What Does Resourcefulness Mean to You

For Albert, resourcefulness is “solving issues the smartest way and the simplest way,” and it starts with slowing down. His role involves diligently reviewing customer service requests and shipping replacement parts; whether for rolling workcenters or shelving units. Taking the time to fully understand each request helps reduce waste and prevent unnecessary returns. “It takes a little longer,” he says, “but I’d rather spend an extra two or three minutes upfront and not rush, than risk sending the wrong part and spend more in shipping and materials. It’s getting it right from the start that matters.”

For Carmen, resourcefulness means “finding practical solutions, using the resources we already have, and looking for ways to improve processes”. Lourdes describes it as “doing the best you can with the tools, people, and knowledge around you.” Stephanie views resourcefulness through a creative and sustainability-focused lens. To her, it’s about “adding another use to what you have on hand. Seeing possibilities everywhere and an invitation to be more creative.” She compares it to everyday habits like reusing boxes for gifts or rewearing a favorite sweater simply because it’s already there. She uses this perspective in her work, finding resourceful solutions that support sustainability goals while encouraging others to rethink what’s possible.

Resourcefulness in Action

As I learned more about how resourcefulness shows up across the company, it became clear that good ideas can come from anywhere. It doesn’t matter if an idea is inspired elsewhere or feels small; what matters is taking action. Lourdes is a great example of this. After learning about a packaging reduction idea at the 2024 Walmart Sustainability Milestone Summit, she brought it back to the team. The change was implemented, eliminating over 1,000 pounds of plastic from entering landfills.

Albert and Carmen echo this mindset by repurposing slip sheets and packaging materials from incoming inventory trucks (materials that would have otherwise been recycled). Using these materials to pack customer service replacement parts cut packing time from 15 minutes to just 3, allowing the team to ship more orders efficiently while extending the life of existing materials. “They were perfect for a cookie-cutter method,” Albert explains, “instead of breaking down larger pieces of cardboard every time.” They ensure that every part is packaged safely and test whether the corners and surfaces will be adequately protected during transit. The team implemented a stamp to mark boxes that have been repurposed and given a second life. We hope the stamp encourages you to get creative and extend the life of materials around you — especially packaging materials, which, as Stephanie mentioned, is “the ultimate single-use item.”

Stephanie highlighted the partnership with Allied Woodshop (more on this during Earth Week), where damaged wood parts are donated and reused. So far, over 3,500 pounds of material have been given a second life through this women-owned small business.

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

After 31 years at Seville Classics, Carmen has witnessed countless changes in packaging and processes. Working closely with returns teams, she helps identify usable parts that can be repackaged for customers rather than discarded. “When packages arrive from returns, some parts are damaged, but others are in great condition,” she explains. “We repackage them for customers who need them, so the customer doesn't have to wait so long for a part they need.”

Resourcefulness doesn’t happen in silos. Albert collaborates with customer service teams to prevent avoidable returns by ensuring the right information is gathered from the start. Lourdes works closely with creative, e-commerce, sales, and warehouse teams to stay aligned and work through any arising concerns. While the team may be small, it’s built on collaboration and shared problem-solving.

Stephanie reinforces sustainability as a shared responsibility across office operations. Rather than replacing functional items, she encourages using what already works. “If you use what you have, it goes hand in hand with savings,” she notes, “because you’re not buying something you don’t need.” She considered purchasing new trash bins for the break room, but realized there was no need because the existing ones were still in great shape. One of the easiest ways to buy less is to start by choosing quality items that last. (In fact, the bins in our break room are a previous design of our trash cans, and they’re still going strong!)

Written by 
Jeanette Gijon