Ikea to launch new online marketplace in Australia Ikea to launch new online marketplace in Australia

Ikea to launch new online marketplace in Australia

Words: Andrew Koubaridis Producer: Louise Starkey

Australians will soon be able to buy and sell pre-loved Ikea products, thanks to the company launching a new online marketplace.

The ‘As-is’ platform is being piloted in Australia, giving Ikea members the opportunity to browse second-hand products and ‘reverse’ items they wish to purchase.

The furniture retail company aims to launch the online marketplace in early 2022. It follows the rollout of in-store hubs where customers can swap used goods for refund cards.

The platform is designed to change the mindset of consumers, according to Ikea Australia Sustainability Manager Mellisa Hamilton.

"I think people will look at [used] items and [consider] maybe they’re not perfect anymore, but ask are they less valuable? Are they less useful?" Hamilton said. "I think the shift of people understanding, I don't need new all the time, and there’s nothing wrong with the item."

Australian companies have made a significant effort to change their recycling habits, and the habits of their customers. Single-use plastics — like straws and cutlery — are gradually being replaced nationwide by environmentally-friendly options and recycled material.

The Federal Government has backed this, with a $190m investment into the Recycling Modernisation Fund — established in July 2020 to help transform Australia’s waste and recycling industry.

Supermarket giants like Coles and Woolworths have also done their fair share. Single-use plastics — such as straws, cutlery, cups, bowls and plates — and bags have been banned, and packaging on fruit and vegetables has been reduced.

Other large brands like Nestle and Coca-Cola have also pledged to eliminate unnecessary packaging by 2025, as well as work towards making plastic packaging reusable, recyclable or compostable. They also aim to increase the amount of plastic packaging collected to 25 per cent and to use 25 per cent of recycled content to make packaging.