HOW SOUTH AFRICA’S SECOND-HAND FASHION BOOM IS HELPING PEOPLE SAVE

THE “secondhand economy” in South Africa is a thriving market where people buy and sell used goods, particularly clothing, contributing significantly to the local economy.

- OLUTHANDO KETEYI

YAGA has nearly a million users, has sold over two million items, and sellers have made over R600m in the past five years on the platform.

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By providing affordable options to consumers and creating jobs through small businesses, with platforms like Yaga and online marketplaces facilitating this trend, it is considered a growing sector with potential for further expansion due to increasing online access and a focus on sustainability.

Gone are the days when the secondhand market revolved around cars as clothing has become the most prominent category in the secondhand market, including both casual wear and luxury items.

Estimates suggest the secondhand clothing market alone is worth nearly R10 billion.

Secondhand fashion typically has lower prices compared to fast fashion, making it more attractive to people wanting to save their money and consumers have become environmentally conscious and are opting for sustainable and ethically produced clothing.

South Africa's apparel market revenue in 2024 was projected to reach R108.51 billion by 2024, with approximately 9.1% stemming from secondhand apparel.

Forecasts suggest that by 2028, the global secondhand market could reach approximately R6.38 trillion.

The concept of preloved clothing or items is nothing new to the ordinary South African hand-me-downs from older siblings or extended family members, to even thrift shopping, it's a tradition that has been passed on for generations.

Resale markets allow sellers to generate new income streams while providing budget-friendly quality items for buyers.

The secondhand market has certainly grown in popularity and so have e-commerce platforms; from the days before Gumtree to Facebook Marketplace to new kids on the block Yaga.