Clothing & Footwear Wholesaling in the UK - Industry Market Research Report

Clothing & Footwear Wholesaling in the UK

Over the five years through 2022-23, industry revenue is expected to decline at a compound annual rate of 1.7%. Clothing and footwear manufacturers have faced many competitive pressures, including revenue falling during the height of COVID-19. Shifts in consumer behaviour, like women no longer opting to buy footwear from specialist retailers, have opened up the market, allowing retailers to establish a presence in specific segments. Wholesalers have historically been the 'middlemen' of fashion. Retailers are increasingly building relationships with manufacturers to avoid paying commissions to wholesalers and to have a more significant influence in designing and producing clothing and footwear. Industry revenue is forecast to decline by 2.4% in 2022-23 to £13.5 billion, because of adverse economic conditions, with soaring inflation and higher interest rates reducing consumer spending.

Clothing and footwear wholesalers purchase a wide range of items from domestic and foreign manufacturers and distribute the goods to downstream retailers. Most wholesalers in this industry do not undertake any alterations or develop goods further.

This report covers the scope, size, disposition and growth of the industry including the key sensitivities and success factors. Also included are five year industry forecasts, growth rates and an analysis of the industry key players and their market shares.