Medical Uniforms Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Usability (Disposable and Reusable), By Gender (Male and Female), By Medical Professionals (Surgeons & Surgical Technicians, General Physicians, and Others), By Distribution Channel (Business-to-Consumer [B2C] {Online and Retail Store} and Business-to-Business [B2B]), and Regional Forecast, 2025-2032

The global medical uniforms market size was valued at USD 9.97 billion in 2024. The market is projected to grow from USD 10.70 billion in 2025 to USD 20.49 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 9.7% during the forecast period. Asia Pacific dominated the medical uniforms market with a market share of 42.73% in 2024.

Medical uniforms, also known as medical scrubs, are specialized clothes worn by healthcare providers, including surgeons, general physicians, dentists and others. This helps them to maintain hygiene and prevent the spread of contaminants in healthcare settings. These uniforms are comfortable, functional, easy to clean, and are most commonly made from cotton or polyester.

The market’s growth is driven by the increasing number of surgical procedures, which is anticipated to enhance the usage and demand for medical apparel.

• For example, as per the data provided by the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery in June 2024, around 15.8 million cosmetic surgical procedures were performed worldwide in 2023.

The market consists of several small and mid-size companies including FIGS, INC., O&M Halyard, Superior Group of Companies, BARCO UNIFORMS, and others. These players are enhancing their brand image and customer accessibility by introducing community initiatives and opening new physical stores across the globe.

• For instance, in April 2024, FIGS, INC. revealed that it recycled over 40,000 scrubs from healthcare professionals through a recycling initiative ("Scrubs That Don't Suck") to celebrate Earth Month.

MARKET DYNAMICS

Market Drivers

Rising Hospital Admissions and Surgical Procedures are Anticipated to Boost Product Demand

The growing number of hospital admissions, driven by aging and unwell population, significantly contributes to the rise in demand for medical clothing among healthcare professionals. Additionally, the surge in patient admissions due to chronic and acute illnesses has led to an increase in the volume of surgical procedures conducted worldwide.

• For instance, as per the data provided by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare in May 2025, there were 12.6 million hospitalizations in 2023-24 in Australia. Around 69.0% of all total hospital admissions were for elective surgeries.
• According to American Hospital Association Statistics 2025, published in April 2025, the total admissions in U.S. hospitals were 34.4 million in 2024.

Furthermore, the rise in surgical procedures has amplified the need and utilization of medical apparel in healthcare settings. Surgical scrubs are essential for surgeons and assisting personnel in the operating room, such as O.T. technicians, anesthesiologists, and others.

• As per the data provided by Springer Nature, in May 2025, a total of 63,427 cardiovascular surgeries, including 150 ventricular assist device implantations and 115 heart transplants, were performed in Japan in 2023, with a 3.0% increase compared to 2022.

Thus, increasing surgical procedures and hospital visits are expected to boost the demand for medical uniforms by healthcare professionals.

Rapidly Developing Healthcare Infrastructure and Growing Number of Healthcare Professionals to Enhance Market Growth

Several developing countries are investing heavily in building new hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities, which requires a large supply of medical uniforms, leading to a surge in demand.

• For example, in August 2024, White Lotus International Hospital launched a 400-bed super-specialty facility in Navi Mumbai, India, to provide advanced medical technology with accessible healthcare services to end users.

With the ongoing expansion of healthcare infrastructure, there is a rise in number of healthcare professionals, including surgeons, doctors, dentists, and others. This growth drives the demand for uniforms and protective clothing to ensure adequate supply and compliance with safety standards.

• For instance, as per the data provided by Al Arabiya in June 2023, Saudi Arabia is projected to require an additional 175,000 doctors and other healthcare professionals by the end of 2030 to address workforce shortages and meet the evolving healthcare needs of the expanding population.

Market Restraints

Rising Unethical Practices by B2B Platforms to Restrain Market Growth

Medical uniforms have long served as an essential attire and a symbol of professionalism in the healthcare sector. However, the rising number of unethical practices by certain B2B platforms, such as the sale of used medical apparel, has emerged as a significant concern. Therefore, the usage of such products increases the risk of contamination and infection within clinical settings.

