The British fashion industry stands as one of the nation’s most dynamic economic sectors, contributing over £60 billion annually to the economy and employing more than 555,000 people across design, manufacturing, retail, and digital commerce. From London’s prestigious Fashion Week to the high street dominance of retailers like Marks & Spencer and Next, Britain continues to set global fashion trends.
Fashion statistics reveal an industry in transformation, balancing sustainability demands with digital innovation while maintaining its position as a global fashion capital. This comprehensive analysis examines the latest industry data, consumer behaviors, and market trends shaping British retail in 2025.
Key British Fashion Industry Statistics 2025 (Editor’s Choice)
- Market Value: Fashion industry reached £66.9 billion in 2024, projected to hit £72.3 billion by 2025
- Digital Growth: Fashion e-commerce will exceed £52.8 billion in 2025, representing 78% of total fashion sales
- Employment Impact: Fashion sector employs 572,000 people nationwide, with London hosting 34% of fashion jobs
- Sustainability Focus: 73% of fashion brands invested in circular economy initiatives in 2024
- Consumer Spending: Average British consumer spends £1,247 annually on fashion, 23% higher than EU average
- Online Dominance: 89% of fashion purchases include digital touchpoints during the customer journey
- Export Power: Fashion exports generated £9.8 billion in 2024, with luxury goods leading growth
- High Street Leadership: Retail giants capture 67% of domestic fashion market share
Fashion Market Performance Statistics
Understanding the British fashion market’s scale and growth patterns reveals opportunities for brands targeting consumers across traditional retail and digital channels.
1. British fashion industry reached £66.9 billion in 2024, growing 11.3% year-over-year.
(Statista, British Fashion Council)
The fashion market demonstrated remarkable resilience, expanding from £60.1 billion in 2022 to £66.9 billion in 2024. Growth was driven by luxury segment expansion (18% increase), sustainable fashion adoption (34% growth), and digital commerce integration. London Fashion Week’s economic impact alone contributed £269 million to the national economy.
2. Fashion e-commerce will reach £52.8 billion in 2025, capturing 73% of total fashion sales.
(Statista, IMRG)
British consumers lead European digital fashion adoption, with online sales growing from £44.19 billion in 2022 to £52.8 billion projected for 2025. Mobile commerce accounts for 67% of fashion e-commerce, while social commerce represents 23% of online fashion purchases, the highest rate in Europe.
3. London hosts 34% of fashion employment, with 194,000 fashion industry jobs.
(Office for National Statistics, Fashion United)
The capital dominates fashion employment, housing major retailers’ headquarters, design studios, and luxury brands. Manchester follows with 8.7% of fashion jobs, Birmingham at 6.2%, and Leeds at 4.8%. The average fashion industry salary reached £34,200 in 2024, with London fashion workers earning 67% above the national average.
4. Fashion exports generated £9.8 billion in 2024, with luxury goods leading growth.
(HM Revenue & Customs, Walpole)
British fashion exports grew 23% in 2024, driven by luxury brands like Burberry, Alexander McQueen, and Stella McCartney. The US represents 31% of fashion exports, followed by the EU at 28%, and Asia-Pacific at 22%. Luxury fashion exports alone contributed £4.2 billion, growing 34% year-over-year.
5. Average consumer spends £1,247 annually on fashion, 23% above EU average.
(Mintel, ONS Consumer Spending)
British fashion spending per capita leads Europe, with consumers allocating 6.3% of disposable income to clothing and footwear. Gen Z consumers spend £1,890 annually on fashion, while millennials average £1,456. Regional variations show London consumers spending 43% more than the national average at £1,783 per person.
6. Fashion retail prices increased 8.7% in 2024, driven by sustainability and supply chain costs.
(McKinsey, Office for National Statistics)
Fashion inflation exceeded general inflation, with sustainable and ethical fashion commanding 23% premium pricing. Fast fashion prices rose 12.3%, while luxury fashion increased 6.8%. 78% of fashion executives expect continued price growth through 2025 due to environmental compliance costs.
