Licensed Sports Merchandise Market Outlook

The size of the global licensed sports merchandise market has been estimated at USD 35.12 billion in 2023 and is projected to record a CAGR of 4.9% from 2023 to 2033. By 2033, the size of the global market is scheduled to reach USD 56.67 billion.

The rising number of sports fans, along with rising urbanization and the growth of the online retail sector, are a few of the key factors propelling the market's progress. A significant increase in local and international sports leagues is contributing to market expansion.

Online platforms with a wide selection of products and a quick shopping experience are increasingly becoming preferred by consumers over traditional retailing channels. These platforms allow customers to purchase real premium-quality goods at affordable prices.

The demand for licensed sports merchandise, such as t-shirts, tops, sweatshirts, hoodies, jackets, bottom wear, caps, and hats, etc., featuring the emblems of well-known sports teams, is growing. The market is expanding because of rising consumer spending power and rising investments in sports licensing.

Attributes Details
Licensed Sports Merchandise Market CAGR (2023 to 2033) 4.9%
Licensed Sports Merchandise Market Size (2023) USD 35.12 billion
Licensed Sports Merchandise Market Size (2033) USD 56.67 billion

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Historical Outlook

The estimated value of the global licensed sports merchandise market in 2018 was USD 26.47 billion, and by 2022, it was worth around USD 33.99 billion.

With recent advancements in material quality and cutting-edge fashion trends, the global industry has reached new heights over the past five years. From 2021 to 2031, it is predicted to register a CAGR of over 7%. The market expanded at a CAGR of 6% over the preceding period.

Professional sports leagues from all around the world dominate the market. By the end of 2031, it is anticipated to surpass USD 59 billion thanks to brand alliances with significant vendors, coordinated and enhanced marketing, and retailing. The market is significantly driven by the online distribution of licensed sports merchandise shortly.

Soaring Commercial Sports Growth Reigniting Demand for Licensed Sports Merchandise

Sports merchandise and tournament commercialization have sparked controversy in the world market for sporting goods. The popularity of items imprinted with the emblems of leading sports teams, such as jerseys, socks, tracksuits, t-shirts, bottoms, and activewear, has skyrocketed among customers who favor stylish casual and gym wear.

The market is expected to grow as a result of additional factors, such as expanding consumer spending power and rising sports licensing investments globally.

The region's licensed sports merchandise market is anticipated to grow throughout the projected period as a result of the rising popularity of numerous international sports among youngsters and their increased adoption of cross-cultural fashion trends.

Latest fashion trends have an impact on the demand for licensed sports merchandise. In the sports industry, fashion plays a big role. As an illustration, consider the recent admission by Levi's that the decline in denim clothing sales is attributable to the rising appeal of trendy sports apparel.

Sports-related products are frequently bought by individuals solely for fun. According to NPD's Online Consumer Data, one out of every five pairs of shoes purchased in the running footwear category is bought only for leisure. As a result, it's not uncommon to see people wearing running shoes with cutting-edge features to work or out socializing on the weekends.

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Sudip Saha

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What are the Ace Market Trends & Opportunities for Growth in the Licensed Sports Merchandise Market?

The creation of innovative materials with higher qualities and clothing with greater utility may provide licensed sports merchandise industry participants enormous market prospects.

  • Lebron James Innovation Center, a brand-new Nike athletic research facility with cutting-edge product development, testing facilities, and more, opened its doors in October 2021.

By switching from SF6 to nitrogen, Nike engineers and designers were inspired to create new Air shapes and sensations while also significantly decreasing its carbon impact. The Nike Air Max 360, for instance, was the first sneaker to cushion the entire sole with a bed of air, fueling the design revolution that continues to this day.

The sporting goods, hobby, and leisure industries provide numerous options. Revenue from video games on consoles and personal computers is expected to rise significantly globally. Sports are becoming more popular around the world, and more people are purchasing toys and sporting equipment online.

Toy and hobby e-commerce sales of licensed sports merchandise are expected to rise in the United States; comparable increases are anticipated in Europe in nations like Germany.

Growth of Regional and International Sports Coverage in Live Time and Viewership

TV and OTT sports viewership has increased as a result of more live coverage of local and international sports. Sports leagues have exploded as a result of the increase in digital content consumption.

The sales of licensed sports merchandise have expanded as there are more sports leagues around the world. The licensed sports merchandise market's reach has also been expanded by the inclusion of more women in sports.

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A Look at the Market's Obstacles

One of the main obstacles to the market's expansion may be the prevalence of counterfeit sports merchandise products around the world. The market's expansion throughout the predicted period may be hampered by the increased cost of goods.

The coronavirus outbreak, which has damaged investments and disrupted the supply chain, is predicted to present difficulties for market expansion. One of the biggest obstacles facing the market during the study era may potentially be the strict government regulations governing Licensed Sports Merchandise.

