Top 10 Companies Leading the Global Children’s Wear Market

Adidas AG, Nike Inc., Benetton Group Srl, Mothercare PLC, Gap Inc., Puma SE, Carter’s, Inc., Cotton On Group Services Pty Ltd., Diesel S.p.A., Dolce&Gabbana S.r.l., Esprit Holdings, Fruit of the Loom, Inc, Levi Strauss & Co., The Children’s Place, Inc., and Burberry Group plc, among others, are the major players in the global children’s wear market. 

The global children’s wear market reached a value of about USD 1.05 billion in 2023. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.4% in the forecast period of 2024-2032 to reach around USD 2.00 by 2032. As per the analysis by Expert Market Research, the market is expected to be driven by the increasing population, changing lifestyle patterns, and rising disposable incomes.

Children's wear encompasses clothing tailored specifically for individuals under the age of 12, including formal attire, school uniforms, festive garments, and everyday casual wear. These options cater to various activities and occasions, ranging from sleepwear to athletic events. Typically crafted from materials such as hosiery, cotton, polyester, silk, and satin, children's wear prioritises comfort, flexibility, and durability. Unlike adult clothing, children's apparel often features vibrant colours, diverse styles, and gender-neutral designs to accommodate a wide range of preferences and needs.

The burgeoning consumer appetite for upscale and branded clothing is propelling  children’s wear market growth. As household spending power increases and lifestyles evolve, parents are increasingly inclined to invest in premium apparel, prioritising superior quality to ensure their child's utmost comfort and safety.

The swift expansion of the global population stands out as a pivotal driver of  children’s wear market expansion. With population growth on the rise, coupled with evolving lifestyle trends and augmented disposable incomes, there is a heightened demand for branded, high-quality children's apparel. These preferences reflect a prioritisation of safety and comfort, aligning with the discerning standards of modern consumers.

In April 2022, John Lewis introduced its inaugural 'mini-me' collection within its ANYDAY range. Priced affordably from £5, the capsule collection catered to chic parents and their little ones, allowing them to make a stylish statement together. Bridging the gap between women's and children's fashion, the collection featured sixteen coordinated looks, adding a touch of excitement to family dressing rituals.

Top 10 Children’s Wear Companies in the World:

ADIDAS AG

With a rich sporting heritage, the Adidas brand believes in the transformative power of sports to impact lives. This mission is embedded in their daily efforts to push the boundaries of human potential, foster inclusivity in sports, and contribute to a more sustainable world. By consistently delivering groundbreaking innovations in sports and culturally relevant fashion, Adidas remains a globally recognised brand, represented by both their 'Performance' and 'Lifestyle' categories, now complemented by the new 'Sportswear' proposition, all of which collectively uphold their commitment to sports and lifestyle excellence.

NIKE, Inc.

NIKE, Inc. unites the Nike, Jordan, and Converse brands, driven by a shared purpose to make a lasting impact. As the foremost designer, marketer, and distributor of authentic athletic footwear, apparel, equipment, and accessories across various sports and fitness activities, NIKE, Inc. bears the name of the Greek goddess of victory. Operating segments include North America, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Greater China, Asia Pacific, and Latin America. Additionally, the company has wholly owned subsidiary Converse Inc., specialising in casual footwear, apparel, and accessories.

Benetton Group Srl

Benetton Group, a renowned fashion company, boasts a global presence with approximately 4000 stores worldwide. Known for its vibrant colours and innovative retail strategies, the group embraces globalisation with agility and investments. United Colors of Benetton and Sisley embody its core values of colour, fashion authenticity, and affordability. With prime retail locations and dynamic store designs, the group’s focus on innovation extends to logistics, exemplified by its state-of-the-art coordination centre. Additionally, through initiatives like Fabrica and sports projects, Benetton maintains ties with its roots while embracing internationality.

Mothercare PLC

Mothercare plc, parent company of Mothercare Global Brand Limited (MGB), boasts a 60-year legacy as a specialist UK retailer catering to parents and young children. MGB designs and supplies a range of essential products worldwide, including clothing, nursery, feed time, and playtime items. With approximately 700 dedicated stores across 36 territories, Mothercare serves modern parents seeking quality, value, and exceptional customer service. Transitioning to a franchise-only model in 2019, Mothercare maintains brand consistency and support for global partners while upholding its British heritage and commitment to authenticity and expertise.

Gap Inc.

Gap Inc. brands fill societal gaps: Old Navy democratises fashion, Athleta empowers women of all shapes and backgrounds, Banana Republic promotes sustainable luxury, and Gap celebrates individuality with responsibly made essentials. Believing in inclusivity and sustainability, Gap Inc. fosters a sense of belonging for all. Founded in 1969 to simplify jeans shopping, the company has evolved into four distinct brands with a global mission to champion equality, inclusivity, and sustainability, driven by thousands of passionate team members worldwide.

PUMA SE

PUMA, in its relentless pursuit of speed, transcends mere athlete endorsement. Beyond supporting the world's fastest athletes, PUMA prioritises swift adaptation to the evolving global landscape. Through cutting-edge design, iconic apparel, and genuine partnerships, the brand consistently pushes boundaries in both sports and culture. Infused with a hustler's spirit, PUMA seeks talent to drive innovation at the intersection of sport and culture, fostering dynamic connections with communities. With a global presence spanning 120+ countries, the PUMA Group encompasses PUMA, Cobra Golf, and stichd, employing over 20,000 individuals. 

Carter’s, Inc.

Carter’s, Inc. is a leading marketer of apparel for babies and young children in the US and Canada, boasting iconic brands like Carter’s and OshKosh B’gosh. These brands are widely available in department stores, national chains, and online platforms, including the company's own websites. With a history dating back to 1865, Carter’s has earned a reputation for quality, innovation, and value, making it a trusted choice for generations of families. The company is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, and also owns the global lifestyle brand Skip Hop.

Cotton On Group Services Pty Ltd.

The Cotton On Group, founded in 1988 in Australia, began with a humble denim jacket stall and has since evolved into a global force. With a commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, the company aims to bring its eight lifestyle brands worldwide while prioritising people and the planet. They foster a diverse and inclusive work environment, supporting their team members both professionally and personally. Customer satisfaction is paramount, reflecting the company's dedication to making a positive impact. With over 20,000 employees and stores in 22 countries, Cotton On continues to grow and inspire.

Diesel S.p.A.

Diesel, a trailblazer in denim and casual fashion since 1978, has evolved into a premium casual wear brand, challenging the luxury market with its unique style. Despite its growth, Diesel remains true to its core values of passion, individuality, and self-expression. Innovation is at the heart of Diesel's philosophy, reflected in its diverse product offerings, including apparel, accessories, fragrances, and home goods. With a global presence spanning over 80 countries and 5,000 points of sale, Diesel continues to lead the way in lifestyle fashion.

Esprit Holdings

ESPRIT, founded in 1968 by Doug Tompkins and Susie Buell, goes beyond fashion—it represents a community dedicated to people, progress, and environmental responsibility. As the world's first lifestyle brand, ESPRIT embodies a vibrant Californian spirit, revolutionising the shopping experience with its youthful, experimental approach to design. Rooted in its original ideals of love, peace, and community, ESPRIT fosters joy and connection worldwide. With a presence in over 30 markets, ESPRIT continues to thrive, listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange since 1993, with headquarters in Hong Kong.