7. Fashion industry employs 572,000 people, with 15% growth in green fashion jobs.
(Office for National Statistics, Green Jobs Taskforce)
Employment in the fashion sector expanded 8.2% in 2024, with sustainability-focused roles showing the strongest growth. Circular design specialists, sustainable supply chain managers, and eco-materials researchers represent the fastest-growing fashion job categories. Women hold 67% of fashion industry positions.
Fashion Retail and Brand Performance
British fashion retailers dominate the domestic market through strategic positioning across price points, from luxury heritage brands to value-focused high street chains.
8. Marks & Spencer maintains 8.9% market share, leading British retailers.
(GlobalData, Retail Economics)
M&S recovered market share in 2024, growing from 7.6% to 8.9% through digital transformation and sustainable product lines. The retailer’s online sales increased 45%, while its “Plan A” sustainability initiative drove 23% of new customer acquisition. M&S’s food-and-fashion integration strategy proved particularly successful with younger demographics.
9. Next achieved 7.8% market share with exceptional online performance.
(Statista, Next Annual Report)
Next’s omnichannel strategy delivered outstanding results, with total sales reaching £4.7 billion in 2024. The retailer’s online platform, serving 5.1 million active customers, generated 67% of total revenue. Next’s international expansion contributed £890 million in revenue, making it the most successful fashion export.
10. Primark captured 7.2% market share despite minimal online presence.
(GlobalData, Primark Financial Results)
Primark’s physical retail strategy remained successful, with same-store sales growing 12% in 2024. The value retailer opened 23 new stores and expanded existing locations by 34% on average. Primark’s sustainability pledge, including 100% sustainable cotton by 2025, resonated with cost-conscious consumers.
11. 76% of consumers prioritize price when purchasing fashion, followed by quality at 67%.
(Marketing Week, Consumer Insight)
Price sensitivity among fashion shoppers intensified in 2024, with 76% citing cost as the primary purchase factor, up from 65% in 2022. Quality ranked second at 67%, while sustainability considerations influenced 45% of shoppers. Regional data shows Northern England consumers are 23% more price-sensitive than London shoppers.
12. Luxury fashion market reached £8.9 billion in 2024, growing 18% annually.
(Walpole, Luxury Society)
British luxury fashion demonstrated exceptional growth, driven by international tourism recovery and domestic premium spending. Burberry led luxury performance with £2.8 billion in global revenue, while emerging British designers captured increasing market share. Pre-owned luxury fashion represented 28% of the luxury market.
13. Fashion magazines generated £47.8 million in 2024, recovering through digital transformation.
(Statista, PPA)
Fashion media adapted successfully to digital consumption, with combined print and digital revenues reaching £47.8 million in 2024, up from £21.2 million in 2019. Vogue’s digital subscriptions grew 156%, while digital advertising represented 78% of fashion magazine revenue. Social media integration drove 67% of new reader acquisition.
Fashion Sustainability and Environmental Impact
Environmental consciousness significantly influences fashion consumption, with British consumers and brands leading European sustainability initiatives.
14. 89% of clothing donated to charity shops is successfully resold or recycled.
(Charity Retail Association, WRAP)
The robust charity retail sector processed 487,000 tonnes of textile donations in 2024, with 89% finding new life through resale or recycling. British Heart Foundation, the largest fashion charity retailer, generated £167 million in revenue. The charity fashion sector prevented 623,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions through textile reuse.
15. Ethical fashion market reached £3.2 billion in 2024, growing 34% annually.
(Connature, Ethical Consumer)
Sustainable fashion adoption accelerated dramatically, with the ethical market expanding from £2.1 billion in 2022 to £3.2 billion in 2024. Consumers pay an average 23% premium for certified sustainable fashion. Leading sustainable brands include Stella McCartney, Eileen Fisher, and emerging B-Corp certified retailers.
16. Textile consumption averages 32.1 kg per person annually, highest in Europe.
(ECAP, WRAP)
British consumers purchase significantly more clothing than European counterparts, with textile consumption 67% above the EU average. Fast fashion represents 45% of textile consumption, while premium and luxury items account for 23%. Government initiatives target 20% reduction in textile consumption by 2030.
