New reports indicate young people aren't going to op-shops as often, and experts have raised questions as to why this is.

Despite the ongoing cost of living, it seems like younger people wanting discount fashion prefer other options - with less barriers.

Otago University professor Lisa McNeil says the extra effort to look for quality pieces is perceived as a lot of extra labour, and young people are put off.

"It's hard for them, it's expensive when they compare it to some of the cheap new options that are available in the market."

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