Fashion’s Future: how Brexit reshaped the fashion industry and how to reposition the UK as industry leader
The United Kingdom’s fashion industry, a cornerstone of the nation’s creative economy, stands at a critical juncture.
Celebrated globally for its craftsmanship, innovation, and cultural impact, it is a significant economic contributor, supporting nearly 72,000 enterprises and over 714,000 jobs.
However, since Brexit, the industry has faced new trade, talent, and operational challenges that threaten its global competitiveness and future growth.
Once frictionless transactions between the UK and EU member states have become mired in bureaucratic red tape, creating costly delays and lost opportunities, and the small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that make up 90% of the UK fashion industry are bearing the brunt of these challenges.
This report details the industry’s current state, identifies key post-Brexit challenges, and presents targeted recommendations to support and revitalise UK fashion.