Summary
The market for refurbished smartphones is a relatively small segment compared to the market for new devices, but it is growing continuously. The segment is characterised by a heterogeneous supply side. Main business models are vertically integrated providers as well as specialised refurbished marketplaces. Between these companies and other players in the smartphone ecosystem various forms of cooperation can be observed.
It is expected that the industry will benefit not only from the trend towards more sustainable customer behaviour, but also from the measures already introduced or being implemented to extend the lifespan and increase the reparability of smartphones.
Refurbishment providers are expected to face increasing challenges in the procurement of suitable devices, however. Moreover, we see a need for common quality standards in order to create more transparency for consumers and to expand into broader customer groups.
