In a bold step towards encouraging more conscious consumer behaviour, John Lewis has announced the expansion of its repair and restoration service to all of its department stores across the UK. The decision follows a highly successful five-store trial launched in July last year, which saw enthusiastic customer uptake and strong demand for sustainable fashion solutions.
The service, run in partnership with Johnsons, part of the Timpson Group, offers everything from fashion repairs and alterations to dry cleaning and even handbag restoration. Now available in all John Lewis shops, the initiative aligns with growing public interest in extending the life of beloved items rather than replacing them.
Meeting a Real Customer Need
John Lewis said the trial was “hugely successful,” highlighting customer demand for repairing everyday items rather than discarding them. Popular services included minor rip and seam repairs, particularly for items with sentimental value, as well as trouser alterations, which remain in high demand.
One standout story from the pilot phase included the restoration of a vintage Chanel handbag to near-new condition in just days—an example of the service’s high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Convenience Meets Conscious Living
Under the expanded service, customers can now drop off items at their local John Lewis store, where Johnsons will collect, repair or clean, and return them. In addition to clothing, the offering extends to homeware items, including duvet, bedding, curtain and rug cleaning—making it easier than ever to refresh and renew items across the home.
This move comes on the heels of a study by sustainability non-profit WRAP, which found that over four in five clothing repairs displace new purchases, underscoring the environmental impact such services can have.
The Rise of At-Home Repairs
As one of the UK’s few remaining department stores with a dedicated haberdashery section, John Lewis has also seen a significant rise in DIY repair interest. The retailer reported a 36% year-on-year increase in sales of haberdashery accessories, and searches for sewing machines on its website are up 50%. Of note, “pink sewing machines” have seen a staggering 255% increase in searches, reflecting their appeal as both practical tools and thoughtful gifts.
More Than a Service – A Statement
This nationwide rollout reflects John Lewis’s broader commitment to sustainability, encouraging customers to embrace repair culture rather than fast fashion. It’s a message that resonates strongly in today’s retail environment, where quality, longevity, and conscious choices are taking precedence over quick consumption.
By extending this convenient, professional service across the country, John Lewis is doing more than just mending clothes—it’s mending shopping habits for the better.