Although the rate of growth slowed compared with the previous year, hosiery in India saw a high single-digit increase in current value sales in 2024, which was above the average for apparel. Both categories saw growth in 2024, but non-sheer hosiery continued to see a stronger increase than sheer hosiery, despite already accounting for the majority of sales. This was mainly driven by the increasing popularity of athleisure across consumer segments. As comfort-led dressing has become mainstream bo

The low replacement rate of hosiery in South Africa, perceived by the majority of consumers as a less essential item in their wardrobes, resulted in falling demand in 2024. Even in terms of merchandising, very limited shelf space is allocated to hosiery items in the local market.

In 2024, hosiery in Sweden saw a retail volume decline of 1% while retail value grew by 4%. The category remained highly mature, with hosiery often purchased as an add-on item, limiting value opportunities. Swedish consumers typically bought hosiery in multi-packs, especially in grocery stores, where it remained a low-margin, supplementary purchase. The wear-and-tear nature of hosiery made it difficult for manufacturers to add significant value to the product, and it struggled to maintain visibi

In 2024, hosiery in Vietnam is set to record growth in both retail volume and current value terms, thanks to the enhanced economic performance. However, the growth rates in 2024 are expected to be slower than those seen the previous year, as due to the uncertain economic situation, some people have been prioritising saving, and cutting back on spending on non-essential products where possible, including fashion items. A number of consumers have become more price-sensitive and less brand-loyal co

In 2024, hosiery in Brazil has demonstrated remarkable resilience, maintaining its status as a fundamental component of daily attire. Hosiery continues to be integral to the everyday wardrobe of the Brazilian population. This enduring relevance underscores the category’s adaptability and its capacity to meet the evolving preferences of consumers.

Retail volume sales of hosiery in Germany are rising in 2024, as local consumers continue to spend greater time outside of the home socialising, travelling, and working in the office more regularly. Both sheer and non-sheer hosiery are performing positively in volume terms, regardless of seasonality. However, value sales are surging in 2024, mainly due to inflation and the increasing cost of production, especially for high-quality materials, prompting manufacturers to adjust prices accordingly.

Hosiery sales in Austria recorded a 1% retail value uplift in 2024, while retail volume declined by a significant 3%. This downward shift is due to economic challenges that have led shoppers to reassess their purchasing habits. Despite a slight slowdown in inflation compared to 2023, the cost of living crisis remained a persistent issue for Austrian consumers, forcing many to prioritise essential spending over discretionary items.

Hosiery witnessed a relatively challenging year in 2024 due to the very hot temperatures experienced in Israel. By April 2024, temperatures were verging on the extreme with temperatures in May 2024 hitting over 40°C. Given the hot weather, many consumers avoided wearing sheer hosiery as it was uncomfortable. The Israeli Meteorological Service reported heavy heat stress throughout the summer of 2024 with hot weather predicted up to November 2024. The hot weather has taken its toll on sales of she

Hosiery saw dynamic current value growth in Ukraine in 2024. Hosiery, especially non-sheer hosiery, is considered to be an essential type of apparel, which also has a relatively short lifespan and is relatively inexpensive, so that consumers’ efforts to economise have not had as pronounced an effect on the category as they have in areas such as coats. However, demand was significantly affected by the considerable reduction in the consumer base because of emigration due to the war. Nonetheless, s

Hosiery is another apparel category which has been affected by the limited growth in consumption in Mexico. Following the inflation of 2023, Mexican households have taken certain actions to be resilient in the face of rising prices, maintaining their spending on mass consumption, while sacrificing certain categories where possible; this has particularly been seen amongst the lower socioeconomic levels. Within that same economic group, there has also been a tendency to move towards informal comme

Despite an overall decline in demand in 2024, retail value sales of hosiery in Australia are marginally improving.

Despite the overall weak performance of hosiery in Hong Kong, a growing interest in sports is supporting some demand for non-sheer hosiery in 2024, as athletes and fitness enthusiasts seek functional yet stylish options for their apparel. Non-sheer hosiery offers essential benefits such as durability, moisture-wicking properties, and support, making it an ideal choice for various sporting activities.

Hosiery is managing a positive performance in value terms in Hungary in 2024, with sheer hosiery seeing the strongest value growth. However, in volume terms, sheer hosiery is in a negative figure slump and non-sheer hosiery is only managing small positive growth.

