A new French app named Poppins is transforming how people access everyday items by enabling users to rent out or borrow underused household goods. Launched to promote sustainable living, the platform connects owners of items like power drills, pressure washers, camping equipment, and kitchen appliances with neighbors who need them temporarily, embodying the ethos of “own less, have more.”
Poppins operates as a peer-to-peer rental marketplace, allowing users to list items they rarely use and earn money while helping others avoid unnecessary purchases. The app ensures transactions are secure with features like user verification, in-app payments, and optional insurance for valuable items. Rental prices are set by owners, often making borrowing significantly cheaper than buying new. For example, a user in Lyon reported renting a tent for a weekend camping trip for €10, compared to €50 for a new one.
The platform has seen rapid adoption across France, particularly in urban areas like Paris, Bordeaux, and Marseille, where space constraints make owning niche items less practical. Poppins’ founders emphasize its environmental impact, noting that sharing reduces waste and extends product lifecycles, aligning with growing consumer demand for eco-friendly solutions. Recent posts on X highlight the app’s appeal, with users sharing stories of borrowing everything from fondue sets to ladder for home repairs.
Beyond cost savings, Poppins fosters community connections by encouraging local interactions. The app’s intuitive design includes geolocation features to find items nearby, making it easy to arrange pickups. Since its launch, Poppins has reported thousands of active listings, with categories like DIY tools, outdoor gear, and party supplies being the most popular.
As the sharing economy gains momentum globally, Poppins is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable consumption. Experts see potential for the model to expand internationally, with interest already brewing in neighboring European countries.
