Plan B Circular and Pact Group have announced a strategic partnership to accelerate the commercialization of textile-to-textile (T2T) polyester recycling, positioning the companies to meet growing demand ahead of anticipated European Union regulations expected to take effect in 2028.
The collaboration will also explore opportunities to expand textile recycling operations into Asia and other high-growth markets, supporting the global transition toward a circular textile economy.
Preparing for the Next Phase of Recycled Polyester
Currently, most apparel brands rely on recycled polyester derived from PET bottles. However, expected EU legislation is anticipated to encourage or require a shift toward recycled fibers sourced directly from discarded textiles, creating significant demand for textile-to-textile recycling technologies.
With supply chain integration taking up to a year, the partners believe brands are already seeking secure, traceable sources of recycled textile feedstock ahead of the regulatory changes.
Building the UK’s Textile Recycling Infrastructure
According to the WRAP, the UK generated approximately 1.45 million tonnes of used textiles in 2022, yet only around 1% was recycled back into new textile products. The majority of end-of-life textiles continue to be sent to landfill or incineration.
To address this challenge, Project Re:claim—a joint venture between Plan B Circular and Salvation Army Trading Company Ltd—operates the UK’s first commercial-scale recycling facility capable of processing both post-industrial and post-consumer polyester textiles into recycled PET pellets suitable for spinning into new yarn.
SATCoL, the UK’s largest charity-owned textile collector, processes approximately 77,000 tonnes of textiles annually, providing a significant feedstock source for the recycling initiative.
Global Supply Chain Expertise Supports Expansion
Pact Group brings extensive experience in circular supply chain management through its Retail Solutions division, which operates garment hanger collection, reuse, and recycling programs for fashion retailers worldwide.
The company believes its existing global network will help accelerate the adoption of textile-to-textile recycling across international apparel supply chains.
Industry Leaders Highlight Circular Economy Opportunity
Tim Cross, CEO of Plan B Circular, said the expected regulatory changes represent a turning point for the fashion industry.
He noted that brands establishing verified and traceable recycled textile supply chains today will be better prepared as demand for textile-derived recycled polyester increases.
Camillo Colombo, Executive General Manager of Retail Solutions at Pact Group, said the partnership expands the company’s circular economy strategy beyond reusable garment hangers and packaging, enabling it to provide sustainable recycling solutions for apparel manufacturers and retailers worldwide.
The companies expect the collaboration to strengthen global textile circularity while supporting the fashion industry’s transition toward lower-carbon, resource-efficient production.
