Medical Scrubs Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Type (Medical Uniforms and Nursing Scrubs), By Usage (Disposable and Reusable), By End-user (Hospitals & ASCs, Specialty Clinics, and Others), and Regional Forecast, 2024-2032

The global medical scrubs market size was valued at USD 47.66 billion in 2023. The market is projected to grow from USD 50.78 billion in 2024 to USD 102.09 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 9.1% during the forecast period.

Medical scrubs are protective garments designed to be worn by healthcare professionals, such as physicians and nurses, among others. The garment was originally a gown. Scrubs now include the shirts, pants, jumpsuits, jackets, and caps worn by those who scrub in for surgery. These medical garments are an essential part of infection control in the healthcare industry. Healthcare workers come into contact with a variety of germs and microorganisms daily, making it crucial for them to have protective clothing that can act as a barrier against these pathogens. Moreover, the market is fragmented with the presence of key players, such as FIGS, INC., Owens & Minor, Inc., Superior Group of Companies, and BARCO UNIFORMS, among others. The majority of market players started enhancing their brand image and customer reach in the market through the launch of community programs and the opening of new physical stores across the globe.

• For example, in April 2024, FIGS, INC. announced that it had recycled more than 40,000 healthcare professionals’ scrubs as part of a recycling program (“Scrubs That Don't Suck) to mark Earth Month.

Furthermore, healthcare agencies and governing bodies in various countries are focusing on improving the healthcare infrastructure, with an aim to provide at-par healthcare facilities to patients. These efforts resulting into the rapid expansion of the healthcare resources and personnel in these countries. This rapid increase in the number of healthcare professionals is further associated with the rise in demand for medical clothing.

Several healthcare facilities have adopted certain policies and regulations concerning medical apparel. The guidelines include adopting specific color codes for nursing staff, surgeons, and others. However, non-compliance with the institutional policies, further breaching infection protocol, contributes to growing hospital-acquired infection cases. Therefore, the lack of adherence to the regulation of medical infection control and the lack of reimbursement provided by insurance companies is restraining the market's growth.

Furthermore, the surgical scrubs are essential attire for the healthcare professionals such as surgeons, supporting staff, nurses, O.T. technicians, and anesthesiologists working in operating room. Also, the rise in surgical procedures is expected to enhance the usage and demand for medical clothing, thereby driving market growth.

• For example, as per the data provided by the World Bank Group, the number of surgical procedures (per 100,000 population) in Germany was 12,188 in 2012, which increased to 19,124 in 2022.

Future Outlook:

The market will experience significant growth in upcoming years due to increasing healthcare needs and the growing emphasis of market players on the development and launch of technologically advanced medical scrubs in the global market.

Despite growth opportunities, the market will face potential challenges in upcoming years that could impact market dynamics, such as navigating trade policies and supply chain resilience.

Changing import/export regulations may disrupt the sourcing of materials and manufacturing processes. Market players may need to expand their supply chains through strategic alliances with domestic suppliers to minimize the risks related to tariffs and trade policies. Moreover, disruptions experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic highlight the need for strong supply chain strategies. Market players will need to invest in technology that enhances flexibility within their supply chains to prevent shortages and delays.

MARKET DYNAMICS

Market Drivers:

Increasing Hospital Admissions and Surgical Procedures is Projected to Boost the Demand for the Product 

The rising number of hospital admissions due to the increasing geriatric and ailing population is driving the demand for medical apparel by healthcare professionals. Additionally, the rising number of inpatient admissions suffering from chronic and acute conditions has led to a subsequent rise in the number of surgical procedures performed globally.

• According to an article published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) in April 2022, approximately 13.7 million adults aged 65 years and above are hospitalized annually in the U.S. Among these, 67.0% of hospitalizations are for medical conditions, 25.0% for surgeries, and 6.0% for injuries.

Moreover, increasing surgical procedures has boosting the usage and demand for medical apparel in healthcare facilities. In an operating room, surgical scrubs are mandatory attire for surgeons and the supporting staff, including nurses, circulating nurses, O.T. technicians, anesthesiologists, etc.

