Reekom, a French startup, has taken a significant step in the textile industry by acquiring the Paris-based Tilli, a company known for its expertise in textile care and repair. This strategic move aligns with Reekom’s mission to expand its recycling operations, linking industrial processing capabilities with local artisan networks. As recycling and upcycling become increasingly critical, the partnership aims to provide a sustainable alternative to fast fashion by enhancing regional textile approaches. This merger exemplifies a commitment to environmental preservation and economic viability within the industry.
Reekom’s €4.5 million fundraising round in early 2025 set the stage for this acquisition, underscoring the company’s commitment to broadening its influence in sustainable textile management. Before this acquisition, Reekom started as a logistics-focused enterprise, catering to major retailers by offering services that included material disinfection and repair. This acquisition marks a shift towards an integrated model combining traditional and industrial expertise across Europe—a blend that was not feasible for the company in its earlier phases. It also reflects a growing recognition of the importance of sustainable practices within the fashion industry.
What Changes Will the Acquisition Bring?
With Tilli operating as a platform for extending the life of textiles, leather goods, and footwear, this acquisition is a move to scale these efforts to an industrial level. Tilli already connects over 1,200 craftsmen across Europe, providing services to well-known brands such as Zara and American Vintage. By integrating Tilli’s network with its La Courneuve industrial facility, Reekom aims to expand its textile processing capabilities from local repair to large-scale operations.
How Will Tilli’s Integration Affect Reekom?
The integration of Tilli into Reekom’s processes involves incorporating Parisian workshops into its larger facilities without disrupting existing operations. This merger ensures continued support for artisans, preserving local expertise while scaling operations. For associated brands, the collaboration offers a comprehensive service that covers the entire lifecycle of textiles.
Guillaume Perret du Cray, CEO of Reekom, highlighted the potential of this acquisition:
“Tilli has successfully created a strong momentum around care & repair, complementing our industrial and large-scale expertise.”
This underscores the shared environmental objectives between both companies and the complementary nature of their expertise in contributing to Reekom’s circular economic goals.
Beryl de Labouchère, founder of Tilli, added:
“With Reekom, we share a common vision and ambition: to make textile recycling a sustainable and profitable economic model.”
Her statement emphasizes a symbiotic relationship that aids ecological transition efforts internationally.
Reekom intends for this acquisition to lay the groundwork for international expansion into Spain, Italy, Germany, and beyond. Building on Tilli’s network, Reekom is set to offer this combined expertise on a broader scale, positioning itself as a key player in the circular textile industry.
