Sustainable sourcing and selling: circular economy dynamics in the informal second-hand clothing market

Syam Kumar

Social Responsibility Journal, 2026, vol. 22, issue 6, 1231-1250

Abstract: PurposeThis study aims to examine the supply-sourcing processes of street vendors in the informal sector who specialise in second-hand clothes while also identifying the distinct categories of buyers who purchase these used garments.Design/methodology/approachThis qualitative study used observation and 29 semi-structured interviews with street vendors, followed by thematic analysis to understand their supply procurement sources and buyers’ profiles.FindingsThe study identifies five different sources of supply procurement and four context-specific buyer categories exclusively applicable to the informal second-hand textile market. Using circular economy (CE) principles, the author develop a conceptual framework that delineates the process of carrying out procurement, production and distribution of used clothes, ensuring livelihood-driven CE practices in the informal sector.Originality/valueThis study extends the application of CE theory to the informal sector, showcasing its potential for promoting sustainability and socio-economic inclusion. Moreover, this study is the first of its kind to explore the supply procurement sources and buyer profiles of informal street vendors dealing in second-hand clothes.

Keywords: Second-hand clothing; Informal markets; Circular economy; Sustainability; Street vendors (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eme:srjpps:srj-02-2025-0115

DOI: 10.1108/SRJ-02-2025-0115

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