The menswear market is estimated to be worth £9.3 billion in 2009, down by 1.2% on 2008. Still, positive indicators are that Mintel’s consumer data found that only 16% of all men say they are spending less money on clothes in 2009 compared to last year.

Looking to the future, the men’s outerwear market is forecast to make a recovery in 2010, with an increase in spending of 1.5%, and a similar increase again in 2011. This will be partly due to deferred spending from 2009, and include some replacement purchasing (ie suits).

Drivers of this better performance will be the emergence from the recession, increased affluence (ie more ABs), greater choice (more retailers offering a better selection of menswear), men becoming increasingly confident and wanting to look good whatever age they are and more interest in quality.

This report examines men’s relationship with outerwear clothing – the way in which they shop, what motivates them to buy and which items they purchase. The report also analyses men’s attitudes towards shopping, their habits and what they buy – and reveals how significantly these are influenced by their lifestage, especially having children, and their financial situation.

Main issues

How has the recession impacted on men’s shopping habits and attitudes?

What are men’s priorities when buying clothing – quality, price, comfort, fashion etc? How do these priorities change depending on their lifestages?

What types of clothing have men been buying, and which items are they likely to buy in the future?

What are the main barriers to men enjoying shopping for clothes and spending more? How can retailers overcome these obstacles and improve sales through innovation and creativity?