UK retail spending on clothes maintains momentum

Despite the well publicised 'credit crunch', the average UK consumer spent £222 on clothes in the past three months, just £7 less than in the same period in 2006. Additionally more than 60% go clothes shopping at least once a month, according to new research, commissioned by COTTON USA.

Findings also indicated that over two thirds of UK shoppers (66%) prefer quality over lower prices when buying clothes. 94% of UK shoppers said that quality is the most important factor to consider when buying clothes, whilst, in stark contrast, only 9% of consumers put effort into finding clothing that is environmentally friendly.

COTTON USA's bi-annual research - The Global Lifestyle Monitor Survey - investigates a wide range of lifestyle issues related to clothing, shopping and textiles with 500 UK residents.

Steph Thiers-Ratcliffe, International Marketing Manager, COTTON USA comments: “UK consumers clearly enjoy shopping, shop frequently, and search for clothing made from high quality fabrics. This shows that shoppers are starting to shun the bargains as they want to ensure their garments last.”

This year's findings show that natural fibres are growing in popularity in the UK with 40% of consumers agreeing that it is important for their clothing to be made from natural fibres. Just over 4 in 10 people say they would pay more for clothing made from organic cotton.

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