Second-hand shopping habits are skyrocketing in wake of the cost of living crisis

As the cost of living increases, Canadians are turning to second-hand shopping now more than ever. 

According to a newly released survey by Karrot —  an international marketplace platform — a significant shift has occurred nationwide, as Canadians are looking to buy second-hand over brand-new items. 

Data from the study indicates that when it concerns household and personal items, such as furniture, clothing, and even toys for the family, Canadians are looking into the pre-owned market, despite a substantial dip in inflation rates that occurred last month. 

Core findings from what has been dubbed the ‘Second-Hand Sentiment Survey’ are as follows: 

• 70 percent of surveyed Canadians have indicated that they regularly shop on second-hand marketplaces — with one-in-four indicating they do so every month.
• 84 per cent of the respondents indicated that saving money is the overall driving force for second-hand purchases. 
• 55 per cent of Canadians are also considering or are planning to shop second-hand for gifts for friends and family for the upcoming holiday season. 

While there is a sensation for saving money across the board in Canada, Karrot’s research has also found a significant generational schism when it comes to buying second-hand, as Canadians who range from 18 to 34 are most likely to shop second-hand to save money, clocking in at a staggering 93 per cent. 

This sentiment is also tricking down to older generations, as 83 per cent of those within the 35 to 54 age bracket indicated an itch to save via second-hand goods and 78 per cent of those 55 and over indicated that they are likely to do the same. 

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Beyond maintaining a balanced chequebook, Karrot’s survey also found that hunger for unique items also drives Canadian second-hand spending alongside a desire to reduce the environmental impact of shopping for fresh-off-the-line products. 

For more information on Canadian spending habits, visit Karrot’s official website.