Europe’s largest used camera company is expanding — MPB announced on Thursday the launch of used gear sales and trades in the U.S. The company buys and sells previously loved camera equipment from DSLRs and lenses to backpacks and filters, offering a simple process for sellers and a six-month guarantee to buyers.
Originally based in the U.K., the U.S. site will be run from New York offices, thanks to $3 million in funding. After launching in 2008, MPB expanded from the U.K. to countries across Europe and this week opened sales to the U.S. The company employs 50 people between the two offices.
MPB allows photographers to sell or trade their gear — the company says their hassle-free and secure system simplifies the process of selling used gear. Photographers can sell their used gear for cash, or use it as a trade.
On the buyers’ side of things, MPB aims to ease the worry that comes with buying previously shot equipment by offering a six-month warranty on everything they sell.
“MPB is built on innovation and the desire to offer a better solution for trading used camera gear,” CEO Matt Barker said in a statement. “Our dedication to developing custom-built technology for the best customer experience has enabled us to grow faster than ever. We’re excited to start shaking things up here in New York. It’s vibrant, ambitious and it’s where some of the world’s best photography is created.”
The company offers used gear from a variety of different brands, from Nikon to Hasselblad. Each item is priced based on the condition, with the product’s page describing that particular used item and any wear. For camera bodies, the listing even displays the shutter count. Lens listings describe both the condition of the optics as well as any cosmetic damage.
Along with cameras and lenses, MPB also sells flashes, studio equipment, video cameras, tripods, filters, bags, and even CompactFlash cards.
