Spoilt for Choice

UK shoppers are increasingly choosing second-hand furniture and refurbished tech -not just for savings, but for sustainability. Here's what this shift means for retailers and the circular economy.

Why more Brits are choosing second-hand and what it means for the future of retail?

In the past, “second-hand” often meant second-best. But that’s changing fast.

A recent article by edie reveals a striking shift in UK consumer behaviour: more people are choosing pre-loved furniture and refurbished gadgets over buying new. And they’re not doing it out of necessity, they’re doing it by choice.

“More than half of UK adults now say they are opting for pre-loved furniture and refurbished gadgets over brand-new purchases.”

That’s a powerful insight. It signals a growing preference, not just acceptance, for circular alternatives in the mainstream market. This isn't just about affordability. According to the research cited, it's about values, resourcefulness, and what people truly want from their purchases.

The Rise of Pre-loved Preference

The findings come from a survey of 2,000 UK adults, conducted by Censuswide and commissioned by eBay. The results paint a clear picture: the second-hand stigma is fading - and a cultural shift is underway.

“Among respondents, 52% said they had chosen second-hand or refurbished items over new at least once in the past year.”

Interestingly, the preference is strongest in home categories: sofas, chairs, tables, and tech are leading the way. Not only do these items represent higher value, but they also allow consumers to feel more connected to a story of reuse, character, and conscious consumption.

Cost? Yes. But Also: Character and Carbon

While cost savings remain a motivator, the data shows an increasing number of shoppers also cite environmental impact and uniqueness as reasons to go circular. People are no longer just stretching their wallets, they’re expressing their values.

“A quarter of people said they chose pre-loved to avoid waste and reduce their environmental impact.”

In other words, second-hand is becoming a style statement and a sustainability choice.

A Turning Point for Retailers

For brands, this shift is both a challenge and a huge opportunity. As consumers become more selective and sustainability-conscious, retailers must meet demand with models that support resale, refurbishment, and trade-in, not just new product cycles.

This is the moment to lean in.

If you’re a brand still wondering whether resale is worth it, this trend data suggests the question is no longer if, but how soon.

“eBay UK has pledged to help people save at least 13,000 tonnes of carbon emissions in 2024 by promoting second-hand over new purchases.”

From tech to tables, Brits are showing us that resale is no longer a backup option, it’s the first choice. The future of retail is circular, and consumers are already on board.

Original article via edie: Read here
Survey commissioned by eBay and conducted by Censuswide.

Questions? Contact us hello@tern.eco


Book A Demo


Follow us on Instagram for more circular tips