On 17 June 2025, Decluttr, operated by musicMagpie in the UK, officially announced its immediate closure. The platform, once a trusted name in tech trade-ins, informed customers by email that operations had ceased. For many loyal users in both the US and UK, the announcement came as a shock. Devices were left unprocessed, payouts delayed, and answers scarce.
Background of musicMagpie
In 2007 by Steve Oliver and Walter Gleeson, began by buying and reselling used CDs, DVDs, and games from Oliver's garage. It quickly grew into an industrial-scale re-commerce business. The company later pivoted to focus heavily on pre-owned consumer technology like phones and tablets, promoting a circular economy. musicMagpie was acquired by AO World in late 2024.
Decluttr’s reputation in decline
Although the closure was abrupt, warning signs had been visible for months. Once praised for its straightforward process, prepaid labels, and fast payments, Decluttr’s reputation began to slide in early 2024. Online reviews dropped sharply, with Trustpilot scores plummeting from 4.5 stars in 2021 to under 2.0 by May 2025.
Customers reported delayed pay-outs, unexplained re-grading of devices, and customer service that had become unresponsive. On Reddit and YouTube, users shared stories of misclassified items, reduced offers, and packages returned in poor condition. Decluttr’s mobile app also lost traction, falling out of the top 100 shopping apps by mid-2025.
No signs of a comeback
Decluttr’s website now confirms the closure, and no new trade-ins are being accepted. Support emails bounce back, and the company’s social media accounts went silent after the announcement. The parent company has not communicated further, making it clear that a revival is unlikely. For customers, the chapter with Decluttr appears to be firmly closed. Luckily UK consumers have enough alternatives.
Market
Trade-in
Repair
Refurbishing
