Used Goods Stores in European Union 2026: Industry Statistics & Trends

The used goods stores industry in the European Union comprises physical retail outlets specializing in the resale of second-hand merchandise, including apparel, books, furniture, and antiques, under NACE classification code 47.79. The industry is shifting toward a highly circular business model integrated with digital platforms, though brick-and-mortar operations remain a vital touchpoint for local collection and sales. Eurostat business statistics capture this sector under the 'Retail sale of second-hand goods in specialized stores' category, which shows strong resilience driven by cost-of-living constraints and sustainability-focused consumer habits.

Industry snapshot

Historical & forecast

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What does the Used Goods Stores in European Union industry cover?

This industry consists of specialized retail establishments that sell pre-owned consumer items directly to the public. It explicitly covers the retail of used books, second-hand apparel, sports equipment, furniture, and antiques, as well as the operations of specialized auction houses. It excludes the sale of used motor vehicles, pawnshop credit activities, and general online-only auction platforms.

• •Classified officially under NACE Rev. 2 code 47.79 in the European Union's statistical system.
• •Encompasses both commercial consignment stores and non-profit charity/social enterprise retail networks.
• •Excludes industrial recycling, vehicle dismantling, and wholesale scrap metal processing.

Who operates in the industry and how is it structured?

The market structure is highly fragmented, consisting of tens of thousands of independent micro-enterprises, local vintage shops, and charitable organizations operating localized storefronts. Unlike traditional retail, these operators rely on decentralized, community-based sourcing models, acquiring inventory through public donations, trade-ins, or local estate liquidations. This creates a unique localized supply chain that is highly resistant to international logistical shocks.

• •Sourcing relies primarily on localized consumer-to-business (C2B) or donation-to-business models.
• •Charitable and non-profit organizations make up a significant portion of the physical retail network footprint.
• •Store formats range from highly curated vintage boutiques to large-format warehouse-style thrift depots.

What drives demand in the industry?

Demand is driven by a combination of economic necessity and shifting consumer attitudes toward sustainable fashion and the circular economy. High inflation and squeezed household budgets across EU member states have made second-hand goods a practical economic alternative for cost-conscious shoppers. Simultaneously, the environmental awareness of younger demographics has destigmatized pre-owned shopping, converting thrift shopping into a mainstream lifestyle trend.

• •Rising cost of living acts as a counter-cyclical driver, pushing consumers to seek value-oriented retail channels.
• •Growing consumer awareness of fashion's carbon footprint encourages participation in circular textile loops.
• •The unique, non-standardized nature of inventory appeals to consumers seeking vintage aesthetics and individual expression.

Who are the notable companies in the industry?

The competitive landscape is characterized by competition between traditional charity-run retail chains, commercial vintage networks, and digital-first peer-to-peer marketplaces that bypass physical stores. Large international social enterprises and dedicated commercial entities manage extensive networks across several EU countries. Traditional fast-fashion retailers are also increasingly introducing pre-loved sections within their existing physical spaces to compete for circular economy market share.

• •Humana Sweden (operating HUMANA Second Hand stores) is a prominent non-profit association active in collecting and selling used textiles across Europe.
• •The Red Cross (operating as Croix-Rouge in France, Rote Kreuz in Germany, etc.) manages extensive networks of charity shops across EU member states.
• •Oxfam Solidarity operates specialized second-hand book, clothing, and housewares shops throughout several European countries.
• •Emmaüs Europe acts as a major solidarity network with hundreds of physical communities and second-hand retail spaces across France and other EU nations.

What are the recent trends and outlook?

The industry is experiencing a rapid integration of physical and digital channels, with many brick-and-mortar operators launching e-commerce platforms to widen their customer base. Furthermore, municipalities across the EU are actively partnering with second-hand retailers to set up reuse centers at municipal waste sites. This structural alignment with public recycling goals is expected to secure a stable supply of high-quality reusable goods.

• •Physical stores are adopting multi-channel strategies, listing unique vintage inventory on web shops and third-party apps.
• •Consignment and buy-back programs are becoming standard services in commercial second-hand stores.
• •Strategic partnerships between local governments and municipal waste operators are improving physical collection infrastructure.

How is the industry regulated?

Operators must comply with strict national consumer protection laws regarding product safety, hygiene, and the clear labeling of used items. The industry is heavily influenced by the EU's Circular Economy Action Plan, which prioritizes waste prevention and the reuse of textiles and electronics. Additionally, upcoming rules such as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for textiles are set to restructure how used garments are collected and sorted across the EU.

• •The EU's Waste Framework Directive establishes a clear 'waste hierarchy' that prioritizes reuse over recycling.
• •Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations are standardizing textile waste collection systems across EU member states.
• •Physical second-hand retailers must comply with strict local sanitation, quality inspection, and electrical safety testing standards.

Government, statistical and trade sources used for this Claight analysis.

• Eurostat NACE Rev. 2 Classification Database ·
• Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT) Retail Trade Index 2021 Base Year ·
• Humana Sweden Progress Report 2025 ·
• European Parliament Circular Economy Action Plan