Several large e-commerce platforms offer used medical scrubs at lower prices, which may appear cost-effective to some buyers but pose serious drawbacks, including higher infection risks, potential for contamination, and failure to comply with healthcare regulations. For instance, the e-commerce platform "Made in China" has been reported to sell used products in the Chinese market. Etsy is an e-commerce platform in India that sells used medical scrubs. Similarly, Alibaba.com is a business-to-business ("B2B") platform that connects and facilitates sales of used lab coats in the U.S. market.

Such practices and stringent regulatory adherence in developed and emerging countries are expected to restrain the medical uniforms market growth by raising safety, quality, and compliance concerns.

Market Opportunities

Increasing Adoption of E-Commerce Platforms for Medical Apparel Procurement Favors Market Growth

The demand among healthcare professionals for medical uniforms with advanced features such as antimicrobial protection and moisture-wicking capabilities is growing. This presents significant growth opportunities for market participants through the utilization of online sales channels. The convenience and easy accessibility of e-commerce platforms allow healthcare professionals to effortlessly purchase medical apparel, including scrubs, thereby supporting continued market expansion over the forecast period.

• For example, in May 2021, BARCO UNIFORMS launched its dedicated e-commerce website, BarcoMade.com. This platform was designed to streamline the purchasing experience for busy healthcare workers, enabling them to explore and buy their preferred Barco scrubs without the need to visit physical retail locations.

Market Challenges

Harmful Effects of Scrubs on the Environment is a Key Challenge for Market Growth

One of the significant challenges faced by the medical uniforms market is growing environmental concern related to microplastic pollution. Frequent washing of scrubs, necessitated by healthcare work conditions, contributes to the release of microplastics into water systems, posing sustainability risks that may negatively influence consumer perception and demand for the product if not adequately addressed.

• For instance, according to data published by ETHOS in December 2024, medical scrubs rank among the leading contributors to microplastic pollution through their usage and disposal due to the growing need for regular laundering in clinical environments.

MEDICAL UNIFORMS MARKET TRENDS

Rising Focus of Players on Developing and Launching Fashionable and Functional Medical Apparel

Medical professionals, including surgeons, physicians, dentists, and others, require medical clothing that balances design, comfort, functionality, and safety. In response to this demand, market players are increasingly introducing trendy, innovative product lines that combine aesthetics with practicality. Along with the focus on incorporating trending fashion into medical apparel, manufacturers are also adding essential parts to the scrubs, such as multiple pockets, making them more functional.

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

Furthermore, the growing number of strategic partnerships to develop advanced and fashionable medical clothing is a prominent trend expected to contribute to the market growth over the forecast period.

Other Market Trends

Development and Launch of Fashion-forward Designs: The growing demand for stylish and customizable scrubs among healthcare professionals is another crucial market trend. Several market players focus on providing comfortable and customizable medical apparel to attract more customers.

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

Technological Advancements in Medical Uniforms: The integration of antimicrobial and fluid-resistant fabrics has enhanced the functionality of medical uniforms, offering effective protection against infections. The development of smart textiles capable of monitoring vital signs is also on the rise. 

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Materials: There is an increasing preference for scrubs made from recycled textiles and organic substances. Various market players initiated strategic collaborations to manufacture new medical apparel from old ones.

• For example, in April 2024, FIGS, INC. announced its partnership with RoadRunner, a company offering contemporary waste and recycling solutions, to recycle used scrubs and transform them into new products.

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SEGMENTATION ANALYSIS

By Usability

Reusable Segment Dominates Due to High Adoption Rate of Reusable Medical Uniforms

Based on usability, the market is divided into disposable and reusable.

The reusable segment dominated the global market in 2024 and is expected to grow at the highest CAGR over the forecast period. This dominant share is primarily attributed to the widespread adoption of reusable medical apparel among healthcare professionals, owing to its numerous advantages over disposable alternatives. Key benefits include cost-effectiveness, enhanced durability, extended lifespan, and a lower environmental impact, which aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainability. The segment's growth is further supplemented by ongoing innovation from market players focused on developing advanced reusable medical apparel.

