WHSmith has launched a new book buy-back initiative, BookCycle, to enable its customers to exchange any unwanted or second-hand books for an eGift voucher.
Customers will need to scan and register their second-hand books via the WHSmith BookCycle website, which will determine a value for the book based on criteria such as its condition, the popularity of the title and its demand in the market.
Once registered, the books can be dropped off in any participating WHSmith high street store in exchange for an e-voucher for the value of the trade-in, which can be used in any WHSmith store or online at whsmith.co.uk.
“This is a very exciting new scheme for WHSmith, and it makes great sense for our customers and our business to support a circular economy for books, as we aim to minimise our impact on the environment and support our local communities,” explained Ian Sanders, group commercial development director, WHSmith.
“The buy-back scheme really does offer a compelling reason for customers to recycle their second-hand books, and being able to exchange these for WHSmith eGift cards gives them another great reason to shop with us.”
The stationery, books and games retailer has partnered with Zeercle, a buy-back SaaS provider, for the trade-in scheme. Zeercle will manage the used books, with the majority of the books finding new homes through its resale channels, which offer second-hand books at reduced prices.
WHSmith is latest retailer to introduce a buy-back scheme. Last month, Mamas & Papas extended its pre-loved prams scheme to more UK stores, while Ikea offers store credit for secondhand furniture in its Buyback & Resell service.
Furthermore, marketplace eBay has also championed refurbished technology as a way for consumers to combat the cost of living crisis. For Decathlon, its Second Life range which initially will focus on refurbished bikes, fitness equipment, kayaks and tents, was driven in part by consumer demand.
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