The workwear market - Spain (2023)

Since 2020, the global workwear market has displayed a positive trajectory, with sustained growth influenced by heightened safety concerns and regulatory tightening, particularly in developed nations. In 2021, the market was valued at USD 16,773 million, with an anticipated CAGR of 5.6% projected through to 2030. This upward trend is mirrored in Spain, where the workwear sector has experienced robust performance across various customer segments such as industry and construction, despite a COVID-19 induced downturn in the hospitality and catering uniform segment. Particularly in Spain, the industrial sector, accounting for 12.5% of employment in Q1 2023, is of marked interest due to the specific demand for personal protective equipment (PPE). Nationally, the number of companies manufacturing workwear grew by 22.91%.

This expansion is also reflective in the increasing number of employed in this sector, with a 19.51% rise over the same period. Demand factors are affected by the country's economic health, regulatory changes, and a burgeoning trend toward customization and branding in work apparel, which extends across the fashion industry with 80% of brands expected to offer customized garments by 2022. Prices within the sector reveal inflation of 1,198% between 2021 and 2022, but this includes the wider fashion sector and the impact of sales fluctuations. Lastly, the frequency of occupational accidents, notably in industrial activities, continues to underpin the demand for PPE, emphasizing the sector's resilience and relevance in ensuring worker safety.

The Evolving Landscape of Workwear Demand in Spain

In Spain, the market for workwear has shown a substantial and consistent rise over a span of recent years. The workwear industry has seen its turnover elevate by an impressive range of 50 to 55%, achieving a compound annual growth rate of roughly 8 to 9%. This uptick aligns with the global trend of the workwear market, which itself experienced robust growth and was valued at around USD 16 to 17 billion in 2021, with projections pointing to further expansion in the coming years. Driving this market surge are both cyclical and structural factors. Cyclical factors include the national economic upswing, which influences employment and, consequently, the need for workwear, especially in the industrial and construction domains. On the other side, structural factors involve the intensification and proliferation of employee safety standards, compelling the renewal and compliance of work apparel, particularly in high-risk professions. The growth in demand for workwear also finds momentum in the increasing customization of garments to enhance brand recognition and foster team belonging. This trend is becoming more pronounced with an estimate that by 2022, a vast majority of apparel brands—around 80%—will be offering customizable clothes.

Accordingly, the market is adjusting, with businesses like Cruel Pizza in Barcelona opting for unique uniform designs that underscore their brand identity. The composition of the Spanish labor force further shapes the demand for workwear. As of the first quarter of 2023, the majority of the working population, or about 70 to 75%, was engaged in the services sector. Market trends are not the only dynamic at play. The regulatory landscape is also an active influencer. Regulations, such as Royal Decree 773/1997, mandate that employers furnish PPE without charge, ensure timely replacement, tailor equipment to individual workers, and provide necessary training.

Key Players Shaping the Workwear Market Landscape

The workwear market encompasses a range of industry leaders and innovators who have established their presence through specialized offerings and strategic market positioning. Several key players stand out both on the international stage and within the Spanish market, showcasing the diverse dynamics of this industry.

International Heavyweights

• Starting with the international companies, we have BERNE APPAREL, which has a reputation for delivering durable workwear that caters to various industrial needs. The brand is known for its comprehensive range of work attire that emphasizes safety and comfort.
• RED CAP Technologies is another name that commands recognition in the global workwear arena. They are acclaimed for infusing technology into their workwear offerings, delivering advanced products that suit modern-day industrial requirements.

Spanish Market Leaders

• Turning to the Spanish market, we can spot the remarkable success of FABRICA ESPAÑOLA DE CONFECCIONES SA. This company has carved out a noteworthy place in the domestic workwear sector, recognized for its quality products that serve a multitude of industries.
• LENARD BCN SL has emerged as a significant player, focusing on technical workwear that combines innovation with safety. Their specialized garments are developed to protect workers in various hazardous environments.
• MARCA PROTECCION LABORAL SL is well-regarded for their comprehensive range of protective clothing. Their expertise in understanding the intricate requirements of work safety has allowed them to offer tailor-made solutions.
• VESTILAB CLEAN ROOM CONTROL SL makes its mark by concentrating on the niche of work attire for cleanroom environments. Their stringent quality control ensures the production of garments that meet the critical standards of hygiene and cleanliness.
• ILUNION TEXTIL S.A.U. is known for its diverse portfolio, addressing not only the need for safety but also the comfort of workers across different sectors.
• SAGRES SL focuses on the manufacturing of highly reliable workwear, while also valuing sustainability within their production processes.
• 3l INTERNACIONAL SA has made an impact with their well-designed protective equipment that stands up to rigorous work conditions.
• UNIFORMES UNIVERSALES SA offers a range that extends beyond just workwear, providing a variety of uniforms that cater to various service industries, hence strengthening their market position.
• EUGENIO ALES LLAMAS SA has a proven track record in the industry, known for their quality craftsmanship and durability of products.

Inforamtion

• Number of pages : ~ 40 pages
• Format : Digital and PDF versions
• Last update : 26/05/2023

Summary and extracts

List of charts presented in this market study

• Evolución de la facturación del sector de las ropas de trabajo
• Evolución del Excédente bruto de Explotación en el sector de la ropa de trabajo
• Repartición porcentual de los empleos en España
• Evolución del mercado laboral español
• Evolución de la plantilla del sector industrial en España
• Repartición por género de los activos españoles por grandes ramas de trabajo
• Evolución del número de empresas del código CNAE 1412, confección de ropa de trabajo
• Evolución de la plantilla del sector de la ropa de trabajo en España
• Crecimiento de la economía española
• Repartición de los accidentes de trabajo en España en cuanto a la actividad
• Número de accidentes de trabajo en España