ZigZag teams with The Salvation Army for Donate by Post clothing returns initiative

ZigZag has partnered with The Salvation Army in a bid to help divert more unwanted clothing from disposal. The Donate by Post initiative will supply consumers with a returns portal that routes unwanted goods to The Salvation Army via post.

The scheme aims to raise awareness about the ease and impact of donating pre-loved clothing and accessories through a postal donation service.

Donate by Post uses InPost lockers to deposit charitable donations. There are over 17,000 lockers across the country.

Al Gerrie, CEO at ZigZag, says: “Most people would love to see their unwanted items go to a good home or recycled. However, the uplifting willingness to donate can pose its own challenges to charities, particularly in managing the often unpredictable surges heading back to their brick-and-mortar stores. It can also be difficult for retailers to easily get involved.”

“Our smart portal will provide digital visibility for charities whilst providing a barrier free route for retailers to help facilitate hassle free donations from the public and championing more eco-friendly practices.”

“ZigZag’s technology and returns expertise paired with the Salvation Army’s unparalleled commitment to social improvement will significantly improve the efficiency of donations, giving products a new lease of life. All profits will allow The Salvation Army to continue doing the fantastic work they do supporting the community.”

Returns specialist ZigZag teams with The Salvation Army for Donate by Post clothing initiative

Consumers shopping on ZigZag partner retailer websites will be able to access a link to the portal to make their donations. Money raised from these will go towards the Salvation Army’s wider efforts to support people in need across the UK. 

Shaunacy Burne, Corporation Donation Manager at Salvation Army Trading Company, says: “We’re thrilled to collaborate with ZigZag Returns to transform convenience into meaningful change. Through our Donate by Post initiative, we’re making it easier than ever for people to give their unwanted clothing, shoes, and accessories a second life.”

“Items donated through the portal will help to raise vital funds to support the most vulnerable people across the UK. Together, we’re creating a solution that combines sustainability and social impact - because small steps can lead to lasting change.”

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Green retail was a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

VoCoVo, Everseen, Sensei, Gander, Iceland, Olio, Trust Retail, East of England Co-op, Lekkerland SE, Poq, Mamas & Papas, Varner, Sitoo, and Zebra Technologies were among our winners this year.

We received a record number of entries and many fantastic examples of the continued resilience and dynamism of the retail space during hugely challenging times.

For a full rundown of all of the shortlisted entries, click here.

Our 2025 hall of fame entrants were revealed during a sold out event which took place at The HAC in Central London on 16th October and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by award winning comedian, actress and writer Tiff Stevenson.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “This is the awards’ fifth year as a physical event. We started off with just 30 people at the South Place Hotel not far from here, then moved to London Bridge Hotel, then The Barbican, and last year RIBA’s HQ in the West End.”

“But I’m conscious of the fact that, to quote the legend that is Taylor Swift, You’re only as hot as your last hit, baby. So, this year we’ve moved to our biggest venue yet, and also pulled in our largest number of entries to date and broken attendance records.”

He added: “This year’s submissions have without doubt been our best yet. To quote one of the judges: The examples of innovative developments across both traditional and digital retail spaces were truly remarkable.”

Congratulations to our winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Tiff Stevenson, and all those who attended our 2025 gathering.