• For instance, in November 2022, the National Health Service (NHS) revealed that between 2021 and 2022, 35.0% of babies were delivered by cesarean. Additionally, the NHS initially put a cap on C-sections, aiming to limit them to around 20% of all deliveries. However, according to an article published by Russell-Cooke LLP in March 2022, the NHS scrapped the limit on C-section numbers, reflecting the increasing number of surgeries.

Thus, the increasing surgical procedures and number of hospital visits are expected to increase the consumption of medical apparel during the forecast period.

Rapidly Developing Healthcare Infrastructure and Increasing Number of Healthcare Professionals in Emerging Countries to Augment Market Growth

Emerging countries, including India, China, Brazil, and other Southeast Asian and Middle Eastern countries are focusing on improving the healthcare infrastructure. The aim is to provide high-quality healthcare facilities that will lead to a rise in medical tourism.

According to the International Trade Administration's report published in March 2023, Brazil contributed significantly to the Latin American healthcare market by spending around 9.1% of its GDP on healthcare. The country at that time had 6,642 hospitals with 532,645 beds, 88,000 supplementary healthcare services, 502,000 physicians, and 331,000 dentists.

Increasing healthcare expenditure is anticipated to fuel the development of new healthcare facilities, leading to a proportional increase in demand for medical apparel, thereby contributing to market growth.

• For instance, as per the data provided by Al Arabiya in June 2023, Saudi Arabia will need an additional 175,000 doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers by the end of 2030 to tackle shortages and meet the healthcare requirements of its growing population.

Rising Hospital-acquired Infections Boosting the Adoption of Antimicrobial Scrubs

The growing adoption of medical uniforms and scrubs by healthcare organizations across the globe for the prevention of infection and cross-contamination is primarily contributing to the growth of the market. Various market players started incorporating antimicrobial technology into medical scrub fabric to help healthcare providers reduce hospital-acquired infections is one of the main factors driving market growth throughout the forecast period.

• For instance, in October 2022, Ouragins, a medical apparel company, reinvented its medical scrub fabric with its ThreadFusion technology, an antimicrobial technology. ThreadFusion technology helped to infuse Copper in the medical scrub fabric, which was proven to kill 99.0% of the germs within 2 hours after contact with the scrub surface.

Market Restraints:

Lack of Reimbursement is Hindering the Market Growth

The adoption of medical clothes in healthcare settings is rising due to the increasing number of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) and the availability of functional scrubs. However, higher cost of fashionable and functional medical clothes contributes to higher out-of-pocket spending for healthcare workers. The significant increase in the adoption of medical scrubs across hospitals to prevent hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) has majorly contributed to its increased cost.

In countries, such as the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Germany, France, and Australia, reimbursement policies help offset these costs.

• For example, as per an article published by Happythreads LTD. in May 2022, in Ireland, nurses can claim up to USD 1,264, and doctors can claim USD 1,199 (€1,112) tax back on uniforms over four years.

However, such reimbursement policies are still lacking in developing countries such as China, India, Brazil, Indonesia, and Africa. As there is no reimbursement for the purchase made by the healthcare workers, it contributes to increasing out-of-pocket spending. This has increased the demand for used scrubs and medical clothing in these countries.

• For instance, large e-commerce platforms are selling used medical apparel, which may appear to be a cost-effective option for buyers. However, this practice is associated with multiple disadvantages such as infection risk, contamination potential, and non-compliance with regulations. The “Made in China” is an e-commerce platform selling used products in China. Similarly, in India, Etsy is an e-commerce platform that offers used medical scrubs.

Other Restraining Factors:

• Competition from Alternative Workwear: The presence of alternative options for medical scrubs, such as lab coats and disposable gowns, affects medical scrubs market share in the medical apparel industry across the globe.


• The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, on the availability and pricing of raw materials used for manufacturing healthcare apparel is an additional factor causing supply chain disruption and restricting market growth.

