Germany
Germany Retail: footwear slumps as e-commerce and imports surge
The German retail sector is split in two: the footwear and leather goods market is experiencing one of its worst years, with sales falling by 4.2% year-on-year in the first eight months of the year, while overall retail is growing and e-commerce is booming, fuelled by Asian marketplaces. Complicating matters further, footwear imports have surged in value by 16.9%, defying the decline in domestic sales and raising questions about the country’s trade position. Despite current volatile business conditions and subdued consumer confidence, the industry is cautiously seeking signs of positive change
Zalando reports strong third quarter boosted by About You acquisition
The online fashion retailer has reported another strong quarterly performance, boosted by the acquisition of About You. Zalando also announced a strategic partnership with the German Football Federation
Puma’s third quarter results show impact of reset strategy
The German sportswear brand saw a decline in quarterly revenue and margins as it continued its strategic shift, prioritising cleaner distribution and cost control for long-term recovery
New CFO at Zalando
The Germany-based online fashion retailer has appointed Anna Dimitrova as Chief Financial Officer. She will succeed David Schröder, who has served as interim CFO since March
adidas reports record third quarter revenue
The Germany-based sportswear company has reported a record-breaking revenue in the third quarter, driven by double-digit growth in footwear and apparel sales and in almost every region
Puma appoints new heads for retail and brand marketing
Following the reorganisation of the brand marketing division, Maria Valdes took on the newly defined role of Vice President of Brand Marketing, while Ronald Reijmers was appointed Vice President of Global Retail
069 CONNECT to redefine industry dialogue
HDS/L and Messe Offenbach present a new event that will gather brand leaders, retailers and decision-makers to exchange ideas and explore opportunities for the footwear industry
Global footwear trade: China loses ground, US imports rise in value
Year-to-date Chinese footwear exports are down, while Vietnam and Indonesia have grown. EU exports increased modestly, with Portugal performing better than Spain and Italy. US imports increased in value
Puma appoints new VP of People and Organization
The Germany-based sportswear company has appointed Thomas John as its new Vice President of People and Organisation, with effect from the 16th of October
Birkenstock raises full year revenue outlook
The Germany-based footwear company expects a year-on-year increase of 15.9%, or 17.5% on a constant currency basis, ahead of its previous guidance of 15% to 17%
Domestic demand fuels modest growth for the German footwear industry
The German footwear industry saw a 1.3% year-on-year increase in sales in the first half, driven solely by domestic demand. Foreign sales fell by 11%, highlighting market challenges, according to HDS/L
Birkenstock reiterates full year outlook on strong underlying demand
The Germany-based company has reported a strong third quarter performance in 2025, driven by underlying demand across all segments. Despite macro headwinds, it has reiterated its full year outlook
Strong second quarter for Zalando
The Germany-based online fashion retailer has experienced growth in revenue and profit in the second quarter. Investment in AI technology will now form part of its strategy for expanding its customer base
Offenbach hosts successful Barefoot Shoe Fair launch
Exhibitors and attendees praised Barefoot European Shoe Fair for its vibrant atmosphere, diverse product offerings and growing consumer interest, signalling a shift from niche to mainstream appeal
Germany Retail: cautious forecasts reign amid uncertainty
Although the retail sector has shown modest year-on-year growth overall, the footwear segment continues to struggle. Meanwhile, online sales have recorded double-digit increases since September 2024. The truth is that despite signs of easing inflation and seasonal discount campaigns, both retailers and consumers remain cautious amid geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty. The rebound seen earlier in the year has given way to cautious forecasts, particularly in light of the sharp downturn in footwear imports and the potential ramifications of shifting trade policies-
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