REAL vs SONO Comparison

The RealReal is the largest pure-play luxury resale platform in the US, generating $1.8 billion in 2024 gross merchandise volume and addressing a niche (personal luxury resale) that had previously been serviced by inefficient upscale boutiques and local pawn shops. The company generates revenue via consignment and first-party sales on its online marketplace, and through a small volume of direct sales. With a hands-on approach that actively sources inventory and authenticates every item on its platform, The RealReal is able to justify much higher take rates than peers, working out to roughly 36% of net merchandise value in 2024, which excludes returns, cancellations, and first-party sales.

Sonos Inc is an audio company dedicated to elevating life through sound, offering a connected platform that brings together music, movies, stories, and conversations. Its portfolio includes home theater speakers, components, plug-in and portable speakers and headphones, known for exceptional sound, thoughtful design, ease of use and seamless access to audio content. Its partner products and other revenue categories include accessories for home integration, such as custom-designed stands, mounts, and shelving units, along with partnerships for architectural speakers and automotive sound systems, as well as licensing, advertising revenue, and subscription-based services. The company operates in the United States and other countries, with the majority of revenue coming from the United States.