Handbag Market Outlook, 2029

The handbag industry has long been a symbol of fashion, functionality, and personal expression. From the iconic designs of luxury brands to the practical and stylish options offered by contemporary designers, handbags play a crucial role in both fashion and everyday life. One of the defining features of the handbag industry is the incredible diversity in design and functionality. Handbags come in various shapes, sizes, and styles, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of consumers. From spacious totes for everyday use to elegant clutches for formal occasions, the industry thrives on offering a wide spectrum of options. The handbag industry is marked by a clear distinction between luxury and affordable fashion segments.

Luxury handbags, often adorned with iconic logos and crafted from high-quality materials, are coveted for their exclusivity and status symbol. On the other hand, affordable fashion brands focus on providing stylish and functional handbags at accessible price points, appealing to a broader consumer base. The handbag industry is a global phenomenon with market dynamics influenced by cultural, economic, and regional factors. Luxury brands dominate markets in affluent regions, while affordable and fast-fashion brands cater to a broader audience. Emerging markets, especially in Asia, contribute significantly to the industry's growth, driven by increasing disposable incomes and a burgeoning interest in fashion. The global workforce has seen a significant rise in women's participation over the years, with women now integral to various industries in diverse roles, from corporate executives to entrepreneurs. This increased participation drives the demand for accessories, which meet the needs of working women. Handbags have evolved from accessories to essential tools, addressing the multifaceted demands of modern professional life. Modern working women seek a blend of style and practicality, making handbags vital to their daily routines. They need to transition seamlessly between professional and personal settings, and handbags fulfill this role adeptly. These versatile companions carry work-related items like laptops, documents, and planners, along with personal essentials such as wallets, cosmetics, and electronic devices.

According to the report “Global Handbag Market Outlook, 2029”, the market is anticipated to cross USD 75 Billion by 2029, increasing from USD 53.83 Billion in 2023. The market is expected to grow with 6.73% CAGR by 2024-29. In recent years, the fashion industry, including handbag manufacturers, has seen a growing emphasis on sustainability. Consumers are increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of their purchases, prompting many brands to adopt eco-friendly practices. Sustainable materials, ethical manufacturing processes, and recycling initiatives are becoming key considerations for both consumers and industry players. The handbag industry is no stranger to technological advancements.

Smart handbags equipped with features like wireless charging, Bluetooth connectivity, and GPS tracking are gaining popularity. These innovations not only enhance functionality but also cater to the tech-savvy consumer who values convenience and connectivity. Personalization is a trend that has taken the handbag industry by storm. Brands are offering customers the ability to customize their handbags, from choosing materials and colors to adding personalized monograms. This trend caters to the growing desire for unique, one-of-a-kind products that reflect individual style. The handbag industry is exploring the potential of 3D printing to revolutionize manufacturing processes. This technology allows for intricate and customized designs while minimizing waste. As 3D printing continues to evolve, it holds the promise of more sustainable and efficient production methods. AR technology is being harnessed to enhance the online shopping experience for handbags. Customers can use AR applications to virtually try on different handbag styles, helping them make more informed purchasing decisions. This innovative approach bridges the gap between online and in-store shopping. In addition, companies are more focused on marketing and advertising their products to reach the intended audience. Celebrity endorsements of new designs and collections by brands help sales of many types of handbags among the young population. Thus, these days, celebrities endorse branded fashion products such as watches, bags, apparel, and footwear, among others, on their Facebook pages, Instagram profiles, and Snapchat stories to increase the sales of fashion products. For example, In April 2021, Balenciaga, a luxury fashion brand of Kering Group, entered the South American market by launching its products through the Iguatemi 365, an online platform of conglomerate Iguatemi Group. More options to reach consumers have emerged due to mobile phone proliferation.

