The hottest recycle shop in Nanjing

There are many ways to buy and sell second-hand goods, but few are as stylish and seamless as the experience at the Xianyu Recycle Shop in Nanjing.

This three-story store, the fourth offline location of Alibaba's second-hand trading platform Xianyu, is a treasure trove of pre-owned items spanning every category. Step inside, and you'll find a diverse selection of second-hand electronics, clothing, home décor, mountain bikes, and more – available for both purchase and consignment. Meanwhile, the top floor serves as a hub for digital device testing and collection, luxury goods appraisal, and authentication services.

In just 28 days following its opening in January, this store has taken in over 3,500 items—the highest number among all Xianyu offline stores – of which 80% have already been sold. Digital devices, small appliances, furniture, and books account for a significant portion of the sales.

While Xianyu's online platform is most popular among Gen Z users, the physical store has attracted a different demographic: shoppers aged 30 to 45. "Seeing the store in person makes us feel more comfortable about buying and selling," said one customer. "I knew about Xianyu's online platform before, but I was hesitant to list my items due to concerns about the process and communication with buyers. Now that there's a store right in my neighborhood, I've sorted out some unused items and brought them directly here. It's convenient and reassuring." Items can be consigned for up to two months, after which any unsold goods are returned to their owners.

The perks of a physical second-hand shop isn't just about seeing the products – it's also about connecting with people. That's why the entire second floor is dedicated to artistic events and exhibitions.

"Our offline stores focus more on creating a social platform, which has always been part of Xianyu's vision," said Mada, the city partner for Xianyu Nanjing. It is said that an average transaction on Xianyu's online platform involves 37 conversations, underscoring the social nature of second-hand trading.

With this in mind, the Nanjing store has introduced an innovative model, using its exhibition space to bring together different communities, fostering gatherings and social interactions. Perhaps this "slow living" experience—so different from the fast-paced nature of online shopping – is precisely what makes it so irresistible. Xianyu's Nanjing store has quickly become the most popular of its kind with over 10,000 visitors per day.

Source and photos: Official Wechat Account of The Information Office of Nanjing Municipality