ASICS Europe’s sales increased 21 per cent for the first quarter of the year on the back of a 34 per cent increase in turnover for the brand’s running footwear.
Strong growth in the German performance running market, higher priced products and the development of new categories such as trail running drove the rise.
ASICS also enjoyed double digit growth in its indoor sports and tennis categories, as well as performance apparel.
During 2010 ASICS successfully reorganised its apparel design and development team in Europe and is now on track to quadruple turnover by 2015, as previewed in the company’s growth plan.
In Europe apparel is seen as it biggest growth opportunity and now contributes nearly 40 per cent of sales in ASICS’ owned retail outlets.
Regions across Europe performing well include Russia, which reported triple digit growth, while double digit growth was seen in the UK, Germany, Scandinavia, France, Benelux and Poland.
”We are outperforming the market in all key sports categories, while reinforcing our position as the undisputed leader in running,” says Alistair Cameron, CEO of ASICS Europe.
“With a clear strategy to develop ASICS as the true sport performance brand, we are ideally positioned for the Olympic year and beyond.
“With major product launches planned in the next six months, we are looking to continue the strong positive trend.
“We are on course to deliver ASICS’ goal for long-term sustainable growth.”
