Save money by buying pre-loved

As households seek practical ways to make their budgets stretch further, more people than ever are buying and selling pre-loved goods.

According to the British Retail Consortium (BRC), 43% of people have bought or sold second-hand clothing in the past year.

Furniture sales are on the rise too, with 21% of respondents saying they had bought or sold pre-loved items for their homes.

People are also snapping up or selling: 

• electronics items like laptops
• footwear
• children’s clothing

Gen Z leading second-hand revolution

Gen Z appear to be the biggest champions of second-hand shopping right now.

Pre-loved electronics like smartphones and laptops, in particular, are increasingly being snapped up by 18 to 27-year-olds.

But it’s not just younger generations driving this trend. 

People aged between 60 and 78 are also becoming active in the second-hand market, selling and buying more pre-loved furniture.

“It is great to see so many people, across all generations, embracing the circular economy,” said Sophie De Salis, sustainability policy adviser at the BRC.

“Second-hand is no longer seen as second best. 

“It has become a first choice for sustainability, affordability and individuality.” 

Where can I buy or sell second-hand goods?

If you want to snap up some second-hand bargains, there are plenty of options available.

Charity shops

Charity shops are great places to bag some great items at knockdown prices, from clothing, books and records to homeware, toys and items of furniture.

And as well as getting yourself some bargains, you’re also supporting great causes.

Pre-loved sections at retailers

Several major retailers have embraced the growing popularity of second-hand clothes by adding sections full of pre-loved items in-store.

Primark, for example, has its Wornwell section in select stores.

Online marketplaces

Platforms like Vinted, Facebook Marketplace and eBay make it easier than ever to buy and sell second-hand goods from the comfort of your home. 

Vinted is popular for clothing, footwear and accessories, offering a simple, fee-free platform for individuals. 

Facebook Marketplace connects local buyers and sellers, making it ideal for larger items like furniture, while eBay offers access to a global audience with options for auctions or fixed-price sales on everything from tech to collectibles.