Leboncoin, France’s second-largest e-commerce platform and a leader in the used goods market, has partnered with French insurtech Neat to launch an unprecedented innovation in Europe: the “Protection Panne” (Breakdown Protection). The new service offers integrated coverage for used multimedia products such as Apple iPhones, game consoles, and household appliances purchased through Leboncoin. This initiative stems from a simple insight: nearly one in two French consumers still hesitate to buy used items due to fear of a breakdown, according to an OpinionWay study for Leboncoin.
A unique protection model
The Neat Services coverage protects against mechanical and electrical breakdowns on second-hand electronics and appliances, provided the transaction is completed through Leboncoin’s payment tools such as Apple Pay, credit card, or PayPal. According to Boris Mittermüller, Director of Leboncoin Recommerce & Advertising, this partnership marks a turning point for the second-hand market. He said the new insurance layer simplifies access to the circular economy, extends product lifespans, and supports consumers’ purchasing power. “Our ambition is clear: we want used to surpass new.”
Predictive algorithms at the core
To power this European-first model, Neat has developed an advanced scoring and pricing system using predictive algorithms. The system analyses historical breakdown data, average product lifespans, and consumer behaviour to assess risk and determine pricing dynamically. Neat co-founders Maximilien Dauzet and Fabien Cazes explained that the collaboration demonstrates the scalability of their embedded insurance infrastructure. “By integrating our predictive model, we offer consumers essential reassurance to protect their budgets and accelerate the circular economy,” they said.
Fear of breakdown remains a barrier
The OpinionWay study found that 45% of French consumers have already avoided buying a used electronic or appliance due to fear of breakdowns, rising to 64% among those under 35. The study also revealed that 55% of respondents would buy more used products if warranty protection were available, and 70% said such protection would make buying used as safe as buying new. By addressing this key psychological barrier, Leboncoin and Neat not only boost consumer confidence but also position “protected used” products as more trustworthy than even refurbished devices.
A seamless and sustainable process
Buyers can opt into Protection Panne during checkout. The coverage activates once the product is received and verified. Sellers do not need to take any extra steps, as the protection is automatically included in qualifying sales. If a breakdown occurs, the buyer can access a dedicated form in their Leboncoin account. Neat then assesses the issue via video consultation to determine repair options. Depending on the case, Neat may provide a repair tutorial, facilitate shipment to a partner repair centre in France, or arrange an at-home repair for non-transportable items. If repair is impossible or uneconomical, the buyer receives a refund.
By embedding trust and sustainability directly into the transaction process, Leboncoin and Neat have created a model that extends product lifespans, reduces waste, and makes the second-hand economy more accessible to all.
Market
Trade-in
Repair
Refurbishing