Compared to European countries, per capita consumption of hosiery is still low in Turkey, with much potential for growth. After several years of strong growth post-pandemic, volume sales declined over 2024, with consumers reigning in expenditure. Rising health-awareness in Turkey has made consumers more aware of poor foot hygiene and its link to toenail fungus. Locals are realising this condition can be prevented by changing hosiery frequently and wearing proper footwear. Nonetheless, changing l

Retail volume sales of hosiery in Chile are rising strongly in 2024, following a marginal drop the previous year when the category was impacted by unfavourable weather conditions and low consumer spending. The improved performance in 2024 is being driven by a lower comparative base and signs of a rebound in consumer spending.

In line with the broader trend, hosiery sales posted strong declines in 2024, as consumers limited expenditure and chose not to replace hosiery as often. Both sheer and non-sheer hosiery saw notable decline in current value sales as consumers switched to cheaper products. The limited differentiation between most hosiery products and lack of innovation means consumers are more than happy to switch to more affordable products. Portuguese consumers have turned to cheaper private label products, inc

Colourful and creative hosiery options are gaining popularity in Poland as consumers look for affordable yet bold fashion statements. Socks, stockings, and tights with vibrant patterns, mismatched designs, and forward-thinking aesthetics that were once niche have now entered the mainstream, with leading brands offering colourful collections. This trend has been linked to the return of long and visible socks, in stark contrast to the declining interest in low-cut socks especially among younger cu

In 2024, retail sales of hosiery in Taiwan were primarily driven by sales of non-sheer hosiery while sheer hosiery showed slight growth due to a shift away from formal work attire. Although traditional sheer hosiery is worn during the very warm summer, consumers are replacing functional sheer tights with sunscreen, elastic or ice silk materials. The product’s image is perceived to be outdated among young generations. Nevertheless, consumers who need a quick fix to any imperfections on their legs

Hosiery volume sales have weakened in Norway following the relatively strong growth post-pandemic, especially in sheer hosiery. Inflation and rising unit prices have resulted in a tougher environment for apparel and footwear overall, which has naturally impacted hosiery as well, since it is primarily purchased as an add-on item. Hosiery is already a very mature category with limited volume growth. Hosiery has a lower visibility compared to other apparel categories, which has posed challenges for

Consumers in Romania are increasingly gravitating toward hosiery that makes a fashion statement and adds a new element to their outfit. Both sheer and non-sheer options are seeing a rise in demand for patterned, textured, and colourful designs. From classic fishnet and lace to bold colours and prints, this shift toward expressive styles is influenced by fashion trends and social media content. Hosiery is becoming increasingly diverse, with an expanding variety of product types and designs. More

In 2024, the hosiery market in Greece is seeing a clear shift from traditional styles to more fashion-forward options. Consumers, especially younger demographics, are gravitating towards vibrant colours, bold patterns, and unique designs, moving away from the plain cotton socks of the past. This change is largely driven by the influence of social media and fashion influencers, who have turned items of hosiery into statement pieces rather than just functional accessories. Brands like Adidas are t

Hosiery has found itself in a challenging situation in recent years with many consumers opting to extend the use of their existing hosiery, rather than buying new products. Retail volume growth remains stable, but current value growth has slowed in line with lower inflation. The ongoing economic uncertainty and the resulting impact on consumers' disposable incomes continued to limit demand for hosiery, which is mainly comprised of non-sheer hosiery. This has led Moroccan consumers to re-evaluate

Hosiery remains an essential wardrobe staple across all age groups in Saudi Arabia, with non-sheer hosiery outperforming sheer options. The popularity of non-sheer hosiery is driven by its association with key trends like streetwear, sportswear, and athleisure, which often involve pairing sneakers with socks. By contrast, sheer hosiery faces challenges due to Saudi Arabia's extreme summer heat, making it impractical for daily wear. Often worn with dresses or skirts, sheer hosiery can become unco

Hosiery volume sales increased at a faster pace over 2024 due to higher consumption of lower priced products in the Netherlands. While unit prices continued to rise in line with costs, Dutch consumers looked for discounts especially in non-sheer hosiery. Sheer hosiery sales were impacted as people restricted purchases of more expensive items, with consumers shifting to more affordable substitutes. Budget and discount retailers such as the Dutch firm Zeeman have performed well in hosiery. In 2024