The fashion industry's staggering environmental impact has long been a concern for Emily Gittins, co-founder of Archive. As one of the world's most polluting sectors, it's responsible for nearly 10% of global CO2 emissions and over 20% of water waste. However, Archive is on a mission to change this narrative by providing software solutions to fashion brands and merchants, enabling them to create their own resale platforms.

In 2021, Gittins teamed up with Ryan Rowe to launch Archive, which offers a tailored approach to resale, allowing brands to connect with customers and facilitate the exchange of used clothing. This approach not only reduces waste but also provides a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative for consumers. The platform's features include smart pricing, product feeds, warehouse management, and data analysis tools, making it an attractive solution for global brands.

Archive's innovative approach has already garnered significant traction, with over 50 brands, including New Balance, The North Face, and Oscar de la Renta, on board. The company's success is further validated by the growing demand for second-hand clothing, with the U.S. market expected to reach $73 billion by 2028, according to a report by ThreadUp.

The latest $30 million Series B funding round, led by Energize Capital, will be instrumental in driving Archive's growth and product innovation. This investment brings the company's total funding to $54 million, demonstrating the confidence of investors in Archive's vision for a more sustainable fashion industry.

Another encouraging sign for the clothing resale industry is the increasing legislative support, such as California's Responsible Textile Recovery Act and similar initiatives in Europe. These developments will likely further accelerate the adoption of resale platforms, providing a significant opportunity for Archive to expand its reach and impact.

Gittins emphasized that Archive's resale model does not cannibalize full-price sales, but rather offers a complementary solution that benefits both brands and customers. With many brands already scaling up their resale businesses, Archive is poised to play a pivotal role in transforming the fashion industry's environmental footprint.

As the fashion industry continues to grapple with its sustainability crisis, Archive's innovative approach and significant funding injection offer a beacon of hope for a more environmentally conscious future. With its sights set on further product development and expansion, Archive is well-positioned to drive meaningful change in the years to come.