Refurbishment in France in 2024: Where Do Things Stand?

In 2024, refurbishment has become a key topic in France, for consumers and businesses alike. This practice, which consists of restoring used products so they can be put back on the market, is part of a broader approach to the ecological transition and the circular economy. As responsible consumption gains ground, refurbishment is seen as a solution that is both economical and environmentally friendly. But what does the situation actually look like today? How is the sector doing in France in 2024?

The rise of refurbishment in France

In 2024, the refurbishment market in France is booming. According to a study by the GfK institute, the refurbished smartphone market exceeded 2 billion euros in 2023, with annual growth of 15%. This trend is not limited to smartphones: laptops and household appliances are also becoming increasingly popular. 

The reasons for its success

Refurbished products appeal to 40% of French consumers and businesses. Their success rests on several factors:

1. Environmental impact:

Refurbishment reduces electronic waste, which is one of the largest sources of pollution worldwide. In France, nearly 100,000 tonnes of electronic waste are refurbished every year, keeping it out of landfill and preventing illegal exports.

2. Price:

Refurbished products are generally sold for 20 to 50% less than their new equivalents. In an economic context marked by inflation and declining purchasing power, this factor is particularly attractive to businesses and consumers.

3. Quality and warranty: 

Refurbished products often come with a warranty ranging from 6 months to 2 years, which reassures buyers about their reliability. Many companies specializing in refurbished IT equipment have built their reputation by offering rigorous quality checks.

The challenges and limits of refurbishment

However, refurbishment in France is not without its challenges. One of the main obstacles is consumer perception. Although trust in refurbished products is growing, some consumers remain wary, often associating these products with "poor-quality second-hand goods".

Another major challenge is the supply of raw materials and spare parts. With the diversification of technology products, refurbishment requires regular, secure access to specific parts, which can sometimes be hard to find. In addition, the market has to contend with competition from low-cost new products, often imported from Asian countries, which can steer some consumers away from refurbished goods.

The future of refurbishment in France

Despite these challenges, the future of refurbishment in France looks promising. In 2024, new regulations are supporting this market, such as the AGEC law (French Anti-Waste for a Circular Economy law), which encourages companies to adopt more sustainable practices, including refurbishment. The French government has also launched initiatives to raise consumer awareness of the environmental and economic benefits of refurbishment, such as the Bonus Réparation (French repair bonus), which subsidizes repairs to electronic devices.

The sector is also driven by growing demand from businesses looking to adopt more responsible practices. More and more companies are equipping themselves with refurbished equipment, both to cut their costs and carbon footprint and to align with their CSR goals.

Loopix by Leasetic  

For several years, Leasetic has been promoting the use of refurbished equipment to its clients to reduce both costs and environmental impact. It is in this spirit that we launched Loopix, a platform dedicated to supplying refurbished IT equipment specifically for our clients' employees. This initiative responds to a frequent request from clients who want to resell their IT equipment without having to manage after-sales service. It also allows employees to purchase computers and smartphones at attractive prices, benefiting from contributions from their employers.

Discover Loopix! 

In 2024, refurbishment in France is much more than a passing trend: it is a concrete response to environmental and economic challenges. Although obstacles remain, the outlook for the sector is encouraging, supported by growing demand and favorable public policies. Refurbishment is thus establishing itself as an essential pillar of sustainable consumption in France, combining economy, ecology and social innovation. It remains to be seen whether this momentum will strengthen and make it an essential consumption standard in the years to come.

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