Gen Z leads as AI-powered resale fuels circular economy and extra income

GBP 146. That’s the average monthly income earned by nearly 24 million Brits using online resale platforms like Depop, according to Virgin Media O2 Business research. Over the course of a year, that adds up to GBP 1,752 — enough to cover the average annual UK energy bill. ⚡️

As 69% of those surveyed were concerned about holiday affordability, it’s no surprise second-hand selling and gifting are in:

• Frugal lifestyles: 43% of British consumers are cutting back on non-essential purchases
• Pre-loved bestsellers: Clothing (68%), books & media (33%) and electronics (27%)
• Gen Z-led: 35% sold items online in the past three months, jumping to 54% among Gen Z
• Entrepreneurial pursuits: 68% of Brits are actively seeking ways to save or make extra money

In 2025, as consumers globally look to make extra cash and diversify their income streams, brands have a unique opportunity to empower at-home side-hustlers while fueling circularity within their product offerings. How?

🌀 LOOPLIFE: AI solutions simplify and normalize the shift to circularity 🌀
Climate and financial anxieties remain top of mind. Despite good intentions, barriers like cost and convenience hold people back. The solution? AI-powered tools that educate, curate and simplify sustainable living.

Platforms like Depop, with its AI-driven listing feature, showcase how innovation can bridge the gap — empowering circular consumption and unlocking new revenue streams. But keep in mind that even second-hand is prone to overconsumption.