Ikea is set to trial an online version of its buy-back service, offering vouchers for unwanted secondhand furniture. This service will be tested in Spain and Portugal before the end of December, with a UK rollout planned if the pilot proves successful.
The retailer already operates an in-store buy-back service, including in the UK. The online expansion aims to reach a broader audience, with Ikea forecasting that pre-owned goods could account for 16% of the UK homewares market by next year.
Separately, Ikea is launching its own secondhand online marketplace in the UK this week. This platform will allow members of Ikea's scheme to buy and sell pre-owned Ikea items directly with one another. Initially, the UK service will be free, with a buyer protection fee of approximately 5% of an item's price to be introduced later.
Ikea is also making it easier to sell used items by providing pre-filled product descriptions and price suggestions. Sellers can receive an additional 15% on the item's price if they opt for an Ikea gift card as payment.