A Fresh Stitch: How Refugees in Amsterdam are Reviving Worn-out Clothing

Amsterdam, known for its picturesque canals and rich cultural heritage, has always been a city that embraces diversity and innovation. In the heart of this bustling metropolis lies Westerpark, an expansive urban oasis that embodies the essence of Dutch life. Amidst the vibrant atmosphere, a remarkable initiative is quietly reshaping the fashion industry, one stitch at a time. Run by a group of resilient refugees, a repair shop in Amsterdam is transforming the way major brands approach sustainability, while also establishing a new fixing factory in the UK.

Westerpark, once a gasworks site, has undergone a transformation that reflects the spirit of the Netherlands. The park is now a hub of creative energy, boasting hip eateries, serene picnic spots, meandering waterways fed by rain, and a profusion of flower-filled community gardens. Amid this idyllic setting, something extraordinary is unfolding just off the park's south-western edge—an unremarkable industrial complex with an unassuming façade.