When Karen and her partner moved from Paris to London, they were excited for a new adventure, but trying to furnish a home in a new city on a tight budget was daunting. Scouring second-hand markets became their routine, always on the lookout for the best deals. Then, by chance, everything changed.
“We were buying a second-hand TV from a nearby couple, and they reminded us about Olio,” Karen recalls. “We re-downloaded the app, and it’s honestly been a lifesaver.”
From that moment on, Olio has helped Karen and her partner turn their house into a home – without breaking the bank, while giving perfectly good items a second life. Their living room alone is a testament to the power of sharing: a dining table, chairs, a sofa bed, red cushions, a rocking chair, and even a footstool – all rescued from neighbours on Olio.
“My favourite find has to be the chairs. They’re stunning – like something you’d see in a design museum!”
But for Karen, Olio is more than just an app to furnish her home. She first discovered the app at university, using it to rescue food and save money. Now, in London, she continues that mission, saving surplus food from supermarkets and even from nearby film studio shoots.
“It’s been amazing – both eating the food ourselves and sharing it with others in the community. We’ve also given away quite a few things, which feels so much more rewarding than throwing something away.”
One of her most satisfying moments? Answering a neighbour’s ‘Wanted’ post. “They had a light cover but were missing the base – we had the exact part they needed.”
Beyond free items and food, Karen has found something even more valuable: a sense of community.
“Every interaction I’ve had on Olio has been so lovely. The person giving away the item is happy to have more space, and we usually chat about their next move – whether they are moving out, upgrading, or decluttering. It definitely feels like a community of people who don’t want things to go to waste and want to help their neighbours.“
What do you love the most about using Olio?
“The best thing about Olio is how effortlessly it brings people together. It’s not just about sharing – it’s about kindness, connection, and knowing that every small act helps reduce waste. It really does feel like being part of something bigger.”