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Tag: sneaker

  • CRC Sports Targets Thai Sneaker Market with 40% Stake in JD Sports Deal

    CRC Sports Targets Thai Sneaker Market with 40% Stake in JD Sports Deal

    CRC Sports, a division of Central Retail, has recently acquired a significant 40% stake in JD Sports Thailand. This strategic move is aimed at bolstering the company’s standing in Thailand’s rapidly expanding sports fashion sector.

    The transaction is projected to expedite growth in the premium sneaker and athleisure sectors, predominantly among the younger demographic. By merging CRC Sports’ expansive local retail network with JD Sports’ worldwide brand affiliations and merchandising expertise, the partnership is anticipated to be a formidable force in the market.

    Benefits of the Collaboration

    Tai Chirathivat, the CEO of Central Retail Brands and Specialties (CRBS), has highlighted the numerous benefits this collaboration brings. He emphasized that this partnership not only enhances their access to exclusive global products and licensing rights but also paves the way for the company to penetrate the sports lifestyle market fully. This sector, which is currently valued at over 35 billion baht (approximately US$1.1 million), is growing at an impressive annual rate of around 6%.

    With this acquisition, the company aims to seize up to 40% of the market share and emerge as the unrivaled leader in the sports lifestyle sector.

    JD Sports, a prominent player in the global market, currently runs more than 4,900 stores across 49 countries, hosting distinguished brands such as Nike, Adidas, New Balance, and On. Meanwhile, JD Sports Thailand operates 15 stores.

    On the other hand, CRC Sports operates over 129 stores throughout Thailand, featuring brands like Supersports, Rev Runnr, and Mono Store.

    Questions & Answers

    Why did CRC Sports acquire a stake in JD Sports Thailand?
    The acquisition aims to strengthen CRC Sports’ position in Thailand’s swiftly growing sports fashion market and accelerate its expansion in the premium sneaker and athleisure sectors.

    What advantages does the partnership between CRC Sports and JD Sports bring?
    The partnership combines CRC Sports’ extensive local retail network with JD Sports’ global brand affiliations and merchandising expertise, enhancing their access to exclusive global products and licensing rights.

    What is the growth rate of the sports lifestyle market in Thailand?
    The sports lifestyle market in Thailand is growing at an average annual rate of around 6%, and is currently valued at over 35 billion baht (approximately US$1.1 million).

  • Chinese Equity Firm HSG Acquires Majority Ownership of Luxury Sneaker Giant Golden Goose

    Chinese Equity Firm HSG Acquires Majority Ownership of Luxury Sneaker Giant Golden Goose

    Golden Goose, an Italian luxury sneaker manufacturer, announced on Friday that HSG, previously known as Sequoia Capital China, has become its main shareholder. The Chinese private equity firm acquired its stake from the current owner, Permira.

    Additional Investments

    Simultaneously, Temasek, Singapore’s investment firm, along with its subsidiary True Light, has purchased a minor stake in the Venice-based sneaker company. Golden Goose’s sneakers begin retailing at 500 euros a pair.

    This agreement values Golden Goose at approximately 2.5 billion euros (US$3 billion), including debt. The announcement did not disclose further financial specifics.

    Previous Ownership

    Permira, which bought Golden Goose in 2020 for 1.28 billion euros, will maintain a minor stake along with other existing shareholders, including Carlyle.

    Silvio Campara will remain the brand’s chief executive, while former Gucci CEO and current board member, Marco Bizzarri, will assume the role of non-executive chairman.

    Finalization of The Sale

    This sale concludes a process initiated by Permira in 2024. The British-owned private equity firm had attempted to publicly list Golden Goose on the Milan stock market but was compelled to withdraw the initial public offering due to market conditions.

    The transaction is anticipated to be finalized in the third quarter of next year. Earlier this year, HSG purchased a majority stake in the Stockholm-based audio equipment group, Marshall.

    In 2024, Golden Goose reported a revenue increase of 13% to 655 million euros, along with adjusted earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortisation of 227 million euros.

    Questions & Answers

    Who is the new majority shareholder of Golden Goose?
    Chinese private equity firm HSG, formerly known as Sequoia Capital China, has become the majority shareholder of Golden Goose.

