One million pre-loved items given a second life through SUEZ re-use shops

More than one million pre-loved items were given a second life through SUEZ recycling and recovery UK re-use shops across the UK in 2025, marking a major milestone for initiatives that help reduce waste and support more sustainable consumption.

SUEZ operates re-use shops at recycling centres where donated items such as furniture, toys, books, bikes and household goods are repaired where needed and sold at affordable prices. The initiative helps extend the life of everyday items while diverting reusable products from disposal.

During the year, the re-use network expanded from 33 to 43 shops, with new locations opening in Aberdeen, Cornwall, Southend and Teesside.

John Scanlon, CEO of SUEZ recycling and recovery UK, said: “Selling one million items through our re-use shops in a single year is a fantastic milestone. It shows the growing appetite for re-use and how giving items a second life can benefit both the environment and local communities.”

Research also shows rising interest in second-hand goods, particularly among younger consumers, reflecting changing attitudes towards more affordable and sustainable purchasing choices.

Through initiatives like re-use shops, SUEZ works with local authorities and community partners to support circular economy solutions that reduce waste and help valuable resources stay in use for longer.