental awareness grows, consumers are becoming more selective about the brands they support. The shift toward sustainability is redefining brand loyalty, particularly within the fashion industry. This white paper explores the rising trend of eco-conscious consumers choosing sustainable, secondhand, and upcycled fashion, reshaping traditional concepts of loyalty in 2024-2025. By analyzing evolving consumer expectations […]

Secondhand Retail’s Role in Achieving Net Zero: Carbon Offsetting and Emission Reduction Strategies

Introduction The fashion industry is a significant contributor to climate change, responsible for approximately 10% of annual global carbon emissions, surpassing the combined emissions of international aviation and maritime shipping. With the global secondhand clothing market projected to reach $350 billion by 2027, this sector is uniquely positioned to drive sustainability through reduced emissions, extended […]

Trade Tensions Escalate: U.S. Tariffs Trigger Global Economic Ripples

On Saturday, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an order imposing a 25% tariff on imports from Mexico and Canada and a 10% duty on Chinese goods. Energy resources from Canada face a lower 10% tariff to minimize any disruptive effects on gasoline and home heating oil prices. In response, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced […]

2025 Secondhand Collectors and Charities Toolkit

Introduction The secondhand textile industry continues to be a major driver in the global circular economy. With increasing consumer demand for sustainable solutions and the urgent need to reduce textile waste, wholesalers play a critical role in extending the life of garments, reducing environmental impact, and meeting growing market demands. This whitepaper serves as a […]

Navigating the Grey Market: Implications for Luxury Resale

The luxury secondhand market has been booming in recent years, fueled by a growing appetite for high-end goods at more accessible price points and a strong push for sustainability. However, this burgeoning industry faces a unique challenge: the rise of the grey market, which disrupts pricing, brand reputation, and trust among consumers and businesses alike. […]

Upcycling Innovation: How Circular Design is Impacting Fashion Waste Reduction

Introduction The fashion industry is facing unprecedented challenges regarding sustainability, waste reduction, and environmental responsibility. With over 92 million tons of textile waste generated annually, the need for innovative solutions to minimize the environmental footprint of fashion has never been greater. One of the most promising solutions is upcycling, a circular design strategy that repurposes […]