Japanese shoppers are increasingly turning to used products when shopping for appliances due to the high prices of the latest models. The falling yen has made new iPhones, for example, less affordable for some consumers, leading to a growing secondhand trade in Japan Panasonic sells returned or display models that have been repaired and inspected. They offer a one-year guarantee on home appliances and discounts of up to 20 percent. Additionally, Panasonic leases items through a subscription service and plans to expand the range of products available through this service. The company’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its decision to repurpose products that were previously discarded due to defects, contributing to environmental protection. Similarly, the Hitachi Group and major electronics retailer Yamada Holdings also offer recycled products for sale, with Yamada planning to further expand its offerings by establishing its own repair factory. It’s heartening to see these efforts to promote sustainability and affordability in the consumer electronics market.
