M&S has significantly expanded its beauty takeback programme across the UK, doubling its presence.
- Initially launched in 40 locations in 2023, the scheme now includes an additional 60 stores.
- The initiative allows customers to recycle beauty packaging from any brand, demonstrating M&S’s commitment to sustainability.
- Over 1.6 tonnes of packaging have been recycled so far, equivalent to the weight of a small car.
- A recycled hair comb, made from 98% reclaimed materials, showcases the success of the programme.
In a strategic move towards environmental responsibility, Marks & Spencer has doubled the reach of its innovative beauty takeback scheme, now operational in 100 stores across the UK. This programme, first launched in 40 stores in 2023, has seen expansion to a further 60 stores, including prominent locations such as Birmingham’s Bullring, Cardiff, and Inverness.
This forward-thinking initiative invites customers to recycle beauty packaging made from plastic or aluminium, sourced from any retailer—not just M&S. By offering dedicated takeback boxes, M&S is not only providing a service but setting a standard for sustainability in the retail industry.
Since its inception, the scheme has successfully recycled over 1.6 tonnes of beauty packaging. To put this into perspective, 1.6 tonnes is roughly the weight of a small car. M&S has creatively repurposed this waste into new products, including a wide-toothed hair comb created in collaboration with cosmetics recycler Handle, boasting a composition of at least 98% recycled material. This comb is available for purchase both online and in select stores for £8.
The beauty takeback programme is part of M&S’s ‘another life’ initiative, aiming to consolidate its circularity services. This includes the beauty takeback, a clothing repair service with Sojo launched in August, and a longstanding clothes donation partnership with Oxfam, previously known as ‘Shwopping’ and started in 2008.
Katharine Beacham, head of sustainability for clothing and home at M&S, remarked on the success of the project, stating, ‘Since launching last year, our beauty takeback scheme has proven hugely popular, providing a convenient option for customers to recycle their beauty products. We’re delighted to be able to introduce the scheme to even more of our stores across the UK this month, to enable them to give their empty beauty packaging another life.’
This expansion underscores M&S’s commitment to sustainability and customer convenience.
