eBay now owns Depop, and more shoppers are buying second-hand

What happened

eBay has reported its results for the three months to 30 September 2026, and the headline is growth. According to FashionUnited, revenue rose 14 percent to 3.20 billion dollars, with the report crediting continued consumer migration towards pre-loved fashion and recommerce. The total value of goods sold on the platform rose 15 percent to 23.20 billion dollars.

The part that stands out for anyone who has ever listed a pair of boots online is the Depop deal. During the quarter eBay closed its purchase of Depop, the UK-based peer-to-peer fashion platform, from Etsy. FashionUnited says eBay paid 1.40 billion dollars in cash on 30 July 2026. The report adds that Depop has been deploying artificial intelligence listing tools and more affordable domestic delivery options in the US.

eBay also shared figures from its annual recommerce study. According to the company, 47 percent of surveyed shoppers buy second-hand items at least monthly, up from 35 percent in 2025.

What it means for buyers and sellers

Put simply, buying used looks to be becoming a more regular habit. If almost half of the people surveyed are buying pre-loved items at least monthly, there may be more demand for the football shirt your sibling has outgrown or the trainers that only got worn a handful of times.

For teenagers selling their own kit, that could be good news, but the story does not say anything about UK prices, fees or rules, so it is worth checking the current terms on any app before you list. The report ties the cheaper domestic delivery to the US and does not say where the AI listing tools apply, so do not assume the same changes are coming here.

For parents, whichever site you use, a few habits help:

• Ask for clear photos of the front, back, labels and any wear before you pay.
• Check the size on the label rather than trusting the title of the listing.
• Keep all messages and payments inside the platform you are using.
• If a deal feels rushed or too good, take a step back and take your time.

eBay's chief executive Jamie Iannone said in the results that innovations across eBay Live, Shipping and its portfolio are making the platform more trusted, seamless and compelling for buyers and sellers.

Where KitLoop fits

With second-hand shopping growing, clear grading and good photos are useful to any buyer.

That is how KitLoop works. Every item is checked, graded honestly and photographed, then posted from Manchester within 2 working days.

The takeaway

eBay's results suggest that more people are choosing used clothing, and that Depop is now owned by eBay. Whether you are selling an old kit or buying a replacement, clear photos, honest descriptions and a bit of patience are worth having.