Second hand buying mindset continues to grow in Denmark

Second hand shopping has long been part of Danish culture, but in recent years, it has gained popularity. More and more people, especially young costumers, are turning to second hand shops for unique clothing and sustainable fashion choices. "The last three, four years it’s been very popular. We’ve got a lot of new customers who never bought second hand before," says Margit, a worker with over a decade of experience in the industry.

Margit works as a volunteer in Tøj Og Ting, a second hand shop in Aarhus. | Alba Abelanet

At Uniq, every clothing item is one of a kind. | Alba Abelanet

The reasons behind this growth are different. While affordability is one factor, some stores also emphasize the uniqueness of their items. Andrei Mihalache, a store manager of Uniq, a second hand shop in Aarhus, says: "The principle of this store is that we never have a double of something. So, if we get one jacket, it’s unique and it’s just the one that we get," Different stores source their clothing in different ways, from individual sellers to larger sorting centers.

Sustainability is often mentioned as a motivation for second hand shopping. "I think the culture of vintage, second hand and reusing has always been in Aarhus", says Mihalache. "In Denmark, I think people understand that instead of these clothes being thrown out, or ending up in a landfill, it’s better to try and find a second home for them." While some see this as a growing mindset, the extent of its impact across Denmark remains open to interpretation.

The second hand industry is also evolving, with some shop owners noticing an increase in competition. "I think in time, only the ones that have good quality, good prices and maybe re-invent themselves or follow the trend will survive," adds Mihalache. As the market continues to develop, businesses may need to adapt to changing consumer preferences and economic factors.

The future of second hand fashion in Denmark remains uncertain, but its presence is growing. Whether driven by sustainability, affordability, or fashion preferences, second hand shopping appears to be an increasingly visible part of the country’s retail landscape.