Levi’s Australia has announced the launch of its new design concept ‘the Sustainability Shop in Shop’  in a collaboration with David Jones. The space in the David Jones' Bourke St Mall flagship, has been created using one of the most environmentally-friendly timbers.

The resource that was once forgotten has been recovered in the Pieman River through one of the world’s first underwater forestry operations. The discovery has surfaced after 25 years.

The sustainably sourced and recovered timber in Australia has been crafted by Jaron Dickson, a local industry designer. Jaron has crafted the timber into custom structures, furniture, shelving and signage for the new shop.

Dickson stated that utilising Hydrowood was an incredible story of sustainability and a true innovation in resourcefulness. He added that in order to minimise the environmental impact of the building process, the structure utilises water-based products for glueing and finishings, with most wood shavings given away in order to minimise any waste. 

He concluded that most of the materials in the store could either be broken down using the loose tenon structures or simply repurposed as furniture in an office. This made the space sustainable and the scope to be a different function. 

The shop houses many sustainable concepts put forth by Levi’s Made & Crafted, Wellthread, and a range of other material and production innovations such as, Cottonised Hemp, Tencel x Refibra, Water>Less and F.L.X. Each of the garments display 100% recyclable Arch & Hook Blue hangers. The hangers are the world’s primary hangers produced from marine plastics, collected from the world’s five most polluted rivers. 

The store not only portrays its dedication to eco-friendly fashion but also increases consumers insights.  Paul Sweet, Levi Strauss & Co. ANZ MD, stated that the new retail concept was a physical representation of their ongoing commitment to craftsmanship, innovation and sustainability. He added that they were placing environmental considerations front and centre of the shopping experience and inviting consumers to shop more consciously.

David Jones, the GM of womenswear, footwear and accessories Bridget Veals, stated that Levi's concept store was in line with the retailer's larger Good Business Journey. She added that he was thrilled to be partnering up 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. The store in Melbourne is now officially open for customers.