French electronics retailer Boulanger is expanding its sustainable offer by selling refurbished Apple iPhones and Samsung smartphones from French refurbisher E-Recycle. Customers can buy devices directly in-store or opt for click and collect, combining convenience with a reduced environmental footprint. The partnership reflects the French refurbisher’s ambition to make responsible technology consumption mainstream.
A French refurbisher with expertise
Based in Lyon, E-Recycle has been refurbishing electronic devices for more than a decade, with a strong focus on Apple iPhones and Samsung smartphones. The company, part of the French social and solidarity economy (ESS), guarantees two years of after-sales service managed directly from its Lyon facility. With 97% of devices sourced in France and the remainder in Belgium, E-Recycle significantly reduces the carbon footprint associated with smartphone resale.
Robotics boost capacity and precision
In 2023, E-Recycle raised € 1.5 million from regional funds to invest in automation. The company installed two diagnostic robots and a robotic arm, multiplying its diagnostic capacity by 3.5. The technology enables 46 separate tests in just two minutes, ensuring accuracy, speed and standardization. Thanks to this innovation, annual capacity has jumped from 20,000 to 70,000 smartphones. This allows technicians to focus on complex repairs, with 35% of devices requiring intervention.
Competitive edge through automation
Co-founder Arnaud Guillaume highlights that automation has cut diagnostic costs by a factor of three, significantly increasing competitiveness. “We are more efficient, costs are lower, and our teams are freed to concentrate on repairs. It levels the playing field with Chinese companies,” Guillaume explained. The efficiency gain strengthens margins and enables more competitive consumer prices.
Expanding retail and online partnerships
Until recently, 80% of refurbished devices were sold through E-Recycle’s website and marketplaces, alongside smaller retail chains like Easy Cash and Happy Cash. The new partnership with Boulanger is a milestone, placing refurbished Apple iPhones and Samsung smartphones in front of mainstream consumers in physical stores. The company also collaborates with Orange, Fnac/Darty, and explores additional partnerships with platforms such as Veepee.
Growth ambitions and financial targets
According to sources, E-Recycle achieved € 5 million turnover in 2024/2025 with 15,000 devices sold. With higher capacity and new retail channels, the company is targeting €10 million turnover this year. To support this growth, the workforce has expanded from 9 employees in 2023 to 14 in 2024, with plans to reach 20 by 2026.
Market
Trade-in
Repair
Refurbishing
