City Chic: Recycling of Unique Parts at the Ressourcerie du Pays de Liège

This article is part of a series dedicated to exploring the journeys of the winners of the second edition of Go Circular. In this series, we highlight the inspiring initiatives of these laureates. The Ressourcerie du Pays de Liège is featured in the “Diversification” category and is developing a circular approach focused on reuse.

From Waste to Store: The Ressourcerie creates the conditions to give discarded products a second life and promote sustainable consumption

The Ressourcerie du Pays de Liège stands out in the waste management sector by collecting bulky items in 57 municipalities across the province. This initiative aims to recover items that are destined for disposal but are still reusable, such as furniture, ornaments, dishes, toys, and books. After sorting, these items are resold at very affordable prices, primarily targeting low-income individuals.

To broaden its audience and ensure profitability, the cooperative launched an innovative project with the support of Go Circular: the creation of a new space within its store, called “City Chic.” This space will offer high-quality goods sold at higher prices. The Ressourcerie has implemented a meticulous sorting process, involving an art history specialist to identify valuable pieces among the collected items. The sorted goods will either be directed to the existing Ressourcerie for affordable resale or to the new City Chic space for higher-end sales.

Showcasing quality products to expand the high-end second-hand market and maximize impact

The “City Chic” space aims to attract a new segment of customers who share second-hand values while seeking superior quality products. This space raises public awareness about the importance of choosing reused items, thus promoting a more responsible and environmentally friendly consumption model. By presenting second-hand as a way to find unique, designer, and high-quality pieces, City Chic transforms the traditional image of second-hand shopping, often seen as an option only for those with limited means. This space competes with new retail, appealing to those looking for style, uniqueness, and quality—without exorbitant prices.

Thanks to its collection services, the Ressourcerie diverts around 6,000 tons of bulky waste from landfills each year. This initiative significantly contributes to waste reduction and the preservation of natural resources. By extending the lifespan of products through reuse, it reduces the demand for new goods, thereby lowering the carbon emissions associated with their production. Moreover, the Ressourcerie plays an important role in local employment and supports professional reintegration by hiring a new team dedicated to sorting for the launch of City Chic.

By relieving local landfills, the Ressourcerie helps public services save money by reducing waste management costs. Additionally, diversifying its revenue streams through the City Chic space ensures its long-term economic viability. This strategy attracts a new clientele willing to invest in high-quality items while maintaining very low prices in its main store. By capturing a customer base interested in distinctive and sustainable products, the Ressourcerie can increase its profit margins and strengthen its economic sustainability.

Want to discover this circular model? Visit the website of the Ressourcerie du Pays de Liège.