TOP 20 UK FASHION MARKET CONSUMER STATISTICS 2025

When I first started digging into the latest UK fashion market consumer statistics, I didn’t expect the numbers to feel so close to everyday life. From the billions in economic contribution to the little choices we all make about what to wear, the industry’s story is really the story of us as consumers. I find it fascinating how loyalty still holds strong even when budgets are tight, and how trends like haul culture show both creativity and challenges in the way we shop. Personally, it even makes me think about the small things in my own wardrobe—whether it’s the sustainable pieces I hold onto or something fun and playful like my favorite pair of socks. These statistics aren’t just cold data points; they mirror the way we balance style, budget, and values every day in the UK.

Top 20 UK Fashion Market Consumer Statistics 2025 (Editor’s Choice)

#	Statistics Metric	Key Insights
1	£62 billion economic contribution	UK fashion and textiles add around £62bn to the UK economy, or £1 in every £34 of GVA.
2	1.3 million jobs	The industry provides one in every 25 jobs across the UK workforce.
3	£23 billion tax revenue	Fashion contributes about £1 in every £30 of HMRC’s tax receipts.
4	£21.01 billion ecommerce sales (2025)	Projected sales for UK fashion ecommerce with a 4.6% YoY growth.
5	22% retail spend online	UK ranks third globally in online retail penetration, after China and South Korea.
6	55% maintain brand loyalty	Over half of UK consumers still buy from favorite fashion brands despite reduced spending power.
7	48% ignore environmental concerns	Nearly half of fast-fashion shoppers do not prioritize sustainability when shopping.
8	68% willing to pay for quality	Most consumers, especially men (72%), are ready to pay more for durable, higher quality fashion.
9	37% fair trade effort	Just over a third of shoppers actively seek fair trade products, while 42% don’t prioritize them.
10	5.3% luxury growth rate	The UK luxury fashion segment continues steady annual growth driven by premium demand.
11	30% sustainable luxury demand	High-end UK fashion has seen a sharp 30% increase in demand for sustainable options.
12	15% digital fashion growth	Digital fashion sales, including virtual goods, are set to expand by 15% by 2025.
13	Gen Z social media reliance	Young shoppers lean heavily on influencers and platforms when buying fashion, despite value gaps.
14	20% expect sentiment improvement	Only a fifth of leaders predict improved consumer outlook; 39% expect it to worsen.
15	Slowest growth in May 2025	Non-food retail, including fashion, saw the weakest performance of the year in May.
16	£7 billion cost of returns	Returns in 2022 generated 750k tonnes of CO₂, with 350k from logistics alone.
17	93% returns due to fit	Sizing and fit remain the main reason for returns, followed by 81% citing quality issues.
18	Helpful solutions (75%+)	Consumers find detailed descriptions, size calculators, and 360° views useful in reducing returns.
19	“Haul culture” driving returns	Gen Z trends of mass buying and returning fuel sustainability challenges for brands.
20	Weather vs inflation impact	Daily spend is more influenced by high winds than inflation, with online sales offsetting in-store dips.

Top 20 UK Fashion Market Consumer Statistics 2025

UK Fashion Market Consumer Statistics #1 – £62 Billion Economic Contribution

The UK fashion and textile industry contributes an impressive £62 billion to the national economy each year. This figure highlights the sector’s importance as a pillar of economic stability and growth. By driving such a substantial share of the Gross Value Added, the industry underpins many related markets. Its economic impact is felt across retail, manufacturing, and creative sectors alike. This contribution ensures fashion remains a vital player in the UK’s financial health.

UK Fashion Market Consumer Statistics #2 – 1.3 Million Jobs

The UK fashion sector supports around 1.3 million jobs, making it one of the country’s largest employers. This equates to one in every 25 jobs in the nation. It spans diverse roles, from design and retail to logistics and digital commerce. The broad employment base underscores fashion’s role as both a cultural and economic engine. Job creation in this industry contributes directly to community livelihoods nationwide.

