A new trend in Turkey! Second-hand shopping

The findings of the "Sustainability Impact in Second-Hand Shopping" research, conducted in partnership with sahibinden.com and KONDA Research and Consultancy, have been shared with the public.

The results, announced at a press conference held in Istanbul, show that second-hand shopping is rapidly becoming widespread across Turkey as both an economic and sustainable form of consumption.

Within the scope of this study, surveys conducted with 2,700 individuals in 28 provinces revealed that one in every two people has bought or sold a second-hand product within a year. A wide range of products is preferred in second-hand shopping, from clothing to electronic devices, and from furniture to home appliances. It is stated that 45 percent of participants choose second-hand products.

With the proliferation of digital platforms, the sale of second-hand products has evolved from a one-time experience into a regular habit. The research stated that one in every four people shops for second-hand items at least once a month. This group was referred to as "true sustainability carriers," and it was reported that the average age of these consumers is 35, with the vast majority having received a university education.

The use of second-hand products is now moving away from a negative perception in society. While the rate of those who say "second-hand is an indicator of low status" remains at 10 percent, positive definitions such as "thrifty," "environmentally conscious," and "stylish" are becoming more common.

SECOND-HAND PREFERENCE INCREASES IN MAJOR CITIES AND AMONG THE YOUNGER GENERATION

The research results reveal that university graduates and young individuals in major cities are more active in the second-hand market. It is emphasized that approaches such as sustainable living and reducing waste have become an important part of this demographic's daily habits.

The report reveals that the concept of sustainability has reached a 61 percent awareness rate in Turkey, and 40 percent of society is now aware of their carbon footprint. It is stated that with the development of digital infrastructure, secure shopping and verified seller options have increased trust in the second-hand market.

Mobile phones and accessories are among the categories with the most activity, and this group makes up 54 percent of the second-hand market. In addition, a 42 percent share in clothing and footwear, 45 percent in computers and tablets, and 41 percent in electrical home appliances are noteworthy. While female consumers stand out in clothing, mother-baby products, and home decoration, men play a more active role in electronic categories.

NEARLY HALF OF HOMES IN TURKEY CONTAIN SECOND-HAND PRODUCTS

While it was determined that at least one second-hand product is found in 46 percent of homes, the most frequently encountered category was electronic devices. Furniture, clothing, and footwear are also highly preferred. Second-hand clothing is found in one out of every three households. The high tendency for donation, especially in mother-baby products, indicates that the tradition of solidarity and mutual aid continues in this category.

Users' preference for shopping platforms varies according to age and lifestyle. The rate of those who choose entirely online shopping was recorded at 8 percent, while those who prefer only traditional methods were at 19 percent. Those who use both methods together are at the 16 percent level.

Trust stands out as the determining factor in second-hand shopping. 83 percent of participants stated that they could buy a second-hand product if they trust the seller. The provision of defect-free products or warranty and return options also influences consumer decisions. Hygiene concerns are among the most frequently mentioned reservations, at 58 percent.

CIRCULAR ECONOMY CULTURE IS GROWING

As the number of conscious consumers continues to increase, it is observed that second-hand shopping has become central to the understanding of sustainability in Turkey. The fact that its environmental impacts are coming to the fore, as much as its economic advantages, ensures that this habit becomes permanent in society.

sahibinden.com CEO Burak Ertaş stated that the research findings clearly show social change and said:

"The fact that one in every two people is involved in the process shows that the circular economy approach has found a strong response," said Ertaş, expressing that repairing and reusing what exists under current conditions both contributes to the environment and protects individuals' budgets. He also stated that they believe every product that changes hands on their platform is a sign of a new culture and that the younger generation's interest in sustainable living is promising for the future.