A NEW symbol has been launched in an attempt to reassure ­shoppers that second-hand goods are of the highest quality and to drive more sales of the products.

The Revolve sign will be applied to mark second-hand products in stores across the country to encourage more consumers have the confidence to pick pre-owned items, particularly electrical purchases.

Recycling campaign Zero Waste Scotland is behind the new standard, which will be applied to all goods sold in participating second-hand stores, including electrical equipment such as fridges, washing machines and tumble dryers.

It follows research that found consumers are happy to buy previously owned goods in theory, but few do so in reality.

Just 16 per cent of Scottish adults say they have bought second-hand furniture, while five per cent purchased second-hand sports equipment and seven per cent used rugs and carpets.

A Zero Waste Scotland survey found shoppers were sceptical about the safety of products, cleanliness and overall quality, although 35% say they buy second-hand clothes.

Already 25 shops have signed up to display the Revolve mark on products, four of them in Glasgow, and it is hoped that more will soon follow suit.

The Bike Station in Finnieston, Glasgow, is among those taking part.

General manager Greg Chauvet said: "Many people worry that a used or refurbished bike is dangerous and unsafe, but with us it is anything but that.

"Each bike is tested thoroughly by our trained staff and is always of the same quality as a new bike, just with a cheaper price tag."

The Revolve mark will be displayed on both used items which have been donated to second-hand shops unused and products which have had a careful owner.

Alex Weir, general manager of Spruce Carpets in Glasgow, said that the stamp would only be put on the best items.

He said: "Many of our products have been donated by companies that haven't used all of the carpet that they had originally ordered.

"So here it's all about breaking down the idea that a second-hand carpet has been ripped from a dirty floor after years of neglect.

"If we don't think it's of top quality, it won't be sold.

"As with all Revolve accredited stores, we are a not-for-profit organisation, which means we're not out to rip anyone off, just to give great value for money and help people save a bit of cash where we can."

Iain Gulland, Director of Zero Waste Scotland said: "For some, the image of junk stores and car boot sales come to mind when people consider second-hand shopping, which just isn't true.

"These stores offer quality ­pre-loved pieces where people can be confident that they're not buying something of inferior quality.

"By seeing our mark, shoppers can be sure they're going to save money and find some real one-of-a-kind items that are of high-street quality."