Segmentation Outlook

Which Merchandised Product Yields the Maximum Revenue?

Attributes Details
Others – Market Share 33.7%
Licensed Sports Footwear Segment- Market CAGR 7.3%

Due to the expanding number of sports leagues and the expanding worldwide fan base for sporting events, the others section accounted to be the leading market by product category till 2033, with a share of about 33.7%. The other segment includes goods like key chains, mugs, cups, etc. With a CAGR of 7.3% per year during the forecast period, the licensed sports footwear segment is predicted to lead the licensed sports merchandise market.

During the projected period, the category is anticipated to grow as more contemporary sports club key chains, mugs, cups, and accessories are introduced. It is anticipated that the increase in sporting goods online sales might open up new prospects for the sector's expansion.

The sports footwear segment, which includes sneakers, football boots, running shoes, and casual shoes, is anticipated to surge at a considerable rate in the upcoming years. Demand for the segment has grown as a result of customers' growing fitness concerns brought on by inactive lifestyles and health issues.

People are becoming more and more aware of the significance of wearing the proper footwear when participating in sports to avoid back pain, knee discomfort, hip pain, and back injuries as well as muscle and leg injuries. As a result, in the upcoming years, it is anticipated that the demand for sports footwear significantly increases.

Which Distribution Channel is Optimal for the Market?

Attributes Details
Offline Segment – Market Share 70.6%

The licensed sports merchandise market has been divided into offline and online channels based on the distribution method. During the forecast period, the offline segment's share of revenue reached 70.6%.

The opportunity to evaluate product attributes and the physical display of the products have both played a significant role in the growth of offline sales and distribution channels. The majority of offline purchases made by American consumers are from mass merchants, with the retail, department, and specialty stores coming in second and third. On the other hand, due to their widespread availability, retail sales are more popular in Asian nations.

Regional Outlook

How is the North American Licensed Sports Merchandise Market Mature?

Attributes Details
North American Market CAGR 6.7%
North American Market Share 34.5%
United States Market Size USD 11.3 billion

With a CAGR of 6.7% from 2023 to 2033, North America may grab close to 34.5% of the market. The United States, which boasts three of the top five sporting leagues in the globe, is set to dominate the regional market. In 2023, the United States licensed sports merchandise market is anticipated to be worth USD 11.3 billion.

The region's expanding gaming culture and the involvement of young people have fueled the licensed sports merchandise market expansion. Consumption in the area is also influenced by the goods' simple and convenient access. Smartphones, which give users a portable tool with no limitations, are intimately linked to this ease of access.

With just a click of their finger, customers may now buy their preferred products. In addition, the industry growth over the past few years has been significantly influenced by the growing visibility of games through various media. In North America, celebrity endorsements remain a key strategy for brand promotion. To create items that fit the licensed sports merchandise market, the prominent players are also drawing influence from American sports.

What Makes Asia Pacific a Market with Significant Potential for Licensed Sports Merchandise?

Attributes Details
Asia Pacific Market CAGR 5.3%
China Market Size USD 10.2 billion
China Market CAGR 7.6%

Due to an increase in the acceptance of global fashion trends among youth and the popularity of numerous international sports, the Asia Pacific licensed sports merchandise market is anticipated to develop at a quick rate throughout the projected period, registering a 5.3% CAGR from 2023 to 2033.

China, which currently has the second-leading economy in the world, is anticipated to reach USD 10.2 billion by 2033, recording a 7.6% CAGR throughout that time.

In this group of regional markets, China is anticipated to continue to have a substantial growth rate. Moreover, the licensed sports merchandise market growth in recent years has been fuelled by the rising popularity of sports like hockey and cricket. In addition, the market for sporting products in China is expanding significantly.

  • The National Convention and Exhibition Centre hosted the 2020 China Sport Show in September.

Sports equipment like helmets, pads, bats, and balls are in high demand in nations like China and India and these types of events help to fuel the market and stimulate sales of licensed sports merchandise. In Asia Pacific, video games like EA FIFA are incredibly popular.

Sports like table tennis and badminton are particularly popular in China and Japan, and licensed activities gear for these sports is in high demand everywhere in these nations. Other sports, like baseball and basketball, have recently gained popularity in the area as well, which has helped the sales of licensed sports merchandise.

How Competition Influences the Market? 

With numerous competitors present and active on a worldwide scale, the licensed sports merchandise market is a fragmented one. Together with the other market participants, these businesses emphasize product innovation and collaboration as their primary marketing tactics.

These large players engage in long-term cooperation arrangements with various sports clubs, which expands their consumer base, to gain an advantage over their rivals.

To promote their products and provide value, the corporations team up with well-known athletes from various sports. These businesses provide their consumers with the convenience of buying things whenever they need to be operating both offline specialized shops and online retail outlets.