Market Opportunities:

Growing Adoption of E-Commerce Platforms for Medical Purchase

The growing need for medical apparel with advanced features such as antimicrobial and moisture-wicking properties by medical professionals presents significant opportunities for market players by leveraging online sales channels. Branded uniforms also contribute to fostering a positive organizational culture and identity. Online sales provide healthcare professionals with easier and more direct access to medical apparel, including scrubs, enhancing convenience and driving market growth over the forecast period.

• For example, in May 2021, BARCO UNIFORMS announced the launch of BarcoMade.com, its online retail store. This online store makes it easier for busy healthcare professionals to shop and learn more about their favorite Barco scrubs instead of visiting physical stores.

Market Challenges:

Hazardous Effects of Scrubs on Environment is Considered as a Major Challenge for Market Players

The global medical scrubs market faces several challenges, including environmental concerns related to microplastics. Frequent laundering of scrubs can lead to microplastics entering water systems, which could affect sales if not resolved.

• For example, as per the data provided by ETHOS in November 2022, frequent washing demands from work requirements make scrubs one of the highest-ranking microplastic polluters during its life cycle and end-of-life disposal.

Furthermore, the increased availability of low-cost scrubs manufactured overseas has been intensifying price competition among market players. In addition, strict regulations regarding fabric fluid resistance and infection control standards also limit the scope for innovation in scrub designs.

• For example, various Chinese wholesale companies and online platforms, such as Apparelnbags, are selling medical uniforms, including scrubs, at lower prices. The scrub uniforms available at the Apparelnbags platform range from USD 8.0 to 12.0.

MARKET TRENDS

Increasing Focus of Market Players to Develop Fashionable Products

The new-age medical students, doctors, nurses, and other medical staff need a range of medical clothes that are perfect in design, look, comfort, and protection and meet all other required parameters. Due to such demands, many companies started focusing on the development and launch of innovative and fashionable product lines with more variety and style.

These players are emphasizing the incorporation of trending fashion into medical apparel, along with adding essential parts to the scrubs, such as multiple pockets, which makes the scrub more functional in nature.

• For instance, in February 2023, Fabletics, Inc. launched Fabletics Scrubs, an activewear scrubs for healthcare professionals in the medical apparel sector. The company developed this scrub using insights from around 6,500 medical professionals. The company distributed around 25,000 scrub sets to healthcare professionals in the U.S. as part of the launch.

Moreover, several market players are focusing on introducing fancy medical scrub suits for healthcare professionals.

• For example, in July 2024, Simply Scrubs started providing animated animal-printed scrub suits, shirts, and pants for healthcare professionals across South Africa.

Furthermore, growing collaborations among market players for the development of innovative and more fashionable medical clothing products are some of the latest medical scrubs market trends expected to boost market growth in the future.

Other Market Trends:

Fashion-forward Designs: The increasing demand for stylish and customizable scrubs among healthcare professionals is considered a significant market trend.

• For example, companies such as Febris have a strong focus on providing customizable logos on scrub shirts.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Materials: There is a growing preference for scrubs made from recycled fabrics and organic materials. The majority of market players started strategic partnerships to manufacture new medical apparel from recycled old ones.

• For instance, in April 2024, FIGS, INC. announced its collaboration with RoadRunner, a provider of modern waste and recycling services, to recycle the old scrubs and repurpose them into new products.

Various market players started utilizing antimicrobial and moisture-wicking fabrics for the manufacturing of medical apparel. Additionally, various companies started selling medical apparel on e-commerce platforms to provide customers with a wide range of options at competitive pricing.

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Impact of COVID-19 on the Market

The COVID-19 pandemic had a positive impact on the market in 2020. Due to the increased cases of COVID-19 infection several healthcare professionals focused on the adoption of hygiene practices. The main aim behind the adoption of hygiene practices was to prevent the spread of disease. The antimicrobial properties of scrub suits played an important role in protecting healthcare professionals against pathogens during the pandemic. 

The market continued to witness significant growth in 2021, owing to growing partnerships among market players. For instance, in February 2021, Superior Group of Companies announced the partnership with SanMar Corporation through its healthcare apparel brand, WonderWink.

