Recupel, ViTeS & VPD: Giving Electronics a Second Life

Once again, we are committing to an initiative aimed at promoting sustainability. In partnership with Recupel, specialising in the collection and processing of used electrical appliances, and the ViTeS thrift shop, we are working to give a second life to an increasing number of devices in the coming years.

Reuse or Recycle?

As an authorised Recupel collection point, we ensure the collection of old electrical appliances. When a new device is delivered to a customer, we collect the old one in compliance with legal regulations. These appliances are then stored in containers and later picked up by Recupel for recycling.

However, we often find that many of these old devices are still functional and could be reused. With support from Recupel and in collaboration with ViTeS, we aim to increase the number of devices reused by 50% in the coming years. VPD collects the appliances, ViTeS repairs them, and they are then sold in thrift shops.

A Thoughtful Process, from Collection to Sale

At VPD, we leverage our logistics expertise to contribute to a greener future, while ViTeS adds value by repairing these devices. Here is the step-by-step process:

Collection by VPD: When a new device is delivered to a customer, the old device is collected by our team.
Initial Sorting: In VPD’s warehouses, the appliances are sorted based on criteria provided by ViTeS. Devices that can be repaired are set aside.
Transport to ViTeS: Three times a week, the selected appliances are transported to ViTeS workshops for processing.
Repair and Testing by ViTeS:
- The appliances are tested to ensure electrical and functional safety.
- They are cleaned, repaired, and defective parts are replaced if necessary.
- After a thorough testing phase, the devices are ready for reuse.
Delivery and Sale: The repaired devices are delivered to thrift shops, where they find a second life with new customers.

Positive Impact on the Environment and Society

Reusing electronic devices is much more sustainable than recycling: it saves the natural resources and energy required for dismantling old devices and manufacturing new ones, while significantly reducing waste.

This initiative also has a strong social dimension. As a social enterprise, ViTeS creates job opportunities for people who face barriers to entering the traditional labour market, fostering inclusion.

An Example of Sustainable Partnership for the Future

The collaboration between Recupel, ViTeS, and VPD demonstrates how companies from different sectors can work together to create a better future for the planet and society.

In just a few months, VPD has collected over 200 devices ready to be repaired by ViTeS. With an average processing time of two months between collection and sale, the first refurbished devices will soon be available in thrift shops.

We look forward to sharing concrete figures about this promising initiative in the future!

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