The global electronics supply chain remains deeply interconnected, with components sourced from multiple regions and final assembly concentrated in key manufacturing hubs. When consumers hold an Apple iPhone or a laptop, they hold the end product of a system that cannot be restructured quickly or inexpensively. Due to long lead times and high capital requirements, manufacturers have limited ways to absorb rising input costs. As these pressures intensify, new device prices continue to rise. Combined with higher living costs, households increasingly find new electronics difficult to justify, according SquareTrade Europe fully owned by American insurer Allstate.
SquareTrade highlights a growing opportunity
SquareTrade Europe notes that economic uncertainty has created a rare opening for the refurbished market to establish itself firmly as a mainstream choice. Refurbished and used devices typically cost less than new equivalents, are often processed domestically, and meet strict quality standards supported by warranties or insurance similar to new products. Market analysts project substantial growth, with the global refurbished market estimated to expand from approximately € 63 billion in 2024 to more than € 105 billion by 2032. Buying used technology also delivers environmental advantages, including an estimated 80% reduction in CO2 emissions compared with new device production.
Trust remains the primary barrier
Despite widespread consumer interest in sustainable products, a notable gap exists between intention and purchase behaviour. SquareTrade Europe emphasises that concerns about device reliability, data wiping, and inconsistent grading continue to limit adoption. Industry progress depends on transparent device history records, verified battery health certificates, reliable grading standards, and insurance coverage that matches new-device protection.
Strategic priorities identified by SquareTrade
SquareTrade Europe stresses that the market must address several priorities simultaneously, including the development of resilient regional component supply chains. As virgin component prices rise (especially memory), refurbishers are increasingly turning to component libraries built from irreparable devices, enabling greater independence from imported parts. Device supply security is equally important. With billions of unused devices idle in drawers globally, compelling buyback programmes with immediate payment and simple collection are essential to meet future demand.
Market standardisation and increased liquidity
Today the refurbished market remains fragmented, which limits volume stability and consistency. SquareTrade Europe argues that adopting unified grading, transparent health data, and coherent trading platforms can transform the landscape into a more efficient and trustworthy marketplace. Greater liquidity, supported by consolidation and standardisation, will strengthen the secondary market and improve price stability.
A decisive moment for circular adoption
Economic pressures and environmental urgency have combined to create a rare catalyst for circular technology adoption. SquareTrade Europe believes that success depends on coordinated industry action that makes refurbished purchasing as convenient, transparent, and credible as buying new. If the industry accelerates investment in trust, transparency, and efficient supply structures, it can convert this once-in-a-generation moment into lasting change.
Via: Circularonline.co.uk
Market
Trade-in
Repair
Refurbishing
