France-based LeBonCoin (LBC) has launched Breakdown Protection — insurance coverage for used electronics and home appliances purchased through its marketplace.
Breakdown Protection is an optional service that covers buyers in the event of a breakdown in a used electronic device or household appliance purchased on the marketplace.
“In the event of a breakdown, your device will be repaired free of charge or 100% refunded if it cannot be repaired,” according to the company’s website. (all quotes translated from French using Google)
“Whether it’s a smartphone, a computer or a home appliance, Breakdown Protection allows you to secure your used purchases. At the time of purchase, simply add the paid option by choosing the duration of your choice (3, 6, or 12 months). Protection is activated as soon as your purchase is approved for compliance upon receipt,” according to LBC’s website.
“If your item can’t be repaired, you’ll be refunded its full value… Our repair partners are carefully selected for their expertise… No fees to send your item to a repair center.”
Martin Bethonneau, chief product officer at Adevinta — LBC’s parent company — wrote in a LinkedIn post: “Today, nearly one in two French people give up buying a second-hand non-refurbished good for fear of breaking down!”
“With Breakdown Protection, no more stress, make way for peace of mind… a washing machine, a smartphone, a computer or a vacuum cleaner: In the event of a breakdown, the buyer is refunded 100% with our partner Neat Protect.”
The latter, which was founded in 2022 and is headquartered in Paris, describes itself as “the leading embedded insurance Insurtech providing white label and tailor-made insurance solutions to merchants across Europe.”
“From now on, before buying a new item, there is bound to be the secondhand item of your dreams on LeBonCoin… Cheaper and protected in the event of a breakdown,” Bethonneau concluded.
