Despite strong commitment to sustainability, 59% of fashion companies report that they still lack the tools and support needed to transition to high-quality sustainable practices.

The Report on the Needs of the European Creativity-Driven Fashion Industry presents a qualitative analysis of the structural challenges and future priorities facing Europe’s creative fashion sector, with a particular focus on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Based on in-depth interviews with EFA members across Europe, the report formulates 63 concrete recommendations addressed to European institutions and public authorities.

At a time of increasing environmental urgency, technological transformation, and regulatory complexity, the report highlights the central role of creativity-driven fashion as both a cultural and economic asset. It underlines the contribution of SMEs as drivers of innovation, sustainability, and cultural identity, while also identifying the systemic barriers that continue to limit their ability to scale, digitize, and remain competitive.

The report identifies seven priority areas requiring targeted support at European level:

1. Sustainability
2. Innovation
3. Education
4. Communication and distribution
5. Responsible consumption
6. Systemic support to the creative fashion industry
7. Strengthening the fashion value chain

While many creative fashion businesses have already embedded responsible practices into their core business models, such as local production, circular approaches, and small-batch manufacturing, the report shows that these efforts remain fragmented without adequate structural support.

In response, the report proposes targeted measures ranging from regulatory and funding instruments to education initiatives and improved EU-level coordination. A central proposal is the creation of a European Fashion Hub, envisioned as a centralized access point for information, tools, and support services tailored to the needs of creativity-driven fashion companies.

By positioning creativity-driven fashion as a strategic sector for Europe’s sustainable and competitive future, the report aims to support policymakers and stakeholders in developing coherent, future-oriented frameworks for the industry.

The report is published by the European Fashion Alliance in 2025.