Pre-loved enters the mainstream with nearly half of Brits having purchased (49%) or sold (42%) second-hand goods on online marketplaces, according to new research from DHL eComemrce UK, rising to 63% and 52% amongst 25-34 year olds.

Affordability (52%), sustainability (38%) and ethical purchasing (28%) were the key demand drivers among the 2,000 UK shoppers it polled.

A broader shift in green retail values

“The growing trend of buying and selling pre-loved items online reflects a broader shift in consumer values,” said Gemma Marshall, OOH Product Manager at DHL eCommerce UK. “Sustainability is a key driver for those embracing pre-loved shopping, and it’s no surprise that more retailers are stepping up to offer pre-loved options to meet this demand.” 

Earlier in August Marks & Spencer launched a dedicated clothing re-sale service on eBay powered by Reskinned, allowing shoppers to trade-in second hand apparel, footwear and accessories. Meanwhile, maternity and babywear retailer, JoJo Maman Bébé, has also extended its circular retail offering, partnering with kidswear marketplace, thelittleloop, to launch its first re-sale platform, JoJo Reloved.

Fashion remains top performing pre-loved category

With fashion being one of the first-movers in circular retailing, with the likes of eBay and Vinted popularising pre-loved and vintage fashion finds, apparel remains the most popular category of second-hand items sold online.

Nine in 10 have sold apparel online, extending the lifecycle of garments and keeping fashion out of landfill, followed by accessories (32%) and shoes (31%). 

Many consumers are also extending their commitment to sustainability, with over half saving packaging from other parcel deliveries to reuse when selling goods on online marketplaces.

“This commitment extends beyond the items themselves to the delivery process, where consumer choice plays an influential role,” Marshall continued. “By opting for delivery partners that prioritise sustainability and convenient service, such as parcel shops and lockers, buyers can further amplify their positive impact on the planet.”