Brits Embrace Second-Hand Shopping: A Sustainable Shift in Style and Tech

More and more Brits are turning to second-hand options when it comes to fashion, furniture, and electronics—signalling a powerful shift in consumer habits towards sustainability and affordability.

According to the latest data from the British Retail Consortium, nearly half (45%) of UK adults have purchased second-hand clothing in the past year. Meanwhile, one in five opted for pre-loved furniture for their most recent home update. This growing trend is prompting retailers to expand their resale offerings to keep pace with popular peer-to-peer platforms like eBay, Vinted, Facebook Marketplace, and Gumtree.

Furniture and Tech: A Growing Market

Second-hand furniture purchases have seen a notable rise, with 21% of Brits buying used pieces in the past 12 months—up from 15% the year before. The trend extends to tech too, with increased interest in refurbished smartphones, laptops, TVs, and PCs.

Interestingly, while the 60–78 age group led the charge in second-hand furniture buying, it’s the younger generation (18–27) who are the most active second-hand shoppers overall.

Trust and Transparency Still Key

Despite the momentum, some shoppers remain hesitant. Research from BSI and CISL highlights the need for clearer standards around hygiene, safety, and quality to build consumer confidence in the second-hand market. Collaboration between standards bodies and resellers will be key to unlocking further growth.

Fashion Forward: Second-Hand Style

Clothing remains the most popular second-hand category. Nearly 43% of Brits reported buying second-hand adult clothing in the past year, with around one in three choosing pre-loved shoes and one in five opting for children’s clothing.

However, the BRC notes a slight dip in second-hand fashion purchases year-on-year, suggesting the market may be reaching a saturation point. Some consumers may also be influenced by minimalist lifestyle trends like the “No Buy” challenge, which encourages reduced consumption altogether.

A Circular Future

Sophie De Salis, Sustainability Policy Advisor at the British Retail Consortium, summed it up perfectly: “It is great to see so many people, across all generations, embracing the circular economy. Second-hand is no longer seen as second best. It has become a first choice for sustainability, affordability and individuality.”