Asics Europe continues strong growth

Sportswear brand Asics has reported “strong growth” across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, delivering a 7 percent increase in net sales to 248 million euros between January and March 2016.

The increase in the first quarter of its financial year was largely driven by an increase in sales for its running and indoor categories, as well as its lifestyle brand, Asics Tiger, which nearly doubled its business in 2016 compared to the first quarter of 2015.

Running footwear increased 7 percent, maintaining Asics above market growth, while women’s performance running apparel saw an increase of 14 percent, and indoor footwear sales grew by 15 percent, with stand-out growth in volleyball and in squash/badminton footwear.

Key markets contributing to Asics’ sales growth included Russia, which saw triple-digit sales growth, alongside France, Germany, Sweden, Austria, Poland and South Africa which all recorded double-digit sales figures. Sales in Asics’ own retail stores also recorded an increase in sales by 15 percent.

Asics Europe chief executive, Alistair Cameron, said: “Following years of double-digit growth, which has seen Asics double its business in the last five years, 2016 is about consolidated growth for the brand.

“In the future, Asics plans to focus its resources on a smaller group of quality retail partners whom we will work closely with. This will allow Asics to maintain high levels of service for consumers and ensure our positioning as a premium sports and lifestyle brand results in sustainable long-term growth.”

Images: Courtesy of Asics