When we launched Completing the Puzzle in 2020, we envisioned a different way for jigsaw puzzlers to get their fix. One that was lower cost, more sustainable, and community-oriented.
We aren’t the only ones thinking this way. Across industries, trends and movements like the sharing economy, minimalism, and sustainability have changed the way we shop. Let’s dive into why we think renting jigsaw puzzles has gained so much traction over the last few years, and why it’s the future of puzzling.
When platforms like Airbnb, Uber, and Rent the Runway burst onto the scene and exploded in popularity, they showed the world that you don’t have to own something to enjoy its benefits. You can get the same use out of a good or service by renting it.
Market research shows that the sharing economy promotes resource efficiency and environmental responsibility. Essentially, sharing is caring.
When you rent something, like a puzzle, you aren’t the only one who gets to enjoy it. The puzzle gets more use (resource efficiency) and avoids a landfill (environmental responsibility).
The sharing economy also creates a sense of community. It’s fun to know that you aren’t the only person who’s worked on a puzzle, and that many more will enjoy it after you.
Not long ago, Marie Kondo inspired us all to go through our possessions and ask if they “spark joy.” In our opinion, puzzles that we’re working on spark tons of joy, but puzzles gathering dust in the closet do not.
Renting puzzles perfectly aligns with the minimalist movement that’s all about owning less on purpose. Instead of accumulating possessions, you’re discerning about what you bring into your home.
According to Better Homes and Gardens, practices like renting or borrowing items are a great way to manage clutter in your home. When you rent your jigsaw puzzles, you send them back after you’re done with them. No more taking up space in your closets and going unused.
Jigsaw puzzle production requires several resources, including paper and ink. Unfortunately, it’s common to only use a puzzle once and then throw it out, which is wasteful and harmful to the environment.
A better option is to rent a puzzle so that it stays in circulation. After you’re done with it, someone else gets to enjoy it, and so on. This is a perfect example of a “circular economy,” which is a concept that’s risen in popularity over the last few years.
You may have seen more and more businesses, such as IKEA, implement “take-back” programs. When you’re done with a product, you can take it back to the brand so they can resell it at a lower price, recycle it for you, or find another use for it.
Rental programs and take-back initiatives are making the world a more sustainable place, one product at a time.
With the rising cost of goods, buying brand-new puzzles can get pricey. Renting is a cost-effective alternative that doesn’t break the bank. You can still enjoy your favorite pastime and save money.
Completing the Puzzle is a puzzle rental service that embodies the principles of the sharing economy, minimalism, and sustainability. As a member, you get to create a wish list of puzzles from our large catalog, and each month, we ship a new puzzle straight to your doorstep.
When you’re done, simply send it back using the prepaid shipping bag. Once we receive it, we’ll ship out your next puzzle! To show our commitment to sustainability, we plant a tree for every new subscription.
Completing the Puzzle is the future of puzzling because we embrace what our customers want: a puzzle subscription program that’s eco-friendly, cost-effective, and fun. Check out our huge catalog and get started with your own Completing the Puzzle membership today!
