Introduction to Menswear Rental
John Lewis, a revered name on the British high street, has unveiled a groundbreaking expansion to its fashion rental collection. On Thursday, 23 May, the retailer launched a menswear rental service, powered by HURR, the UK’s leading rental and resale fashion marketplace. This move follows the success of their womenswear rental platform, introduced in 2022, and marks the largest range of menswear brands available to rent on the high street.
Strategic Insight
The decision to extend into menswear rental is underpinned by a growing demand for sustainable fashion choices. Over the past 18 months, “Mens Rental” has consistently ranked among the top 30 search terms on johnlewis.com, reflecting a significant consumer appetite for rental options. This trend is further supported by the Global Online Rental Report, which predicts the global menswear rental industry will be worth $3 billion by 2027.
Kathleen Mitchell, John Lewis’s Commercial Director, emphasised the strategic value of this expansion: “We’re unique on the high street in offering the widest range of multiple brands to rent, from everyday suits to premium styles. This is just the beginning of menswear rental, and we’re excited to see it grow.”
Expanding the Rental Collection
The new menswear rental collection includes premium brands such as BOSS Tailoring, Charles Tyrwhitt, and the new brand Hay Life. Notable items include a Hugo Boss tuxedo in dark blue, paired with a dress shirt and black bow tie, catering to various occasionwear needs.
HURR CEO Victoria Prew highlighted the partnership’s potential: “As a category, menswear is very much undiscovered in rental. This collaboration with John Lewis presents an incredible opportunity to shift consumer behaviour towards smarter fashion choices.”
Sustainability and Convenience
The expansion aligns with John Lewis’s commitment to sustainability. Rental prices start from £40 for a four-day rental of a dinner jacket and trousers, with sizes ranging from 34 to 46. Customers can browse the collection at johnlewis.com/fashionrental and choose rental periods of 4, 8, 16, or 30 days. The service offers next-day delivery, and returns are facilitated by pre-paid postage labels. Items are dry cleaned by HURR using Oxwash responsible laundry services before being made available for the next rental.
This initiative is not only better for the environment but also more economical for customers, allowing them to enjoy high-quality fashion without the commitment of purchase.
Conclusion
John Lewis’s foray into menswear rental represents a significant step towards more sustainable and flexible fashion options. By leveraging the power of HURR and offering a diverse range of premium brands, John Lewis is poised to meet the evolving demands of its customers. As the retail landscape continues to change, this innovative approach underscores John Lewis’s dedication to sustainability and customer satisfaction.
