A recent report sheds light on the state of diversity in the UK fashion sector, emphasizing the ongoing need for improvement. Conducted as a collaborative effort by the British Fashion Council, The Outsiders Perspective, and the (Fashion) Minority Report, with McKinsey & Company as a knowledge partner, the report highlights a gap in diversity among workers and leaders in the industry.
Despite the visible diversity on catwalks, in campaigns, and among consumers, the report indicates a lack of diversity in the workforce and decision-making positions. Jamie Gill, Founder of The Outsiders Perspective and BFC Non-Executive Director, stresses the business case for a diverse team, asserting that the fashion industry should lead the charge in embracing diversity.
Consumer behavior studies consistently show that people evaluate companies based on sustainability and diversity. The report, titled “UK Fashion DEI Report 2024,” draws from industry expertise, providing a comprehensive review of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Britain, utilizing data from The UK Fashion DEI Census and other sources.
While there has been a positive shift in the industry’s public-facing image, the report emphasizes the need for increased diversity in corporate representation, especially in executive positions. The findings reveal that only 9% of executives and board members in the UK fashion industry are people of color, and just 39% are women.
The report also notes that only 17% of companies have published quantitative Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) targets, compared to 56% that have published sustainability targets. Highlighting a disparity in perception, 86% of white men in the industry believe it is diverse, while only 46% of women of color share the same view.
Caroline Rush, Chief Executive of the BFC, underscores the business opportunity in fostering inclusivity, urging the industry to recognize the benefits of a diverse workforce. The report serves as a wake-up call, emphasizing the importance of aligning external messaging and internal practices with authentic contributions to DEI goals.
