Global Apparel Sales Push Ahead

Despite the ongoing economic uncertainty, global apparel market recorded robust growth at 5.8%, at fixed exchange rates. The four BRIC countries continued to outperform global average and in 2012 exceeded 26% of total sales. Western Europe continued to lag behind with a minimal 0.6% growth undermined mainly by declining sales in Greece, Italy, Portugal and Spain. In contrast, the US performed relatively healthy with sales driven by sportswear, footwear and men’s clothing categories.