Tittle:
Accessing the Salability of second-hand items: A study on the viability of Ukay- ukay store in Oroquieta
City
Review Related Literature
This chapter represent on the salability of second-hand items, particularly in the context of
Ukay-ukay Store in Oroquieta City. By understanding these dynamics this study seeks to contribute
valuable insights into the viability and operational strategies of Ukay-ukay Stores in the region.
According to Biana (2020), Thrift clothes (Ukay-ukay) is a phase use to describe the act of
searching through piles of worn or pre-loved clothing until one finds something suitable. Ukay ukay
Store are known for second-handed clothes with high quality and affordable price. Ukay-ukay Store is a
very budget friendly source of trendy fashionable yet durables clothes for those ukay lovers, especially
youth’s parents and environmentally conscious individuals (contuset et al...2021)
Ukay-ukay, the art of rummaging second-hand stuff, is widespr ead in the Philippines a very
trending act of shopping that made a strong impact on the textile and clothing industry. The tremendous
growth of tis business phenomenon is observed in Oroquieta City. It effected changes in the shopping
practices, and the life style of the masses, and supplemented the existence of the textile clothing
industry. The presence of such business activity in the city gained attention from different sectors of
Ukay-ukay entrepreneurs, consumers, franchised clothing traders and the government.
Furthermore, M.A Santos (2020) study delves into complex world of thrifting in the Philippines,
examining its environmental, social and economic implications. M.A Santos discover the inherit paradox
of Ukay- ukay as sustainable fashion practices. Similar to M.C. Cruz (2019) study, it has significantly
contributes to local economies by providing substantial employment opportunities, generating income
for low-income individuals and indirectly aiding in poverty reduction within Philippine communities,
particularly in the areas where access to affordable clothing is limited.
Inaddtion, the quality is a particularly multi-layered issue in terms of clothing on an individual
level, quality is considered throughout the life cycle of garments at time of purchasing clothing, while
using and taking care of it and lastly, when choosing to discard a garment not used anymore. Quality
plays a role even after the first ownership, as the quality allowing it may have multiple further owners of
users (Ellen MAs Author foundation, 2017; Niinimaki et al 2020)
Ukay-ukay clothing is the best known for its material quality and its name itself reveals. The
loyalty of the brand it gives on overwhelming experience to each of its reveals the loyalty of the brand. It
gives an overwhelming experience to each of its buyers. One of the main reasons people buy ukay-ukay
products it because one can get authentic designer items at low prices. For example a bag made by
Gucci could cost up to $500 when brought in retail or online store but can be bought for as low as Php
25.00 in the Ukay-ukay store (Nitura,2019). This operational strategies can boost the sales of an Ukay-
ukay store this help people not to spend a lot to go with this brand clothes or things
The Carousell Recommerce Index (2021) indicates that the Philippines is the most receptive
market for second-hand items in the Greater Southeast Asia region. The report notes that 92% of
Filipino consumers have purchased second-hand goods, with 74% citing affordability as a primary
motivation for their purchases. This trend underscores a cultural shift towards valuing pre-owned items,
driven by economic factors and changing consumer attitudes towards sustainability. Furthermore, 58%
of online consumers expressed comfort in buying second-hand apparel, while 75% of merchants
reported selling such items, reflecting a robust supply-demand dynamic in the market.
Research also highlights that while affordability is a significant driver, there is a growing
awareness of sustainability among Filipino consumers. The concept of recommerce, which promotes the
circular economy by extending the life cycle of products, resonates with many shoppers who are
increasingly concerned about overconsumption and environmental impact. However, motivations
for purchasing second-hand items often lean more towards economic benefits
rather than environmental consciousness
Bengzon,Concepcion,Mijares and et al... (2020) On a local scale, studies focusing on Oroquieta
City can draw parallels with broader national trends. The unique characteristics of the community,
including economic conditions and cultural attitudes towards thrift shopping, play a crucial role in
shaping consumer behavior. Research conducted on Filipino Gen Z consumers indicates that their
perceived values significantly influence their engagement with ukay-ukay stores, suggesting that
younger demographics are particularly responsive to both economic and social factors when considering
second-hand purchases
Moreover, Research conducted by Valdez et al. (2014) highlights that while
ukay-ukay stores may not be as preferred as department stores, they possess
competitive advantages based on consumer evaluations of durability, originality,
and low pricing. The study found that consumers appreciate the unique offerings of
ukay-ukay items, which often meet their criteria for quality at affordable prices.
Entrepreneurs in this sector perceive a positive outlook for profitability and long-
term viability, indicating a strong potential for growth and sustainability in the next
five years despite challenges such as unsteady sales and customer difficulties in
rummaging through items
The Philippine Ukay-Ukay Culture as Sustainable Fashion by Biana (2020)
discusses how the ukay-ukay phenomenon aligns with sustainable fashion
principles. It emphasizes that consumers are increasingly drawn to second-hand
shopping as a means to balance economic needs with environmental
consciousness. The study notes that while customers face challenges such as
product defects and the effort required to search for items, the overall appeal of
affordability and sustainability drives continued patronage of ukay-ukay stores
Despite the benefits, customers encounter significant challenges when
shopping at ukay-ukay stores. Valdez et al. (2014) identified issues such as time
consumption in searching for goods, product damage, and limited shopping space
as common frustrations. However, these difficulties do not significantly detract from
the economic benefits perceived by consumers, suggesting that the overall value
proposition remains strong.
In conclusion, the argument for the salability and viability of ukay-ukay stores
in Oroquieta City is supported by evidence from various studies indicating a
favorable market environment characterized by consumer appreciation for
affordability and uniqueness. While challenges exist, the potential for growth in this
sector remains promising, particularly as consumer preferences continue to evolve
towards sustainable shopping practices.
