Keen gains ground on European soil

US outdoor footwear specialist Keen has seen its presence as a "trendy 'in'-brand" grow in its first year of business in Europe . Keen Europe saw order levels for the first half of 2006 are already at the same level as the whole of last year's sales together. The company now also offers almost twice as many models as the year before and is bullish about its future. "The initial signs are good that these optimistic expectations for sustainable growth throughout the whole fiscal year will be met," said the company.

Keen Europe is positioning itself as footwear producer that is able to combine originality with innovative shoe technology and craftsmanship. The goal is to be a "full-range provider" for hybrid footwear, "demonstrating its capacity to cover the whole range from sporty outdoor models all the way to stylishly trendy Boulevard shoes for lifestyle and leisure."

Meeting customer demand has not always been easy for the company during its rapid growth surge, but it is convinced that it will be able to better meet manufacturer and retailer demands this year. It has entered a partnership with a Belgian logistics firm and has solidified its relations with retail partners. Keen Europe "continues to be committed to its objective of just-in-time and even low-volume deliveries."

Keen Europe strengthened its workforce last year and plans to continue expanding its distribution, marketing and operations departments in order to exploit existing sales potential.