Why Refurbished Phones Are Here to Stay: Interview with Chrysanthi Valianatou (Flip)

The demand for refurbished electronic devices, particularly smartphones, is significant and growing worldwide. By 2034, the market value of refurbished smartphones is projected to exceed €220 billion, compared to approximately €71 billion today. This explosive growth is confirmed by Chrysanthi Valianatou, Country Manager of Flip in Greece. Flip, headquartered in Bucharest, has been operating in Greece for two years with a business model centered on giving devices a second life while ensuring quality and reliability. Valianatou notes that Flip has achieved an annual growth rate exceeding 650%, with a turnover of €7.5 million and over 21,000 unique customers within less than two years. Greek consumers are increasingly embracing the concept of refurbished phones, with Flip’s operations helping to save 1,500 tons of carbon dioxide through device reuse. The company offers a fully remote process where users can sell their old devices, which are then assessed, repaired, and resold. Popular models include iPhones, which can be purchased up to 40% cheaper through Flip. The average selling price for refurbished devices ranges from €150 for purchases and €400 for resales. Recently, Flip expanded its product range to include gaming consoles alongside smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smartwatches, all accompanied by a two-year warranty and a 100-day return policy.