ThePhoneLab has opened its 16th Dutch mobile phone repair store in Eindhoven. ThePhoneLab’s expansion mirrors a broader European trend in which large repair chains are scaling through multi store footprints. In France, Spain and Poland, SAVE group operates more than 200 shops, largely via franchise partnerships. In the United Kingdom, iSmash, acquired by American insurer Assurant, has reached 28 locations, supported by new ownership that aims to strengthen its operational footprint. In Denmark, GreenMind continues to grow its national network, recently opening its 18th store recently. Across these markets, the business model has shifted beyond repair alone. Most large repair chains now combine repair services with device trade in programmes and sales of used and refurbished devices, including Apple iPhone models. This integrated approach aligns retail repair with the wider secondary market, creating additional revenue streams and supporting circular device flows.
Rising device volumes and longer usage
Consumers own more electronic devices than ever before, and usage periods continue to lengthen as sustainability awareness grows. The result is an expanding need for maintenance and repair. As dependency increases, repair speed and reliability become more important for consumers and businesses alike. According to ThePhoneLab’s leadership, 2026 is expected to be a decisive year for the repair sector. Smaller independent repair shops are finding it increasingly difficult to keep pace with technological complexity, part availability and the rapid evolution of repair techniques. At the same time, overall repair demand rises due to higher device counts per person and greater reliance on mobile technology.
Legislation reshapes the repair landscape
Upcoming Right to Repair legislation, which takes effect from 1 January, will require manufacturers to make spare parts more widely available. This is expected to increase consumer access to repair services and reinforce the role of specialised repair chains capable of managing parts sourcing and offering consistent service quality. The regulatory shift is anticipated to support repair volumes across Europe and accelerate the consolidation already underway.
Market
Trade-in
Repair
Refurbishing
