Brits refuse to buy second-hand electronics despite environmental concerns

Brits are set to spend a staggering £3.5 billion on unnecessary tech in this year’s Black Friday sales, according to a recent poll.

The survey of 2,000 adults revealed that the average Black Friday shopper plans to shell out £202.11 on electronics, totalling over £5 billion nationwide. However, only 30% of those surveyed claim they ‘very much’ need the item.

Astonishingly, six in 10 have up to eight unused items sitting in their home, as per OnePoll.com, with 35% admitting they buy new just to keep up with the latest tech. 

Despite this, a study commissioned by second-hand electronics specialist CeX found that 48% wouldn’t consider buying second-hand electrical items as an alternative. Quality concerns and limited warranty or return policies were cited as the main reasons why 57% prefer to buy electronics new.

A spokesperson for CeX said: “Black Friday is when people are often tempted by discounts, but it’s also an opportunity to consider the impact of what we buy.”

The brand has made a bold statement about the issue of wasted tech, sending a rubbish lorry through London’s busiest shopping areas with the message ‘Black Friday is a load of rubbish.’

Headphones, laptops, smartwatches, and mobile phones are the prime targets this Friday and 45% claim they are only buying them because of the discounted price tag, as 79% confess they get thrilled by spotting a bargain.

“Our research shows that much of what’s bought ends up discarded within months, and over £3.5 billion worth of unnecessary items are destined to gather dust,” the spokesperson added.

“That’s why we’ve introduced our five-year warranty and sent a rubbish lorry through London — to help Brits make more mindful choices and keep their purchases in use for longer.”

However, when wanting to get rid of unwanted tech, 41% recycle, 32% gift to family or friends. And those who are open to purchasing second-hand gadgets, 64% do so to save money, while 43% are mindful of their environmental footprint.

A spokesperson for CeX commented: “There can be a worry attached to buying second-hand products especially in huge sales such as Black Friday.

“We want to remind people that there’s a smarter way to purchase by shopping around for quality, second-hand tech that can save money, reduce waste, and keep gadgets in use for longer.”