Technology and sustainability: two universes that, although apparently very distant, can move in synergy for a future characterized by new, increasingly green consumption models. In this context, CertiDeal, a site specialized in the sale of refurbished high tech products including iPhone, Samsung, iPad and Mac, presents the key data of the Italian market for refurbished devices in 2023. An encouraging picture that highlights the growing interest in sustainability and the circular economy in the tech sector, through the search for concrete solutions to face environmental challenges.
The global refurbished market in 2023
In a Europe that generates approximately 261 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent emissions and 35 million tonnes of technological waste every year, the market for refurbished devices emerges as a concrete response to the need to reduce the environmental impact of mass consumption. There recent proposal from the European Parliamentapproved in November 2023, to enhance the right to repair it also highlights the urgency of acting and promoting more sustainable consumption models.
Refurbished 2023: a general increase in smartphones
Interest and trust in refurbished devices are therefore constantly growing both in Italy and abroad. CertiDeal in fact observes that 2023 saw an overall increase in sales of refurbished phones, thus contributing to the mitigation of environmental impact. Smartphones remain the protagonists, followed by PCs, laptops and tablets, with growing adoption also in the household appliances sector such as washing machines, ovens and refrigerators.
CertiDeal analysis of the Italian market and 2024 trends
CertiDeal, pioneer of the sector since 2015, analyzed the Italian situation of the refurbished market, recording in 2023 a 15% increase in sales compared to 2022. An encouraging figure that goes against the trend compared to diverse inflationary challenges that affected our peninsula last year.
The analysis also reveals interesting generational differences: young people (18-24 and 25-34 years old) are particularly sensitive to sustainability, preferring green products and high-quality devices at affordable prices. Among those least accustomed to reconditioning in the world, however, we find the over 55s, who are last in the rankings in terms of purchase volumes.
Looking at the favorite moments for shopping during the year, the peak season comes first, with the discounts of Black Friday and the period leading up to Christmas. However, there are those who prefer to get through the holidays and wait for the January sales to treat themselves to the new smartphone at a reduced price.
By analyzing preferences in terms of brands and models, according to the purchasing data released by CertiDeal, the Apple’s iPhones continue to hold the lead, with percentages significantly higher than other devices available on the platform. In fact, during 2023, the models most purchased by consumers were iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Mini, iPhone 11 e iPhone SE 2020. Furthermore, more and more often, those who choose to buy a new phone also purchase the complementary accessories directly on the site, including for example covers, protective glass and charger.
