New research from Currys has dug into what is powering a ‘refurbished revolution’ in consumer tech, with Brits now more likely to buy second-hand technology (32%) than they are clothes (19%).
Environmental concerns appear to be a key driver behind this boom, with 75% of respondents saying they were worried about the amount of e-waste Brits produce.
The UK generates the second-highest amount of electronic waste per capita in the world, with half a billion cheap electronic items going to landfill each year. Over a quarter (29%) said that they would be more likely to buy refurbished rather than new devices if it helped them reduce their environmental footprint.
Currys’ research suggests that deal-savvy consumers and an increasing trust in refurbished retailers are both accelerating this boom, with half of respondents (47%) saying that buying refurbished tech appeals to them as it helps them to save money.
A third (34%) suggested that being able to buy from a well-known retailer, like Currys – which offers refurbed customers a 12-month technical guarantee for extra peace of mind – makes them more likely to shop second-hand.
Steve Pendleton, service director at Currys, said: “We know that our customers are buying into the refurbished revolution for two main reasons: a desire to be more environmentally mindful – buying a refurbished product means that a valuable device remains in use, rather than being left unused, discarded or recycled – and amazing value for money.
“We’re incredibly proud to support our customers on both of these fronts, thanks to our team in Newark who repair, refurbish and re-sell a whole host of previously unwanted tech at amazing prices.”
