Krëfel buys back used appliances

All Belgians combined have a whopping 49 million unused or broken electrical appliances lying around. Belgian whitegoods chain Krëfel wants to help changing that, offering to buy back and resell such appliances.

Raw materials

Krëfel claims to be the first in the sector to launch such a BuyBack programme. Devices in a good enough state will be given a second life; if a device cannot be refurbished or repaired, the retailer aims to help recycle the raw materials. After all, those raw materials are also becoming increasingly expensive and scarce.

Initially, the chain will focus on specific devices, such as smartphones, tablets, game consoles and Macbooks. Other categories will be added later. A device can be handed in online – with free shipping – or physically at a Krëfel shop. Employees first determine the residual value of the device, after which the BuyBack amount is paid out as a voucher or directly to the bank account.

Stopping overproduction

“It is essential that Belgians become aware that the appliances in their cupboards have a value and that these appliances are an additional key to the success of the circular economy”, communications director Frédéric Berghmans explains, stating that the new service is another step in Krëfel’s commitment to the planet.

Electronic products account for more than 3 % of global carbon emissions, so it is important to combat overproduction. It is also a way to meet customers’ expectations in terms of purchasing power, Krëfel believes. The chain has only recently started offering second-hand products as well.