KarunaNews Story

KarunaNews started during the pandemic to amplify the voice of collective compassion – everyday people choosing love over fear. More →

Environment

Sep 16, 2025 · 11,859 views

How Sweden's Secondhand Only Shopping Mall Is Changing Retail

How Sweden's Secondhand Only Shopping Mall Is Changing Retail
Photo: Markus Winkler | Unsplash

Sweden’s ReTuna shopping mall is the first in the world to sell only secondhand and repurposed items. There is a wide range of products on sale – fashion, sports equipment, household items, children’s toys, antiques – and even an Ikea secondhand store selling previously used and repaired furniture. This is not just a retail space. It is a municipality-led experiment in circular consumption, where everything sold has been donated by the public. ReTuna was established in 2015 as part of Eskilstuna’s climate and waste reduction strategy. What makes ReTuna so distinctive is not just its inventory but its atmosphere. Consumers describe it as “accessible”, “curated” and “convenient”. The mall’s layout and product displays mirror conventional retail spaces, making secondhand shopping feel stylish and enjoyable. Consumer interest in “pre-loved” fashion is accelerating, with the secondhand market growing 2.7 times faster than the broader apparel market. Circular retail is not just about what we buy, but how and where we buy it. ReTuna demonstrates that with the right infrastructure, design and public support, sustainable consumption can be embedded into everyday life – not as a chore but a rewarding experience.

Karuna News

About Karuna News

Curated by volunteers who believe small acts create big change. Subscribe for weekly compassion in your inbox.