The rise of secondhand?

When we asked French consumers about their level of concern about the impact of inflation on their households, 84% of respondents said they were worried (45% rather worried, 39% very worried). This figure has risen by 4% in the space of a year, underlining the rise in concern.

This increase is particularly pronounced among the less affluent socio-professional categories (SPC-), where 44% say they are very worried at the end of the year, compared with 26% among the more affluent SPC+.

As consumers keep a closer eye on their spending, analyses show a growing trend towards secondhand products. For motor vehicles, 39% of consumers are opting for secondhand, outperforming new (20%). This preference is mirrored in furnishings, where 32% of consumers are choosing secondhand. 

On the other hand, in categories such as adult clothing and cell phones, new purchases still dominate (61% and 50% respectively), although the secondhand option is gaining ground (25% and 21%). In uncertain economic times, when sustainability is becoming increasingly important, consumers are adapting their consumption patterns accordingly.

Some consumer profiles are more likely to buy certain products secondhand. Interesting associations include:

• Young adults: Most product categories, except high-tech/electronics
• Women: Clothing purchases, especially children's
• Less affluent individuals: Most product categories, especially automotive purchases