Market Drivers

• Fashion Conscious Consumers: The global handbag market is heavily influenced by fashion-conscious consumers who seek stylish, trendy, and innovative designs. Fashion trends are dynamic, prompting consumers to frequently update their accessories, including handbags, driving demand for new and diverse styles. The allure of luxury handbags, often associated with prestige and status, fuels demand among affluent consumers. High-end brands leverage brand image, exclusivity, and craftsmanship to attract a discerning clientele, contributing significantly to the market.
• E-commerce Growth: The rise of e-commerce has revolutionized the retail landscape, including the handbag market. Online shopping offers convenience, a vast product selection, and the ability to compare prices easily. E-commerce platforms enable global access to a wide array of handbag brands, fostering market growth by expanding reach and accessibility. Innovations like virtual try-on technologies enhance the online shopping experience for handbags. Virtual platforms that allow customers to visualize how a handbag looks with their outfits before purchasing contribute to increased online sales.

Market Challenges

• Counterfeiting and Imitation Products: Counterfeit handbags pose a significant challenge to the global market, especially for well-known luxury brands. Imitation products not only infringe on intellectual property rights but also undermine brand integrity, leading to financial losses and a tarnished reputation for legitimate brands. Counterfeit products erode consumer trust, as unsuspecting customers may unknowingly purchase fake handbags, resulting in dissatisfaction and potential legal issues for brands. Combatting counterfeiting requires a multi-faceted approach, including legal action, advanced anti-counterfeit technologies, and consumer education.
• Economic Fluctuations and Global Events: Economic uncertainties and fluctuations can impact consumer spending on non-essential items like luxury handbags. During economic downturns, consumers may become more price-conscious, leading to a decline in demand for high-end products. Unforeseen global events, such as pandemics, geopolitical tensions, or natural disasters, can disrupt supply chains, production, and consumer behavior. The handbag market is not immune to these external factors, and brands must navigate through uncertainties to maintain stability.

Market Trends

• Sustainability and Ethical Practices: The growing awareness of environmental issues has driven a trend towards sustainability in the handbag industry. Brands are increasingly incorporating eco-friendly materials, such as recycled leather or organic fabrics, and adopting sustainable manufacturing practices to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. Consumers are placing greater importance on the ethical sourcing of materials and fair labor practices. Handbag brands that prioritize transparency in their supply chain, from sourcing to production, are resonating with a socially conscious audience.
• Technology Integration: The integration of technology into handbags is a rising trend. Smart handbags equipped with features like RFID protection, wireless charging capabilities, and GPS tracking appeal to tech-savvy consumers seeking functionality alongside fashion. Virtual try-on technologies and augmented reality applications enhance the online shopping experience, allowing customers to virtually test how a handbag looks and fits before making a purchase. This trend bridges the gap between the online and in-store shopping experience.

COVID-19 Impacts

The handbag industry heavily relies on global supply chains, with many brands outsourcing manufacturing to countries with skilled labor and cost-effective production. The pandemic led to factory closures, restrictions on movement, and disruptions in the supply chain, causing delays in production and distribution. This resulted in inventory challenges for many brands. The economic uncertainty caused by the pandemic led to a decline in consumer spending, especially on non-essential items like luxury handbags. With job losses, salary cuts, and financial insecurity, many consumers shifted their priorities, focusing on essential goods rather than discretionary purchases.

The work-from-home trend and reduced social activities during lockdowns altered the need for certain types of handbags. Demand for large, practical, and versatile bags increased, as consumers sought designs that could accommodate items like laptops, hand sanitizers, and masks. Smaller, evening or occasion-specific handbags experienced a decline in demand. With physical retail outlets facing closures and restrictions, there was a notable surge in online shopping. E-commerce became a crucial channel for handbag sales, prompting brands to enhance their digital presence, improve online shopping experiences, and invest in virtual try-on technologies to simulate the in-store experience. As consumers became more mindful of their spending, there was a shift towards practicality and versatility. Handbag designs that emphasized functionality, durability, and timelessness gained traction. Brands that adapted to this shift and offered a balance between style and utility were better positioned to meet evolving consumer needs. The luxury handbag segment faced unique challenges as international travel restrictions and lockdowns significantly impacted sales, particularly to tourists. High-end brands experienced a decline in sales from flagship stores in major tourist destinations. The closure of luxury department stores and boutiques further intensified the challenges for luxury handbag retailers.

