GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Diversity In The Fast Fashion Industry Statistics

Fast fashion companies with diverse workforces are 35% more likely to outperform their peers in terms of financial performance.

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Highlights: Diversity In The Fast Fashion Industry Statistics

  • Fast fashion’s workforce globally is 80% women.
  • In 2018, a Fashion Revolution survey found that out of the 100 biggest global fashion brands, only 55% published some kind of information about their workers' wages.
  • According to a 2019 report by the Sustainable Fashion Academy, only three out of 36 fast fashion companies had implemented compensation structures that addressed higher living standards for workers.
  • According to Business Insider, more than 90% of female garment workers in Cambodia and Bangladesh have faced sexual harassment at work.
  • Based on the Global Slavery Index 2018, the fashion industry is the second-largest user of slave labour worldwide.
  • White managers make up nearly 72% of leadership roles at the top 100 fashion companies, according to a 2021 report by Pulse of the Fashion Industry.
  • In 2020, 85% of the models casted for major fashion campaigns were white.
  • Only 45 brands out of 200 surveyed by Fashion Revolution published a comprehensive list of their first-tier manufacturers.
  • According to a study by The Fashion Law, only 19.5% of designers from the four major fashion weeks were non-white.
  • Business of Fashion’s 2019 report indicated 68% of the larger fashion companies did not meet the minimum requirements of the Corporate Equality Index concerning gender identity.
  • According to The Guardian, ethnic minority workers face a pay gap of up to 37% in the fashion supply chain.
  • According to the Boston Consulting Group, as of 2020, Black Americans held less than 10% of corporate board seats in the fashion industry.
  • In McKinsey’s 2019 study, women represented 79% of the entry-level workforce in fast-fashion retail stores, but only 36% of positions at the CEO level.
  • Despite making up only 13.4% of the US population, Black consumers are responsible for some 85% of the total spent on ethnic wear, with a purchasing power of $1.2 trillion, as reported by Nielsen.
  • According to a survey by BoF and McKinsey, only 29% of the respondents believe that fashion companies are sensitive to their needs related to diversity and inclusion.
  • The Fashion Spot reported that in 2018, only 32.5% of magazine covers included models of color.
  • According to the Fashion Industry Benchmarking Study 2019, among the top 50 global fashion companies by sales, only 14% of them have a clear statement on diversity and inclusion.
  • GlobalData’s report indicates that 53% of the clothing and footwear market will be made up of the multicultural majority by 2022.
  • In a 2018 report by McKinsey, 78% of fashion employees reported that "they believe gender equity is a C-suite priority, but only 38% see their companies taking action."

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Table of Contents

The Latest Diversity In The Fast Fashion Industry Statistics Explained

Fast fashion’s workforce globally is 80% women.

The statistic “Fast fashion’s workforce globally is 80% women” indicates that the majority of individuals employed in the fast fashion industry are women. This statistic highlights a significant gender imbalance within the industry, where women are disproportionately represented in the workforce. This may reflect underlying societal and cultural factors, as well as potential gender biases within the Fast fashion industry. Further analysis and exploration of the reasons behind this gender disparity, as well as its implications for gender equality and workplace dynamics, would be valuable to understand the broader implications of this statistic.

In 2018, a Fashion Revolution survey found that out of the 100 biggest global fashion brands, only 55% published some kind of information about their workers’ wages.

The statistic from the 2018 Fashion Revolution survey indicates that only 55% of the top 100 global fashion brands provided some form of transparency regarding their workers’ wages. This finding highlights a significant lack of disclosure within the fashion industry concerning the treatment and compensation of the workers behind the products. The absence of information on wages can raise concerns about potential exploitation, poor working conditions, and lack of accountability within the supply chain of these brands. It underscores the need for greater transparency and ethical practices to ensure fair treatment and wages for workers in the fashion sector, as well as to promote more sustainable and socially responsible business operations within the industry.

According to a 2019 report by the Sustainable Fashion Academy, only three out of 36 fast fashion companies had implemented compensation structures that addressed higher living standards for workers.