The growing initiatives by market players, such as strategic acquisitions, collaborations and new product launches, impacted the market positively in FY 2022 and 2023.

• For example, in September 2022, BARCO UNIFORMS collaborated with Skechers and launched Skechers by Barco, a limited edition capsule collection of medical apparel, on the occasion of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The collaboration aimed to inspire hope and support to affected people, which involved the engagement of healthcare professionals.

This market is anticipated to grow at an accelerated pace in 2024 and upcoming years due to the increasing number of surgical procedures across the globe.

SEGMENTATION ANALYSIS

By Type

Medical Uniforms Segment Dominated due to Growing Demand for Medical Uniforms by Various Healthcare Professionals

Based on type, the market is categorized into medical uniforms and nursing scrubs.

The medical uniforms segment held the largest share in 2023 due to increasing focus on preventive care amongst healthcare professionals. The rising rate of hospitalization and the growing number of surgical procedures is increasing the demand for medical uniforms. Additionally, increasing focus on preventive care amongst healthcare professionals and rapidly developing healthcare infrastructure are the key factors propelling the use of medical uniforms and the growth of this segment.

• For instance, as per the data provided by the World Bank Group in October 2024, the number of surgical procedures (per 100,000) performed in Canada was 6,128 in 2021.

The nursing scrub segment accounted for a substantial market share in 2023. The growth of the segment is attributed to the rapidly developing healthcare infrastructure, increasing nursing workforce worldwide, combined with increasing emphasis on medical clothing in emerging countries. These factors are driving the rising demand and adoption of medical and nursing scrubs.

• For instance, according to a news article published by TIMES INTERNET LIMITED in April 2023, the local health board in the U.K. is planning to hire 900 nurses from overseas in the next 4 years to fulfill the shortage.


• Additionally, according to a report published by the Nursing and Midwifery Council in May 2022 revealed that the Nursing and Midwifery Council’s register has grown by 96.7%,from 26,403 to 758,303, which includes nearly 705,000 nurses, over 40,000 midwives, and nearly 7,000 nursing associates.

Growing initiatives by market players to launch new medical apparel collection are contributing to segmental growth throughout the forecast period.

• For instance, in April 2024, Fabletics announced the launch of its scrubs collection in the U.K. market, following a successful launch in the U.S.

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By Usage

Reusable Segment Led due to High Adoption Rate of Reusable Medical Scrubs

On the basis of usage, the market is divided into disposable and reusable.

The reusable segment dominated the global market in 2023 and is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. The dominant share of this segment was mainly due to the high adoption rate of reusable medical scrubs among healthcare professionals. Distinct benefits of reusable scrubs over disposable scrubs, such as cost effectiveness, durability, and longevity, contribute to their lower environmental impact and sustainability, driving the growth of the segment during the forecast period.

This growth is further supported by market players’ focus on introducing innovative reusable medical clothes, contributing to segment’s growth throughout the forecast period.

• In November 2021, Livinguard launched an apparel line of permanent self-disinfecting scrubs, underscrubs, and lab coats utilizing its EPA-registered bacteria-killing textile. These products continuously kill bacteria and are hypoallergenic, non-irritating to the skin, and maintain their performance wash after wash.

The disposable segment is anticipated to grow throughout the forecast period. This is mainly due to the fact that disposable medical apparels provide clinical benefits, such as its ability to prevent cross-contamination. The use of disposable scrubs leads to reduced operational costs, which are associated with reusable ones, majorly contributing to the segment’s growth.

Additionally, the adoption of electrospinning technology in the manufacturing of nonwoven polymer fibers has improved comfort and protection against fluids and pathogens in hospital settings. The enhanced comfort and safety provided by this technology made disposable scrubs one of the preferred choices among healthcare professionals.

• For instance, according to news published by KNYA in June 2022, disposable scrubs are one of the most important investments made by a doctor, nurse, or other healthcare professionals. This is due to their comfort and higher-quality fabric which allows them to be worn for a longer duration of time.

