Until now it's almost become a habit that when our "can't live without" devices (TV, DVD, laptop, VCR etc) break down we buy a new model.
"It'll probably cost more to replace it" is how we justify indulging ourselves with the latest gadgets.
But the recession has put paid to that and has caused a resurgence in the appliance repair business! Now we do look at the comparative cost of repairs against new - and are often surprised what the advantages are.
However one of the attendant problems now is that the repair shops are having problems sourcing the parts for some of the older (or even slight newer) machines, and cannot meet the demand.
So parts exchange companies have seen where there is a gap in the market place and are rushing to meet the needs of this niche.
And this is where you will find a business opportunity waiting to be grabbed.
Ideally such a company should be able to put owners of defunct devices in touch with repair shops or DIY repairers.
But by the same token, maybe the repair shop has items in stock surplus to requirements that it would like to move off the shelves.
So there is a great deal of synergy to be had here.
Taking this concept to the next level, it should be possible to offer the same exchange services for such household appliances as lawnmowers, coffee makers, washing machines, dish washers..
and so on.
There really is no limit to what can be offered through such a service.
And what about computers - whole and component parts? Think what an exchange service for these parts could do.
And where's the money? In the advertising! Set up a site, invite sellers to advertise for a small fee, and buyers to roam for free - and let them contact each other to hammer out a deal.
An eco-friendly answer to the recession blues!