UK Fashion Market Consumer Statistics #3 – £23 Billion Tax Revenue

Fashion generates approximately £23 billion in tax revenue, equivalent to £1 in every £30 of HMRC’s receipts. This demonstrates the sector’s crucial role in supporting public services. The steady revenue stream reflects consistent consumer demand across categories. Policymakers recognize the industry as both a cultural export and fiscal contributor. The sector’s tax contribution adds weight to calls for continued investment and support.

UK Fashion Market Consumer Statistics #4 – £21.01 Billion Ecommerce Sales (2025)

By 2025, UK fashion ecommerce is projected to reach £21.01 billion. This growth represents a 4.6% year-on-year increase. Consumers are increasingly shopping online for convenience, variety, and accessibility. Retailers focusing on digital platforms are better positioned to capture this growth. The forecast highlights how ecommerce continues to reshape the UK fashion landscape.

UK Fashion Market Consumer Statistics #5 – 22% Retail Spend Online

About 22% of UK retail spending occurs online, putting the nation third globally. This share places the UK just behind China and South Korea in digital adoption. Consumers trust ecommerce for choice and competitive pricing. The figure confirms the UK as a mature and digital-savvy retail market. It also pushes brands to prioritize omnichannel strategies to stay competitive.

UK Fashion Market Consumer Statistics #6 – 55% Maintain Brand Loyalty

Even during reduced spending periods, 55% of UK consumers stay loyal to their preferred brands. This resilience shows the strength of emotional and experiential ties in fashion. Shoppers value familiarity and trust when making choices. Loyalty is often reinforced by consistent product quality and strong branding. It reflects the importance of cultivating long-term customer relationships.

UK Fashion Market Consumer Statistics #7 – 48% Ignore Environmental Concerns

Almost half of fast-fashion shoppers—48%—admit sustainability is not a priority in their purchases. This reveals a gap between awareness and actual consumer behavior. Price and style often outweigh environmental considerations. It underscores the challenge brands face in shifting buying habits. Sustainable options must become more accessible to encourage change.

UK Fashion Market Consumer Statistics #8 – 68% Willing To Pay For Quality

Around 68% of UK consumers are willing to pay more for higher quality products. Men are slightly more inclined, with 72% expressing this preference compared to 65% of women. This indicates a long-term shift toward valuing durability over disposability. Shoppers recognize the return on investment in buying better-made items. The trend encourages brands to emphasize craftsmanship and longevity.

UK Fashion Market Consumer Statistics #9 – 37% Fair Trade Effort

Only 37% of UK shoppers actively seek fair trade products. Meanwhile, 42% admit they don’t prioritize fair trade when shopping. This points to a significant awareness-action gap. Ethical consumption remains a niche rather than mainstream practice. Brands face an uphill challenge in making fair trade more appealing to wider audiences.

UK Fashion Market Consumer Statistics #10 – 5.3% Luxury Growth Rate

The UK luxury fashion segment is expanding at a steady 5.3% annually. This growth is fueled by demand for exclusivity and premium experiences. Consumers in this segment are less price-sensitive and value heritage. Luxury houses leverage storytelling and craftsmanship to maintain this growth. It also reflects the global appetite for UK-based luxury brands.

UK Fashion Market Consumer Statistics #11 – 30% Sustainable Luxury Demand

High-end fashion in the UK has experienced a 30% surge in sustainable product demand. Wealthier consumers increasingly value eco-conscious materials and sourcing. Sustainability is no longer optional but a growth driver in luxury. This trend forces luxury brands to adapt their supply chains. It cements the integration of ethical practices into premium positioning.

UK Fashion Market Consumer Statistics #12 – 15% Digital Fashion Growth

Digital fashion sales are expected to grow by 15% by 2025. This includes virtual clothing, digital wardrobes, and fashion NFTs. Younger consumers, especially Gen Z, are leading this trend. The metaverse and online platforms provide new revenue streams. Brands experimenting here are setting themselves apart in innovation.