By End-user

Hospitals & ASCs Segment Led Fueled by Growing Number of Healthcare Facilities

Based on end users, the market is divided into hospitals & ASCs, specialty clinics, and others.

Hospitals & ASCs dominated the global medical scrubs market in 2023. The higher proportion of the healthcare workforce employed in hospitals is a key factor driving the greater demand for medical apparel in these settings. Additionally, the increasing number of hospitals and ASCs worldwide is further contributing to the growth of the segment during the forecast period.

• For instance, according to 2023 statistics by the American Hospital Association (AHA), the U.S. possesses 6,129 hospitals, which comprise 84.0% community hospitals, 10.0% non-federal psychiatric, 3.0% federal government, and 2.0% other hospitals.

Specialty clinics held a moderate market share in 2023. Specialty clinics include surgical clinics, chronic end-stage renal dialysis clinics, mental health, pediatric specialties, and others. The growth of the segment was mainly due to the rising number of clinics globally and an increasing number of healthcare professionals employed in these settings. The growing number of people opting for private practice in the region is contributing to the growing demand for medical scrubs. Moreover, the emphasis of the government on extending their support to the under-served areas for developing healthcare facilities is also contributing to the growth of the segment.

• For instance, as per an article published by BBC News in January 2022, the majority of the general physicians (GPs) in France operate as an individual private practice, with 70% of consultations reimbursed by the French state. Additionally, the French government offers 50,000 pounds to GPs who commit to working in under-served areas.

MEDICAL SCRUBS MARKET REGIONAL OUTLOOK 

Based on geography, the market is studied across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of the World.

Asia Pacific:

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Asia Pacific dominated the market in 2023, accounting for USD 21.16 billion of the global market. This region held the largest market share due to the expanding healthcare sector. The region is projected to dominate the market in the upcoming years owing to the growing focus of market players on the development of innovative medical clothing products. The improved production capabilities of the medical textile industry in the region at a cost-effective price have majorly contributed to the market’s growth in the region. These capabilities also allowed the manufacturers to introduce their products internationally.

• In May 2022, Medikabazaar, one of India's largest B2B platform, launched NEXAGE, a premium scrub brand for modern healthcare workers in the country. The scrubs are available to healthcare professionals in varied colors and fabric range.

Additionally, the growing strategic initiatives by market players to launch new medical apparel which are further driving market growth in the Asia Pacific region.

• For example, in June 2022, Febris announced the launch of new scrub caps, Transplant Spark Scrub Cap, Refraction Spark Scrub Cap, Respiration Spark Scrub Cap, Brainy Spark Scrub Cap, and Dentures & Crowns Spark Scrub Cap in the Indian Market.

North America:

North America accounted for a considerable share of the market in 2023 due to the presence of advanced healthcare infrastructure in this region. The global medical scrubs market in North America is expected to continue growing throughout the forecast period, driven by the high adoption rate of medical apparel among healthcare professionals in the U.S. and Canada.

In addition, the growing demand for medical scrubs with enhanced functionality has created business opportunities for new market entrants in the U.S. To strengthen their position in the market, many players focus on launching new products with unique designs, contributing to the market growth in the U.S.

• For example, in May 2022, Classico, a medical apparel brand in the U.S., launched "Scrub Canvas Club, “a new line of medical scrubs designed with Pokemon characters. These scrubs are reusable and made from twill-weaved fabric with anti-static threads woven into the backside.

Europe:

Europe held a moderate market share in 2023. The implementation of policies for the reimbursement of protective equipment in the region has contributed to the growing adoption of medical apparel, including scrubs. In addition, the growing emphasis by market players on infection control strategies through the provision of antimicrobial medical apparel is driving market growth in this region. The introduction of national healthcare uniform projects, which promote cultural sensitivity and standardize clinical uniforms, is also contributing to the market growth in the region. 

• For instance, in February 2023, Alsico UK, one of the leading workwear manufacturers in the U.K., was awarded national healthcare uniform contract. Under this contract, the company would provide standardized medical uniforms to the National Health Service (NHS) staff working in clinical roles in England.

