When looking for Christmas presents, more people in Germany are turning to second-hand items: 60 percent can imagine giving away second-hand items. Last year it was only 40 percent.

This emerges from a representative survey by the German Trade Association (HDE) with the second-hand online shop and sales service Sellpy and the market research platform Appinio.

Every second person has given away a second-hand product. Respondents cited sustainability (56 percent) and low price (52 percent) as the most common reasons for their choice. The tendency to buy second-hand gifts is particularly pronounced in the 35-44 age group (61 percent).

“The poor consumer mood among many consumers and the high propensity to save certainly also contribute to increased demand for second-hand products,” says HDE Managing Director Stefan Genth. In view of inflation and the uncertain future prospects, many people have to or want to spend less than usual.

Although second-hand is trendy, purchased gifts are significantly more popular, according to the survey. 68 percent of those surveyed said they were more excited about new products.