Gen Z are driving a boom in antiques and collectibles, research finds

And there is a reason for it...

A study of 1,000 18 to 29-year-olds found that 63% say they are interested in antiques, while of those interested in antiques, 83% admitted social media was key to driving their curiosity.

The main platforms which inspired their interest were TikTok (58%), Instagram (54%) and Pinterest (52%) and the average Gen Z adult is prepared to spend £244.14 on an antique piece of furniture or collectible.

Embracing older styles is preferred by 81% of Gen Z, as per the research which was commissioned by TV channel Quest.

This was done to promote the launch of the second series of Johnny Vegas' Little Shop of Antiques, which sees the comedian, actor, artist and avid collector pursue his life-long dream of opening an antiques and collectibles shop, Vintage Vegas.

The research revealed that Gen Z is driving a boom in antiques and collectibles as eight in 10 embrace vintage style.

The items that are catching the attention of Gen Z

Of 1,000 people aged 18 to 29 that took part in the poll, it was revealed that 63 per cent are becoming increasingly drawn to pre-loved furniture, retro homeware and classic fashion pieces.

Three quarters believe older items add more character than modern alternatives.

While 40 per cent of sustainable shoppers see antiques as a stylish way to buy better and waste less, social media is fuelling the trend for 83 per cent.

As per the study, the average Gen Z adult is prepared to spend £244.14 on an antique piece of furniture or collectible, with price being one of the reasons 60 per cent do not make purchases more often.

More than three in 10 (32 per cent) are motivated to buy such items because of their unique style, while 20 per cent admire the quality and craftsmanship.

Youngsters head to antique stores (38 per cent) and car boot sales (25 per cent) in the hope of seeking out old gems, with one in 10 even attending live auctions, according to OnePoll.com data.

It also emerged that 39 per cent see their love for antiques as a hobby, but 40 per cent treat it as an investment.