Episode 184: Not-So-Free Returns with Emily Austin

<p>Nearly 1 out of 4 of the new garments we purchase end up being returned to the brand/retailer.  While retail companies tend to keep the true data about returns under wraps, industry experts estimate that half of returned clothing is never worn by another person, ending up in the landfill instead.  So yeah, returns are a pretty big deal across the entire retail industry (even outside of clothing).  Amanda is joined by Emily Austin, who has a lot of experience in the world of returns, customer care, and the intersection of technology and returns.  What is the true cost of returns?</p><p>In this episode we get into the following:</p><ul> <li>Why processing returns (also known as "reverse logistics") is very expensive</li> <li>How finding a fix for returns has become an entire industry</li> <li>Why retailers are changing their return policies</li> <li>The environmental and social impact of so many returns</li> <li>How the high volume of returns is both the result and cause of declining clothing quality. And yes, it is very ironic that retailers could reduce the number of returns by improving quality!</li> <li>Ways we can try to reduce our own number of returns...(yes, it's difficult)</li> </ul><p>This episode also includes small business audio essays from Ren and Ruby.</p><p><strong>Follow and connect with everyone:</strong><br>Emily: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/emaustin11/">@emaustin11</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/acommonrose/">@acommonrose</a> (her vintage shop)<br>Ren: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/renb.designs/">@renb.designs</a> and <a href="https://renbdesigns.com/">renbdesigns.com</a><br>Ruby: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/spokesandstitches/">@spokesandstitches</a>  Check out her workshops <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/o/39936148773">here.</a></p><p><strong>Additional reading:<br></strong><a href="https://sourcingjournal.com/topics/retail/revolve-60-percent-returns-rate-fulfillment-distribution-shipping-costs-fashion-450087/">"Revolve Execs Outline Plans to Slas