According to the Pre Loved Indicator report, total second-hand sales amounted to nearly SEK 1.3 billion in April, an increase of just over 7 percent compared to the same month last year. Of this market, just over 68 percent consisted of e-commerce.
Digital Growth in Both Annual and Monthly Rate
Sales online amounted to nearly SEK 880 million during April, which corresponds to an increase of almost 8 percent year-on-year. Compared to the previous month (March), digital sales increased by just over 21 percent.
Even physical stores showed a sales increase during April, but in terms of the first four months of the year, e-commerce has lost less sales than physical channels. This confirms that the online channel is strong in an otherwise more cautious market.
Among product categories, fashion stood out and acted as a growth engine for the market, with a turnover of SEK 494 million during April.
Demand for Improved Conditions
Maria Mikkonen, Chief Economist at Svensk Handel, comments on the development and the industry's conditions:
April meant a welcome trend break after a weak start to the year. At the same time as nearly one in four consumers shopped second hand, we saw a clear increase in sales, where fashion continues to be the locomotive of the market, as we like to update the wardrobe for spring and summer.
Furthermore, she emphasizes the importance of political measures to support retailers going forward:
Second hand is an important part of the future of retail, but the conditions need to be improved. Svensk Handel has long advocated for a reduced VAT on second-hand goods. This would strengthen the circular economy, make sustainable choices more attractive to consumers and give more companies the opportunity to develop their second-hand offerings.