eBay is waiving fees for the sale of second-hand clothing to prevent fashion waste

eBay has taken a major step in the fight against fashion waste by eliminating fees for the sale of second-hand clothing on its platform, with the aim of encouraging more people to participate in the circular fashion economy.

This decision, which takes effect immediately, underscores the company’s commitment to sustainability and its efforts to rival prominent second-hand clothing apps such as Vinted and Depop.

Starting today, eBay users can sell second-hand clothing items, including items with tags still attached, without incurring any fees. This initiative reflects eBay’s recognition of the growing importance of sustainability in consumer behavior, especially among younger demographics who are attracted to platforms that focus on second-hand fashion.

However, it is important to note that the fee waiver does not apply to other fashion-related items, such as sneakers, watches, handbags and jewelry. Standard merchant fees still apply to these categories.

Kirsty Keoghan, eBay’s managing director of global fashion, highlighted the importance of the fee waiver in promoting a circular economy for fashion. Keoghan said: “Free fashion sales have come at the right time for a country sitting on billions of pounds worth of unwanted clothes.” She highlighted the ease of selling clothes on eBay and the financial benefits it offers sellers.

eBay’s decision is in line with its broader sustainability goals, which aim to divert clothing from landfills and contribute to efforts to reduce waste in the fashion industry. The company cited its role in preventing more than 1,600,000 pounds of clothing waste from ending up in landfills last year through the sale of second-hand clothing on its platform.

The impact of the fashion industry on the environment is significant and responsible for approximately 10% of global CO2 emissions. By promoting the resale of second-hand clothing, eBay aims to reduce the environmental footprint of fashion consumption and promote a more sustainable approach to clothing consumption.

With this move, eBay positions itself as a leader in sustainable fashion initiatives while meeting the changing preferences of consumers, who are increasingly prioritizing ethical and environmentally conscious shopping practices.