PUMA AG has reported worldwide brand sales growth of 3.4% to reach a total of €2.7 billion after currency adjustments. Footwear sales rose 1.9% on a comparable basis to € 1,478 million, with apparel up 5.7% to just short of €1 billion and accessories up 3.7% to € 262 million.
In 2007 the company expanded its own retail operations, with 25 PUMA Concept stores opened worldwide in the year. For 2008, earnings before interest and taxation is expected to increase. Operating margin, however, is expected to fall previous years, due to investments in major sports events and related marketing expenses in tandem with further expansion of the company’s own retail activities.
