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According to Reuters, Attorney General Paxton said emerging research and consumer concerns have raised ⁠questions about whether certain synthetic materials in the apparel could be linked to endocrine disruption, infertility, cancer and other health risks. PFAS are associated with harmful health effects in humans and animals, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency. The Office of the Attorney General will examine Lululemon's testing protocols, restricted substances list and supply chain practices against state safety standards. "If Lululemon has violated Texas law, it will be ⁠held accountable," Paxton ⁠said in his post....

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched an investigation into athleisure brand Lululemon over the potential presence of "forever chemicals" in its activewear, he said on Monday in a post on social-media platform X. The probe will examine whether Lululemon's athletic apparel contains PFAS, which the brand's health-conscious customers would not expect based on its marketing, Paxton said. PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of widely used materials called "forever chemicals" because they do ⁠not break down easily ⁠in nature. "Lululemon does not use PFAS in its products," a company spokesperson said, adding it phased out the substance in fiscal 2023, after limited use in durable water repellent products.

According to Reuters, Attorney General Paxton said emerging research and consumer concerns have raised ⁠questions about whether certain synthetic materials in the apparel could be linked to endocrine disruption, infertility, cancer and other health risks. PFAS are associated with harmful health effects in humans and animals, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency....

PFAS are associated with harmful health effects in humans and animals, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency. The Office of the Attorney-General will examine Lululemon’s testing protocols, restricted substances list and supply chain practices against state safety standards. “If Lululemon has violated Texas law, it will be held accountable,” Mr Paxton said in his post....

PFAS are associated with harmful health effects in humans and animals, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency. The Office of the Attorney-General will examine Lululemon’s testing protoco...

Texas Attorney-General Ken Paxton has launched an investigation into athleisure brand Lululemon over the potential presence of “forever chemicals” in its activewear, he said on April 13 in a post on social media platform X. The probe will examine whether Lululemon’s athletic apparel contains PFAS, which the brand’s health-conscious customers would not expect based on its marketing, Mr Paxton said. PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of widely used materials called “forever chemicals” because they do not break down easily in nature....

...A Lululemon store is in the Westfield Graden State Plaza shopping mall in Paramus, New Jersey, on Saturday, December 17, 2022. NEW YORK — Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched a probe into Lululemon over the potential use of harmful chemicals in its clothing. But the activewear company says it stopped using the so-called “forever chemicals” more than two years ago.

A 16-year-old from Florida charged with sexually assaulting and killing stepsister on a cruise ship3 contractors cited for violations in death of worker building major ICE detention camp, or perfluoro...

A 16-year-old from Florida charged with sexually assaulting and killing stepsister on a cruise ship3 contractors cited for violations in death of worker building major ICE detention camp, or perfluoro...

Texas is launching an investigation into the major athletic apparel brand Lululemon Athletica Inc. over the potential presence of “forever chemicals” in the apparel. Lululemon has come under fire in recent days over allegations of the brand’s use of “forever chemicals” —polyfluoroalkyl chemicals (PFAS) — in the clothing....

Attorney General Paxton’s investigation will examine whether Lululemon’s athletic apparel contains PFAS or “forever chemicals” that their health-conscious customers would not expect based on the brand...

Texas is launching an investigation into the major athletic apparel brand Lululemon Athletica Inc. over the potential presence of “forever chemicals” in the apparel. Lululemon has come under fire in recent days over allegations of the brand’s use of “forever chemicals” —polyfluoroalkyl chemicals (PFAS) — in the clothing. PFAS have been linked to various health issues, including infertility and cancer. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced the investigation on Monday, explaining that the Lone Star State will determine if the brand “misled consumers about the safety, quality, and health impacts of its products.”...

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched an investigation into activewear giant Lululemon amid concerns that its products may contain potentially harmful “forever chemicals,” according to an off...

Lululemon, a leading global activewear company, reported more than $11 billion in revenue in fiscal year 2025 and has built its brand around wellness, sustainability, and performance. However, emergin...

...Officials will also review the company’s Restricted Substances List, testing procedures, and supply chain practices to determine whether its products meet stated safety guidelines. RECOMMENDED: Lucha libre event in East El Paso raises funds for Best Friends Forever association “Americans should not have to worry if they are being deceived when trying to make healthy choices for themselves and their families,” Paxton said in a statement. “I will not allow any corporation to sell harmful, toxic materials to consumers at a premium price under the guise of wellness and sustainability.” The investigation could lead to legal action if violations of Texas consumer protection laws are found. Lululemon has not yet publicly responded to the announcement....

