wagamama has announced it’s partnering with materials science company PANGAIA to launch a “slow fashion” uniform collaboration to turn old t-shirts into a “fully circular” line of hoodies.
wagamama is a British restaurant chain, serving Asian food based on Japanese cuisine. The chain has previously committed to serving a 50% plant-based menu and implementing “more sustainable” packaging.
The collaboration between wagamama and PANGAIA repurposes old employee uniforms into a collection of hoodies, available to both wagamama team members and customers in 2024.
All team members have been encouraged to return their wagamama t-shirts, which will then be repurposed into the new hoodies to “help promote” the circular economy.
We are thrilled to join forces with wagamama, powering their journey towards sustainability and circularity.
Eva Kruse, Chief Global Engagement Officer at PANGAIA, commented: “We are thrilled to join forces with wagamama, powering their journey towards sustainability and circularity.
“Our collaboration not only highlights the potential for a circular ecosystem across all sectors but also sets a precedent for other brands to join the movement as we co-design an earth-positive future—together.”
The new uniform, which includes both short and long-sleeve variations, is made using organic cotton. PANGAIA says the fibres are grown without pesticides and are treated with PPRMINT™, a plant-based peppermint oil that neutralises and prevents the growth of odour-causing bacteria, so requires less frequent washing.
Commenting on the collaboration, Kay Bartlett, Chief Marketing Officer at wagamama, said: “We are really excited to announce our groundbreaking partnership with PANGAIA to create our sustainable slow fashion uniform line.
“At wagamama, we believe in the philosophy of kaizen, making small choices every day for big change. As two like-minded brands, this partnership captures our commitment to positive eating and positive living to ensure a more sustainable future.”
wagamama will also be hosting a series of repair workshops in partnership with Greater Goods. Based in London, Greater Goods focuses on sustainable projects and collaborations that upcycle reclaimed, damaged or unwanted products by using environmentally sustainable materials.
Taking place on the 5 September at wagamama Camden, attendees can turn old wagamama uniforms into an upcycled item, such as a scrunchie or a tote bag. To extend its customer repair workshops across the UK, wagamama says it will also be partnering with up-cyclers Stain Shade to teach people how to tie-dye used clothing.