Despite challenging market conditions, ASICS EMEA has reported growth in wholesale channels in several markets for the year to date (YTD) ending September 2020.
Revenue in ASICS’ wholesale channels increased year on year in Germany (+11.1%), France (+3.5%), UK (+3.0%), Sweden (+5.6%), Denmark (+7.4%), Poland (+17.6%) and Finland (+21.2%).
ASICS EMEA added that it has continued to see YTD e-commerce growth, with an increase of 134.4% year on year.
‘Despite the closure of ASICS stores and the stores of wholesale partners for up to three months due to COVID-19, ASICS recorded a consolidated net revenue decline of only 3.1% YTD versus the same period last year.’
Gaining market share in running
Citing the latest data from NPD, ASICS adds that it remains Europe’s number one running shoe brand and extends the gap between main competitors. In the first half of 2020, ASICS gained 3 share points of market share in footwear. This is in the ‘Made For / Used For’ running category in EU5 (UK, France, Germany, Italy and Spain) and increased sell-out by 4% year on year.
In the above €90 price band, ASICS gained 6 share points market share in footwear in the “Made For / Used For” running category in EU5.
ASICS EMEA, Chief Executive Officer, Carsten Unbehaun said “I’m extremely encouraged by these results. Despite all the challenges of COVID-19, we have gained market share, grown in key markets and accelerated our digital transformation.
“And through closely managing our costs, we have actually been able to increase profitability YTD versus the same period last year, which is a great achievement.”
He continued, “The results are a true reflection of our commitment to our customers and consumers. I am proud of the way our teams have worked together to build positive momentum for ASICS in our region and am confident for the future.”
First ASICS World Ekiden
ASICS recently announced the inaugural ASICS World Ekiden 2020. This is billed as team challenge that will see teams of up to six people from all over the world come together to complete a combined marathon.
Inspired by a century of Japanese running culture, the race will be split into six legs of varying distances, ‘making it perfect for runners of all abilities and experience’. The ASICS World Ekiden 2020 combines real-world and virtual racing thanks to a new race platform using both Race Roster and the ASICS Runkeeper app.
Supporting new runners
Consumer research undertaken by ASICS across Europe in July 2020, showed that 84% of those runners who started running during lockdown, planned to keep running. However, the research also revealed that over half (62%) of lockdown runners ‘admitted they hadn’t received any support or guidance, putting them at risk of injury.’
As a result, ASICS developed more ways to support all runners to find the right gear, including launching a new online shoe finder and an online booking service for consumers to have their running style analysed by an ASICS specialist.
