ThredUp
Independent, listed on Nasdaq (TDUP) · United States
ThredUp is an Oakland based online resale platform for secondhand apparel, shoes and accessories. It is an independent company listed on Nasdaq under the ticker TDUP. It matters as one of the largest dedicated fashion resale marketplaces and a provider of resale services to other brands.
| Founded | 2009 |
|---|---|
| Founders | James Reinhart, Chris Homer and Oliver Lubin |
| Chief executive | James Reinhart |
| Headquarters | Oakland, California |
| Listing | Nasdaq: TDUP |
| Segment | Digital-native and DTC brands |
| Website | thredup.com |
What is ThredUp?
ThredUp describes itself as an online resale platform for apparel, shoes and accessories, with a stated mission of getting consumers to shop secondhand first. It is headquartered in Oakland, California, and listed on Nasdaq and on the Long Term Stock Exchange under the ticker TDUP.
History
ThredUp was founded in 2009 by James Reinhart, Chris Homer and Oliver Lubin. Reinhart, a co-founder, is chief executive according to the company's investor relations page.
Business model and distribution
The consumer business works in two directions. Sellers receive a Clean Out Kit, send in items and are paid in cash, store credit or a charity donation. Buyers browse and purchase the secondhand items online. ThredUp sorts and evaluates items in distribution centres in the United States and Europe.
A second, business to business line offers resale as a service. Brands provide kits to their own customers, who return used items in exchange for in store credit with that brand.
ThredUp and technology
Wikipedia cites a June 2024 report that ThredUp added a board member and planned an expansion of its use of AI, but gives no further detail. The company's specific technology stack is not documented in the sources consulted.
Why it matters
ThredUp is a leading example of the shift of resale from charity shops to scaled, operations driven online marketplaces, and its brand partnerships show how resale is becoming part of mainstream retail strategy.
Frequently asked questions
Who founded ThredUp?
ThredUp was founded in 2009 by James Reinhart, Chris Homer and Oliver Lubin.
What is ThredUp?
ThredUp is an online marketplace for secondhand clothing, shoes and accessories. It also offers resale services to brands, which let their customers trade in used items for credit.