    Who are the minor stakeholders in Golden Goose?
    Permira, Carlyle, Singapore’s investment firm Temasek, and its subsidiary True Light hold minor stakes in Golden Goose.

    Who will lead Golden Goose after the change in ownership?
    Silvio Campara will continue as the brand’s chief executive, and Marco Bizzarri will become the non-executive chairman.

  • Swiss Sportswear Giant On Debuts First Stores in Seoul, Amplifying Brand Presence in APAC Region

    Swiss Sportswear Giant On Debuts First Stores in Seoul, Amplifying Brand Presence in APAC Region

    Swiss activewear label, On, has established its inaugural retail outlets in Seoul, signifying the brand’s growth in the Asia-Pacific region. These outlets are conveniently located in the Hyundai Seoul department store and Lotte World Mall Jamsil, offering shoppers easy access to On’s comprehensive selection of footwear, clothing, and accessories.

    The unique aesthetic of the stores draws upon the spirit of Korean runners and the picturesque running routes of the city. From vibrant Seoul streets to rough-hewn gravel trails, the store’s design truly captures the essence of the local running community. Complementing this are the store’s modern aluminium and glass-like fixtures and counters, channelling a sleek and sporty vibe.

    On’s new retail spaces are more than just shops – they are community-centred hubs offering in-store programs and hosting community-driven events. In addition, they will be launching exclusive collaboration products with the Seoul-based ready-to-wear brand, Post Archive Faction (PAF), and the Zendaya collection.

    Rebecca Cai, On’s Asia-Pacific General Manager, expressed her excitement about the launch. She said, “Bringing the complete On experience to Seoul, our first direct-to-consumer stores in South Korea, aligns with our passion for design, innovation, and active lifestyles. The city of Seoul resonates perfectly with these values.”

    She added, “Our esteemed wholesale partners have laid a strong foundation in this market. These new flagship stores mark the next phase in our strategic, multi-channel evolution. They provide a unique environment to display our brand in its entirety, particularly our expanding apparel collection. Additionally, they serve as dynamic hubs where our community can meet, connect and find inspiration.”

    Questions & Answers

    What can customers expect from On’s new stores in Seoul?
    Customers can look forward to a full range of On’s footwear, apparel and accessories. The stores will also serve as community hubs offering in-store programs and hosting community-driven events.

    What inspired the interior design of the stores?
    The interiors of the stores draw inspiration from Korean runners and the city’s scenic running paths. The stores feature modern aluminium and glass-like fixtures and counters to channel a sleek and sporty vibe.

    What is the significance of On’s expansion into Seoul?
    This expansion marks On’s first direct-to-consumer stores in South Korea, representing a significant step in the brand’s growth in the Asia-Pacific region. It also symbolizes On’s ongoing commitment to fostering active lifestyles and community connection.

  • Reebok Unveils Playstation Inspired Footwear Collection To Mark Console’s 30th Anniversary

    Reebok Unveils Playstation Inspired Footwear Collection To Mark Console’s 30th Anniversary

    In commemoration of PlayStation’s 30th anniversary, Reebok has crafted an exclusive footwear collection in collaboration with Sony Interactive Entertainment. The Reebok x PlayStation collection, which boasts three distinctive sneakers, is a tribute to the gaming console’s founding regions: Japan, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

    Elements of Gaming Captured in Footwear Design

    The footwear line is steeped in nostalgic design elements that evoke the first PlayStation console. The nostalgic grey palette, vintage logos, and button-style accents capture the spirit of the console’s launch era. Each sneaker model is linked to a specific founding region, with unique designs and features that pay homage to these locations.

    The InstaPump Fury 94, priced at US$251, is associated with Japan. It incorporates memory card tongue labels, a “Press Play” pump ball, and discreet text that indicates Japan’s PlayStation launch date of December 3, 1994.

    The US model, Pump Omni Zone II, retailing for US$220, features a PlayStation-colored pump ball, alternative laces with metal tips, graphics inspired by memory cards, and a hidden note of the console’s US launch date, September 9, 1995.

    Lastly, the UK-version Workout Plus, priced at US$176, flaunts PlayStation’s circle, triangle, and square button motifs, as well as subtle text marking the UK launch date of September 29, 1995.

