Collaborating with Hong Kong’s popular online marketplace Carousell, IKEA Hong Kong launches a limited-edition IKEA microsite. The website has a collection of display items and discontinued models which can be found at discounted prices. This provides consumers with alternative options when shopping for new furniture for the home, while giving these functioning used products in good condition a second life, to reduce discard and waste, and achieve a sustainable consumption pattern.
According to the Carousell Recommerce Index (2021 Report), 85 percent of Hong Kong users have made purchases on the platform for preloved goods. Half decided to do so for environmental reasons, demonstrating a high level of eco-consciousness among local consumers. Carousell’s data analysis for the first quarter of 2022 indicates that furniture and home furnishings is one of the five most popular categories on the platform, with IKEA topping the chart as the most searched keyword in this category – about 160,000 Carousell users have searched for IKEA products.
The two brands decided to join hands in setting up an IKEA microsite on the platform in line with the sustainable development principle of “use what you can, reduce waste”. With IKEA’s second-hand products as the theme, the aim is to encourage people to make more environmentally-friendly choices in their home lives.
“IKEA is determined to achieve climate positive results by 2030,” said Adrian Worth, Managing Director of IKEA North Asia, DFI retail group, “As consumers become more open to second-hand goods, we are committed to developing the second-hand furniture market over the next 12 months. Not only to contribute to the environment, but also to offer practical products at a bargain price to buyers, presenting a win-win situation. Carousell shares the same vision and hopes of leading the public towards a circular economy through this partnership.”
Starting 30th June, IKEA will open a special microsite on the Carousell platform. The section will be updated every Monday with 200 items at great bargains, including used IKEA products from other consumers, as well as a variety of discontinued or limited stock items and display items from the IKEA Kowloon Bay store’s special selection. Due to the limited stock, a second update will be made in the middle of the week if the first update receives overwhelming responses. With the microsite, users can save time from searching for products, communicating with sellers, and agreeing on deals. Apart from the online shop, the sustainable consumption scheme also receives offline support. IKEA Kowloon Bay store will be the first store to have a Carousell account, so that buyers who find their favorite items in the microsite can go to the Kowloon Bay store to complete the purchase process.