Global apparel retailer UNIQLO marked International Repair Day with a Repair and Upcycling Workshop aimed at promoting simple, hands-on solutions to extend the life of clothing. The event, led by Sewing World, a local organisation empowering woman through skill development, offered participants practical techniques to repair and creatively upcycle garments, encouraging a more sustainable approach to everyday life.
This workshop is part of a global initiative by UNIQLO, which held similar event at its RE.UNIQLO Studio locations worldwide. These initiatives reflect UNIQLO’s commitment to educating customers about the value of clothing care and upcycling, contributing to the circular economy.
The first RE.UNIQLO STUDIO was established at the UNIQLO Regent Street store in London in 2022. Locations have since been opened around the world, with the service available in 50 stores in 21 markets as of the end of September 2024. In Malaysia, RE.UNIQLO Studios are located at: UNIQLO Damansara Avenue Square, UNIQLO Fahrenheit 88 and UNIQLO The Exchange TRX. At RE.UNIQLO Studio, specially trained staff provide repair services to mend holes or frays for as little as RM7, along with original embroidery services with more than 80 designs to choose from, and traditional Japanese “SASHIKO,” a type of decorative stitching used to reinforce or repair garments.
Evelyn Tan, Director of Legal and Sustainability at UNIQLO Malaysia, said, “UNIQLO’s LifeWear philosophy has always emphasized on quality and durability in our clothing. We believe our responsibility extends beyond producing and selling apparel our customers can wear frequently; it’s also about ensure our clothing and materials last much longer. Through today’s workshop, we aim to demonstrate practical ways to extend the life of our LifeWear and promote sustainable practices.”
Through initiatives like the RE.UNIQLO programme and repair workshops, UNIQLO is committed to fostering a culture of sustainability and responsible consumption. By empowering customers with the knowledge and skills to take care of their clothing, UNIQLO encourages a shift towards a more sustainable lifestyle, ultimately benefiting the environment and the community.
Markets where workshops will be held:
Europe: Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain.
North America: Canada.
Asia: China, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea.