Co-op expands Spring technology recirculation trials with launch of reusable postal pouches

Co-op has expanded its trial with tech recirculation startup, Spring, with the introduction of reusable pouches for shoppers’ old and unwanted phones and electronic devices.

The new service, known as Spring Post, goes live this week in 45 Co-op stores located in towns and cities including: Birmingham; Brighton; Bristol; Cardiff; Leeds; London; Manchester and Swansea.

Customers collect one of Spring’s pouches from a participating store, and send tech they no longer use to the company, earning cash for them in the process.

The move increases the total number of Co-op stores offering Spring’s service to 75, and is in addition to self-service pods located in 30 of the convenience retailer’s locations.

Mark Matthews, Director of Format & Innovation, Co-op Food, says: “Expanding our partnership with Spring enables more communities to unlock the value in forgotten phones and other unwanted tech which are then re-used or recycled avoiding unnecessary e-waste.”

“We are committed to creating added services which provide a compelling customer offer in our communities and, making it quick, easy and convenient for shoppers to make small changes to their everyday lives, can add up to make a big difference for our planet and natural environment.”

James Seear, Spring Co-founder, says: “Our partnership with Co-op and launch of Spring post is an important step in bringing our mission of building a financially and environmentally sustainable tech ecosystem to as many people and communities as possible.”

“The partnership brings the opportunity of earning extra money to more communities, and importantly prevents pre-loved devices from becoming electronic waste - which is a rapidly growing problem in the UK. Spring is working to build a circular economy around consumer choices and, is challenging the way people currently interact with their technology.”