Leather Goods Market

Market Overview:

The global leather goods market size reached US$ 390.9 Billion in 2023. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach US$ 598.4 Billion by 2032, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 4.8% during 2024-2032. The increasing preferences for premium quality leather-based apparel, rising inclination towards e-commerce platforms, and the growing demand for aesthetically appealing designs in home interiors are some of the major factors propelling the market.

Leather goods encompass a wide range of products crafted from animal hides that have been treated and processed to achieve durability, flexibility, and an appealing aesthetic. They are known for their longevity and timeless appeal. They consist of bags, wallets, belts, shoes, and jackets. They can be produced by following various steps, such as tanning, dyeing, and finishing, to enhance the quality and appearance of the leather. Leather goods are valued for their ability to develop a unique patina over time, giving each item a distinct character.

The increasing consumer preference for premium quality leather-based apparel and luxury goods is strengthening the market growth around the world. Moreover, the rising inclination towards e-commerce platforms as they offer convenience, faster delivery, discount coupons, easy accessibility, payments, and return or exchange policies to consumers is driving the demand for leather goods. In addition, the growing demand for spandex clothes and competitive swimsuits is influencing the market positively. Apart from this, the improving consumer living standards and expanding purchasing power of individuals on home decor are catalyzing the demand for leather goods. It can also be attributed to the rising inclination towards aesthetically appealing designs in home interiors and corporate office spaces. Apart from this, leather goods are employed in the automotive industry for manufacturing components of vehicles like seats to enhance the comfort of drivers and passengers. This, coupled with the growing sales of passenger and luxury vehicles worldwide, is creating a positive outlook for the market.

Leather Goods Market Trends/Drivers:

Increase in changing fashion trends

The fashion industry’s constant evolution and embracing of leather in contemporary designs is another key driver. Designers are continuously experimenting with leather to create innovative and unique products, which range from clothing to accessories. Collaboration with renowned designers and use of sustainable practices in leather production is also attracting fashion-conscious consumers, thus fueling the demand.

Rise in sustainable and ethical considerations

Consumer awareness about environmental sustainability and ethical sourcing has grown significantly. Many leather manufacturers are adopting eco-friendly practices, using vegetable tanning, recycling, and sourcing from responsible suppliers. These measures appeal to environmentally conscious consumers, and thus are driving demand for leather products that are aligned with these values.

Growing marketing and celebrity endorsements

The strategic marketing of leather products through advertisements, celebrity endorsements, and influencer partnerships has heightened consumer interest. High-profile collaborations and association with popular culture icons has made leather goods more appealing to a broader audience. By fostering a connection with public figures admired by many, brands are strengthening consumer trust and aspiration, thereby driving sales and interest in leather goods. 

Leather Goods Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global leather goods market report, along with forecasts at the global, regional and country levels from 2024-2032. Our report has categorized the market based on product, material, price, and distribution channel.

Breakup by Product:

• Footwear
  • Military Shoes
  • Casual Shoes
  • Formal Shoes
  • Sports Shoes
  • Others
• Leather Products
  • Upholstery
  • Luggage
  • Accessories
  • Clothing and Apparel
  • Bags, Wallets and Purses
  • Others
     

Footwear dominates the market

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the product. This includes footwear (military shoes, casual shoes, formal shoes, sports shoes, and others) and leather products (upholstery, luggage, accessories, clothing and apparel, bags, wallets and purses, and others). According to the report, footwear represented the largest segment. Footwear is a prominent category within leather goods, which encompasses a diverse array of shoe types. This includes military shoes designed for rugged use and durability, which caters to the demands of armed forces and tactical operations. Casual shoes offer comfort and style for everyday wear, and formal shoes exude elegance and sophistication suitable for business or special occasions. Sports shoes are tailored to provide support and performance during various physical activities. These leather footwear options demonstrate the versatility of the material, catering to different needs and styles, and ensuring comfort and durability.

Leather finds its application in various products, which showcases its adaptability and appeal. Upholstery utilizes leather for furniture covering, adding a touch of luxury and resilience to sofas, chairs, and car seats. In the luggage industry, leather is prized for its durability, contributing to the creation of high-end bags and suitcases that withstand travel wear and tear. Leather accessories, including belts, gloves, and hats, offer both functionality and fashion. Clothing and apparel crafted from leather bring a sense of style and edginess to outfits. Leather bags, wallets, and purses combine aesthetics with practicality, offering storage solutions for personal items. The versatility of leather products reflects its enduring popularity across a wide range of functional and aesthetic applications.

Breakup by Material:

• Genuine Leather
  • Top-grain Leather
  • Split-grain Leather
• Synthetic Leather
  • PU-Based Leather
  • PVC-Based Leather
  • Bio-Based Leather
     

Genuine leather holds the largest share in the market

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the material has also been provided in the report. This includes genuine leather (top-grain leather and split-grain leather) and synthetic leather (PU-based leather, PVC-based leather, and bio-based leather). According to the report, genuine leather accounted for the largest market share. Genuine leather refers to leather that is derived from the actual hide of an animal, typically from cows. It is a natural material that undergoes a series of processes to enhance its quality, durability, and appearance. This type of leather is prized for its authenticity, unique textures, and the way it develops a distinctive patina over time, enhancing its character with wear.