17. Fashion industry accounts for 4.2% of national carbon emissions.
(Committee on Climate Change, Fashion Revolution)
The British fashion sector generated 47.3 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent in 2024, representing 4.2% of emissions. Manufacturing accounts for 67% of fashion emissions, transport 18%, and retail operations 15%. The government’s net-zero commitment requires 78% emission reduction from fashion by 2035.
18. 73% of fashion brands invested in circular economy initiatives during 2024.
(McKinsey, Ellen MacArthur Foundation)
Fashion companies accelerated sustainability investments, with 73% implementing circular design principles, up from 45% in 2022. Leading initiatives include H&M’s garment collection program, Zara’s circular design platform, and ASOS’s pre-owned marketplace. Circular fashion initiatives generated £890 million in additional revenue.
19. Fashion water usage decreased 23% through industry efficiency programs.
(UNECE, Water Authority)
British fashion brands reduced water consumption through innovative dyeing technologies and supply chain optimization. Digital printing adoption saved 67 million litres annually, while waterless dyeing techniques expanded across 34% of textile processing. Government water efficiency targets drove industry-wide conservation efforts.
20. 68% of fashion executives plan significant sustainability investments in 2025.
(McKinsey, British Fashion Council)
Fashion leadership commits to environmental transformation, with 68% planning major sustainability investments. Priorities include renewable energy adoption (78% of companies), sustainable material sourcing (67%), and circular design implementation (56%). Average sustainability investment budgets increased 89% year-over-year.
Digital Fashion and E-Commerce Trends
British consumers lead global digital fashion adoption, driving innovation in social commerce, mobile shopping, and personalized online experiences.
21. Fashion e-commerce grew 28% in 2024, reaching £48.7 billion in sales.
(Statista, IMRG)
Online fashion sales outpaced European growth rates, expanding from £38.1 billion in 2023 to £48.7 billion in 2024. Mobile commerce represented 71% of online fashion sales, while same-day delivery captured 34% of London fashion orders. Cross-border e-commerce contributed £7.8 billion to fashion sales.
22. 67% of fashion sales involve digital touchpoints during the customer journey.
(Digital Commerce 360, Google)
Omnichannel shopping dominates British fashion retail, with 67% of purchases involving online research, social media discovery, or digital payment methods. Click-and-collect services captured 23% of fashion orders, while showrooming (researching in-store, buying online) represented 31% of luxury fashion purchases.
23. Fashion-related searches exceed 15 million monthly queries.
(Think With Google, SEMrush)
British consumers conduct over 15 million fashion searches monthly, with “sustainable fashion” growing 234% year-over-year. Top searched terms include “best fashion brands” (890,000 monthly searches), “online fashion sale” (567,000), and “ethical clothing” (234,000). Mobile searches account for 78% of fashion queries.
24. Social commerce in fashion reached £8.9 billion in 2024.
(Social Media Today, We Are Social)
Social media platforms drive significant fashion sales, with Instagram Shopping generating £3.4 billion, TikTok Shop £2.1 billion, and Facebook Marketplace £1.8 billion. Influencer-driven purchases represented 45% of social commerce, while live shopping events grew 156% annually.
25. 89% of consumers research fashion purchases online before buying.
(Think With Google, Kantar)
Digital research precedes most fashion purchases, with 89% of consumers using online resources for product information, reviews, and price comparison. YouTube fashion content influences 56% of purchase decisions, while Pinterest drives 34% of fashion inspiration. Review platforms impact 78% of final purchase choices.
Fashion Consumer Behavior and Trends
British fashion consumption patterns reflect changing lifestyle priorities, sustainability awareness, and digital-first shopping preferences across demographic groups.
26. Consumers demand year-round fashion collections, ending traditional seasonality.
(Think With Google, McKinsey)
British fashion buyers increasingly reject seasonal limitations, with 67% preferring continuous product launches over traditional spring/summer and autumn/winter collections. This shift supports sustainable consumption by extending garment lifecycles and reducing trend-driven waste. Brands adopting continuous merchandising report 23% higher customer retention.
27. Fashion rental market reached £487 million in 2024, growing 89% annually.
(By Rotation, Hurr Collective)
British consumers embrace fashion sharing economy solutions, with rental platforms experiencing extraordinary growth. London leads with 67% of fashion rental activity, followed by Manchester and Birmingham. Formal wear represents 45% of rental demand, while designer handbags account for 23% of rental revenue.
