The Relevance of Branded Clothing in the EU27

In this report, we study the economic and societal impact of the branded clothing retail industry, including its value chain in the EU27.

The branded clothing retail industry is a powerhouse for the European Union’s economy. In 2023, the industry contributed €331.8 billion to the EU’s GDP and supported 4.5 million jobs.

The industry’s direct GDP contribution was €55.4 billion, accounting for 8.5% of the entire EU retail and trade sector. Supported by the industry’s procurement, it stimulated another €190.1 billion of GDP contribution along the supply chain. Additionally, the industry’s induced impact supported another €86.2 billion.

The branded clothing retail industry also supported many jobs in the EU27. The industry directly employed 1.3 million people in 2023, making up 9.4% of the retail and trade sector. The retail industry particularly provides jobs for women, comprising 62.8% of all direct employment. Beyond this, its indirect and induced impacts supported another 3.2 million jobs. For every person employed directly, 2.5 more jobs are supported in other sectors.

As a highly trade-intensive sector, the branded clothing industry has established the EU as a global leader—one of the largest importers and the second-largest exporter of apparel, footwear, and bags worldwide.

The study was commissioned by the European Branded Clothing Association (EBCA).