Summary
The global children's footwear market was valued at $46.74 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow at an annual rate of 8.2%, reaching $102.79 billion by 2032. Despite the pandemic-related dip in sales, consumer demand is picking up, with North America dominating the market due to increased sports and athletics awareness, while the Asia-Pacific region, led by China and India, is expected to produce the highest revenues due to strong production and export activities. The Middle East is also witnessing growth, particularly in the luxury footwear segment. In France, the children's footwear market demonstrated resilience, with purchases nearing 400 million pairs in 2021.
Market Dynamics and Trends in the French Children's Footwear Sector
The French children's footwear market is witnessing a remarkable growth trajectory, having bounced back strongly in 2021 after the pandemic-induced slowdown. With an estimated market value of around 1.9 billion euros, children's footwear accounts for a significant slice of the country's overall footwear industry. Despite this, the market faces challenges that stem from broader demographic shifts and consumer preferences. One of the key drivers of demand within this market is the replacement cycle necessitated by children's rapid growth – children need to renew their shoes frequently due to wear and tear and changes in foot size, resulting in the purchase of approximately six pairs of shoes per child annually. This is higher than the average for both women and men, who buy around five and three-and-a-half pairs per year, respectively.
Consumer behavior is influenced by several factors that differ between children's and adult's footwear choices. For younger children, parents prioritize comfort, health, and the quality of design and manufacture. As children reach their teenage years, their selection is more influenced by brand image and media representation. Online sales of children's footwear remain relatively low compared to adults', with spending representing just 12% of the total online expenditure on footwear. Nevertheless, with the increasing proliferation of digital technologies and convenient e-commerce return policies, the online segment could see future growth.
From a demand perspective, the birth rate in France casts a long shadow over the children's shoe market. With the country experiencing a steady decline in birth rates – falling from approximately 12.6 births per 1,000 inhabitants a decade ago to around 10.6 births per 1,000 in recent times – the structural decrease in the number of potential young consumers is slowing market momentum. The market is also responsive to trends that evolve over time, such as increasing consumer consciousness regarding comfort, sustainability, and personalization. Manufacturers like Bellamy and Pom d'Api emphasize quality and French craftsmanship, responding both to trends and to traditional values in footwear production.
Looking at the larger picture, the footwear sector in France suffers from a trade deficit, as the country's imports of shoes exceed its exports, reflecting the competitive pressures of international markets. In conclusion, the French children's footwear market is subject to a mixed set of influences, from consumer preferences and demographic trends to industry practices and international trade dynamics. Manufacturers and retailers must remain adaptable to satisfy a discerning customer base and navigate a market sensitive to changing birth rates and evolving consumer habits.
Prominent Players Shaping the French Children's Footwear Market
The French children's footwear market boasts a diverse array of key players, each bringing their own unique contributions and forging trends within this vibrant industry. From legacy brands with deep-rooted histories to modern innovators pushing the envelope of eco-responsibility and style, these companies represent the core of France's footprint in the world of children's shoes.
- Carrefour and E.Leclerc are notable examples of superstore chains that, while not exclusively footwear-centered, offer a significant selection of children's shoes catering to a broad customer base seeking convenience and affordability. Their vast reach and diverse product lines make them vital players in the children's footwear space.
- In the realm of sneakers, giants like Nike and New Balance hold a formidable presence. These brands are revered by both young enthusiasts and parents alike, consistently delivering the perfect blend of comfort, durability, and the latest styles that keep pace with the ever-changing tastes of the youth market.
- For those seeking budget-friendly options without compromising on fashion, brands such as Kiabi Europe and GEMO (Eram Groupe) are go-to destinations. They blend accessibility with trendiness, positioning themselves as top choices for families who appreciate value purchases.
- When it comes to specialty footwear, Royer Groupe, known for owning the iconic Kickers brand, stands out. Kickers has long been synonymous with quality in children's shoes and represents a heritage brand whose classic lines continue to appeal to modern consumers. With a commitment to craftsmanship and a nostalgic pull, they are a steadfast player in the market.
- Retailers dedicated to children's footwear, like Bellamy and Pom d'Api (RAS Kids), emphasize specialized offerings that prioritize the unique needs of children's developing feet. These brands provide focused attention on comfort, fit, and design, which resonate well with discerning parents looking for the very best for their children.
Each of these companies contributes to the tapestry of the French children's footwear market, whether they are serving up everyday basics, athletic necessities, or specialty items. With a blend of tradition and innovation, coupled with attention to consumer trends and demands, these main players help ensure that French children step forward with style, comfort, and sustainability in mind.
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- Last update : 26/05/2023
Summary and extracts
1 Market overview
1.1 Definition and scope of the study
The children's footwear market has been growing nicely since 2017 in France, although volume sales have been steadily declining in recent years. In terms of volume, according to Le Dauphine, almost 400 million pairs were purchased in 2021 . The wear and tear of children's shoes and the annual change in size justify the dynamism of the market based on frequent shoe renewal, making children the biggest consumers of footwear.
There are 3 distinct periods in French shoe manufacturing:
- 1980s: before wage harmonization in the European Union, manufacturers turned to Italy and Spain to manage their production;
- Early 1990s: manufacturers relocated south (Maghreb) or to Eastern Europe;
- Late 1990s: the rush to Asia. China and India become the world's leading shoe producers.
The major Western brands of children's footwear, including French brands, continue to produce within the European Union, claiming "made in France" as a guarantee of quality and an effective sales and marketing argument.
Another trend in children's footwear is eco-responsibility. More and more brands are turning to sustainable, environmentally-friendly practices in the design of their footwear. This translates into the use of recycled, organic or eco-friendly materials, as well as more eco-friendly production processes, as is the case for Kickers, a historic brand of leather shoes for children, which is turning to vegetable-tanned, anti-allergenic leather.[Conseil national du cuir]
List of charts
- Market share by shoe type
- Sales trends in the children's footwear market
- Producer price index for footwear
- Consumer price index for footwear
- Household consumption of footwear
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the children's shoe market | France
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