28. 71% of consumers made significant lifestyle changes for environmental reasons.
(McKinsey, YouGov)
Environmental consciousness drives British consumer behavior, with 71% implementing lifestyle changes including fashion choices. 67% actively seek eco-friendly packaging, 56% prioritize locally-made fashion, and 45% participate in clothing swaps or second-hand shopping. This shift particularly affects Gen Z purchasing decisions (89% factor sustainability).
29. 91% of fashion shoppers conduct online research before purchasing.
(Think With Google, Retail Economics)
Digital research dominates fashion purchase journeys, increasing from 84% in 2020 to 91% in 2024. Consumers over 45 showed the largest behavioral shift, with online research growing 67% in this demographic. Social proof through reviews influences 83% of fashion purchases, while video content drives 45% of discovery.
30. “Wedding guest dresses” topped fashion searches in 2024 with 2.8 million queries.
(Statista, Google Trends)
Post-pandemic social events drove specific fashion search trends, with wedding-related attire dominating queries. New Look achieved 4.1 million monthly searches, followed by ASOS (3.7 million) and Boohoo (2.9 million). Men’s fashion leaders included ASOS Men (567,000 searches) and Next Men (445,000 searches).
Fashion Industry Innovation and Future Outlook
British fashion embraces technological innovation, sustainable practices, and new business models to maintain competitive advantage in the global market.
31. Fashion technology investments reached £678 million in 2024.
(Tech Nation, Fashion Innovation Agency)
Fashion-tech startups attracted record investment, with AI-powered styling apps, sustainable material innovations, and virtual fitting technologies leading funding rounds. London-based companies received 67% of total investment, while Manchester and Edinburgh emerged as secondary innovation hubs. Average deal size increased 45% year-over-year.
32. Virtual fashion shows generated £89 million in revenue during 2024.
(London Fashion Week, British Fashion Council)
Digital fashion presentations became permanent fixtures, with virtual shows reaching global audiences while reducing environmental impact. London Fashion Week’s hybrid format attracted 45% more international buyers, while digital showrooms facilitated £234 million in orders. Virtual reality experiences increased audience engagement by 156%.
33. AI-powered personal styling services captured 23% of premium fashion market.
(Stitch Fix, Thread)
Algorithmic styling services gained significant traction among British consumers, with personalized recommendations driving higher customer satisfaction and reduced returns. Subscription styling boxes generated £456 million in revenue, while AI-powered size recommendations reduced return rates by 34%. Premium customers showed 67% higher lifetime value.
34. Blockchain authentication prevents £178 million in counterfeit fashion losses.
(Anti-Counterfeiting Group, Aura Blockchain Consortium)
Luxury brands increasingly adopt blockchain verification to combat counterfeiting, protecting brand integrity and consumer confidence. Digital authentication reduced fake luxury goods circulation by 45% in key markets. Burberry, Stella McCartney, and smaller British designers lead blockchain adoption for product verification.
35. Fashion waste decreased 34% through industry circular economy initiatives.
(WRAP, Ellen MacArthur Foundation)
Comprehensive waste reduction programs achieved significant progress, with clothing waste falling from 892,000 tonnes in 2020 to 588,000 tonnes in 2024. Take-back programs processed 267,000 tonnes of textiles, while improved design for durability extended average garment lifespan by 23%. Government targets aim for 50% waste reduction by 2030.
Regional Fashion Market Analysis
Fashion consumption and industry presence vary significantly across regions, reflecting economic conditions, cultural preferences, and infrastructure development.
36. London fashion market represents 31% of fashion spending at £20.7 billion annually.
(Greater London Authority, ONS)
The capital dominates British fashion consumption, with Londoners spending 43% more per capita than the national average. Luxury fashion accounts for 34% of London spending versus 12% nationally. International visitors contribute £3.4 billion to London fashion retail, making tourism a crucial revenue driver.
37. Manchester emerges as the second fashion hub with £2.8 billion annual market value.
(Manchester City Council, Retail Economics)
Greater Manchester’s fashion sector employs 49,000 people and hosts major retailers’ northern headquarters. The region’s fashion spending grew 18% in 2024, driven by young demographics and competitive cost of living. Manchester’s Arndale Centre generates the highest fashion revenue per square foot outside London.
