The data: The rapid growth in GLP-1 usage—the number of US prescriptions for weight loss has more than tripled over the past four years, per Epic Research—presents both an opportunity and a challenge for apparel retailers.

On one hand, GLP-1 users represent a large potential customer base. About 80% of GLP‑1 users anticipate needing new clothing due to size changes, per Circana. More than half (55%) have already purchased new clothing or footwear, primarily because their sizes changed, while 25% updated their wardrobes to refresh their appearance.

On the other hand, rapid weight loss—some users at peak loss can drop a clothing size each month—makes it difficult to know what will fit, which is driving a surge in returns.