11 March 2024
The trend of “buy now, pay later” (BNPL) has shifted from a niche financing option for big-ticket items to a commonplace method for managing daily expenses among younger consumers. Originally popular for splurges like concert tickets or vacations, it’s increasingly being used by Gen Z and millennials for routine purchases such as groceries, contact lenses, and household essentials. This shift is highlighted by the fact that individuals aged 35 and under make up over half of BNPL users, compared to their smaller representation among traditional credit card holders. The change in spending habits is also reflected in the types of products being financed through BNPL services, with apparel and accessories dropping to fourth place in popularity behind categories like travel, home, and garden, and hardware.