The trade has had a few tough years behind it and purchases of clothes, furniture, home furnishings and electronics declined significantly in 2023. But the tough years have also contributed to us buying more used goods. The industry organization Swedish Trade has published a report on how trade is doing.
– When we ask consumers why they buy second hand, they say it’s cheap, you want a unique style and of course you’re aware of the sustainable choice, says Sofia Larsen, CEO of Swedish Trade.
Half of the second-hand market’s sales consist of fashion. But also household items, toys, furniture and decor are popular on the second-hand market.
According to the survey, 27 percent of Swedes shop second hand during a month. What drives the market are the younger consumers, 39 percent of 18-29-year-olds shop second-hand during the same period.
– It is not just a change in attitude. This is happening throughout our society and I certainly don’t think it’s just a trend. Now we see that second hand is increasing during the recession, but it will not just remain, it will increase, says Sofia Larsen.
The market for used goods is estimated to amount to SEK 18 billion in 2024 and to SEK 50 billion in 2034.
“Definitely the future”
Martin Hallander is CEO of the company Arkivet, which sells and buys second-hand clothes. The company started in 2017 and operates stores in Stockholm and Gothenburg.
– Second hand is definitely the future. We see that recently there are many new customers who come and hand in clothes for the first time and it is a way to circulate their wardrobe in a good way. It’s not just about sustainability and the environment, because you’re also aware of price and your own wallet, says Martin Hallander.
In the shop we meet Cecilia Borg and Ella Lindblom.
– We buy second hand because it is better for the environment, but this is also where you find the unique clothes, says Cecilia Borg.
In addition to physical stores such as Arkivet, Myrorna, Stockholms Stadsmission, there is also a large market in social media for used clothes. Apps like Vinted, Sellpy and Plick are popular tools for buying and selling clothes. Many established business chains have also started buying and selling second-hand clothes.
Despite the fact that more and more people are choosing to buy clothes second-hand, there are no signs that fewer garments are being produced.
Why do so many young people shop second hand so much? See the clip