Archive Raises $30M to Tackle Fashion Pollution | Online Resale

Emily Gittins and the Rise of Fashion Resale

From a young age, Emily Gittins has been deeply aware of the environmental impact of the fashion industry.

The sector is demonstrably one of the world’s most significant polluters. Estimates suggest it contributes nearly 10% of global CO2 emissions and exceeds 20% of all water waste generated worldwide.

Addressing the Demand for Fast Fashion

Despite these concerns, consumer demand for readily available, inexpensive clothing remains strong.

“Current consumption patterns present a substantial challenge,” Gittins explained to TechCrunch.

Launching Archive: A Resale Platform Solution

In 2021, Gittins partnered with Ryan Rowe to establish Archive.

This company delivers software solutions to fashion brands and retailers, enabling them to build customized resale platforms.

These platforms facilitate peer-to-peer sales of pre-owned clothing items.

Competitive Landscape

Archive operates within a growing market alongside competitors like Trove and Treet, both of which also offer online resale software for brands.

However, Archive differentiates itself by its capacity to support global brands operating across multiple continents.

Key Features of Archive’s Software

Archive’s suite of features is comprehensive.

• Smart Pricing and Product Feeds: Optimizes pricing strategies and manages product listings.
• Warehouse Management: Handles the entire process from intake and processing to repair and order fulfillment.
• Profit and Cost Analysis: Provides tools for evaluating financial performance.
• Data Integration: Allows brands to connect Archive with existing systems and share data seamlessly.

Currently, Archive collaborates with over 50 brands, including prominent names like New Balance, The North Face, and Oscar de la Renta, according to Gittins.

The Expanding Secondhand Market

The secondhand market represents a significant opportunity for growth.

A report by ThreadUp projects the U.S. secondhand market will reach $73 billion by 2028.

This segment of the fashion industry is anticipated to continue expanding, particularly among younger demographics and consumers seeking environmentally conscious and affordable options, as reported by the Guardian.

Securing Funding for Innovation

This potential has attracted substantial investment.

Archive recently secured $30 million in Series B funding, led by Energize Capital.

Additional investors include Lightspeed Venture Partners, G9 Ventures, and Bain Capital Ventures.

To date, Archive has raised a total of $54 million in funding.

The new capital will be allocated to further development of the resale software and the introduction of innovative product features.

Legislative Support for Textile Recovery

Growing legislative initiatives are also bolstering the clothing resale industry.

Examples include California’s Responsible Textile Recovery Act and similar legislation emerging in Europe.

Addressing Concerns About Cannibalization

“We have demonstrated that resale does not negatively impact full-price sales,” Gittins stated.

“We are currently focused on scaling our operations with existing brand partners and are preparing to launch resale programs for numerous new brands in 2025.”

Note: This article has been updated to accurately reflect Bain Capital Ventures’ investment in Archive.