To capitalise on the growing market for secondhand goods, Ikea has introduced its online marketplace.
Customers can now buy and sell directly from each other, eliminating the need for third-party platforms like eBay or Gumtree. Ikea Preowned is currently available in Madrid and Oslo, with plans for a global rollout by December.
A spokesperson said, “After December, we will evaluate and decide on the next steps. We start in Oslo and Madrid, yet our ambition is higher.”
Ikea’s launch of a secondhand marketplace aligns with its sustainability goals by promoting item reuse and reducing waste. Additionally, the company can benefit financially from the resale of its products.
In recent years, furniture manufacturers have faced criticism for contributing to environmental pollution through the excessive use of plastic. The prevalence of cheap furniture has encouraged a disposable culture, increasing waste and harming marine wildlife.
Environmental advocates have emphasised the importance of a circular economy, which prioritises product reuse. By facilitating the resale of its items, Ikea can incentivise the creation of more durable and sustainable products.
The company’s new online marketplace also allows it to shift its focus away from costly brick-and-mortar stores and towards the growing online sales and assembly services market.