In the midst of sweeping macroeconomic, climate, and sociopolitical challenges, we’re taking stock of what matters most. Many of us are reassessing life choices, reexamining career journeys, and reprioritizing what we do with our time. “Whether we’re reengaging with old passions, creating communities bound by shared interests, or recommitting to living our values, we’re reminded of who we are — and finding inspiration for who we want to be. As we’re reconnecting with our pasts and dreams, we’re reimagining the possibilities ahead, according to eBay’s 2024 Recommerce Report, 2024.
The report said almost two thirds of consumers surveyed agree: “I’m re-evaluating what’s important in my life.”
“While the news can often seem negative, 88% of consumers feel happy/optimistic about some area in their life, with the top three being hobbies and interests (53%), personal relationships (49%), and their identity, sense of purpose, values (38%),” said the report.
Recommerce — the buying and selling of pre-loved items — can be a positive path forward, providing inspiration, opportunities, and hope. The eBay report uncovers what’s important to people and how recommerce shapes who they are.
“It’s important that everything I do reflects my commitments to helping create a more sustainable future. Recommerce is so rewarding because I can find things that bring me joy while doing something to help minimize waste on our beautiful planet,” said Alicia Silverstone, Actor and sustainability advocate, in the report.
Garry Thaniel, General Manager of eBay Canada, said key points from the survey include:
- 86% of consumers surveyed say they’ve bought or sold pre-loved goods in the last 12 months.
- Millennials lead the pack, showing the highest frequency of purchasing pre-loved goods, with 9% buying weekly and 24% making pre-loved purchases monthly.
- 21% of Gen Z consumers surveyed say they shop for pre-loved items once a month.
- The five main reasons people buy pre-loved goods according to our research are:
- To save money (62%)
- Sustainability/environment benefits (26%)
- Access to specific items they’re unable to source new (25%)
- Branded pre-loved items at more affordable price points (24%)
- Access to unique or collectible items (18%).
He said the 2024 Recommerce Report surveyed over 12,000 eBay sellers and over 16,000 general consumers, in markets across the world – including Canada.
“eBay has 133 million active buyers in more than 190 markets around the world – it’s truly a global marketplace that connects people all over the world, and I like to think of it as a cultural barometer that reflects global trends,” he said.
“The 2024 Recommerce Report shows that Canada is a top global market for “Accidental Entrepreneurs” – 42 per cent of Canadian sellers said their e-commerce activities on the platform evolved organically, and Canada actually led the way in eBay sellers who say they sell because it’s a fun hobby (31%).
“We see the passion of enthusiast communities every day on eBay.ca – whether it’s demand for the latest overlanding gear for campers and offroaders who love the great outdoors, or the hottest trading cards and memorabilia for sports fans.
“74 per cent of surveyed consumers in the 2024 Recommerce Report were looking to reconnect with hobbies and interests. We have an incredible community who buy and sell on eBay.”
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