Across Europe, the market for refurbished and used mobile phones is on a remarkable upward trajectory. Analysts forecast that the sector will nearly double in value, growing from approximately US$ 24.43 billion in 2025 to about US$ 47.16 billion by 2032, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.5 per cent. This surge is being driven by a combination of growing consumer demand for budget-friendly smartphones, a rising commitment to sustainability, and improvements in refurbishment processes.

A small group of major manufacturers, including Apple, Samsung, Huawei, Google, and Xiaomi, are playing a crucial role in this transformation. They offer trade-in, buy-back, and certified refurbished programmes that not only make older models more accessible but also promote a circular economy. Regulatory pressure from the European Union is reinforcing this trend: initiatives like the Right to Repair legislation encourage repairability and prolong device lifespans, while e-waste regulations incentivise recycling and refurbishment.

The refurbished category dominates the market, accounting for a substantial share over used devices. These are not simply second-hand phones resold “as-is”: refurbished handsets undergo rigorous inspection, repair, and testing, which strengthens trust in their quality. On the pricing side, devices in the mid-price bracket (US$ 200–500) are expected to witness the fastest growth, as buyers increasingly seek premium features at more affordable prices.

Regionally, Western Europe is projected to remain the powerhouse, capturing nearly 65.9% of the market, thanks to strong smartphone penetration, frequent upgrades, and sustainability awareness. Meanwhile, Central and Eastern Europe is steadily growing, driven by greater affordability and expanding trade-in channels. The landscape is also quite concentrated: established refurbishers like Back Market, Swappie, and Rebuy are joining forces with telecom operators (for example Vodafone and Deutsche Telekom) to scale trade-ins and recirculate devices.