The technology reconditioning market has gained enormous prominence in recent times and especially in the last year with the rise in prices. The market manages to increase its sales by up to 24%, according to knowledgeable sources.
Mobiles are the star. Refurbished devices have been used and returned to the manufacturer or store for minor defects, breakdowns, or campaign and display recalls. The pull in purchases comes from the rise in prices due to the inflation crisis. Buying cheaper is, without a doubt, the main attraction of this type of market.
“Today’s consumers do not want to give up having high-end mobiles, but they have realized that they can buy them up to 50% cheaper and with the same quality guarantees as a new mobile”, says Jacqueline Pistoulet, Country Manager Spain of SMAAART, a brand dedicated to mobile reconditioning.
Although mobile is the main product, it is not the only one. “We have other electronic devices such as tablets, smartwatches or speakers, and from all brands,” says Pistoulet.
In addition to the economic savings, there is a second factor that is driving the sales of these reconditioned equipment: sustainability. The trend is the result of an increasingly responsible attitude of users. Of a more rational use of technology. “The traditional linear consumption model, based on using and throwing away, has given way to a circular one, whose objective is to extend the useful life of devices and reduce waste. There is increasing awareness about the importance of giving a second life to devices,” explains Pistoulet.
By extending the useful life of devices, the need for manufacturing is reduced, which in turn reduces the consumption of natural resources and the generation of waste. “The refurbished device allows savings of up to 50% in the amount of water needed for a new product, as well as a reduction of more than 80% in COâ‚‚ emissions and a saving of 40 kilos of rock materials”, confirms Laura del Campo, from the company Certideal.
But there is still a third reason to buy one of these devices, which is the guarantee and the after-sales service.
Phones go through a rigorous review and testing process to ensure they are in good working order. Any trace of personal data is eliminated and they are accompanied by a certificate that proves it. Battery tests are also carried out and various components are tested. Once the diagnoses are made, the mobile enters the repair phase, where defective or worn components and parts are replaced. Then comes a deep cleaning and packing. They are sold fully equipped, from the charger to the headphones.
“If the customer is not satisfied, they have 30 days after receiving the order to return the product and their money will be refunded. There is also a 24-month guarantee and personalized customer service,” reports Jacqueline Pistoulet.
The rise of the market makes its regulation necessary. “In many countries, there are specific regulations and standards. They generally focus on product safety and consumer protection. For example, they may set requirements for quality testing and warranties for refurbished devices.”
“Some regulations also address the proper management of electronic waste and promote responsible refurbishing and recycling practices,” report from Certideal.
The market trend indicates that sales will continue to grow at an unstoppable rate. “With the growing interest in sustainability and the circular economy, the demand for refurbished is expected to continue to rise. It could lead to an increase in competition between companies, which in turn would drive innovation and improve quality”‘, explains Field.
The cheapest price, the quality and guarantee controls and the feeling of contributing to the reduction of the environmental impact make this option increasingly popular among consumers.
