Recent tariffs on electronics imports have accelerated the shift to refurbished technology. Instead of slowing trade, these policies have become a growth engine for circular business models. According to Antony Harrat, Director of Quality at Back Market, in an interview with Circularcollective.co sales of refurbished devices tripled almost overnight following tariff announcements.
Consumers choose sustainability over new
With rising prices for new products, more consumers are opting for refurbished devices. Harrat says this is not just a reaction to cost increases, but a conscious decision. "People want sustainable alternatives that also make economic sense," he says. Apple's iPhones, long a premium product, are now part of this trend—valued more for durability and repairability than novelty.
Repairability is becoming the norm
Longer device lifespans are reshaping expectations. “People used to buy a new phone every year. That’s not happening anymore,” Harrat notes. Many now hold on to their smartphones for years. He adds, “Honestly, you can keep your phone 10 years.” As a result, repairability has become a key selling point.
Right-to-repair changes the game
Recent right-to-repair developments make it easier to fix devices. For example, replacing a battery in the Apple iPhone 16 now takes minutes, not micro-soldering. That’s a major leap forward from earlier models and a crucial step for scaling the circular economy.
Data-driven quality improvement
Back Market has embedded AI into its quality control. Rather than vague feedback like “defective,” their system surfaces specific issues, helping sellers fix root causes. “This is how we go from good to excellent in refurbishment,” says Harrat.
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