According to the latest IFOP barometer, 64% of French people have bought or intend to buy a refurbished telephone or computer. This is 6 points more than in 2021. An increase that demonstrates a strong enthusiasm for refurbished.
It has been several years since the French adopted second-hand products, in particular refurbished ones. These include electronic products such as smartphones, computers, consoles and games, audio speakers and headphones. This type of purchase saves money, but also contributes to reducing our environmental footprint. the latest FIFG barometer confirms this trend, which is growing.
An increase in purchase intentions
Conducted at the beginning of October among 1,201 people aged 18 to 65, this study reveals that 64% of French people have bought or intend to buy a refurbished phone or computer. This represents an average increase of 6% compared to 2021. The French are particularly interested in smartphones, due to the maturity of this market.
On the other hand, the IFOP notes a higher rate of satisfaction with computers. In fact, 73% of buyers expressed their intention to place an order for a new refurbished device. In addition, nearly 3 out of 10 French people (29%) plan to offer a second-life computer or telephone to someone they know for the holiday season.
Some barriers to buying second-hand
Asked regarding their motivation, the people surveyed explain buying refurbished phones for their very attractive prices (41%). They also appreciate the guarantee offered (12%) and would like to preserve the environment (10%). As for the barriers to buying refurbished smartphones, there are three main ones. Namely the fear of a shorter lifespan (33%), the doubt regarding the reliability of the product and its performance (25%), as well as the absence of insurance concerning the guarantee (10%).
Regarding refurbished computers, buyers are attracted by the price (32%), the possibility of having access to a more upscale device (12%) and the warranty offered (10%). Conversely, they are put off by the fear of a shorter lifespan (28%), doubts regarding the reliability of the product (28%) and the preference for new (11%). In addition, the FIFG clarified the purchasing channels for smartphones. Most French people use the Internet (58%), via marketplaces or refurbisher sites, go to physical stores (26%) or to the offices of telephone operators (13%).
Young people less likely to keep devices longer
Finally, the IFOP barometer indicates that the French would like their devices to last longer. Regarding the expected lifespan of a refurbished computer, in particular, 66% of respondents would like to be able to keep it for up to 5 years and 34% beyond. On the other hand, Generation Z, although more aware of environmental issues, would like to keep devices for less time.
Indeed, only 23% of them say they have the same device for more than 5 years, especially when it comes to video games and computers. An opinion that certainly brings grist to the mill of manufacturers, followers of planned obsolescence… Anyway, this study gives hope, while electronic waste accumulates for the misfortune of the planet .
