Upgrade Eyes Wider Expansion in Egypt’s Refurbished Devices Market with Prices Up to 40% Lower Than New Products
Eng. Ayman Fathy Hussein, Chairman of Sky Investments Holding, announced that Upgrade, a subsidiary of Sky Distribution specializing in retail and distribution, is accelerating its expansion plans in Egypt’s refurbished electronics market as part of a broader strategy to support sustainable technology and promote circular economy practices.
Speaking during a roundtable discussion, Hussein said Upgrade was the first company to introduce the concept of refurbished smartphones to the Egyptian market and currently operates Egypt’s first National Telecom Regulatory Authority-licensed facility dedicated to refurbishing electronic devices. He noted that the initiative aligns with the company’s vision of supporting environmental sustainability while making technology more affordable for a wider segment of consumers.
He revealed that the company has successfully refurbished and sold more than 4,000 smartphones over the past two years and is aiming for refurbished devices to account for nearly 25% of the market in line with rising consumer demand. According to Hussein, the company’s strategy reflects growing interest in cost-effective and environmentally responsible technology solutions within the Egyptian market.
Upgrade launched its operations in 2023, offering refurbished smartphones from major global brands including Samsung and Apple. Hussein explained that all devices undergo an extensive inspection and refurbishment process involving more than 70 testing steps to ensure quality, efficiency, and reliable performance. The company also provides a 12-month warranty designed to deliver a user experience comparable to new devices at significantly lower prices.
He added that Upgrade’s refurbishment operations include screen repairs, battery diagnostics, and comprehensive inspections of all internal and external components according to strict quality standards, ensuring devices are restored to near-new condition.
Hussein also highlighted the company’s device buyback services, which allow customers to sell their old smartphones safely and conveniently. He stressed that Upgrade applies advanced and secure data destruction procedures that go beyond conventional data wiping methods, ensuring customer information cannot be recovered and safeguarding user privacy.
According to the company, refurbished devices are sold at prices up to 40% lower than equivalent new products, offering consumers an economical alternative while extending the lifecycle of electronic devices and reducing e-waste amid growing smartphone adoption in Egypt.
He pointed out that the company currently faces a challenge related to the double application of sales tax - once when the device is initially purchased and again when it is resold after refurbishment. Hussein said the issue has been discussed with Egypt’s Ministry of Finance, which pledged to study the matter and explore appropriate solutions.
Beyond smartphones, Upgrade has expanded its portfolio to include refurbished laptops from brands such as Dell, HP, and Apple, in addition to gaming consoles including PlayStation and other entertainment and consumer technology products.
Hussein noted that Upgrade’s role extends beyond selling refurbished electronics, as the company also offers integrated solutions enabling customers to sell or trade in their old devices for newer ones through a fully digital, secure, and user-friendly experience that can be completed remotely from home.
On the partnership front, he said Upgrade has collaborated with several organizations and initiatives to promote sustainability and environmental awareness, including UNIDO, Dawarha, and E-Tadweer. The company has also partnered with major telecom operators such as Orange Egypt and Vodafone Egypt to expand its services and reach customers across multiple governorates.
Hussein further revealed that Upgrade recently received the Global Brand Award 2025 in recognition of its contributions to developing Egypt’s refurbished electronics market and advancing sustainability and circular economy concepts.
He emphasized that the company’s next phase will focus on expanding its footprint across Egypt and encouraging broader adoption of refurbished electronics as part of efforts to balance affordable access to modern technology with long-term environmental sustainability goals.