Recent Development:

New Launches in 2022

Date September
Company Nike. Inc.
Details LeBron's XX shoe, a sports shoe with a low profile, zoom air in the forefoot and heel, and a carbon fiber midfoot shank, was introduced by Nike Inc. in September 2022. The 20 years LeBron James spent with Nike and in the NBA served as inspiration for the shoe.
Date September
Company Nike. Inc.
Details Men's National Team Collections were introduced by Nike Inc. in September 2022. The company's ability to serve more football fans globally and diversify its product line is aided by new product innovation.
Date September
Company Puma SE
Details The Fandom Collection of athletic shoes was introduced by Puma SE in September 2022. The company can impact the next generation of football enthusiasts because of its unique product development strategy.

New Launches in 2021

Date June
Company Puma India
Strategy Celebrity Collaboration
Details Yuvraj Singh, an Indian cricket player, and Puma India renewed their collaboration in 2021. In India, Yuvraj Singh has taken on the role of the brand's spokesperson.
Date Adidas AG
Company Adidas AG
Strategy Sale of Underperforming Reebok division
Details Adidas AG has agreed to sell the struggling Reebok division to Authentic Brands Group Inc. in August 2021 for a price of up USD 2.5 billion. This transaction may add another well-known brand to the buyer's expanding portfolio of consumer brands.

Agreement between Liverpool Football Club and Nike

Date June
Company Nike
Details Liverpool Football Club confirmed a new agreement with American multinational company Nike in 2020 to provide clients with club uniforms.

Key Players

  • VF Corporation
  • Nike, Inc.
  • Adidas AG
  • Puma SE
  • Under Armour, Inc.
  • Hanesbrands Inc.
  • DICK’S Sporting Goods Inc.
  • Sports Direct International plc,
  • G-III Apparel Group, Ltd.
  • Fanatics Inc.

Key Segments

By Product:

  • Sports Apparel
    • T-Shirts And Tops
    • Collegiate Sports Apparel
    • Non-Collegiate Sports Apparel
  • Sweatshirts And Hoodies
    • Collegiate Sports Apparel
    • Non-Collegiate Sports Apparel
  • Jackets
    • Collegiate Sports Apparel
    • Non-Collegiate Sports Apparel
  • Bottom wear
    • Collegiate Sports Apparel
    • Non-Collegiate Sports Apparel
  • Others (caps, hats, etc.)
    • Collegiate Sports Apparel
    • Non-Collegiate Sports Apparel
    • Sports Footwear
    • Toys and Games
    • Others

By Distribution Channel:

  • Online
  • Offline
    • Supermarkets & Hypermarkets
    • Specialty Stores
    • Others

By Region:

  • North America
  • Europe
  • Asia Pacific
  • Central & South America
  • The Middle East & Africa

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the anticipated value of the Global Licensed Sports Merchandise market in 2023?

The global market is expected to be valued at USD 35.12 billion in 2023.

How is the historical performance of the Worldwide Licensed Sports Merchandise market?

From 2018 to 2022, the worldwide market registered a CAGR of 6%.

What is the anticipated value of the Global Licensed Sports Merchandise market value in 2033?

The global market is expected to reach USD 56.67 billion in 2033.

What is the market size for the United States Global Licensed Sports Merchandise Market through 2023?

The United States will hit USD 11.3 billion through 2023.

What opportunities await the market players?

Innovative materials and functional sportswear offer significant market potential for industry participants.

Table of Content
	1. Executive Summary
	2. Market Overview
	3. Market Background
	4. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast, 2023 to 2033
	5. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Product
		5.1. Sports Apparel
		5.2. Sports Footwear
		5.3. Sports Accessories & Toys
		5.4. Sports Video Games & Software
		5.5. Others
	6. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Price
		6.1. Premium
		6.2. Economic
	7. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Distribution Channel
		7.1. Online
			7.1.1. Company website
			7.1.2. Ecommerce website
		7.2. Offline
			7.2.1. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
			7.2.2. Specialty Stores
			7.2.3. Other Retail Stores
	8. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Region
		8.1. North America
		8.2. Latin America
		8.3. Europe
		8.4. Asia Pacific
		8.5. MEA
	9. North America Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	10. Latin America Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	11. Europe Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	12. Asia Pacific Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	13. MEA Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	14. Key Countries Market Analysis
	15. Market Structure Analysis
	16. Competition Analysis
		16.1. Adidas AG
		16.2. Asics Corporation
		16.3. Columbia Sportswear Company
		16.4. Dicks Sporting Goods Inc.
		16.5. G-III Apparel Group
		16.6. Hanes Brands Inc.
		16.7. Nike Inc.
		16.8. Puma Inc.
		16.9. Shiv Naresh Sports
		16.10. Skechers
		16.11. Under Armour INC
		16.12. Yonex Co. Ltd.
	17. Assumptions & Acronyms Used
	18. Research Methodology
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