• For instance, in November 2021, Livinguard launched a line of self-disinfecting scrubs and underscrubs made from its EPA-registered, bacteria-eliminating fabric. These products are hypoallergenic, gentle on the skin, and maintain their antibacterial effectiveness even after multiple washes.

The disposable segment is expected to grow at a considerable CAGR from 2025-2032 as disposable medical scrubs provide clinical benefits, including ability to prevent cross-contamination. Additionally, disposable options can lead to lower operational costs by eliminating the need for laundering and maintenance associated with reusable medical apparel.

By Gender

Higher Number of Male Medical Professionals Contribute to Dominance of Male Segment

Based on gender, the market is divided into male and female.

The male segment is expected to dominate the market throughout the forecast period, primarily driven by the presence of a large number of male healthcare professionals working in medical facilities.

• For instance, as per the data provided by Kutest Kids in December 2024, men constituted about 60.0% of the active physician workforce, which translates to approximately 660,000 male doctors among 1.1 million total active physicians in the U.S. in 2024.

On the other hand, the female segment is anticipated to grow at the highest CAGR throughout the forecast period, owing to the rising number of female students opting for medical courses across the globe. Moreover, the trend of gender equality in all professionals, including the medical field, further supplements the growth.

• For instance, as per the data provided by Kutest Kids in December 2024, only 28.3% of doctors were women in 2007; however, this percentage increased to 37.1% by 2021, and over 50.0% of medical students in 2019 were women.

By Medical Professionals

Rising Number of Surgical Procedures to Boost Surgeons & Surgical Technicians Segment

Based on medical professionals, the market is divided into surgeons & surgical technicians, general physicians, and others.

The surgeons & surgical technicians segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR throughout the forecast period. The high burden of surgical procedures and the rise in the number of surgeons across the globe are few significant factors driving the segmental growth.

• For example, as per the data provided by the World Bank Group, in May 2025, the number of surgical procedures (per 100,000 population) in Hong Kong was 1,735 in 2022, and in Finland, it was 15,870 in 2023.

On the other hand, the general physician segment is anticipated to grow considerably throughout the forecast period, owing to the rising number of hospital admissions to diagnose several diseases.

• For example, as per the data provided by the Private Healthcare Information Network (PHIN), in June 2025, the total private hospital/clinic admissions in the U.K. were 900,000 in 2023, which increased to 939,000 in 2024.

Furthermore, the others segment comprises healthcare professionals from various disciplines, including radiologists, dentists, and physical therapists. The segment is expected to grow at a moderate CAGR over the forecast period. The advancements in imaging technologies and growing awareness about oral care are few major factors augmenting the segmental growth throughout the forecast period.

By Distribution Channel

Dominance of Business-to-Business (B2B) Segment is Attributed to Rising Collaborations Between Companies and Healthcare Facilities

Based on distribution channel, the market is divided into business-to-consumer (B2C) and business-to-business (B2B). The business-to-consumer (B2C) segment is further sub-segmented into online and retail stores.

The business-to-business (B2B) segment dominated the market by accounting for the major medical uniforms market share in 2024. The increasing partnerships between medical apparel providers and healthcare facilities, universities, and other institutions further propels segment growth by ensuring bulk procurement and a consistent supply of medical uniforms.

• For example, in October 2024, Medline Industries, LP entered into a multi-year prime vendor agreement with Kaweah Health, a California-based hospital. This partnership aims to enhance operational efficiency and includes the provision of surgical scrubs and other vital medical apparel.

The business-to-consumer (B2C) segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR from 2025-2032. This growth is mainly attributed to the strategic initiatives by leading market players to expand their retail presence and enhance brand visibility.

• For instance, in May 2024, FIGS, INC. launched its new "Extremes" collection featuring advanced fabrics and premium pricing, supported by a campaign showcasing healthcare professionals in challenging environments. The company also announced plans to open a second physical store, reinforcing its strategy to maintain brand control by avoiding wholesale distribution.