    A “Time Machine” Collection

    Mubi Ali, the global senior product marketing manager at Reebok, described the collection as a “time machine.” Ali elaborated on the nostalgia-driven inspiration behind the collection, stating, “It’s for the after-school music TV kids: Grunge in their headphones, wheels at their feet, and a dial-up world that feels wide open. We’ve brought those memories to life in every stitch, lace, and pump.”

    The collection, launching this month, will be available in limited quantities through select retailers in each of the represented markets.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the inspiration behind the Reebok x PlayStation collection?
    The collection is designed to celebrate PlayStation’s 30th anniversary and is inspired by the console’s launch-era aesthetic and its three founding regions: Japan, the US, and the UK.

    What are some of the unique features of the sneakers in this collection?
    Each sneaker model incorporates design elements such as a grey palette, vintage logos, button-style accents, and region-specific features. These include PlayStation-colored pump balls, memory card tongue labels, and hidden launch dates.

    When and where will the Reebok x PlayStation collection be available?
    The collection will launch this month and will be available in limited quantities through select retailers in Japan, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

  • Zendaya And On Unveil Collaborative Sneaker, Cloudzone Moon, In Apparel Collection Celebrating Individuality

    Zendaya And On Unveil Collaborative Sneaker, Cloudzone Moon, In Apparel Collection Celebrating Individuality

    Swiss athletic apparel company On has joined forces with acclaimed actress and producer Zendaya to introduce a new collection featuring her debut co-designed sneaker.

    The Collaboration

    The noteworthy partnership unveils the Cloudzone Moon, a meticulously engineered sneaker characterized by a breathable mesh top, a well-supported heel, and plush cushioning for maximum comfort. The collection is not limited to footwear alone; it also sees the introduction of various apparel pieces, including bomber jackets, bodysuits, and tracksuits.

    The Creative Vision

    In addition to her role as co-designer, Zendaya also contributed significantly to the creative direction of the promotional campaign for the collection.

    The actress expressed how this collaboration resonated with her personal connection to movement, a vital aspect of her self-expression. “Movement is a personal experience, unique to every individual,” she shared.

    She further articulated how the collection is a tribute to the diverse facets of all individuals, reminding us that our complexity and unique traits make us complete.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the name of the sneaker co-created by Zendaya and On?
    The sneaker co-created by Zendaya and On is called the Cloudzone Moon.

    What other apparel items are included in the collection launched by On and Zendaya?
    The collection also features bomber jackets, bodysuits, and tracksuits.

    What role did Zendaya play in the promotional campaign for the collection?
    In addition to co-designing the collection, Zendaya also contributed to the creative direction of the promotional campaign.

  • Adidas Revives 90’s Icon With ‘superstar, The Original’ Campaign, Narrated By Samuel L. Jackson

    Adidas Revives 90’s Icon With ‘superstar, The Original’ Campaign, Narrated By Samuel L. Jackson

    Adidas has launched a new campaign entitled “Superstar, The Original,” aimed at rekindling the public’s fascination for its iconic 90s sneaker and Firebird Tracksuit.

    Featuring Prominent Personalities

    The campaign is narrated by renowned actor Samuel L. Jackson and showcases a variety of personalities from the world of art and sports. Noteworthy appearances include Missy Elliott, Jennie, Anthony Edwards, Mark Gonzales, Glorilla, Teezo Touchdown, and Gabbrielle.

    Classic Sneakers with a Modern Twist

    Adidas is bringing back the Superstar sneakers in two of its original color schemes, but with the addition of upgraded padding in the tongue and collar for enhanced comfort.

    A Two-Chapter Narrative

    Directed by Thibaut Grevet, the black-and-white campaign unfolds in two distinct chapters. The first chapter, titled Pyramids, draws an analogy between significant cultural landmarks and the enduring cultural relevance of the Superstar. The second chapter, Clocks, encompasses the entire cast in a visual tale linking the sneaker’s legacy with the innovative spirit of a new generation of creators.

    More Than Just a Sneaker

    Annie Barrett, VP of marketing at Adidas Originals, emphasizes the campaign’s forward-looking perspective. “This campaign isn’t about looking back, it’s about spotlighting a new generation of Originals who are building what’s next, unapologetically,” Barrett said. She further stressed the significance of the Superstar beyond its function as a sneaker. “The Superstar has always been more than just a sneaker. It’s a symbol of originality and a spark for cultural change,” she added.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the objective of Adidas’ “Superstar, The Original” campaign?
    The campaign aims to renew interest in Adidas’ classic 90s sneaker and Firebird Tracksuit.

