French consumers embrace second-hand luxury despite concerns over counterfeit products

Second-hand luxury remains luxury for most French consumers

The majority of French people view second-hand luxury as still retaining its luxurious status. The survey found that 69% of respondents consider a second-hand luxury item to still be a luxury product. Notably, those with previous experience purchasing second-hand luxury items (78%) were more likely to hold this belief compared to those who have never bought new luxury products (38%).

Emotional satisfaction: new luxury brings joy, second-hand brings contentment

While buying new luxury items evokes joy, second-hand purchases bring more contentment. Respondents indicated that acquiring new luxury goods primarily elicits feelings of “joy” or “happiness” (38%), whereas buying second-hand luxury is associated with “contentment” (28%).

Quality and price define luxury

Luxury is primarily linked to quality and price for both new and second-hand luxury buyers. The survey shows that “quality” (54% vs. 50%) and “price” (59% for both) are the main characteristics defining luxury products for these consumers.

Luxury buying patterns show a significant portion of French consumers engage in luxury purchases

A notable portion of the French population purchases luxury items, whether new or second-hand. In the past year, 22% bought new luxury goods, while 21% purchased second-hand luxury items. Overall, 30% of respondents engaged in luxury shopping, with 13% buying both new and pre-owned.

Younger consumers drive the second-hand market

Younger consumers are particularly active in the second-hand luxury market. 81% of 18-24-year-olds reported buying second-hand items in the past year, compared to just 42% of those over 65. Furthermore, higher income levels correlate with increased luxury purchases; 41% of individuals earning over €5,601 bought second-hand luxury items.

Popularity of second-hand luxury products

Clothing, bags, and electronics are the most popular second-hand luxury items, reflecting broader trends in second-hand shopping. Most consumers make second-hand luxury purchases only a few times per year.

Price remains the primary motivation for buying second-hand luxury

Lower prices are the primary reason for purchasing second-hand luxury goods, with 46% of respondents citing it as their main motivation. Additionally, 25% seek access to products they could not afford new. The budget for second-hand luxury items is typically below €1,000, though younger consumers and those with higher incomes tend to spend more.

Online platforms dominate the second-hand luxury market

General platforms like Vinted are more popular for buying and selling second-hand luxury items than specialized C-2-C platforms, illustrating the significant role of digital marketplaces in this sector. Despite the benefits, many French consumers are wary of counterfeit products. The survey indicates that 48% of respondents fear scams and counterfeit goods, making this the biggest barrier to purchasing second-hand luxury. This concern extends to both experienced buyers and newcomers to the market. Over half of second-hand luxury buyers have encountered counterfeit products, highlighting the need for reliable authentication services. An authenticity certificate is seen as the most crucial form of assurance by 41% of respondents when shopping online.