UK Fashion Market Consumer Statistics #13 – Gen Z Social Media Reliance

Generation Z relies heavily on social media influencers for fashion decisions. While they often express environmental concerns, spending habits don’t always align. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram strongly shape their fashion choices. Their buying power makes them trendsetters in the UK market. This reliance underscores the role of digital influence over traditional advertising.

UK Fashion Market Consumer Statistics #14 – 20% Expect Sentiment Improvement

Only 20% of industry leaders foresee improved consumer sentiment in 2025. By contrast, 39% predict a decline in confidence. This outlook reflects broader economic uncertainties. Businesses must adapt to cautious consumer spending patterns. Proactive strategies will be essential to navigating slower growth.

UK Fashion Market Consumer Statistics #15 – Slowest Growth In May 2025

In May 2025, UK fashion experienced its slowest growth of the year. Non-food retail spending was particularly weak. This seasonal dip highlights volatility in fashion demand. Retailers often counter such periods with promotions or new launches. It emphasizes the need for agile marketing strategies.

UK Fashion Market Consumer Statistics #16 – £7 Billion Cost Of Returns

Returns cost the UK fashion industry around £7 billion annually. These returns generate 750,000 tonnes of CO₂, making it an environmental issue as well. Reverse logistics alone contribute 350,000 tonnes of emissions. The economic and ecological burden calls for systemic solutions. Addressing returns is crucial for both profitability and sustainability.

UK Fashion Market Consumer Statistics #17 – 93% Returns Due To Fit

Incorrect sizing accounts for 93% of returns in the UK fashion market. Quality issues are the second-most common reason, at 81%. This shows how product information gaps lead to dissatisfaction. Accurate size guides and quality control can significantly reduce returns. Brands that fix these issues can improve customer retention.

UK Fashion Market Consumer Statistics #18 – Helpful Solutions (75%+)

Three solutions stand out in reducing returns: detailed descriptions (75%), size calculators (72%), and 360° product views (71%). These tools give shoppers greater confidence in online purchases. By improving the online shopping experience, returns can be minimized. The stats prove consumers want better digital tools for decision-making. Investing in these solutions benefits both customers and retailers.

UK Fashion Market Consumer Statistics #19 – “Haul Culture” Driving Returns

“Haul culture” has become a trend, especially among Gen Z. Shoppers buy large quantities with the intent of returning items. This culture drives high costs and environmental waste. Brands are challenged to discourage this unsustainable behavior. Education and incentives may help shift consumer practices.

UK Fashion Market Consumer Statistics #20 – Weather Vs Inflation Impact

UK retail spending is more impacted by daily weather than inflation. High winds in particular reduce in-store shopping activity. However, online sales often rise during poor weather conditions. This balancing effect highlights the importance of omnichannel strategies. Weather remains an overlooked but powerful influence on consumer behavior.

Closing Thoughts On UK Fashion Market Consumer Statistics 2025

Looking back over these insights, I realize just how much the UK fashion landscape is shaped by both tradition and change. The numbers about jobs and revenue show stability, while ecommerce growth and Gen Z’s influence remind us the future is already here. As someone who enjoys mixing practicality with style, I see these statistics as a reflection of choices we’re all making—whether it’s about quality, sustainability, or just finding that perfect outfit for the weekend. It feels personal because fashion touches every part of daily life, from what we buy online to what we return when it doesn’t fit quite right. For me, these UK fashion market consumer statistics highlight not just an industry, but the evolving story of how we all live, shop, and express ourselves in 2025.

SOURCES

https://ukft.org/industry-reports-and-stats/

https://www.imarcgroup.com/uk-fashion-apparel-market

https://fashionunited.uk/statistics/uk-fashion-industry-statistics

https://fashionunited.com/statistics/global-fashion-industry-statistics

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_media_use_in_the_fashion_industry

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Environmental_impact_of_fashion

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Throw-away_society

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Impact_of_the_COVID-19_pandemic_on_the_fashion_industry

https://www.ibisworld.com/united-kingdom/industry/clothing-retailing/3060/

https://www.ft.com/content/a3fa8f2d-f6b6-4a4d-a230-4f5da1671ead

https://blog.promocode.me.uk/fashion-industry-statistics/