Levi's Australia has launched its new retail design concept - the Sustainability Shop in Shop - in partnership with David Jones.
The space, located in David Jones' Bourke St Mall flagship, is created using one of the world's most environmentally-friendly timbers, Tasmania's Hydrowood.
The once-forgotten resource was uncovered in the Pieman River through one of the world’s first underwater forestry operations after more than 25 years.
Sustainably sourced and recovered, this Australian timber has been crafted by local industrial designer, Jaron Dickson, into custom structures, furniture, shelving and signage for the new shop.
"Using Hydrowood is an incredible story of sustainability and a true innovation in resourcefulness," Dickson said.
"In order to minimise the environmental impact of the building process, the structures use water-based products for gluing and finishings, with most wood shavings given away in order to minimise any waste.
"The elements of the space can also either be broken down using the loose tenon structures or simply repurposed as furniture in an office or home which is great," he said.
The Sustainability Shop in Shop concept store houses Levi’s Made & Crafted, Wellthread, and a range of other material and production innovations including Cottonised Hemp, Tencel x Refibra, Water>Less and F.L.X.
Each of the garments is displayed on 100% recyclable Arch & Hook Blue hangers — the world’s first hanger made of marine plastics, collected from the world’s five most polluted rivers.
Speaking on the concept, Levi Strauss & Co. ANZ MD Paul Sweet said that the store demonstrates the brand's commitment to eco-friendly fashion.
"The new retail concept is a physical representation of our ongoing commitment to craftsmanship, innovation and sustainability.
"We’re placing environmental considerations front and centre of the shopping experience and inviting consumers to shop more consciously," he said.
David Jones GM of womenswear, footwear and accessories Bridget Veals added that the Levi's concept store complements the retailer's larger Good Business Journey.
"We are thrilled to be partnering with Levi’s on this sustainability initiative.
"David Jones is committed to considering new ways of doing business to support a transition to the low-carbon and circular economy of the future.
"Working with our brands and investing in programs and activities that optimise our use of energy, increase diversion of waste from landfill and reduce natural resource consumption is part of this commitment and our broader Good Business Journey," she said.
The Levi’s Sustainable Shop in Shop is now open and located in David Jones, Bourke Street Mall, Melbourne.
