Weekly Newsletter - 13.06.2024

Newcastle United Partners with JD Sports and Zendaya as On's New Brand Ambassador

THE LATEST IN ATHLEISURE NEWS

NUFC TEAMS UP WITH JD SPORTS
Newcastle United Partners with JD Sports
Newcastle United Football Club has announced a multi-year partnership with JD Sports, making the retailer the club's official sports retail partner. This collaboration will see JD Sports stock official Adidas Newcastle United kits and merchandise in select stores across the UK and Europe, as well as online. The partnership aims to enhance accessibility to club products for fans, complementing Newcastle United's in-house retail business. JD Sports' extensive presence will provide supporters with greater access to the club's Adidas ranges.
FASHION GIANTS UNITE
AWWG and G-III Apparel Group Form Strategic Partnership
AWWG acquires 12% of G-III Apparel Group, becoming agent for DKNY, Donna Karan, and Karl Lagerfeld in Spain and Portugal. G-III expands in India with AWWG, aiming to boost brands like Pepe Jeans London and Hackett.
CHINA’S FITNESS FASHION BOOM
China's Sportswear Surge: Premium Brands on the Rise
China's growing interest in health and wellness is driving significant growth for premium sportswear brands like Lululemon, On, and Hoka. Leveraging social media influencers and community-targeted marketing, these brands are capitalizing on the trend. The Chinese sportswear market, the world's second largest, is projected to grow by 7% this year, benefiting premium brands as millennials and Gen Z prioritize fitness. Lululemon reported a 45% growth in China, with plans to expand further. New entrants like Vuori are also making strides, focusing on personalized brand experiences.
ZENDAYA’S NEW ROLE WITH On
Zendaya Joins On as Brand Ambassador
Zendaya, the Emmy-winning actress, has become the brand ambassador for Swiss running brand On. This collaboration marks a significant shift for On, blending Hollywood glamour with athletic performance. Zendaya, a longtime fan of sneakers, will actively co-produce campaigns and contribute to exclusive collections. This partnership aims to merge high-performance sportswear with cutting-edge fashion, leveraging Zendaya's star power to attract a broader audience and enhance On's visibility and style credibility in the fashion world.
CHAMPION’S NEW CHAPTER
HanesBrands to Sell Champion to Authentic Brands
HanesBrands is selling Champion to Authentic Brands Group for $1.2 billion, with potential incentives bringing the deal to $1.5 billion. This move allows HanesBrands to focus on core brands like Hanes and Maidenform, while Authentic Brands expands its presence in the athleisure market. The transaction is expected to close in late 2024, with HanesBrands providing transition services for Champion.
OUTDOOR VOICES’ FRESH START
Outdoor Voices' New Chapter: Acquisition and Expansion
Outdoor Voices, after closing its stores in March, has been acquired by Consortium Brand Partners, the owner of Draper James. Cory Baker announced Katie Siano will remain president, with plans to open new stores in 2025 and rehire furloughed employees. The acquisition aims for growth through international expansion and new product categories. Despite past financial struggles, Baker sees potential in the brand, focusing on wholesale channels and product improvements. Future expansions may include swimwear, outerwear, and fitness equipment, with international growth in South America and Asia.

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