Rest of the World:

The market is projected to grow at a steady growth rate in the rest of the world. The medical scrubs market growth in this region is attributed to the developing healthcare infrastructure and the growing number of healthcare professionals in Latin America and the Middle East & Africa. The ease and comfort provided by scrubs make them a great choice for medical professionals, allowing them to move around easily.

Moreover, the implementation of regulations requiring the use of medical scrubs as uniforms is also one of the important factor contributing to the growth of the market.

• For instance, according to an article published by justneedles.ae in March 2023, Dubai, medical practitioners introduced the uniform regulation in which they have implemented scrub suits as their uniform. Some hospitals have implemented strict rules about the color of their identity, while some have allowed staff to choose their own colors.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Key Industry Players:

Increasing Focus of the Market Players on Partnerships and Acquisitions to Enhance their Product Offerings

This fragmented market comprises competitive players offering a wide range of reusable and disposable scrubs. FIGS, INC.’s primary focuses on expanding its product portfolio to meet the growing demand from healthcare professionals and is known for providing fashionable and functional medical apparel. As a part of its sales strategy, the company collaborates with colossal brands, contributing to its growing market share.  

• In December 2022, FIGS, INC. collaborated with highly regarded brands and medical professionals who have had a significant impact on the healthcare community, aiming to expand their product outreach in the market.

Kindthread focuses on acquiring significant brands operating in the market. The company aims to increase the penetration its product in the market. In addition to this, the company also emphasizes collaboration with key brands operating in the healthcare sector to strengthen its market position.

• In October 2022, Kindthread declared the global expansion of its premium medical apparel brand, White Cross. The company planned to launch global marketing campaigns to accelerate its growth.

Moreover, other players, such as Owens & Minor, Inc., BARCO UNIFORMS, Superior Group of Companies, and Adar Medical Uniforms, LLC., among others, have been focusing on new product launches to enhance their presence in the market. The rising focus of market players on the development of innovative designs and sustainable manufacturing practices for the creation of new, fashionable products is driving their growth in the global market.

• In August 2022, BARCO UNIFORMS announced the launch of Barco Unify, a new and fresh collection of healthcare apparel, to the market.

Furthermore, companies such as Adar Medical Uniforms, LLC. and Superior Group of Companies have a diversified portfolio of scrub suits catering to various healthcare segments. These companies have a strong focus on providing affordable medical apparel without affecting the quality of scrubs.

List of Key Companies Profiled:

• FIGS, INC. (U.S.)


• Owens & Minor, Inc. (U.S.)


• Superior Group of Companies (U.S.)


• Adar Medical Uniforms, LLC. (U.S.)


• BARCO UNIFORMS (U.S.)


• Matrix Workwear (U.K.)


• V.F. Corporation (U.S.)


• Febris (India)


• Kindthread (U.S.)


• Medka (Poland)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS:

• July 2024 - FIGS, INC. sponsored medical apparel for the U.S. healthcare medics and professionals from 26^th July to 11^th August 2024, during the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris. Each volunteer received a kit containing red, white, and blue scrubs, a jacket, a jumpsuit, and accessories to wear throughout the games.


• August 2023 - Kindthread announced the launch of White Cross CRFT, a new collection of medical scrubs in the U.S. market.


• February 2023 - Febris presented its personalized range of medical scrubs on Shark Tank India to received funding from investors.


• December 2022 - FIGS, INC. initiated an Ambassador Program, which aided them in forming business relationships with healthcare professionals.


• October 2022 - Kindthread relaunched its premier retail company Scrubs & Beyond, featuring a newly enhanced website and new in-store offerings.

REPORT COVERAGE

The global market report provides a detailed competitive landscape and market insights. It focuses on key aspects such as competitive landscape, type, usage, end user, and region. Besides this, it offers insights into the market drivers, market trends, market dynamics, COVID-19 impact on the market, and other key insights. In addition to this, the report encompasses several factors that have contributed to the growth of the market over recent years.

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