Global consumption of rugbywear – including clothing, footwear and equipment – is estimated by NPD to have reached a value of €300 million last year. The highest national consumption was in Britain, with estimated sales of €84 million, followed by France with €54 million. NPD analysts expect the market to grow by between 20 and 30 percent this year because of the World Rugby Cup starting in New Zealand today. In 2007, when the event took place in France, it led to a tripling in French sales of these products to €100 million. NPD's research shows that between 400,000 and 480,000 professional and fan rugby jerseys are sold in France in a normal year. The World Cup will probably double the number of jerseys worn by fans to between 200,000 and 250,000 units, says NPD, adding that the number will be much higher in Britain.

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