Many online shoppers have reported high return rates, with some shoppers mentioning that they often order multiple sizes due to sizing uncertainties. This practice, known as "bracketing," is common. However, lenient return policies have inadvertently led to a culture of "deshopping," where customers purchase clothes for specific occasions, wear them, and then return them as unused items.
Retailers, particularly in the fashion industry, face return rates as high as 40%, with wardrobing being a growing trend for over a decade. Some customers order multiple sizes to avoid paying shipping costs, further contributing to the return problem. Despite the challenges, retailers often view deshopping and bracketing as minor issues when managed well.
Studies show that lenient return policies can boost sales and customer loyalty. Still, these returns have negative consequences for workers and the environment. They result in more distribution centers, leading to staff exploitation, and a significant portion of unwanted clothes end up in landfills. Fashion returns also generate carbon emissions and contribute to environmental damage.
While some people believe deshopping should be illegal, it's not always driven by unethical motives. Some individuals, like fashion students, resort to deshopping out of necessity for projects or due to generous return policies. Educating the public on the consequences of this practice may be a crucial step in finding a more comprehensive solution to the online returns issue.
Source: MSN
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