The footwear retail sector is definitely underperforming, especially compared with clothing and accessories. The current trade war between the US and its trading partners is not helping consumers recover from last year’s inflationary crisis. Consumer confidence has fallen by almost 30% in the first four months of the year as people believe that shoe prices may rise significantly again. Against this backdrop, importers are at a standstill, trying to guess the best course of action. Uncertainty is the word that best describes the current situation in the sector   

In the first quarter of 2025, the Portuguese footwear sector exported 20 million pairs of shoes, worth 453 million euros. This represents a 4.9% increase in volume and a 5.4% increase in value, as compared to the same period last year   

Import cargo at major US container ports is expected to decline year-on-year for the first time in over a year and a half in May, as the effects of the trade war on the supply chain start to become apparent   

The owner of Coach, Kate Spade, and Stuart Weitzman (whose sale is expected to be finalised in the summer) has reported strong performance in the first quarter, raising the outlook for the full year   

The Swiss sportswear company has reported a strong first quarter, with growth across all channels, regions and segments. As a result, the company has raised its full year net sales outlook   

Dick’s Sporting Goods has announced that it will acquire Foot Locker for 2.4 billion US dollars. This deal will give Dick’s a major international presence and greater market leverage with brands such as Nike and adidas