Nearly a quarter of UK shoppers (23%) have returned large furniture items in the past two years, according to the new Rise of Returniture report from Fixtuur. The survey of 1,500 buyers indicates that a 'buy-try-return' mindset has become widespread, especially among younger consumers. Almost one in three Gen Z shoppers have returned sofas, beds, or dining tables purchased online, while 25% return flat-pack furniture and 21% full bathroom or kitchen suites.
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Social media platforms, such as TikTok and Instagram, are accelerating this trend, with 45% of respondents saying they feel pressured to keep their homes in line with online trends. Fifty-eight percent believe influencers are fuelling the 'buy, try, return' culture.
Returniture poses a significant cost to retailers. Fixtuur reports that 69% of shoppers expect companies to cover return costs. While some returns are due to trend-driven behaviour, many are practical: 60% purchased items that were the wrong size, and 49% received goods that could not fit through doors or stairs.
Fixtuur recommends immersive retail technology, such as 3D demos, AR apps, and 360° product views, to help customers make confident purchases. Nearly half of shoppers believe these tools would improve buying decisions, and 70% of furniture sellers report reduced returns after implementing such technology.
Source: www.furniturenews.net