“The health and safety of our guests is paramount, and our products meet or exceed global regulatory, safety, and quality standards,” they stated. “We require all our vendors to regularly conduct testing for restricted substances, including PFAS, by credible third-party agencies to confirm ongoing compliance.” Daily Hive inquired about whether or not the affected products were sold in Canada, but did not receive a direct response....

...It can also affect the immune and nervous systems, and the development and reproductive system. In an email to Daily Hive, a lululemon spokesperson said that the company is cooperating with the investigation. They added that the company does not use PFAS in its products and that it was phased out in the 2023 fiscal year when it was used in a small percentage of water repellent products.

Lululemon is at the centre of a U.S. investigation over allegations that it uses harmful chemicals in its products, which the company denies. On Monday, U.S. Attorney General Ken Paxton stated that he has launched an investigation into lululemon over the potential presence of toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) or “forever chemicals” in its activewear. The investigation will look into whether or not PFAS is present in lululemon’s athletic apparel....

AUSTIN, Texas — Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched an investigation into athletic apparel company Lululemon over concerns about potentially harmful chemicals in its products. According to a press release issued Monday, Paxton’s office sent a Civil Investigative Demand to Lululemon USA Inc. as part of a probe into whether the company “has misled consumers about the safety, quality, and health impacts of its products.” The investigation will focus on whether Lululemon’s athletic wear contains PFAS — often referred to as “forever chemicals” — which some research has linked to health concerns, including “endocrine disruption, infertility, cancer, and other health issues,” according to the release. State officials will also review Lululemon’s internal policies, including its Restricted Substances List, testing protocols and supply chain practices, to determine whether its products meet the company’s stated safety standards.

“Americans should not have to worry if they are being deceived when trying to make healthy choices for themselves and their families,” Paxton said. “I will not allow any corporation to sell harmful, toxic materials to consumers at a premium price under the guise of wellness and sustainability. If Lululemon has violated Texas law, it will be held accountable.”...

...“I will not allow any corporation to sell harmful, toxic materials to consumers at a premium price under the guise of wellness and sustainability. If Lululemon has violated Texas law, it will be held accountable.” A statement from a Lululemon company spokesperson to WFAA said the retailer is cooperating with the investigation and pushed back on the allegations....

...Athletes weren’t the only ones made to look ridiculous. So too were the many fans that paid up to $200 to buy the Nike jerseys, who fumed about their poor quality on social media. “The way the shoulders are sewn together just makes them bunch like this no matter what,” one complained on Reddit....

“During the recent international break, we observed a minor issue with our Nike national team kits, most noticeable around the shoulder seam,” a Nike spokesperson said. “Performance is unaffected, but...

...If “computational design” sounds like a euphemism for AI, you might be on to something. A source familiar with the design process told The Guardian that it involves using elements of AI to work alongside its human designers, raising the possibility that an AI tool may have been involved in the flub. The athletic apparel maker acknowledged the shoulder bulge issue in a statement to The Guardian, but didn’t address how it occurred.

"Performance is unaffected, but the overall aesthetic is not where it needs to be. We always hold ourselves and our products to the highest standards and this fell short. "We’re working quickly to ma...

"Performance is unaffected, but the overall aesthetic is not where it needs to be. We always hold ourselves and our products to the highest standards and this fell short. "We’re working quickly to make this right for players and fans, because every kit should reflect the care, precision and pride that the game deserves....

The kits have been designed with cooling technology ‌to help players cope with high temperatures expected at the tournament, which kicks off on June 11 and is also co-hosted by Mexico. The issue comes as the struggling company faces questions over its product ‌innovation and works through excess inventory after a string ​of weak earnings. Chief Executive Elliott Hill has pledged to refocus Nike on ⁠core sports, and the company said on Friday ⁠it had appointed Andy Caine as chief innovation officer....

Nike is investigating a design issue affecting several national team kits before the FIFA World Cup 2026, British ‌media reported on Friday, after problems with ​the shirts became visible during ⁠last month’s international break. Bulging around the shoulder seams was visible on shirts worn by teams including ‌England, France and Uruguay during the international window. A Nike spokesperson told The ‌Guardian newspaper that the company had ‌identified ⁠a “minor issue” with the kits, adding ⁠that performance was unaffected but the “overall aesthetic is not where it needs to be.” The issue is present ​on both match ‌shirts worn by players and replica versions sold to supporters, according to the BBC, with some fans raising concerns....

