According to a study conducted by Kantar for Recommerce, 22% of smartphones used in France are second-hand, showcasing the strengthening of the refurbished market. This trend indicates a shift in consumer habits, with a significant increase in the purchase of second-hand mobile devices over the years.

The research highlights a remarkable change in buying behaviors, with one in two French people having bought a second-hand phone as of 2026, a figure that has doubled since 2019. This rapid acceptance appears to span across generations, with parents increasingly drawn to refurbished devices. The dual motivations of economic savings and ecological benefits have made second-hand phones an appealing option for many consumers who are also expressing some hesitancy towards purchasing pre-owned devices.

As the refurbished mobile market continues to rise, more brands and retailers are likely to enter this space, responding to the shifting consumer preferences. The growth in this market not only reflects an economic opportunity but also emphasizes broader environmental concerns, as consumers become more conscious of sustainability and the lifecycle of their technology products.