Growth in Mexico Drives Second-Hand Fashion Market

According to GoTrendier's report, "De primera mano sobre la Segunda Mano," the online second-hand fashion market is experiencing rapid growth, with projections indicating it will reach US$48 billion by 2027, doubling the size of traditional retail. 

In Mexico, the sector is expanding quickly, with GoTrendier hosting 7 million users who have listed over 24 million items from 2016 to 2023. Cecilia Ollero, Country Manager, GoTrendier, projects an addition of 600,000 new users by the end of the year. Globally, second-hand fashion is set to grow eight times faster than the overall apparel market, with ThredUp forecasting a global market value of US$350 billion by 2027. The report also predicts that by the end of this year, second-hand clothing will make up at least 10% of the global apparel market.

In Mexico, the second-hand fashion market benefits from strong consumer support driven by environmental concerns, cost savings, and income opportunities. In 2023, sellers in Mexico earned over MX$350 million through the sale of second-hand clothing. Throughout the year, more than 1 million items were consumed, bringing the total to over 5 million items reused since 2016. 

The market is dominated by specific regions. Mexico City remains the leader in both buying and selling second-hand fashion. However, Nuevo Leon has increased its activity in both categories, while Puebla has replaced Veracruz in the top ranks. The leading states for buying are State of Mexico with 24.85%, Jalisco with 8.97%, Nuevo Leon with 5.63%, Guanajuato with 4.93%, and Puebla with 3.96%. For selling, the leading states are State of Mexico with 24%, Nuevo Leon with 14.20%, Jalisco with 7.76%, Puebla with 3.99%, and Guanajuato with 3.91%.

Zara continues to dominate the list of favorite brands among Mexicans. However, Shein has moved into second place, replacing Forever 21, while H&M has surpassed Bershka. Nike and Michael Kors have also gained popularity. The most sought-after items include dresses, blouses, jackets, pants, and sneakers. In footwear, casual sneakers, sports shoes, ankle boots, flat sandals, and platform sandals are particularly popular. 

The circular economy plays a crucial role in environmental conservation. Buying second-hand clothing instead of new items reduces carbon emissions by an average of 80%. GoTrendier’s environmental efforts for 2023 include saving 486 million L of water, 8,540t of CO₂, and 615,000kg of waste, comparable to the annual waste produced by 1,538 people.