The statistic from the 2019 report by the Sustainable Fashion Academy highlights the concerning trend within the fast fashion industry regarding subpar compensation structures for workers. Out of the 36 fast fashion companies analyzed, only three were found to have implemented compensation policies that aimed at improving the living standards of their workers. This suggests that a large majority of fast fashion companies are not adequately addressing the issue of worker compensation, which can have negative implications for the well-being and livelihoods of the individuals employed in these companies. The statistic underscores the urgent need for greater transparency and accountability within the fast fashion industry to ensure that workers are fairly compensated and provided with decent wages to support higher living standards.

According to Business Insider, more than 90% of female garment workers in Cambodia and Bangladesh have faced sexual harassment at work.

The statistic presented by Business Insider highlights a concerning issue within the garment industry in Cambodia and Bangladesh, indicating that over 90% of female garment workers in these countries have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace. This statistic sheds light on the pervasive nature of this problem, suggesting a widespread issue that affects a significant majority of women in these industries. The statistic underscores the urgent need for organizations, governments, and stakeholders to address and combat sexual harassment in these workplaces to ensure the safety, well-being, and dignity of female workers in the garment industry in these countries.

Based on the Global Slavery Index 2018, the fashion industry is the second-largest user of slave labour worldwide.

The statistic from the Global Slavery Index 2018 indicating that the fashion industry is the second-largest user of slave labor globally points to a significant human rights issue within the industry. This finding suggests that despite regulations and efforts to combat modern slavery, there are still widespread cases of exploitation and forced labor within the production processes of fashion companies. The index’s measurement of the prevalence of forced labor in this sector serves as a reminder of the need for greater transparency, accountability, and ethical practices throughout the fashion supply chain to prevent and eliminate the exploitation of vulnerable workers. Addressing the root causes of this issue and implementing sustainable and ethical practices are crucial steps for the fashion industry to protect the rights and dignity of all workers involved in its operations.

White managers make up nearly 72% of leadership roles at the top 100 fashion companies, according to a 2021 report by Pulse of the Fashion Industry.

The statistic highlights a significant lack of diversity in leadership roles at the top 100 fashion companies, as White managers account for approximately 72% of these positions. This suggests a lack of representation and opportunities for individuals from other racial and ethnic backgrounds to hold leadership positions within the fashion industry. The statistic underscores the need for greater diversity and inclusion efforts within these companies to ensure that leadership roles reflect the diverse society in which they operate. Addressing this disparity can lead to a more inclusive and innovative industry that better serves a wider range of consumers and stakeholders.

In 2020, 85% of the models casted for major fashion campaigns were white.

The statistic ‘ In 2020, 85% of the models casted for major fashion campaigns were white,’ indicates that the vast majority of models featured in significant fashion campaigns during the year were of White ethnicity. This disproportionately high percentage of White models suggests a lack of diversity and representation within the fashion industry, particularly in terms of racial inclusion. The statistic raises important considerations about the industry’s commitment to inclusivity and cultural representation, highlighting the need to address systemic biases and promote greater diversity in casting decisions to accurately reflect and celebrate the diversity of society.

Only 45 brands out of 200 surveyed by Fashion Revolution published a comprehensive list of their first-tier manufacturers.

The statistic indicates that only 45 out of 200 brands surveyed by Fashion Revolution have openly disclosed a detailed list of their first-tier manufacturers. This information is significant as it highlights a lack of transparency within the fashion industry regarding where products are produced. By not providing this information, brands may be potentially hiding unethical or unsustainable practices within their supply chains, such as poor working conditions or environmental harm. Increasing transparency and accountability in the fashion industry is crucial for consumers to make informed decisions about the brands they support and for driving positive change towards more ethical and sustainable practices.

According to a study by The Fashion Law, only 19.5% of designers from the four major fashion weeks were non-white.

