eBay has expanded its Authenticity Guarantee service to men’s and women’s pre-loved and new luxury handbags listed over $350.
With a handbag listed on eBay every two minutes - Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Prada among the top brands purchased - eBay has confirmed demand for high-end purchases is growing.
Eligible items are identified by a blue tick on eBay and once bought, are expertly verified at eBay’s Sydney authentication facility, currently at no extra cost to the buyer or seller.
eBay Australia’s Head of Luxury Brooke Eichhorn said some brands had seen double digit growth.
"Luxury handbags have never been more in demand - whether making an investment purchase or looking for a rare vintage find. The biggest trend we’re seeing is a Y2K resurgence, as well as double digit growth in brands like Fendi, Gucci and Saint Laurent over the last two years.
“Our data shows the value of classic bags such as the Hermes Birkin, Dior Saddlebags and Chanel quilted bags have increased significantly over the last few years, with a rare Hermes Birkin sold for $USD98,000 (approximately $AUD136,000).”
According to Australian Border Forces, counterfeit handbags are one of the most commonly seized items.
Before expanding to handbags, eBay launched its Authenticity Guarantee for sneakers last year, giving shoppers confidence when buying high-end sneakers.
eBay’s handbag authentication process follows a similar strict data-driven process where each item is meticulously inspected by authenticators who look in detail at many aspects including quality of materials, brand logos, hardware and stitching.
Genuine handbags are then shipped with an NFC card containing an encrypted digital authentication
certificate. Buyers can scan the card with their phone to reveal the product’s details, SKU and date of authentication. Each certificate is unique, so the cards cannot be reused or replicated.
“Buying pre-loved items has become increasingly popular - a trend driven by Gen Z and Millennials who are embracing sustainability. With the majority of luxury handbags sold on eBay second hand, it’s a great way to give something another life and save it from landfill,” Eichhorn said.