The partnership sees Messina Hembry leverage Aistetic’s AI-powered computer vision solution to streamline the listing process in the resale fashion industry and address the underlying costs that hinder profitability.
The AI-driven computer vision technology automates the task of cataloguing apparel by extracting product details directly from images.
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This advancement has accelerated Messina Hembry’s ability to tag, describe, and list garments, transforming a process once dependent on extensive manual effort into a swift operation.
Messina Hembry CEO Zac Hembry said: “Using Aistetic’s AI Listing solution has revolutionised our workflow. We’ve seen a three-times increase in our listing capacity, a 70% reduction in our workflows and increases in conversions linked to faster, more accurate tagging.”
Prominence of fashion resale
Recent statistics show a 400% increase in eBay searches for “pre-loved fashion” since summer 2024, with 71% of Gen Z consumers embracing resale culture.
However, the sector grapples with hidden costs that stifle scalability and profitability. Even as platforms like Vinted report profits, others such as ThredUp and The RealReal confront post-IPO challenges balancing sustainability with financial success.
Aistetic says the crux of the issue lies in the unique nature of secondhand clothing which necessitates meticulous re-merchandising, a costly and time-consuming process involving quality checks and photography for each distinct item.
Furthermore, reverse SKU logistics compound these challenges by managing single-item fulfilment on a grand scale.
The duo adds that while some consumers delight in the quest for unique finds, others are daunted by vast selections and disorganised listings that make shopping laborious.
The partnership between Messina Hembry and Aistetic is said to underscore how AI is revolutionising not just operational workflows but also customer engagement within the resale industry.
By automating processes and refining listing precision and speed, AI enables resale platforms to expand rapidly and profitably while reducing shopper frustration.
Aistetic CEO Duncan McKay said: “Our goal is to empower resale platforms with the AI tools they need to scale profitably while driving sustainability. Through this partnership with Messina Hembry, we’re helping them unlock more capacity, enhance the shopping experience, and contribute to the circular economy.”