    Who are some of the personalities featured in the campaign?
    The campaign showcases several artists and athletes, including Missy Elliott, Jennie, Anthony Edwards, Mark Gonzales, Glorilla, Teezo Touchdown, and Gabbrielle.

    What does the Superstar sneaker symbolize according to Annie Barrett, VP of marketing at Adidas Originals?
    Barrett emphasizes that the Superstar is more than just a sneaker. It’s seen as a symbol of originality and a catalyst for cultural change.

  • Singapore sneaker platform Novelship secures US$9.5 million in Series B

    Singapore sneaker platform Novelship secures US$9.5 million in Series B

    Singapore-based sneaker marketplace Novelship has bagged US$9.5 million in its Series B funding round led by East Ventures, iGlobe Partners, and GSR Ventures.

    The company said the new funds will be used to accelerate its expansion plans in Southeast Asia, including enhancing its logistics capabilities, refining authentication processes, expanding its slew of in-house collections, and optimizing its environmentally-conscious delivery process.

    “As collectors’ priorities shift towards accessibility, efficiency, and integrity, Novelship stands firm in our dedication to enhance these aspects on our platform,” said Richard Xia, co-founder and CEO of Novelship.

    The company was founded in 2018 as a platform for buyers and sellers to trade authentic sneakers, limited-edition apparel, and exclusive physical and digital collectibles.

    The funding round came after Novelship’s recent collaboration with Snoop Dogg. The marketplace also introduced new in-house products, including Novelty-branded T-shirts, socks, shoelaces, and Shoe Sole Protectors.

    “Our recent expansion of collections and the introduction of new in-house products reflect our commitment to providing broader accessibility for all collectors,” Xia said.

    Novelship reported a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 37 percent in revenue and 55 percent in transactions.

    “Novelship has been proven as a one-stop marketplace to fulfill the desires of collectors,” said Willson Cuaca, co-founder and MD at East Ventures. “We also take great pride in witnessing how Novelship incorporates sustainable practices into its operations.”

    Further reading, Asics says its new sneaker offers the lowest CO2 emissions of any brand.

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  • Tiffany & Co collaborates with Nike on ‘Legendary’ kicks

    Tiffany & Co collaborates with Nike on ‘Legendary’ kicks

    Tiffany & Co has collaborated with Nike to release the Nike x Tiffany & Co Air Force 1 1837 sneakers and a limited-edition sterling silver accessories range.

    The sneakers, which will be available on March 7, are made of premium black suede, have a Tiffany Blue-coloured Swoosh, and co-branded silver elements over each heel.

    The Nike x Tiffany & Co Air Force 1 1837 will be available in women’s and men’s sizes, with a retail price of $356.98. The sneakers can be found in New York City Tiffany & Co locations: The Tiffany Flagship Next Door and Tiffany & Co SoHo, and globally via Nike’s SNKRS app and select Nike partner retail stores in North America.

    The brands said the collaboration is a continuation of the Air Force 1’s 40th anniversary and the businesses’ first collaboration on a “legendary pair”. Nike also partnered with Louis Vuitton last year to launch Dream Now, a brief pop-up event in Brooklyn, New York, featuring 47 pairs of Nike Airforce 1s designed by Virgil Abloh, to celebrate the anniversary.

    The basketball trainer was launched by Nike in 1982 and since then has gone on to become the most successful model ever created and symbolic in black culture.

    Aside from the launch, Tiffany & Co will release a line of limited-edition sterling silver goods, including a sterling silver whistle, shoe horn, shoe brush, and dubrae for the Nike x Tiffany & Co Air Force 1 1837 lace

  • Heineken drops new sneakers

    Heineken drops new sneakers

    Are you ready to ‘walk on beer’? Because Heineken’s here to ensure that you do just that! The infamous Dutch brewing company recently unveiled Heineken Silver – a new smooth, easy-to-drink beer brewed for a new generation of drinkers. And they decided to kickstart its launch, with a pair of kicks! Heineken collaborated with celebrity sneaker designer Dominic Cambrione, more popularly known as The Shoe Surgeon, to create – the ‘Heinekicks’.

