Leading social marketplace for new and second-hand style, Poshmark is leading the way when it comes to the shift to online, coupled with increasing demand for secondhand items and more sustainable options.
Poshmark recently expanded into the Australian market, following success in the US and Canada, so Retailbiz caught up with director of international expansion for Australia, Alex Constantinides about the platform’s expansion efforts, market opportunities, and the social aspect of shopping.
“With social commerce growing in popularity on a global level, we saw Australia as an exciting new area to introduce our social marketplace,” Constantinides said.
“Australians love shopping, and our research found that 60% felt comfortable buying clothes from another person online directly in 2020. It’s our aim to help consumers make and save money through reselling, and ultimately deliver on the growing desire for sustainability.”
Poshmark research has also shown that 79% of Australians increased their online shopping presence in 2020, yet consumers have $500 of unworn items sitting in their closet on average.
“This means Australians are sitting with $5 billion worth of post-lockdown clothes, shoes and accessories in total,” Constantinides said.
Despite the growth in online shopping, sustainability continues to be a major consideration with secondhand shopping becoming a trend, especially among the younger generation.
“In fact, close to one quarter (22%) of the nation has increased their thrift shopping over the last few years, focusing their efforts on reducing overall consumption and supporting a more sustainable economy.”
Poshmark’s mission is to empower Australians to convert their closets into cash or shop using a platform that meets their values, by offering a simple, social, and fun platform that champions sustainability and community, according to Constantinides.
“Poshmark was built to provide a truly social shopping experience, allowing users to make money or start a business, while also engaging with a diverse community. There currently isn’t a marketplace that champions this social aspect and gives entrepreneurs the opportunity to develop close relationships in a way that Poshmark does for its community,” she said.