The employment in the UK repair of footwear and leather goods sector shows a declining trend from 2024 to 2028. Forecasts indicate a gradual decrease in full-time equivalents from 1.13 thousand in 2024 to 1.03 thousand by 2028, suggesting an average year-on-year reduction of around 2-3%. This decline reflects technological advancements and shifts in consumer behavior, impacting demand for traditional repair services.

Future trends to watch for include:

Increased automation and digital solutions in repair processes.
Rising consumer interest in sustainable practices which could revitalize demand for repairs over replacements.
The potential influence of fashion trends favoring leather goods.