M&S and HANDLE launch takeback programme to recycle aluminium& plastic beauty products

Marks and Spencer (M&S) Rushden Lakes has introduced the Beauty Takeback Scheme in-store, a program developed in collaboration with HANDLE, a beauty recycling specialist. Launched in June 2023 as part of M&S's Plan A roadmap towards achieving Net Zero, this initiative allows customers to recycle various types of aluminium and plastic beauty packaging from any brand, including bottles, tubes, caps, pumps, and tubs.

Image Source: In Fashion Business

Customers can simply drop their used packaging into designated collection boxes. Since its inception, the scheme has successfully gathered over 1.6 tonnes of beauty packaging—the weight of a small car—that might have otherwise ended up in a landfill.

Rico Gilbert, Store Manager at M&S Rushden Lakes, said, "At M&S Rushden Lakes we want to play our part in driving a more circular economy by creating simple solutions that help our customers live lower carbon lives. Since launching last year, the Beauty Takeback scheme has proved hugely popular and we're delighted to be able to offer the initiative to Northamptonshire shoppers, providing them with a convenient option to recycle their beauty products and give their empty packaging Another Life."

As part of its continued collaboration with HANDLE, M&S has launched a wide-toothed hair comb crafted from at least 98 per cent recycled packaging collected through its Beauty Takeback Scheme in stores across the UK. The comb is priced at £8 and available online and in selected stores. Rico Gilbert, Store Manager at M&S Rushden Lakes, stated: "At M&S Rushden Lakes, we are committed to supporting a more circular economy by offering straightforward solutions that empower our customers to lead lower-carbon lifestyles."

M&S's collaboration with HANDLE is a key component of Plan A's 'Another Life,' which unites all of the retailer's circularity services under one initiative. This comprehensive approach includes the Beauty Takeback Scheme with HANDLE, a new repair partnership with SOJO, and the long-standing clothes donation program with Oxfam, previously known as 'Shwopping.' These initiatives are now integrated under 'Another Life' to provide customers with a seamless way to contribute to a more circular economy and make more sustainable choices.