Mercari: A Global Marketplace for Secondhand Goods
Mercari is a prominent e-commerce company that has rapidly grown into a leading community-powered marketplace, particularly known for its focus on secondhand items. Founded in Japan in 2013, Mercari has expanded its reach to include the United States, the United Kingdom, Taiwan and its home country of Japan.
History and Growth
Kouzoh, Inc., now known as Mercari, Inc., was established in February 2013 by Shintaro Yamada. The Mercari marketplace app launched in Japan in July of the same year for both iOS and Android devices. Mercari quickly gained traction, becoming Japan’s largest community-powered marketplace. As of 2017, the app had been downloaded over 100 million times worldwide, and the company achieved “unicorn” status – a valuation of over $1 billion. Monthly transactions on the platform exceed JPY 10 billion. A significant 94% of Japanese users of community marketplace apps utilize Mercari.
Global Presence
Mercari’s expansion began with a launch in the United States in 2014, followed by the United Kingdom in 2016. The platform facilitates the buying and selling of a wide variety of goods, including fashion, collectibles, electronics, and books. Mercari aims to provide a hassle-free experience for users looking to buy and sell secondhand items.
Services and Subsidiaries
Mercari, Inc. (TYO: 4385) offers several services, including online shopping through its primary marketplace app. The company also operates subsidiaries such as Merpay, Mercoin, and Kashima Antlers.
Key Features and Accessibility
Mercari provides a platform for users to easily list and discover items. Mercari offers deals on used home goods, with potential savings of up to 70% on quality pre-owned items. Free shipping is available on many listings.
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