Many companies still view trade-in as a sustainability gesture. But for SMEs, it is increasingly a business case. Alexander Heß from Assurant Germany explains in a recent interview with Deutsche Wirtschafts Nachrichten (DWN) how used mobile devices can reduce costs, support ESG targets and improve liquidity. According to Alexander Heß, smartphones and tablets that are no longer in use represent untapped capital. He argues that trade-in programs should not be viewed as corporate social responsibility badges but as an efficiency tool that generates quantifiable value. Even small device volumes can create measurable CO2 savings and reduce procurement costs. With standardised return processes, SMEs can easily access this potential. Assurant is probably the largest reseller (and trade-in company) in the world with an estimated annual volumes sale of around 25 million devices.
Trade-in strengthens SME compliance efforts
For many small and medium-sized enterprises, regulatory pressure to improve sustainability reporting is growing. Trade-in programs, like those offered by Assurant, help quantify scope-3 CO2 emissions through tools such as Carbon IQ. These insights can be integrated into ESG strategies and are increasingly relevant for public tenders or stakeholder reporting.
Predictable returns improve financial planning
With models like “Forward Trade-In”, companies receive guaranteed buyback values upfront. This makes device lifecycles more predictable and helps manage liquidity and investment cycles. In some cases, the resale value can be offset directly or through leasing models, lowering the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).
Germany still lacks trade-in culture
Unlike in the US, where trade-in is a standard sales driver, German companies often lack awareness and streamlined return infrastructure. Assurant’s plug-and-play model targets precisely that gap, offering everything from logistics to GDPR-compliant data erasure, reducing entry barriers significantly.
A second life for Apple iPhones
Although most Apple iPhones are replaced a few years, many are still in top condition. With support for longer OS lifecycles, such devices are perfectly suited for reuse in markets like Southeast Asia or Africa. This extends the device’s value and global impact significantly.
The policy environment remains crucial
Alexander Heß highlights that binding quotas or tax incentives, like in France, could stimulate growth in Germany. He calls for clear standards and support mechanisms to increase adoption and trust in device return schemes.
Via: DWN
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