Simon Payne, the visionary behind Halifax-based Sole Responsibility, has received well-deserved recognition for his entrepreneurial prowess and commitment to a more sustainable future for the fashion industry. His brainchild, Sole Responsibility, a resale business specializing in the sale of seconds and subpar trainers and footwear that would otherwise end up in landfills, has earned him nominations in two prestigious national award programs.

 

Sole Responsibility has made the shortlist in the fashion category of the Marie Claire Sustainability Awards, rubbing shoulders with industry giants like Vinted. Meanwhile, Simon Payne himself has been recognized in the Purpose Entrepreneur of the Year category at the Great British Entrepreneur Awards.

 

Since its inception in 2015, Sole Responsibility has partnered with retailers and brands to offer a market for seconds, returned, and subpar footwear that would otherwise meet a wasteful end. This innovative venture is an official sustainability partner of JD Sports and has, to date, rescued over 100,000 pairs of trainers and shoes from the abyss of landfills. Instead of being discarded, these products find new homes with savvy and eco-conscious customers through a dedicated eBay store, with approximately 2,500 shoes and trainers listed on the site at any given time.

 

Commenting on these accolades, Simon Payne expressed his gratitude, stating, "After eight years of building the business, it is extremely rewarding to be recognized on a national level. We are extremely proud to be up there with the likes of Vinted and the other amazing fashion brands and purpose entrepreneurs."

 

He continued, "Sole Responsibility was launched from a drive and passion to shine a light on a hidden eco-crisis that the fashion industry is facing. Perfectly wearable shoes and trainers were being destroyed because they were seen as unsellable. Our business has changed that – we work closely with JD Sports, and a number of other national retailers, to keep these products in circulation. There are cost-saving benefits for customers, who can purchase footwear at up to 50% off RRP; and we are doing our bit to reduce an astronomical amount of waste."

 

By participating in these awards, Sole Responsibility aims to spread the word about its mission and inspire more people to support sustainable practices in the fashion industry. With the planet facing dire environmental challenges, encouraging consumers to give a second life to secondhand items can truly make a meaningful difference.