A long-awaited scheme to buy and resell used furniture is expected to reduce the number of items sent to landfills.
From now on, buyers can return unwanted but in good condition furniture back to the manufacturer. In return, they will receive vouchers that can be spent on IKEA stores when buying new products. The move is part of the retail giant's ambition to become "greener" by 2030.
Used items returned in perfect condition with no scratches will be repurchased for 50% of the original price. If they have minor scratches, they will be redeemed for 40%. If the number of scratches on the furniture is high enough, then the ransom amount will drop to 30%. The manufacturer will buy back items such as chests of drawers, cabinets, bookcases and shelving, small tables, dining tables and desks. Vouchers are perpetual and can be spent on any product or food.
Before bringing used furniture to the store, the buyer will first have to fill out a special form on the company's website. It is also noted that furniture can only be delivered assembled, as it can be damaged during disassembly. This, of course, is not very convenient and therefore the company is now busy resolving this issue.
The redeemed goods will then be resold in special areas of IKEA stores, which will be called Circular Hubs. Also announced is a partnership with used goods marketplace Gumtree.
The launch of the program was planned for November 2020. But due to the coronavirus pandemic, it was decided to choose another, more favorable time. At the same time, the company acknowledges that although the program has been successfully tested in a number of cities, it still needs some refinement. So far, residents of 27 countries where IKEA is present can use the buyback program. But in the future, a widespread expansion is planned.
Earlier, the company announced plans to switch to renewable energy sources and materials, as well as the complete elimination of waste. This is expected to happen by 2030. For example, recently Ingka Group, the parent company of IKEA, announced that it will invest 4 billion euros in renewable energy.
