Generation Z is equipping homes with second-hand items to make them ‘vintage’, research shows
A QUARTER of Generation Z furnish their homes with second-hand items – because they want to go ‘vintage’.
The survey of 2,000 adults showed that people between the ages of 18 and 24 now choose to dress themselves and the place where they live in items that are retro and from yesteryear.
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Younger adults are also concerned about finding second items that are “unique” (35 percent), as well as items that are durable (44 percent).
They’re also likely to browse charity shops and bargain bins looking for anything they can upcycle and personalize (12 percent).
But while there is a willingness to buy used clothing and furniture, the giffgaff poll found that only 36 percent of adults are likely to buy second-hand appliances.
With quality and reliability as the most important points (63 percent), followed by trust in the seller (45 percent).
Those aged 45 to 54 have the greatest concerns about battery life (47 percent), while 25-34 year olds have the greatest concern about price – compared to the latest gadgets.
While only 32 percent of younger adults who buy technology say warranty and return policies are one of their biggest concerns, compared to 42 percent of people ages 45 to 54.
Ash Schofield, CEO of giffgaff, said: “Our research shows that we are a country dedicated to finding and buying second-hand items, but there is still some nervousness around purchasing refurbished mobile phones.
“Refurbished is actually a no-brainer: good for the wallet, but also good for the planet.”
The research also shows that while 78 percent of buyers aged 65 to 74 prioritize affordability and value when making a purchase, only 58 percent of 18 to 24 year olds feel the same way.
One in 10 Gen Zers also spend time each day browsing sites like Vinted, eBay or Facebook Marketplace for second-hand clothing.
However, when buying used clothing, 19 percent of all respondents were surprised to find their new item of clothing packed in a supermarket carrier bag.
More than one in ten (14 percent) have opened a package to find new clothes in a garbage bag, and seven percent have even received a box of cereal containing new threads.
CEO of giffgaff Ash Schofield added: “We are proud to have carried out our strict checks so that our customers know they can get quality and up to a 24 month warranty from us.”
The best charity shopping tips to score a bargain
Ross Dutton has been manager for Crisis’ charity stores for four years and currently runs the charity’s Finsbury Park store in London.
Choose your area – As a rule of thumb, the fancier the area, the better the quality of the clothing donated.
Don’t hang around – If you see something you like, buy it, because it will probably be gone when you get back
Be aware of cut labels – Some of your favorite high street stores have made deals with local charity shops to donate stock not sold in their own sales. Often part of the deal is that they have to cut the labels off the clothes.
Stay home – Although some charities have their own site, such as Oxfam and Crisis. many also sell through dedicated eBay stores such as British Heart Foundation and Scope. You won’t get the range of bargains you would in a physical store, but if you’re looking for something specific it might be worth looking online too.