The statistic presented by The Fashion Law states that only 19.5% of designers featured in the four major fashion weeks are non-white. This statistic indicates a lack of diversity within the fashion industry, specifically in terms of representation for designers of color. The underrepresentation of non-white designers in such prominent events can have significant implications in terms of opportunities, visibility, and inclusion within the industry. This statistic highlights the need for increased efforts to promote diversity and equity in the fashion world to ensure equal representation and opportunities for designers from all backgrounds.

Business of Fashion’s 2019 report indicated 68% of the larger fashion companies did not meet the minimum requirements of the Corporate Equality Index concerning gender identity.

The statistic from Business of Fashion’s 2019 report that 68% of the larger fashion companies did not meet the minimum requirements of the Corporate Equality Index concerning gender identity suggests that a significant majority of these companies are failing to support and uphold equality for individuals identifying across the gender spectrum. This indicates that there is a substantial gap between current corporate practices and the standards set forth by the Corporate Equality Index regarding gender identity inclusion and support within the fashion industry. Addressing this issue would require these companies to reevaluate their policies and practices to ensure they are more inclusive and supportive of individuals with diverse gender identities.

According to The Guardian, ethnic minority workers face a pay gap of up to 37% in the fashion supply chain.

The statistic cited by The Guardian highlights a concerning issue of pay disparity within the fashion supply chain, specifically affecting ethnic minority workers. The reported pay gap of up to 37% suggests that ethnic minority workers in this industry are paid significantly less on average compared to their non-minority counterparts. This disparity could stem from various factors such as systemic discrimination, unequal access to opportunities, or biases ingrained within the industry. Addressing and rectifying these pay gaps is crucial not only for promoting fairness and equality but also for ensuring a more inclusive and sustainable workforce within the fashion supply chain.

According to the Boston Consulting Group, as of 2020, Black Americans held less than 10% of corporate board seats in the fashion industry.

The statistic provided by the Boston Consulting Group indicates that in the year 2020, Black Americans were significantly underrepresented in corporate board seats within the fashion industry. Specifically, the data highlights that less than 10% of board seats in fashion companies were held by Black Americans, suggesting a lack of diversity and inclusivity at the highest decision-making levels within the industry. This statistic underscores the need for greater efforts towards diversity and inclusion initiatives in corporate governance, with a specific focus on increasing representation of Black individuals in leadership positions to ensure a more equitable and representative corporate landscape in the fashion sector.

In McKinsey’s 2019 study, women represented 79% of the entry-level workforce in fast-fashion retail stores, but only 36% of positions at the CEO level.

In McKinsey’s 2019 study, it was found that fast-fashion retail stores have a significant gender disparity between entry-level positions and CEO positions. Women made up the majority, at 79%, of the entry-level workforce in these stores, indicating a strong presence of women in the lower ranks of the organization. However, there was a sharp drop in female representation at the CEO level, where women held only 36% of positions. This disparity suggests a significant ‘glass ceiling’ effect within the industry, where women find it challenging to advance to top leadership roles despite being well-represented in the lower ranks. Addressing this disparity may involve implementing policies and initiatives to support and promote women’s career advancement within fast-fashion retail organizations.

Despite making up only 13.4% of the US population, Black consumers are responsible for some 85% of the total spent on ethnic wear, with a purchasing power of $1.2 trillion, as reported by Nielsen.

This statistic from Nielsen indicates that Black consumers in the United States, while representing only 13.4% of the population, exhibit a significant purchasing power in the ethnic wear market. Despite being a relatively smaller demographic group, Black consumers contribute to approximately 85% of the total spending on ethnic wear, highlighting their strong influence and preference within this particular market segment. With a reported purchasing power of $1.2 trillion, Black consumers play a crucial role in shaping the economic landscape of the ethnic wear industry, underscoring the importance of understanding and catering to their unique preferences and buying behaviors within this market.

According to a survey by BoF and McKinsey, only 29% of the respondents believe that fashion companies are sensitive to their needs related to diversity and inclusion.

