Stay ahead of the curve in the UK footwear retail market and secure future growth for your business with Mintel’s in-depth market research report. Our full report, is packed with consumer-led market intelligence, the latest footwear retailing trends, and the consumer behaviours that are shaping the UK footwear market.
The cost-of-living crisis has not impacted significantly on consumer spending on footwear which, even with inflation stripped out, grew in double digits in 2021 and 2022 and in high single figures in 2023. This can be attributed to the growth in sales of trainers and consumers (men and women) buying multiple pairs of different styles, embracing so-called ‘sneaker culture’ and this trend is expected to continue to drive demand. Additionally, sales of children’s footwear have strengthened.
Online-only retailers, led by Amazon, are the main threat to specialist multichannel footwear retailers. To stand out, specialist stores must transform into experiential destinations, focusing on new technology such as AR, VR and QR codes to personalise shoppers’ experiences, offering consultations, repairs, in-store recycling drop-off points and hosting events. This strategy is especially vital for attracting Gen Z and Millennial shoppers.
In line with growing consumer concerns around sustainability, more than three quarters of footwear shoppers agree that brands should offer repair services. This suggests an opportunity for retailers to boost their revenues, while at the same time using the presence of repair services as a driver of footfall into stores.
This is just a snapshot of what Mintel’s full UK Footwear Retailing Market Report contains, purchase the full report for a complete analysis of the UK footwear market, alongside market data, exclusive consumer insights, and growth opportunities.
This report was written by Michael Oliver, Mintel’s senior retail analyst. Michael has more than 35 years’ experience writing and researching consumer markets, including food and drink, leisure and retail. He has specialised in the retail industry since 2016.
Spending on footwear has defied the cost-of-living crisis, boosted by strong demand for trainers/sneakers and school shoes that shows no sign of abating.
Michael Oliver
Senior Retail Analyst
Mintel is the world’s leading market intelligence agency. We show you how consumers think today and tomorrow. As a trusted partner to industry leaders, we deliver game-changing insights to businesses across the globe, fuelling their marketing and innovation strategies that will shape the future.
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