Irish Consumers Spend €87 Monthly on Fashion, Survey Reveals

The average Irish adult spends approximately €87.80 each month on fashion, according to a recent survey commissioned by Visa in connection with Ireland Fashion Week, which commences on October 6, 2023. The survey highlights a notable shift in consumer behavior, with nearly two-thirds of respondents indicating they have made a purchase from a small, Irish-owned fashion brand within the past year.

The changing landscape of fashion shopping is evident, as digital purchasing continues to rise. About 37% of those surveyed expressed a preference for online shopping, citing the convenience of avoiding crowds and long queues. Data from Visa indicates that spending at fashion businesses in Ireland grew by 3% in August compared to July, underscoring a recovery in consumer confidence and spending.

Support for Local Brands Increases

The survey reveals strong support for small and medium-sized Irish fashion brands, with 24% of participants preferring to buy from these local companies instead of larger national or international chains. In total, 61% of respondents reported making a purchase from a small Irish fashion brand over the last year. The average monthly expenditure on fashion remains significant, with 82% of consumers spending up to €150 monthly.

The survey also highlights a trend where consumers are increasingly choosing to shop online from small Irish brands to support local jobs and communities. Approximately 44% of respondents cited this as a reason for their shopping habits.

Digital Presence Critical for Growth

The research conducted by iReach surveyed 1,000 adults and emphasizes the growing importance of a robust online presence in the fashion industry. Over half of the respondents, or 56%, stated they discover new fashion labels online, which presents both opportunities and challenges for brands aiming to capture consumer attention.

“Our data shows that spending within Ireland’s fashion sector is growing, and more shoppers are seeking out, discovering, and buying from Irish fashion brands online,” stated Conor Langford, Country Manager for Visa Ireland. This emerging trend indicates a promising future for local fashion brands, especially as digital shopping continues to dominate consumer preferences.

As Ireland gears up for its fashion week, these insights provide a glimpse into how consumer behaviors are evolving in the fashion landscape, signaling a potential shift towards more localized and community-focused shopping practices.