In an age where sustainability is not just a trend but a lifestyle, eBay’s recently released fifth annual Recommerce Report highlights just how much traction the market for beloved goods is gaining. Research shows that 89% of global consumers expect to maintain or increase their spending on used goods in 2025, representing an important change for small business owners to take note of.
The report, which surveyed more than 27,000 participants, highlights changes in consumer behavior. This shows that recommerce, once seen as a niche alternative, is now a mainstream choice driven by personal values and financial empowerment. “Recommerce is redefining the way people shop, driven by a new generation that values connection, purpose and sustainability,” said CEO Jamie Iannone.
The younger generation is at the forefront of this movement. According to the report, 59% of Gen Z and 56% of Millennials plan to increase spending on products they already love. This shift is quickly becoming ingrained in consumer habits, with more than a third of respondents buying used items every month.
For small business owners, this recommerce trend presents tremendous opportunity. By sourcing inventory from second-hand goods or providing a platform for resale, entrepreneurs can tap into a fast-growing market that prioritizes sustainability and cost-efficiency. In particular, 81% of consumers choose products they love primarily for financial reasons, and 45% cited sustainability as a driving force. In addition to low prices, many buyers are looking for unique or specific items that aren’t available new, which presents an avenue for businesses to reach niche markets.
Moreover, the emotional benefits of participating in a recommerce community are significant. Approximately 63% of consumers feel a connection to this community, and young people are even more engaged. Sellers in enthusiast categories such as collectibles, trading cards, and antiques report that passion drives sales. This creates a vibrant community where knowledge sharing and connections are encouraged, ultimately benefiting both sellers and buyers.
But small business owners should also be aware of the challenges that arise as recommerce grows in popularity. While the financial benefits are clear, establishing reliable sourcing methods for used goods is essential to ensure product quality. Moreover, companies need to understand customer expectations for sustainability and authenticity, which may require additional investments in processes and marketing.
As the emphasis on sustainability increases, companies must consider the impact on their operations. Consumers are becoming increasingly environmentally conscious, and small business owners who fail to adopt sustainable practices may find themselves at a competitive disadvantage. Choosing to participate in the recommerce economy is not only about finding a good deal, but also demonstrating a commitment to ecological care.
As the trend gains momentum, eBay is well positioned to become a leader in this market. The report also highlights the potential for economic empowerment. A remarkable 81% of consumers feel satisfied with the money they save by purchasing used. Additionally, 86% of eBay sellers source inventory from personal belongings, demonstrating how individuals can make money from items they no longer use.
As the trend toward conscious consumerism continues to grow, small businesses that adopt reopening strategies will find themselves serving a growing segment of value-driven shoppers. These changes won’t just benefit the environment. It also opens up additional revenue streams and aligns with market demand, indicating that the recommerce movement is here to stay.
For small business owners looking to succeed in this evolving environment, balancing consumer value and sustainability is critical to long-term success. By embracing recommerce principles, entrepreneurs have the potential to not only increase profitability but also contribute positively to the communities they serve.
The full report is available to explore the full results of the study. here.
Image via Google Gemini