Based on the product types, the tote segment is projected to dominate the market owing to the product possessing a larger size as compared to other types of hand-bags.

Tote bags are multi-purpose bags that can be used for a variety of tasks. Tote bags are popular among consumers due to their size and material. Tote bags are larger than other types of purses. These bags make it easier for consumers to carry essentials to offices, universities, and other places. The rising influence of Korean fashion and aesthetics among younger consumers is also driving the sale of tote bags. Furthermore, the trendy nature of totes allows shoppers to make a fashion statement at formal events. Tote bags are regarded as more environmentally friendly since they can be reused, which reduces the demand for disposable bags. This is consistent with environmental efforts to prevent plastic litter.

For example, in 2021, Anya Hindmarch, a fashion designer from England, teamed up with the UK grocery chains Sainsbury's and Waitrose to reuse shopping tote bags to address sustainability issues. The versatility and convenience of carrying additional goods while maintaining their beautiful appearance are likely to increase usage. For instance, the Carmen Tote is made up of one zip pocket, two slide pockets, three credit card slots, one adjustable and detachable shoulder strap, and two handles, which makes it highly versatile and convenient for most users. The clutch, satchel, and others (hobo, body cross, saddle) segments are also strengthening their market presence owing to the products' suitability for various occasions and purposes, including casual, formal, and semi-formal settings.

Based on raw material, the leather handbag segment held the largest market share in 2023, due to growing consumer preference for luxury goods and accessories is a major factor driving the demand for leather handbags.

Leather is the primary raw material for luxury handbags and accessories. Rising consumer spending on luxury items in developed and developing economies can be attributed to the growing number of working women, who are increasingly willing to invest in leather handbags to create a versatile wardrobe collection. The rise in people’s discretionary income is also expected to create the demand for leather goods in developing countries like Thailand, Egypt, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and India. The demand for leather handbags is also supported by the advent of online shopping, particularly in Asia Pacific.

The leather segment is anticipated to hold the major share in the market on account of the product's attractive qualities, such as being naturally waterproof, durabile, timeless, and flexible. This factor is thus anticipated to boost the massive utilization of leather in the making multiple products including handbag. Leather is prized for its durability, timeless appeal, and luxurious texture. These handbags are favored by people who appreciate quality and craftsmanship. Within the leather category, there is a wide range of options, from genuine full-grain leather, which is highly durable and ages beautifully, to more affordable alternatives like bonded leather. Leather handbags come in various styles, including totes, satchels, and crossbody bags, catering to a broad spectrum of people looking for both elegance and longevity. Moreover, the increasing availability of faux leather, which is highly valued by vegans is supporting the market growth.

The offline distribution channel held the largest market share in 2023 as the offline distribution channel for handbags includes department stores, specialty stores, and other retail stores.

Consumers prefer offline stores as they offer a wide product variety with better convenience and accessibility than online stores. Leading handbag makers are partnering with wholesale stores like Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, and Saks Fifth Avenue in the U.S. and Selfridges, Printemps, and Galeries Lafayette in Europe. Such collaborations help in accessing a larger customer base. Companies are also investing in larger spaces, along with decorative items, flooring, and wall casings, to attract consumers and increase footfall and sales via offline channels. Department stores, specialty stores, and other retail establishments all fall under offline distribution channels.

Customers favor physical businesses over online ones because they provide a more comprehensive selection of products and are more convenient and accessible. Additionally, major market players are implementing the omnichannel strategy and expanding their brick-and-mortar presence in China due to the country's rising demand for luxury and personal goods. However, due to the growing popularity of social media and e-commerce, the internet sector is projected to grow at a respectable rate. The digitalization of services has led to a rise in the preference for online purchasing among younger consumers. To serve a broader range of customers, businesses in the handbag industry are constantly enhancing their client databases and online shops. For instance, Michael Kors intends to use omnichannel and the assistance of its e-commerce partners to speed up the growth of its brands, Versace and Jimmy Choo. China, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, and Hong Kong all offer informational webpages for brands like Coach and Kate Spade.