    What are the Heinekicks? Quite simply put, they’re limited edition sneakers FILLED with beer. There are only 32 pairs available in the world, and yes, you heard it right, they actually contain soles filled with the new Heineken Silver. Heineken promises these liquid-filled kicks “will have you Walking on Beer”.

    The Shoe Surgeon maintained the brand’s iconic red, green, and silver colors in the shoes as well. The acclaimed designer has created kicks worn by the likes of LeBron James, DJ Khaled, and Drake.“Partnering with Heineken for their new beer was a fun challenge. We both share a passion for innovation and pushing boundaries and created a design to reflect that,” said The Shoe Surgeon. “The shoe not only embodies the energy of Heineken Silver but literally carries it. I can’t say I’ve ever designed a sneaker that contains actual beer before.’’

    He power-packed the sneakers with a sleek green lenticular upper with silver and red accents. A removable metal bottle opener has been integrated into the tongue of the shoes. This could come pretty handy when it’s time to pop open a cold one!

    Of course, the most fascinating element of the shoes is the transparent soles filled with the golden liquid, which is Heineken Silver. The beer was inserted into the soles using a specialized surgical injection method!

    The one-of-a-kind soles provide the wearer with an extremely smooth walking experience, drawing a smart parallel to the smooth taste of Heineken Silver. These are the first pair of sneakers that allow you to walk on beer and a super genius marketing hack! We can’t wait to see how avid beer lovers react toward Heineken Silver!

  • Singapore sneaker reseller Ox Street to launch in Australia, NZ

    Singapore sneaker reseller Ox Street to launch in Australia, NZ

    Singapore-based online sneaker resale marketplace Ox Street is launching a trans-Tasman expansion, opening an e-commerce store in Australia.

    “Australia is a perfect fit for the community we want to build in the long-term,” said Gijs Verheijke, founder and CEO at Ox Street. “We see a big supply gap when it comes to Australian buyers having access to the most coveted sneakers, whether they’re hot new drops or all-time classics.”

    Verheijke said the company, which was acquired by Carousell last October, has already built a large network of resellers across Australia and New Zealand during the past few years. Ox Street said the emphasis is on enabling faster delivery times and greater access to supply in an industry dominated by US and European megabrands.

    The Australasian launch is part of Ox Street’s ambition to build a “global hub for sneakerheads,” Verheijke said. The company’s short term plan is to build brand equity and a large part of that is being trusted to robustly authenticate the products before they reach buyers.

    Founded in 2019, Ox Street operates across eight Southeast Asian countries, targeting Gen Y and Z investors, collectors and fashion-conscious consumers. The brand reported sales growth surging more than four-fold during the past year.

    As part of the Australia launch, Ox Street has partnered with Sneaker Freaker in an Instagram-based sneaker giveaway worth more than $2000.

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  • Foot Locker Celebrates Youth and Sneaker Culture in Hong Kong with New Store Opening

    Foot Locker Celebrates Youth and Sneaker Culture in Hong Kong with New Store Opening

    Foot Locker, Inc., the leading global destination for speciality athletic-lifestyle footwear, apparel and accessories, has opened a new Power Store in Hong Kong.

    The new store, located in Gala Place, Mong Kok offers visitors a unique single level destination. This is the retailer’s 6th location to open in Hong Kong –– set to bring an engaging retail experience with premium product and elevated in-store presentations to enhance customer experience. The design celebrates basketball culture with a signature multi-branded basketball collection and area dedicated to the game. The store boasts dedicated women’s and kids areas and a studio and events space, to host brand partners and local influencers (pending COVID-19 restrictions).

    With impressive footwear and apparel collections from global brand partners, including Nike, Jordan, adidas, Puma, Converse, New Balance, Under Armour and streetwear brands including Chinatown Market and Carrots, customers can expect immersive experiences and elevated product storytelling for every occasion. The store will also provide men, women and kids lines for the sneaker obsessed and provide access to the largest selection of Nike Air Max Plus (TN’s) available in market.

