Clothes swap events have become incredibly popular over the last few years. As an alternative to buying new clothing, it is a great way for people to save money, get together and reduce their environmental impact.

Now there is a small number of ventures that take swapping to the next level. New-U, and founder Sue Buffin, have pioneered a new business model for a Clothes Swap Shop in Norwich, UK. The model combines a boutique style swap shop with charitable activities to increase young people’s employability.

This case study explores how New-U works, what its impact is, and shares the story of how it was set up.

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Who is it for?

- People or organisations who are thinking of setting up a clothing swap shop, or are running one already.

- Researchers, local government & policymakers with a focus on Sustainable Fashion and local economic development.

- People interested in exploring how they can contribute to a more sustainable fashion economy on the local level.

Content Overview

1. Business Overview

- Short description & Purpose:

- When it started

- Where it operates

- Customers

- Impact

- Development stage

- Unique features of the business model

2. Business Basics

- Legal structure

- Activities and Income streams

- Financial information

3. What took it to make it a success?

4. Potential

- Local growth potential

- National potential for New-U style swap shops

The case study is part of Sustainable Fashion Streets - our mission to find local business models that can help make the clothing industry more sustainable, and to enable the innovators behind them share their learning to support similar businesses evolve on every UK high street.

Clothing Swap Shop

Case Study: Clothing Swap Shop New-U in Norwich