Asia Pacific dominated the market in 2023 owing to the rise in consumer buying power, combined with the increase in online shopping portals, has fueled the demand for handbags across Asia Pacific.

Economic growth in countries like China, India, Japan, South Korea, and others has led to an increase in disposable income. As a result, more consumers in the Asia-Pacific region have the purchasing power to buy luxury and designer handbags. With urbanization and changing lifestyles, there is an increasing demand for fashion accessories, including handbags. As people in the Asia-Pacific region become more fashion-conscious, the market for stylish and trendy handbags has seen significant growth. Western fashion trends have a substantial impact on global consumer preferences, and the Asia-Pacific region is no exception. Many consumers in this region seek international brands and styles, contributing to the growth of the handbag market.

Asia-Pacific is a major tourist destination, and tourists often contribute to the demand for fashion accessories. Visitors may purchase handbags as souvenirs or indulge in shopping while exploring popular shopping destinations in the region. The growth of e-commerce has facilitated easy access to a wide range of handbag brands and styles. Online shopping platforms have gained popularity in the Asia-Pacific region, providing consumers with convenient ways to explore and purchase handbags. Handbags can hold cultural significance in certain Asian cultures. In some societies, owning a luxury handbag is considered a status symbol, contributing to the demand for high-end brands. The Asia-Pacific region is home to diverse cultures and fashion preferences. This diversity has created a market for a wide range of handbag styles, catering to different tastes and preferences.

The market studied is competitive, with many regional and global players operating in the market studied. The major strategies adopted by these companies include product innovations, expansions, and mergers and acquisitions. The major players dominating the handbag market are Burberry Group PLC, Prada Holding BV, Fossil Group, Inc., Michael Kors, and Gucci. An advanced distribution network provides a competitive advantage to the key market players. Moreover, players focus on continuous innovation to operate and grow in the market and cater to the rapidly changing consumer demands and preferences. The key players of the market are increasingly shifting their focus towards incorporating hand-bags with the internet of (IoT) technology.

This will help enrich the experience of owning the product, as the technology allows to give notification alerts to the user’s smart-phone and also provides a cautionary signal for prevention against loss of smartphones. For instance, Glimm Smart Bag 1.0 uses an IoT technology that has bluetooth connectivity, and three different shades of jewels which provide crucial notifications from the phone. This bag also comes with the ability to provide warning signs when the smartphone is at a far-off distance.

• In June 2023, Michael Kors announced the launch of the Pride capsule collection that included an Elliot backpack, Slater sling pack, and sparkling Raquel pavé watch. In addition, the company announced its partnership with the Stonewall National Monument Visitor Center (SNMVC), which will involve a cobranded tote and charitable donation. The black canvas tote will carry the SNMVC logo on the inside, with a rainbow MK logo on the outside.
• In March 2023, Hermès International S.A. announced the launch of six new handbags for Fall/Winter 2023: Sac Mini Médor, Sac So Medor, Drawstring Tote Bag, Arcon Bag, Fringe Birkin, and Harness Birkin. The collection was classic and modern at the same time, with an entirely feminine look.
• In April 2023, the sustainable fashion brand Rashki from India joined forces with Atma Leather to introduce India's inaugural collection of banana leather handbags. Rashki has unveiled a diverse range of bags crafted from Banofi, including the striking Snow black and white crossbody bag, the environmentally-conscious Unica Eco handbag featuring elegant wooden handles, and the versatile Fede tote bag.
• In March 2023, the renowned French fashion house Coperni made a bold statement in the fashion world by launching an exquisite handbag crafted from meteorite rock. This unique accessory was introduced in the premium luxury segment with a price tag of €40,000.

Considered in this report

• Historic year: 2018
• Base year: 2023
• Estimated year: 2024
• Forecast year: 2029

Aspects covered in this report

• Handbag market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Product Type

• Tote Bag
• Clutch
• Satchel
• Others (Hobo, Body Cross, Saddle)

By Raw Material

• Leather
• Fabric
• Others

By End User

• Offline
• Online

The approach of the report:

This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases.

After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organizations related to the Handbag industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.


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