Supporting consumer engagement in electronics repair: effects of financial incentives and voucher schemes

Purpose The high cost of repair services is a major barrier to consumer goods repair in Europe. This study aims to explore the ways policy interventions, such as state subsidies, for instance, in the form of repair vouchers, can increase consumer participation in electronic device repairs – crucial for sustainable consumption and the circular economy. Design/methodology/approach This interdisciplinary research combines an online survey with 15 in-depth interviews of individuals who have applied for repair vouchers in Germany. The study investigates the device maintenance practices of consumers both prior to and following receiving the voucher, identifying the effects of vouchers on consumer practices and exploring opportunities for further policy interventions to advance sustainable consumption. Findings This study finds that repair vouchers reduce repair barriers, promote a repair-oriented culture and enhance consumer involvement by lowering costs and emphasising the value of product longevity in society. However, lasting change is best achieved when vouchers are paired with further measures that support convenient and accessible repair infrastructure and better product design for repairability, while also addressing underlying socio-economic structures driving fast consumption. Practical implications The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers on crafting effective strategies that leverage financial incentives to enhance sustainable consumer practices. Originality/value Despite the growing use of repair vouchers in European member states to encourage consumer engagement in repairs, and the recent call by European institutions for similar repair-funding measures, research and data on the effectiveness of repair incentives remain limited. This study addresses this gap in the literature and investigates the effects of repair vouchers within broader societal and infrastructural contexts.