A responsible business
The ambition to introduce circular flows in the operations is an important cornerstone of Synsam’s environmental work. Production, consumption and reuse must be interlinked and transparent. Synsam works continually to identify and improve processes in its value chain by setting demands for both its own organisation and its suppliers.
The work of developing long-lasting products that can be recycled starts at the design table and with the sourcing of raw materials.Synsam strives to integrate sustainability into the design of its frames to the greatest extent possible through continuous innovation and development efforts. The Group continually welcomes potential new designs and materials in its search for improvements. At Synsam’s production and innovation centre on Frösön, new materials are tested for future production.
Environmental impact from production
The production of Synsam’s own spectacle brands currently takes place at the Group’s production and innovation centre on Frösön as well as at suppliers in Asia and Europe. Regardless of where production takes place, Synsam always strives towards production that takes responsibility for all parts of the production process.
Energy consumption in production and operations
Synsam strives to use energy as efficiently as possible across its retail operations, own production, and offices, in order to avoid unnecessary electricity consumption. As part of its energy efficiency efforts, the Group uses only LED lighting in store signage.
Synsam strives to ensure that all electricity used in its operations is renewable and, where possible, requires landlords to use fossil-free electricity. Synsam’s production and innovation centre in Frösön is powered entirely by renewable electricity, and the waste generated in its operations is sent to Jämtkraft, where it is used to produce district heating.
Customers help to recycle and reuse spectacles
Customers can return worn-out or unwanted eyeglasses at Synsam stores. Synsam accepts all types of eyeglasses and sunglasses from any brand, including those not sold or manufactured by the Group. All returned products are sent from stores to Synsam’s own workshop. Products that are not suitable for reuse are directed to material recycling or energy recovery.
A circular business model
Synsam’s objective is to grow the circular business and offer more people second-hand frames and sunglasses. To promote reuse and recycling, Synsam launched the partially circular business model “Lifestyle” in 2020, where eyewear is leased instead of purchased. When customers return a product in their annual replacement, it is taken care of and given a longer life through Synsam’s second-hand offering. Before the product is returned to the shelf, the lenses are removed, the frames are cleaned and any worn parts such as nose pads are replaced. Through Synsam Outlet, second-hand frames are given a new lease of life and Synsam’s business model becomes more circular. In addition to Synsam’s secondhand frames from Lifestyle subscribers, the Synsam Outlet stores also offer Outlet frames, which are discontinued frames from Synsam’s stores, giving them a second chance as well.
Climate calculations according to the GHG Protocol
Learn more about Synsam’s climate assessment in accordance with the GHG Protocol in Synsam’s Annual Report.