At a time when Greek retail trade saw only marginal growth in 2025, the second-hand market is emerging as one of the few sectors experiencing truly explosive growth. According to figures published by Kathimerini, total retail turnover increased by just 2% compared to 2024 — a figure effectively wiped out once inflation is taken into account. By contrast, retail sales of second-hand goods rose by 31.7%, with turnover reaching €57.1 million, up from €43.4 million a year earlier. In 2019, the same market was worth roughly €10 million.
In Greece, 50% of consumers turn to second-hand shopping because of financial hardship, while the corresponding average across the EU is 27%.
The true size of the market is believed to be significantly larger, since a huge volume of transactions now takes place online through platforms such as Vinted, Facebook Marketplace, eBay, and Vendora. According to data from Revolut, transactions on resale platforms in Greece nearly quintupled in 2025 among people aged 18–24 and tripled among those aged 35–64.
The market’s growth is now also visible across the urban landscape of Athens. Neighborhoods such as Psyrri, Exarchia, Koukaki, and especially Kypseli have developed into hotspots for thrift shops. However, what began as a trend linked to sustainable fashion and the circular economy has now become a consumer necessity. Research by Solid Havas found that 50% of Greeks turn to second-hand shopping because of financial difficulties, compared with an average of 27% across 13 European countries.
Source: Κathimerini
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