IKEA launches second-hand marketplace in Ireland
IKEA has confirmed the launch of a second-hand marketplace in Ireland. It aims to provide a way to buy and sell pre-owned IKEA products with one another.
The Swedish home furniture company says that the new marketplace will make it easier to pass on IKEA furniture that they no longer need; this helps others discover the products, including those that are no longer available in stores.
New IKEA research shows that second-hand shopping has become a key part of everyday life in Ireland. Over 90% of respondents said that they shop for second-hand goods, valuing quality and cost.
However, 58% of respondents said that saving money or stretching a household budget is a key motivation. It also found that furniture was a key part of this behaviour, with affordability being the primary driver for 56% of people.
Emily Birkin, Development & Transformation Manager, Ingka Group said: “t IKEA, our vision is to create a better everyday life for the many people, and that means making well-designed, functional home furnishing more accessible at different stages of life and across different budgets. The second-hand marketplace is another way we can help more people access affordable IKEA products, while giving customers a simple way to pass on items they no longer need.”
Greg Lucas, Sustainability Manager at IKEA UK & Ireland added: “The way people furnish their homes has changed. Whether they are moving, redecorating or looking for a particular piece, more customers are considering pre-owned furniture alongside new and are actively searching for items that can help create a home that feels personal to them. Our research found that 42% of adults in Ireland would find pre-owned furniture with a personal history or story more desirable than buying new. IKEA products are designed to be used, maintained and enjoyed over time, and the second-hand marketplace, as well as our instore buy back service gives people a straightforward way to pass on items as their needs change, with useful information to support them as they buy and sell.”