How data‑led decisions, closed‑loop recycling and operational reality are shaping a more sustainable fashion packaging model.
Boden’s long‑standing commitment to quality and longevity extends beyond the garments it creates and into how those products are packaged, stored and delivered. At the heart of this mission is Michael Seach, Technical Manager at Boden, based at the brand’s distribution centre in Leicester. Overseeing stock control, quality standards, training and packaging, Michael plays a key role in ensuring that operational performance aligns with Boden’s sustainability ambition.
We sat down with him to explore the packaging strategy guiding the brand forward.
How does packaging support Boden’s sustainability mission?
Michael:
“Our packaging strategy is built around eight core principles: Remove, Re‑use, Reduce, Recycled, Recyclable, Replace, Refuse and Re‑educate. These guide every decision we make.
We’re working towards packaging that is 100% recycled and 100% recyclable, and we’re very close to achieving that. Currently, 95% of our packaging (by weight) is made from recycled material, and 99% is fully recyclable.
These principles have helped us build a robust closed‑loop recycling system for all paper and plastic packaging. We’ve also strengthened partnerships that ensure unsaleable products are donated rather than sent to landfill, supporting both sustainability and social responsibility.”
How do you educate customers about these choices?
Michael:
“Our Sustainability Hub plays an essential role. It helps customers understand goals such as ensuring 90% of our packaging is recycled and recyclable by the end of 2025, and keeping over 90% of waste out of landfill.
Education is key, we want customers to feel confident that our packaging choices genuinely support a more sustainable future.”
Why did you choose polythene for your dispatch bags?
Michael:
“We carefully evaluated the functionality, environmental impact and operational performance of every option. Polythene emerged as the most sustainable and efficient choice once we considered durability, recyclability and space‑efficiency.
Our dispatch bags are made from 80% recycled material, are fully recyclable, and are part of a closed‑loop system managed by Duo. Polythene can also be recycled more times than paper and requires significantly less storage space, which is vital for a high‑volume, fast‑moving distribution environment.
Since 2023, we’ve recycled 95 tonnes of packaging the equivalent of producing 550,000 medium dispatch bags, enough for 14 weeks of orders. Sharing these results transparently helps customers understand the reasoning behind our decisions and the impact we’re making.”
What’s next for Boden’s packaging strategy?
Michael:
“We’ll continue to reduce material use and explore new sustainable options, especially as material science advances. A key milestone for us is achieving Global Recycling Certification in 2025, which will provide independent verification and full transparency around how recycled materials are sourced, processed and reused.
This certification will be a major step in strengthening our long-term sustainable credentials and ensuring our packaging continues to meet high environmental standards.”
Boden’s packaging strategy demonstrates how clear principles, data‑led decision‑making and closed‑loop systems can deliver sustainability without compromising operational performance.
If you’re reviewing packaging choices for 2026 and beyond, our team can help you evaluate materials, optimise performance and implement circular solutions that align with your sustainability goals and supply‑chain realities. Call +44 01612035767 or email [email protected]
This interview was originally featured in LoopedIn, Duo’s monthly LinkedIn newsletter for leaders shaping the future of packaging. Each edition delivers practical insight on packaging, recycling and circularity, sharing real‑world perspectives that challenge established thinking and drive meaningful change.
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