In 2023, Italy led the European footwear sector with 29 young high growth enterprises (Gazelles), while Portugal followed with 21. Romania, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia trailed behind with 5, 2, and 1 enterprise respectively. Comparative year-on-year growth rates show Italy at 4.75%, Portugal at -1.8%, Romania at 4.56%, and Czech Republic with a significant increase of 14.87%, whereas Slovakia remained stable with 0% growth.
Future trends to observe include:
- Potential growth in emerging markets like Romania and the Czech Republic, driven by favorable economic conditions.
- Italy's potential to maintain leadership, supported by its robust manufacturing base.
- Portugal's need to address declining numbers to regain competitive position.
Top countries in Number of Young High Growth Enterprises (Gazelles) in Footwear by Country
| # | 5 Countries | Units (Enterprises) | Last Year | YoY | 5-years CAGR | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Italy | 29 | 2023 | +20.83% | +4.75% | View data |
| 2 | 2 Portugal | 21 | 2023 | +16.67% | -1.8% | View data |
| 3 | 3 Romania | 5 | 2023 | +25% | +4.56% | View data |
| 4 | 4 Czech Republic | 2 | 2023 | +100% | +14.87% | View data |
| 5 | 5 Slovakia | 1 | 2023 | 0% | 0% | View data |
