Selfridges launches its first ever swap shop in Birmingham - how it works

For the first time ever, Selfridges’ customers in Birmingham are being invited to bring in their preowned pieces to exchange for stamps to ‘shop’ a curation of second-hand pieces to take home - without any purchase required.

The exciting new concept will be at the Bullring store for four days - following its success in Manchester and before it moves to London.

Hosted in partnership with one of the UK’s biggest circular fashion communities, LOANHOOD, the swap shop aims to prolong the lifespan of clothing by championing creativity and style over buying new. The project will also form part of ‘Worn Again’ – a season of second-hand and circular shopping experiences at Selfridges.

Following a hugely successful launch in Manchester, LOANHOOD will kick off at Selfridges’ Birmingham store between June 22 to 25. Organisers say it offers a unique way to revive and refresh wardrobes while reducing fashion consumption.

Why is Selfridges Swap Shop so important?

According to latest figures by Wrap, the average UK adult owns 118 items of clothing but has not worn 26% of them in the last year, calling for new ways to extend the life of unworn pieces that could significantly reduce the environmental cost.

The swap shops team of expert assistants will help customers to style and exchange items, dialling up the pleasure, fun and desirability of shopping secondhand.

How the Swap Shop at Selfridges will work

Each customer can bring up to five items of men’s and women’s clothing worth a resale value of £50-£300. A dedicated team will value items in exchange for stamps based on type, brand, and condition, the stamps can be used to select new-to-them pieces from the swap shop.

As part of the swap shops, customers can book an appointment with an Upcycler in Residence for bespoke customisations including frills and applique or to make signs or wear and tear points of pride and interest. Tickets are £5 per booking and include upcycling of one garment.

For more information and for complimentary tickets bookable in timed slots visit: Selfridges Birmingham events