“According to the NPD Group Inc., which tracks consumer spending, the “large-size” clothing market has seen steady increases in sales since 2003. Last year, sales of plus-sized clothing reached a record $18.2 billion.”
It doesn’t take a genius to figure out that plus size fashion is a huge industry. All anyone has to do is to look around to see that the world is bigger and so are the people that are in the world.
Major stores are taking notice. Last year Macy’s downsized there petite section and increased there plus size section. Lane Bryant moved into the outlet mall and lingerie store arena.
Since 2004 websites for plus size clothing has increased dramatically before my eyes. I would love to know the exact figures. One thing thats is certain that it is much easier today to find a website that sells plus size clothing than it was just three years ago.
Why the sudden boost in spending for clothing for larger individuals? There are a few that come to my mind and availability is at the top of the list.
- Since there are more options to purchase trendy clothing especially for women then there is more of a likelihood people will spend more and more often.
- Better quality from manufacturers translates into customer loyalty.
- The plus size community is ready to spend money to support those merchants that actually have larger individuals best interests in mind.
I expect to see sales for plus sizes grow even more over the next ten years, with more and more acceptance that larger people want to look nice in there clothing and are willing to pay for quality trendy clothing.
