Despite a spate of poor British summers since 1996, the increase in foreign holidays has been influential in the demand for beachwear in the UK marketplace.

Will the product innovation in the beachwear market, such as the tan-through fabrics provide a new unique selling point for retailers?

Can manufactures further segment the market by offering a range of accessories as part of beachwear clothing?

Mintel last analysed the market for beachwear in Market Intelligence, January 1999, at which time it had been reported that sales had not regained the levels achieved during 1995, which saw an exceptionally hot summer and, as a result, a boom for beachwear sales. Beachwear sales are heavily influenced by the vagaries of the British weather, due to the importance of hot weather as a catalyst to purchase. The last report discussed how sportswear brands had extended their market leadership position vis-à-vis fashion brands on the back of strong brand awareness, product innovation and promotional activity. The sports/fashion crossover continues to be an important element in the beachwear market in terms of styling.

Despite a spate of poor British summers since 1996, the increase in foreign holidays has been influential in the demand for beachwear in the UK marketplace.

Will the product innovation in the beachwear market, such as the tan-through fabrics provide a new unique selling point for retailers?

Can manufactures further segment the market by offering a range of accessories as part of beachwear clothing?

Mintel last analysed the market for beachwear in Market Intelligence, January 1999, at which time it had been reported that sales had not regained the levels achieved during 1995, which saw an exceptionally hot summer and, as a result, a boom for beachwear sales. Beachwear sales are heavily influenced by the vagaries of the British weather, due to the importance of hot weather as a catalyst to purchase. The last report discussed how sportswear brands had extended their market leadership position vis-à-vis fashion brands on the back of strong brand awareness, product innovation and promotional activity. The sports/fashion crossover continues to be an important element in the beachwear market in terms of styling.

This report discusses the hypothesis that:

"Beachwear suppliers and retailers will continue to pursue a strategy of growth through segmentation, in terms of co-ordinated ranges, as a means of offsetting, at best, static volumes. In addition, added value in terms of innovation in types of fabric, such as tan-through benefits, is likely to prove fertile ground."

Other Mintel reports of relevance include:

- Men's Outerwear, Market Intelligence, January 2001

- Suncare Preparations, Market Intelligence, December 2000

- Womenswear Retailing, Retail Intelligence, August 2000

- Men's Underwear, Market Intelligence, April 2000

- Menswear Retailing, Retail Intelligence, April 2000

- Children's Clothing Retailing, Retail Intelligence, January 1999

- Special Report, Holidays - Marketing the Travel Business, 1999

- Special Report, The UK Clothing Market, 2000.