European clothing and footwear repair market projected to reach 3.7 billion euros by 2030

The European clothing and footwear repair market, valued at approximately 2.8 billion euros in 2025, is expected to grow at an annual rate of 5.5 percent, reaching an estimated 3.7 billion euros by 2030.

Key drivers for this growth include potential shifts in EU VAT policy. While the EU has allowed for reduced VAT on repairs since 2022, widespread implementation remains pending. Discussions regarding circular VAT, which would lower rates for repair services and secondhand sales, are ongoing following a public consultation by the European Commission.

National initiatives like France’s repair bonus program, which offers discounts of 7 to 25 euros per repair, serve as models for other nations, with Ireland planning a pilot voucher scheme for 2027. However, the industry faces significant competition from fast and ultra-fast fashion sectors, which often disincentivize repair through low prices and lower product quality.