    Mong Kok is a neighbourhood known for its vibrant sneaker scene and is a melting pot of cultures, a place where young Hong Kong people pursue their passion and express themselves. The store features specially commissioned artworks –by four local artists Way Fung @digiway, Stanley Wong @Sneakerconcept, Brian Liu @824Hachi and Zoie Lam @Zlism, inspired by Mong Kok and its relationship to sneaker and basketball culture. It also sets the tone for how Foot Locker will tailor the store to the local community.

    Commenting on the new store, Tomas Petersson, GM and VP, Foot Locker Asia, said, “We couldn’t be more excited for our store opening in Mong Kok. This has been a dream come true to have a store in this area where sneaker-style is so inspired and alive in the streets and really around every corner. This is our 6th store opening in Hong Kong – first in Kowloon and now in this store – we can’t wait to get to know our consumers and celebrate sneaker culture together.”

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  • Cole Haan Launches GRANDPRØ TURF SNEAKER Collection for Spring 2019

    Cole Haan Launches GRANDPRØ TURF SNEAKER Collection for Spring 2019

    Cole Haan, the innovative American lifestyle brand and retailer, will be introducing its newest dual gender collection, GRANDPRØ TURF, for Spring 2019. Providing the same featherweight construction as the top-selling GRANDPRØ TENNIS SNEAKER, the GRANDPRØ TURF SNEAKER offers retro style in a sports-inspired silhouette with versatile capability to be dressed up or worn casually.

    An instant classic with featherweight construction & retro T-toe styling

    Minimal, lightweight construction means everything you need and nothing you don’t, as the ultralight Grand foam allows you to move effortlessly. Craft, style and engineering combine to deliver Cole Haan’s operating system for footwear, Grand.ØS. Designed to drastically reduce weight, the Grand.ØS technology mimics the foot’s natural flexibility, offers dynamic breathability and provides responsive cushioning for maximum comfort.

    With silhouettes for both men and women, the GRANDPRØ TURF  features Cole Haan’s proprietary Grand.ØS energy foam integrated throughout the shoe and is fitted with a lightweight, injection-molded EVA sole for flexible ease. With the Grand.ØS technology, the sneaker allows for high rebound and lightweight cushioning that complements the natural running gait cycle of your foot.

    With a classic pivot point integrated onto its forefoot tread pattern, the GRANDPRØ TURF is paired with a rubber bottom for comfort and dual colour contrast effect. For retro finish, the sneaker features waxed handstitch detailing and classic T-toe styling in mixed material accents/full grain leather and crafted.

    The GRANDPRØ TURF collection is now available in Cole Haan Paragon and Suntec City stores.

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  • The coolest men’s sneakers from Paris Fashion Week

    The coolest men’s sneakers from Paris Fashion Week

    Paris Fashion Week Men’s was not lacking in head-turning street-style looks this year. Attendees brought their sartorial A-game to take in new fall ’19 collections from the hottest designers. A guest paired trendy Off-White socks with shiny silver Maison Margiela sneakers that featured a chunky platform sole and an iridescent finish. Cuffed denim jeans highlighted the pairing perfectly.

    Elsewhere, a guest showed off J.W. Anderson’s new Converse collab sneakers, which feature a rubber jagged platform sole. The high-tops debuted on the catwalk at Anderson’s spring ’19 show.

    Meanwhile, Adidas x Alexander Wang Turnout Mint White runners caught our attention with its chunky midsole design, a mash-up inspired by several previous Adidas sneakers.

    The Nike x A-Cold-Wall Zoom Vomero +5, designed by Samuel Ross, undeniably stands out with its enlarged heel counter. The style, which dropped in November, blends retro and futuristic elements.

    Lastly, the oversized red and white contrast leather sneakers by Alexander McQueen, which Timothée Chalamet has worn on the red carpet, of course, made an appearance at fashion week.

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  • It is sneaker time for luxury fashion

    It is sneaker time for luxury fashion

    What do you get when luxury fashion meets sport? $10,000 sneakers.

    High-end brands such as Kering’s Gucci, Prada and Balenciaga are increasingly looking to sneakers for growth, putting them in direct competition with sportswear giants like Nike, Puma PMUG.DE and Adidas, and giving rise to ever-more striking and expensive designs.

    Luxury groups say they are now increasing investments and marketing budgets to face down their new opponents.

