With millions of old smartphones kicking around in junk drawers across the globe, why buy new? Thibaud Hug de Larauze , Vianney Vaute, and Quentin Le Brouster answered that question in 2014 when they launched Back Market, a digital marketplace offering professionally refurbished electronics. “There’s no more point in going to Verizon and signing a 36-month contract for $150 every month,” says Hug de Larauze, the Paris-based CEO. In addition to smartphones, laptops, and tablets, Back Market’s 18 million customers can now buy discounted gaming consoles and home appliances on the platform, too. In February, the company announced $3.5 billion in gross merchandise value for 2025, up 32% from 2024. And while 67% of users are European, Hug de Larauze says economy and tariff concerns have driven rapid U.S. growth.…