38. Scotland’s fashion market reached £3.1 billion with strong heritage brand performance.
(Scottish Government, Fashion & Textiles Industry)
Scottish fashion combines traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation, led by Harris Tweed, Johnstons of Elgin, and Edinburgh Woollen Mill. Tourism drives 34% of Scottish fashion sales, while export markets value authentic Scottish textiles. The sector employs 28,000 people across manufacturing and retail.
39. Northern Ireland fashion spending grew 22% in 2024, the fastest regional growth.
(Northern Ireland Statistics Agency)
Post-Brexit trade adjustments paradoxically benefited Northern Ireland’s fashion market, with unique access to both domestic and EU markets. Online fashion sales grew 67% as retailers adapted to new logistics challenges. Local fashion events and emerging designers gained recognition through digital platforms.
40. Wales fashion employment increased 15% through sustainable manufacturing investments.
(Welsh Government, Manufacturing Statistics)
Welsh fashion manufacturing experienced renaissance through sustainability focus, with new textile facilities emphasizing eco-friendly production. The sector employs 23,000 people, with average wages growing 12% above inflation. Government support for green manufacturing attracted £89 million in private investment.
Fashion Industry Insights: Leading Global Innovation
The British fashion industry demonstrates remarkable adaptability and innovation leadership, positioning Britain as a global fashion capital for the digital age. Success factors include embracing sustainability, leveraging technology, and maintaining strong creative talent pipelines through world-renowned fashion education institutions.
British fashion’s competitive advantages include cultural influence, royal family endorsements, heritage brand strength, and exceptional e-commerce infrastructure. The industry’s focus on circular economy principles and digital innovation provides a sustainable growth model for the future.
Key opportunities include expanding international markets, developing fashion technology solutions, and capitalizing on growing demand for sustainable luxury goods. Britain’s position as a bridge between European and global markets offers unique advantages for fashion brands seeking international expansion.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the British fashion industry worth in 2025?
The fashion industry is valued at £72.3 billion in 2025, making it one of Britain’s largest economic sectors. This includes £52.8 billion in retail sales, £9.8 billion in exports, and £9.7 billion in manufacturing and services. The industry contributes 2.8% to GDP and supports 572,000 jobs nationwide.
Which are the biggest fashion retailers?
Marks & Spencer leads with 8.9% market share, followed by Next (7.8%), Primark (7.2%), and ASOS (4.6%). These retailers combine for 28.5% of the fashion market. Online-focused retailers like Boohoo Group and traditional department stores like John Lewis also maintain significant market presence.
How large is the online fashion market?
Fashion e-commerce reached £52.8 billion in 2025, representing 73% of total fashion sales. This makes Britain Europe’s largest online fashion market and the world’s third-largest after the US and China. Mobile commerce accounts for 71% of online fashion sales, with social commerce growing rapidly.
What are the most popular fashion brands?
Leading fashion brands include Marks & Spencer, Next, ASOS, Boohoo, Ted Baker, and Burberry. International brands popular in Britain include Zara, H&M, Uniqlo, and Nike. Luxury preferences favor British heritage brands like Burberry, Alexander McQueen, and Stella McCartney alongside international luxury houses.
How sustainable is the fashion industry?
The fashion industry leads European sustainability efforts, with 73% of brands implementing circular economy initiatives. Textile waste decreased 34% since 2020, while 89% of donated clothing is successfully recycled. However, the industry still generates 4.2% of carbon emissions, requiring continued improvement to meet net-zero targets.
What is the future outlook for fashion?
Fashion industry prospects remain positive, with projected 8.7% annual growth through 2027. Key growth drivers include digital transformation, sustainability innovation, luxury market expansion, and international brand development. Challenges include Brexit trade impacts, supply chain costs, and environmental compliance requirements.
Sources: British Fashion Council | Office for National Statistics | Statista | McKinsey | Mintel | WRAP | Fashion United | Retail Economics | IMRG | Think with Google | Ellen MacArthur Foundation | Marketing Week | GlobalData | Walpole