Recycling Olympic banners into fashion

La Fabrique de Provence, a project initiated by the Bouches-du-Rhône Department in France, is transforming promotional banners from events such as the Paris 2024 Olympics into stylish fashion accessories. These banners, originally designed for temporary use at events, are now being repurposed into practical items like bags and purses.

Involving people with disabilities

The banners are processed at ESAT Saint-Jean, a facility that employs people with disabilities. The project began in 2012 to address the short lifespan of event banners and to create new value from them. ESAT Saint-Jean has been involved from the start through a reserved contract with the Department.

Combining sustainability and solidarity

Amapola Ventron, a departmental counselor for Ecological Transition, highlighted that this initiative merges the principles of the circular economy with social solidarity. The banners are turned into a variety of items, including backpacks, purses, wallets, and bathroom baskets, which are then purchased by the Department and sold at cost.

Creating new designs and collections

The latest collection features a backpack with the colors and motifs of the Paris 2024 Olympics, requiring extensive design and assembly work. Other items are enhanced with embroidery from a partner workshop, 13 A’Tipik. Previous banners have also been displayed at the Fiesta des Suds, and the new materials will be used for future collections.

Preparing materials for production

Before being handled by workers, the banners are stored at La Pomme, photographed, and selected for future collections. They are then cut according to patterns drawn by the Department, cleaned individually, and assembled in the workshop. This process ensures that only the best materials are used for each product.

Efficient production by skilled workers

Maxime Rabotot, a workshop monitor at ESAT Saint-Jean, explained that each worker performs a specific task, reducing the time to make a bag to 45 minutes. The 13 workers share 18 machines, working 35 hours per week based on individual skills and abilities. This approach allows them to develop their skills without becoming overwhelmed.

Final assembly and specialized work

Bastien, an employee of the ESAT for ten years, works on the final assembly, using two machines with needles suited for the thickness of the materials. His role is crucial in adding the final touches to each product, ensuring quality and functionality.

Expanding into a new brand

In addition to working on La Fabrique de Provence, the ESAT has developed its own brand, Recyclage et Création. Private suppliers provide materials like large jute coffee bags, which are transformed into items such as poufs, sports bags, and bobs. These products are showcased twice a year at a pop-up shop held directly in the workshops. The next event is scheduled for December 2 and 3.