Bharatbook.com has this special report, which sources information for This Key Note Market Report examines the UK clothing retailing market, which comprises of women’s, men’s and children’s clothes, as well as clothing accessories.

This Key Note Market Report examines the UK clothing retailing market, which comprises of women’s, men’s and children’s clothes, as well as clothing accessories. Consumer spending on clothing increased by 12.5% between 2006 and 2010, which was slightly below the rate at which overall consumer expenditure increased (12.9%). In 2010, it was estimated that the clothing retailing market was worth £41.9bn, which was the highest value seen over the review period.

Key Note believes that supermarkets have increased their share of the clothing market, now accounting for around 25% of the total market. Supermarket retailers have witnessed a large increase in sales since the recession, as consumers became more cautious about unnecessary spending, and turn to cheaper alternatives available in the supermarkets. There has also been a decline in specialist companies operating within the clothing retailing industry, with figures from National Statistics indicating that, in 2010, there were 11,800 shops, compared to 12,700 in 2009; this represents a 7.1% decrease over the course of that year. This phenomenon is visible in many UK cities, where an increase in empty high-street shops is apparent. Many independent shops were forced to exit the market after the recession, as they could not compete with the larger well-known retailers and supermarkets.

The cost of clothing is expected to rise, shaping the industry over the forthcoming years. On the 4th January 2011, VAT increased to 20%, while the rising cost of cotton will continue to increase the retail price of garments. Other issues, such as the weak pound affecting imports and the costs of