From Fines to Sustainable Fashion: Vinted’s Journey in the World of Online Second-Hand Retail

In 2021, Vinted, a second-hand online retailer founded in Lithuania in 2008, was fined almost 2.4 million euros for data protection violations by the Consumer Protection Agency in Lithuania. Despite this, the company has stated that it will not take any action against the decision. The platform allows users to buy and sell used clothing and shoes and boasts over 100 million customers worldwide.

A significant market for Vinted is France, where customers have been complaining to the French Consumer Protection Authority CNIL since 2020 that the platform does not delete their data upon request. Similar complaints have been made by consumer protection authorities in Poland, the Netherlands, and Germany. CNIL has also raised concerns about Vinted banning unwanted users without their knowledge, making them invisible to other users with the aim of preventing them from using the platform.

In addition to data protection violations, Vinted has also faced accusations of hidden costs in orders. Under pressure from the EU Commission, the platform has committed to displaying the total price including any additional fees. This move comes as part of efforts to increase transparency and protect consumers.

Despite these challenges, Vinted continues to operate as a popular platform for buying and selling second-hand items. The company’s global reach and large customer base demonstrate the appeal of sustainable fashion and the circular economy. As a result, Vinted has become a significant player in the online retail market, particularly in the second-hand goods sector. While facing regulatory scrutiny and consumer complaints, Vinted remains a go-to platform for those looking to shop sustainably and affordably.