MEDICAL UNIFORMS MARKET REGIONAL OUTLOOK

In terms of regions, the global market is divided into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa.

Asia Pacific

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Asia Pacific dominated the market in 2024, accounting for revenue of USD 4.26 billion and a global market share of 42.7% market share, owing to the opening of new medical apparel stores in the region.

• For example, in November 2024, Classico Global opened an official online store for individual customers and teams in Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, Singapore, and Hong Kong, allowing Classico's innovative scrubs to be delivered directly to medical professionals across countries.

Europe

Europe accounted for the second-largest share of the market in 2024. The increasing number of surgical procedures in the U.K., Germany, France, and Italy, along with the increasing strategic alliances between medical apparel suppliers and government authorities for the distribution of medical uniforms in healthcare facilities. The introduction of national healthcare uniform projects, which promote cultural sensitivity and standardize clinical uniforms, also contributes to the market growth in the region.

• For example, in February 2023, Alsico U.K., a workwear manufacturer in the U.K., received a national healthcare uniform contract. As per this contract, the company provided standardized medical uniforms to the National Health Service (NHS) staff working in clinical roles in England.

North America

North America held a moderate market share in 2024 and is anticipated to grow moderately throughout the forecast period. This was largely attributed to the presence of advanced healthcare infrastructure and a large number of market players providing medical apparel. Additionally, the increasing launch of medical apparel to maintain hygiene and patient safety within healthcare settings is another crucial factor driving market growth in the U.S.

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

Latin America and the Middle East & Africa

The markets in the Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are projected to grow steadily during the forecast period. The growing number of surgical procedures performed in Brazil, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE is projected to increase the demand for medical uniforms, especially in small and mid-sized healthcare facilities.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Key Industry Players

Growing Focus of Market Players on Opening New Stores to Broaden Product Offerings

The market consists of key companies such as FIGS, INC., Superior Group of Companies, and V.F. Corporation, among others, offering an extensive range of reusable and disposable medical uniforms. These companies hold a substantial market share due to their strategic focus on opening new physical retail stores at different locations to strengthen product accessibility and enhance customer engagement.

• For instance, in September 2024, FIGS, INC. inaugurated its second retail outlet, the Rittenhouse Community Hub in Philadelphia, to expand its customer reach by offering medical apparel, including surgical scrubs.

Moreover, companies such as BARCO UNIFORMS, Febris, Classico Global, and Kindthread are undergoing strategic initiatives, including new store openings and product launches. Additionally, they are also entering into strategic collaborations and acquisitions to expand their geographic footprint and strengthen their position in the global market.

List of Key Medical Uniforms Companies Profiled

• FIGS, INC. (U.S.)
• O&M Halyard (U.S.)
• Superior Group of Companies (U.S.)
• BARCO UNIFORMS (U.S.)
• F. Corporation (U.S.)
• Kindthread (U.S.)
• ANSELL LTD. (Australia)
• Medline Industries, LP (U.S.)
• Cardinal Health (U.S.)
• Mölnlycke Health Care AB (Sweden)
• Classico Global (Japan)

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.
• February 2023 – Fabletics, Inc. introduced Fabletics Scrubs, a line of activewear scrubs in the global market.
• December 2022 – FIGS, INC. initiated an Ambassador Program, which aided them in forming business relationships with healthcare professionals.
• May 2022 – Classico Global, a medical apparel brand in the U.S., launched "Scrub Canvas Club," a new line of surgical scrubs designed with Pokemon characters. These scrubs are reusable and made from twill-weave fabric with anti-static threads woven into the backside.
• October 2022 – Kindthread relaunched its premier retail company, Scrubs & Beyond, featuring a newly enhanced website and new in-store offerings.

REPORT COVERAGE

The global medical uniforms market research analysis report provides a detailed competitive landscape and market insights. In addition to the global market size, it covers regional analysis of different market segments, profiles of key market players, and market dynamics. Moreover, the report encompasses several factors that have contributed to the growth of the market over recent years.

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REPORT SCOPE & SEGMENTATION