    “When I saw sneakers were going to be a thing, I fought it for a bit,” Salvatore Ferragamo’s (SFER.MI) designer Paul Andrew said at a conference. “We’re definitely now investing heavily in that category, getting in very specialized people”.

    Global sales of sneakers – or trainers – rose 10 percent to 3.5 billion euros last year, outperforming a 7 percent rise in handbags, according to consultancy Bain & Co.

    “It’s not really even a trend anymore – it’s become a category,” said Bruce Pas, Men’s Fashion Director at U.S. department store Neiman Marcus.

    Both luxury groups and sports companies are looking to cash in on a booming market. Premium sneakers can start at around $400 but can easily rise as high as $3,000, for a pair of Christian Louboutin’s leather, crystal-embellished sneakers.

    Limited editions can sell for well over $10,000, including the Chanel X Pharrell Hu Race Trail or Nike’s Air Jordan 3 Retro DJ Khaled Grateful.

    Sneakers are a big driver of the luxury shoe business, which accountancy firm EY says is the fashion industry’s fastest-growing area.

    The rise of luxury sneakers is part of the growing influence of casual and streetwear in high-end fashion, where it is now acceptable to team sneakers with a tailored suit.

    Upmarket brands are tapping into street style to refresh their looks and young buyers are driving the shift. “Millennials” – born between the early 1980s and mid-90s – already represent a third of the luxury market, according to Bain.

    Several luxury group executives recently noted the importance of sneakers for their business and the need to step up their game to face the rising competition.

    Emilio Macellari, finance chief of Italian luxury goods company Tod’s – a pioneer in the sector, having launched its first Hogan luxury sneaker in 1986 – said “there is no brand that is not currently considering its (sneaker) offer”.

    Pointing out how times are changing, he said luxury brands were now “under attack” from sportswear companies, on top of the usual competition from their luxury peers.

    But so-called “sneakerisation” could steal market share from more traditional and formal-looking footwear, industry operators say.

    “What has changed is competition, with a clear overlap,” said Claudia D’Arpizio, partner at Bain & Co. “Luxury consumers are buying Nike and Adidas and vice-versa”.

    “If (luxury groups) go the sports way… it is only positive,” said Puma Chief Executive Bjorn Gulden said. “If that is a trend that pulls the sneaker market up, we can only be happy.”

    Analysts also say the intensifying competition is unlikely to erode profit margins because the market is expanding.

    “There is large space for prices moving up,” said Erwan Rambourg from HSBC. “The ‘luxurisation’ of sneakers could possibly impact margins positively”.

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  • DFS and Bally To Launch Exclusive New Galaxy Sneaker for Men and Woman

    DFS and Bally To Launch Exclusive New Galaxy Sneaker for Men and Woman

    DFS Group, the world’s leading luxury travel retailer, and Swiss luxury brand Bally are bringing back classic 1980s design with the launch of the new DFS x Bally Galaxy sneaker for men and women.

    A replica of one of Bally’s most iconic products, the new Galaxy is the company’s lightest sneaker yet. Available in two versions, a maroon for men and a blush derivation for women, both pay tribute to Bally’s origins in elevated sportswear, mixing luxury suede and leather detailing with a more breathable canvas and a new sporty treaded sole that provides greater traction.

    “At DFS, newness and innovation are hallmarks of our approach to delighting our customers. We are thrilled to be partnering with Bally on this exciting rendition of the Galaxy sneaker, and to introduce yet another product to our customers that is available only at DFS stores worldwide,” said Sibylle Scherer, DFS President Merchandising and Consumer Marketing.

    “Born in 1983 and recently relaunched, Bally’s Galaxy remains as modern and stylish as ever, whether you’re hitting the track or walking the city streets. We are delighted to be partnering with DFS to share this iconic sneaker with a whole new generation of Bally lovers,” said Frédéric de Narp, CEO Bally Group.

    The Galaxy is part of Bally’s Retro Sneaker Collection, a re-release of some of the company’s most iconic sneaker styles from the past four decades. The new collection includes four replicas of the most successful lace ups, from hip-hop era classics to tennis shoes and sporty runners.

    DFS and Bally will officially launch the new Galaxy sneaker on Saturday May 12 at T Galleria by DFS, Macau, City of Dreams. Following its release, the sneaker will be available exclusively at T Galleria by DFS stores worldwide.

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