The Swedish furniture giant IKEA is buying back old furniture, as part of a drive to become more sustainable and carbon neutral by 2030.

Not-so-black Friday

IKEA’s “second chance scheme” has been around in Germany for a while, but the company is now offering to pay up to 50 percent of the original price back for customers’ old furniture on a few dates around “Black Friday” weekend.

Black Friday is usually associated with excessive impulse buying and heavily discounted goods, but IKEA is using the opportunity to draw attention to the problems associated with overconsumption and wastefulness - having in the past been criticised for its track record on sustainability. 

The “fast furniture” industry as a whole has come under fire for illegal logging and promoting a “throwaway” culture. IKEA hopes that by giving old furniture a second chance, it can encourage people to think about their furniture waste. It hopes that the scheme will inspire others in the furniture industry. 

How does “Buy-Back Friday” work?

Between November 24 and December 3, 2020, IKEA will buy back good-quality furniture in exchange for store vouchers that can be redeemed at any time. 

The used furniture, which appears to be very much in demand, will be resold in the stores’ notorious Bargain Corners. Lovers of interior design will be able to purchase these pre-loved products for discounted prices and find new joy in their homes this winter!