As witnessed by the turbulent, yet unstoppable spread of capitalism around the world, many in the newly capitalist areas are anxious to gain access to goods enjoyed by their privileged ‘first world’ cousins. This material desire combined with modest purchasing power has spawned GLOBAL GARAGE SALES: rich countries selling off excess, second-hand goods to newly capitalist neighbours.

Poland is a good example: in 1991, immediately after shedding its communist past, Poles bought more than 300,000 used cars in nearby Western European countries (source: Warsaw Voice). Most of the cars were more than 10 years old, often damaged and recycled from accidents. Another popular practice was importing Western European vehicles in parts.

How long will such GLOBAL GARAGE SALES last? Well, 10 years later, in 2001, Poland came seventh in Europe in new car sales, ahead of more affluent countries such as Switzerland, Sweden and Belgium. And with Poland likely to join the EU in 2004, Poles may soon be holding their own garage sales for nearby Ukrainians, Bulgarians and Romanians looking for affordable Western goods.

Opportunities exist everywhere: China, Mexico, and second phase EU-hopefuls are more than likely to be happy garage sale shoppers for cars, electronics, furniture, CDs, toys... Until they start hosting their own sales in 5 to 10 years time. >> Email this trend to a friend.

For a related trend description, see RESORT REBIRTH.

What is this?

A description of an emerging consumer trend that was featured in a previous issue of trendwatching.com's free monthly Trend Briefing.

Who wrote it?

One of trendwatching.com's trend watchers, who scan hundreds of offline and online sources on a monthly basis, roam the streets of cities world-wide, relentlessly pester consumers about their likes and dislikes, and all this to keep YOU (marketer, manager, consultant, analyst) inspired and well-ahead of the masses!

Where can I find more trend descriptions?

You can browse through our Trend Database for a selection of trend descriptions.

How can I subscribe to your free monthly Trend Briefing?

 

Can I publish or reproduce this trend description?

Be our guest. Just make sure you credit the source, trendwatching.com, and include the URL, www.trendwatching.com.

First time here?

trendwatching.com is an independent and opinionated consumer trends firm, relying on a global network of 8,000 spotters, working hard to deliver inspiration and pangs of anxiety to business professionals in 120+ countries worldwide. Case in point: this trend! Want more? Check out our free Trend Briefing.

Never miss a Trend Briefing again

 
Feed Icon

Be kind to your friends and co-workers!

Share the love; simply forward this Trend Briefing or use our Tell a Friend page.