The statistic reveals that there is a significant lack of confidence among respondents regarding the sensitivity of fashion companies towards their needs in terms of diversity and inclusion. With only 29% of the surveyed individuals expressing trust in the fashion industry’s efforts in this area, it indicates a notable discrepancy between the expected level of attention towards diversity and inclusion and the perceived reality. This statistic suggests that there is a pressing need for fashion companies to reassess and revamp their strategies to better address the diverse needs of their customers, employees, and stakeholders in order to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment within the industry.

The Fashion Spot reported that in 2018, only 32.5% of magazine covers included models of color.

The statistic presented by The Fashion Spot in 2018 indicates that there was a lack of representation of models of color on magazine covers, with only 32.5% of covers featuring individuals from diverse racial backgrounds. This figure suggests a significant underrepresentation of racial minorities in the fashion industry, highlighting a discrepancy in the diversity and inclusivity of media representation. The statistic raises concerns about systemic biases within the industry and the need for greater efforts to promote representation and diversity across all platforms, emphasizing the importance of addressing issues of racial inequality and discrimination in the fashion sector.

According to the Fashion Industry Benchmarking Study 2019, among the top 50 global fashion companies by sales, only 14% of them have a clear statement on diversity and inclusion.

The statistic from the Fashion Industry Benchmarking Study 2019 reveals that out of the top 50 global fashion companies based on sales performance, only 14% of them have overtly defined and communicated their commitment to diversity and inclusion within their organizations. This finding highlights a significant gap in the industry’s emphasis on promoting a diverse and inclusive work environment. With diversity and inclusion becoming increasingly essential in today’s society, this statistic underscores the room for improvement within the fashion sector to create equal opportunities and cultivate a workplace culture that celebrates and respects diversity across all dimensions.

GlobalData’s report indicates that 53% of the clothing and footwear market will be made up of the multicultural majority by 2022.

This statistic from GlobalData’s report suggests that by 2022, over half (53%) of the total market share in the clothing and footwear industry will be attributed to consumers from diverse backgrounds, referred to as the multicultural majority. This indicates a growing shift in consumer demographics towards a more diverse population profile, with individuals from various ethnicities and cultures becoming increasingly significant contributors to the market. Companies in the clothing and footwear industry should take note of this trend and consider tailoring their marketing strategies, product offerings, and brand messaging to cater to the preferences and needs of this multicultural consumer segment in order to capitalize on the market potential and remain competitive in the evolving business landscape.

In a 2018 report by McKinsey, 78% of fashion employees reported that “they believe gender equity is a C-suite priority, but only 38% see their companies taking action.”

The statistic from the 2018 report by McKinsey highlights a significant discrepancy in the perceptions of gender equity priorities and actions within the fashion industry. It reveals that a majority of fashion employees (78%) recognize and acknowledge gender equity as a priority at the C-suite level, indicating a positive attitude towards addressing gender equality in the workplace. However, only 38% of these employees feel that their companies are actually implementing concrete actions and initiatives to address gender equity issues. This disparity between belief and action suggests a gap between awareness and implementation within fashion companies, indicating a need for organizations to turn their commitment to gender equity into tangible strategies and practices to create a more inclusive and equitable work environment.

References

0. – https://www.www.globaldata.com

1. – https://www.www.globalslaveryindex.org

2. – https://www.www.businessinsider.com

3. – https://www.www.thefashionlaw.com

4. – https://www.www.businessoffashion.com

5. – https://www.www.mckinsey.com

6. – https://www.www.usfashionindustry.com

7. – https://www.www.thefashionspot.com

8. – https://www.www.nielsen.com

9. – https://www.www.theguardian.com

10. – https://www.www.fashionrevolution.org

11. – https://www.sustainablefashionacademy.org

12. – https://www.www.bcg.com

13. – https://www.www.bbc.co.uk

14. – https://www.www.business-humanrights.org

How we write our statistic reports:

We have not conducted any studies ourselves. Our article provides a summary of all the statistics and studies available at the time of writing. We are solely presenting a summary, not expressing our own opinion. We have collected all statistics within our internal database. In some cases, we use Artificial Intelligence for formulating the statistics. The articles are updated regularly.

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