Synthetic leather, also known as faux leather or artificial leather, is a man-made material designed to mimic the appearance and texture of genuine leather. It is created using a combination of fabrics and polymers, often layered and coated to resemble look and feel of the leather. Synthetic leather offers advantages such as lower cost, animal-friendliness, and the ability to achieve uniform textures and colors. It is commonly used in fashion items, upholstery, and accessories.

Breakup by Price:

• Premium Products
• Mass Products
   

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the price. This includes premium and mass products.

Premium leather goods represent the higher end of the market, characterized by their exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and often prestigious brand names. They are meticulously crafted using the finest materials and intricate techniques, which results in items that exude luxury and exclusivity. The higher price tag is often justified by the use of top-grade leather, attention to detail, and limited production runs. Premium leather goods encompass a wide range of products, from high-end handbags and designer shoes to bespoke leather accessories and luxury clothing. Consumers who prioritize superior quality, exquisite design, and a sense of status are drawn to these products, which makes them a symbol of sophistication and refined taste.

Mass-produced leather goods are designed for a wider market and are more affordable in comparison to premium offerings. They are manufactured on a larger scale using more cost-effective production methods and materials. They encompass items like budget-friendly leather shoes, everyday bags, and accessories found in department stores or online retailers. The emphasis here is often on practicality, affordability, and a contemporary look, which makes these products accessible to a wider range of consumers with varying budget considerations..

Breakup by Distribution Channel:

• Clothing and Sportswear Retailers
• Departmental Stores
• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
• Online Stores
• Others
   

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the distribution channel has also been provided in the report. This includes clothing and sportswear retailers, departmental stores, supermarkets and hypermarkets, online stores, and others.

Clothing and sportswear retailers offer a dedicated platform for leather goods that complement their clothing and sportswear offerings. These retailers often carry a curated selection of leather accessories, such as belts, gloves, and bags that align with their overall fashion theme. Customers shopping for clothing and sportswear can conveniently find leather items that enhance their style and functionality in the same store.

Departmental stores provide a diverse range of products under one roof, including leather goods. They offer a wide selection of leather items such as bags, wallets, belts, and accessories from various brands and designers. These stores cater to a broad customer base with different preferences and budgets. Departmental stores provide a one-stop shopping experience, allowing customers to explore and compare different leather products in person.

Supermarkets and hypermarkets often feature a limited selection of leather goods, focusing on essential items like bags, wallets, and belts. These stores cater to convenience shoppers who are looking for practical leather items while doing their regular grocery shopping. The offerings on this channel can be more basic in terms of design and range, suitable for customers seeking simple and affordable leather options.

Online stores, also known as e-commerce platforms, have become a significant distribution channel for leather goods. They offer a wide variety of leather products, ranging from premium to budget-friendly options, and provide the convenience of browsing and purchasing from the comfort of home. Online stores also enable customers to compare prices, read reviews, and access a global marketplace, making it easier to find specific leather items and styles that match their preferences.

Breakup by Region:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa
   

North America exhibits a clear dominance, accounting for the largest leather goods market share

The report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); and the Middle East and Africa. According to the report, North America accounted for the largest market share.

The increasing inclination towards premium-quality leather-based apparel and luxury goods represents one of the significant factors catalyzing the demand for leather goods in the North America region. Moreover, the rising adoption of long-lasting luggage products by travelers is favoring the growth of the market in the region. Besides this, the growing demand for luxury vehicles is influencing the market positively in the region.

Asia Pacific is estimated to witness stable growth, owing to the integration of advanced technologies, product innovations, government initiatives, etc.

Competitive Landscape:

The leading companies are focusing on adopting sustainable practices and use of alternative materials, such as mushroom mycelium, plant-based materials, and lab-grown collagen. Brands are also adopting sustainable tanning methods and waste reduction techniques to minimize the environmental impact of leather production. Moreover, key players are adopting 3D printing technology to create intricate designs, textures, and prototypes and enable designers to push the boundaries of creativity and produce unique leather patterns and shapes that were once difficult to achieve through traditional methods. They are also utilizing advanced software tools and digital design platforms that allow customers to customize leather products, from choosing colors and textures to adding personalized engravings. This level of customization enhances customer engagement and creates a sense of ownership over the product. Besides this, product manufacturers are integrating advanced technologies, such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) to enhance the shopping experience for leather goods. Customers can virtually try on bags, shoes, and other accessories using AR apps, providing a more immersive and interactive way to shop online.

The report has provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the market. Detailed profiles of all major companies have also been provided. Some of the key players in the market include:

• Adidas AG
• American Leather Holdings LLC
• Capri Holdings Limited
• Hermès International S.A.
• Kering S.A.
• LVMH
• Prada S.p.A. (Prada Holding S.P.A)
• Puma SE
• Tapestry Inc.
• VIP Industries (Piramal Group)
• Woodland (Aero Group)

Recent Developments:

• In 2021, Adidas AG developed a new line of trainers made from mushroom leather as a part of its sustainability drive. The company has collaborated with biotech startup Bolt Threads, Stella McCartney, and lululemon to create plant-based vegan leather trainers.
• In 2020, Puma SE announced the release of its first three Xetic sneakers with Porsche design. The collection included both casual as well as performance wear made with 100% recycled mesh material, 100% chrome-free leather, and liners with 30% algae.
• In 2022, Tapestry Inc. partnered with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) to encourage a more sustainable future for the leather industry in Brazil for enhancing traceability within the leather value chain.

Leather Goods Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the leather goods market from 2018-2032.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global leather goods market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's five forces analysis assist stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the leather goods industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.