Burberry burns $51 million of unsold luxury goods to safeguard its brand.

Burberry burns  million of unsold luxury goods to safeguard its brand.

Burberry’s Big‑Bang Disposal

“Let’s Light It Up!” – The Fashion House That Prefers Sizzles Over Stash

Burberry decided this year to roast a mega‑tonnage of unsold goods, burning £28.6 million worth of clothes, accessories, and scents. The move, a now‑fashionable tactic in the high‑gloss world of luxe brands, is all about protecting their intellectual property and keeping counterfeiters at bay.

What went up in the flames?

  • Fashion Fireworks – Roughly £18 million of garments, bags, and accessories were torched.
  • Beauty Bonfire – A one‑off £10.4 million of beauty products (from a partnership with Coty) was also incinerated.
  • The company claims it’s not just about “burning what doesn’t sell”‑ it’s about managing the inevitable waste that comes with luxury production.

    Burberry’s “Responsible” Riddle

    “We minimise over‑production. When we do have to dispose, we do it responsibly and keep striving to reduce waste.”The firm says it harnesses the heat of the fire for energy and is teaming up with sustainability groups like the Ellen MacArthur Foundation to cut waste down to size.

    Green‑washing or GOOD?

    Not everyone is thrilled with the approach.

  • Tim Farron (Liberal Democrat, environmental spokesperson) blasted the idea:
  • “It’s outrageous for Burberry to think burning unsold stock is a green solution. Recycling is the smarter, less smoky route.”He urged the iconic brand to lead the UK fashion scene toward cleaner practices.

    Bottom Line: Some Chill, Some Heat

  • Profit Mind‑set: The company reported a modest profit uptick to £294 million in May.
  • Fashion‑Gone‑Flicker: They’re burning thousands of dollars’ worth of goods each year to keep counterfeit copies out of circulation.
  • Whether it’s a clever branding move or a sizzle‑in‑solid waste strategy, Burberry remains one of the clottiest players in the industry – proving that even luxury can get a little fiery.