Bulging around the shoulder seams was visible on shirts worn by teams including England, France and Uruguay during the international window. A Nike spokesman told The Guardian newspaper that the company had identified a “minor issue” with the kits, adding that performance was unaffected but the “overall aesthetic is not where it needs to be”. The issue is present on both match shirts worn by players and replica versions sold to supporters, according to the BBC, with some fans raising concerns....

...The American sportswear giant produces kits for a number of World Cup teams, including co-hosts the US and Canada, as well as Brazil, the Netherlands and Croatia. The kits have been designed with cooling technology to help players cope with high temperatures expected at the tournament, which kicks off on June 11 and is also co-hosted by Mexico. The issue comes as the struggling company faces questions over its product innovation and works through excess inventory after a string of weak earnings. Chief executive Elliott Hill has pledged to refocus Nike on core sports, and the company said on Friday it had appointed Andy Caine as chief innovation officer....

Nike has acknowledged a design flaw in the new England World Cup kit causing an unsightly shoulder bulge, with fans labelling the £134.99 shirt a 'complete joke' and turning to cheaper knock-offs Nike have admitted that their costly new England strips does contain a design flaw after facing criticism from supporters. The sportswear giant recently revealed their Three Lions' jerseys, which can retail at £134.99....

"During the recent international break, we observed a minor issue with our Nike national team kits, most noticeable around the shoulder seam," a Nike spokesperson told the Guardian. "Performance is unaffected, but the overall aesthetic is not where it needs to be. "We are a global team of best-in-class designers, creators and dreamers who spend every day thinking about how to innovate, challenge ourselves, and take risks that push the beautiful game....

..."We are a global team of best-in-class designers, creators and dreamers who spend every day thinking about how to innovate, challenge ourselves, and take risks that push the beautiful game. " "We always hold ourselves and our products to the highest standards and this fell short. We're working quickly to make this right for players and fans, because every kit should reflect the care, precision and pride that the game deserves....

..."We always hold ourselves and our products to the highest standards and this fell short," the spokesperson said. "We're working quickly to make this right for players and fans, because every kit should reflect the care, precision and pride that the game deserves. " The kits have been designed to incorporate performance cooling technology in an effort to combat the extreme temperatures expected at the tournament in the US, Canada and Mexico which begins on 11 June....

...The American company has produced England's men's and women's kits since 2013. "We always hold ourselves and our products to the highest standards and this fell short," the spokesperson said. "We're working quickly to make this right for players and fans, because every kit should reflect the care, precision and pride that the game deserves....

Nike has been forced to acknowledge that its costly new England kits contain a design flaw, following a fierce backlash from supporters. The sportswear giant recently revealed its design for the Three Lions' shirts, which can set fans back £134.99....

...The sportswear giant recently revealed its design for the Three Lions' shirts, which can set fans back £134.99. While the majority of complaints centred on the eye-watering price tag, many supporters were also quick to spot a problem with the actual design itself. Sharp-eyed fans zeroed in on the shoulder stitching, identifying an unsightly bulge wholly unworthy of such a premium item of clothing. This has driven many to seek out the black market, where Chinese counterfeit versions are available for a fraction of the cost....

..."We are a global team of best-in-class designers, creators and dreamers who spend every day thinking about how to innovate, challenge ourselves, and take risks that push the beautiful game. " Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT "We always hold ourselves and our products to the highest standards and this fell short. We're working quickly to make this right for players and fans, because every kit should reflect the care, precision and pride that the game deserves....

The Road Ahead: Scenarios and Strategic Pivots Looking toward the second half of 2026, the primary question for Lululemon is whether it can maintain this momentum without a permanent CEO. The search for a successor to Calvin McDonald is reportedly in its final stages, and the market is bracing for a potential "strategic pivot" once new leadership is seated. Short-term, the company must continue to execute its "2026 Action Plan," specifically the aggressive rollout into Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities in China and its expansion into new European markets like Greece and Poland.

...The search for a successor to Calvin McDonald is reportedly in its final stages, and the market is bracing for a potential "strategic pivot" once new leadership is seated. Short-term, the company must continue to execute its "2026 Action Plan," specifically the aggressive rollout into Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities in China and its expansion into new European markets like Greece and Poland.

...By the start of 2026, the stock had retreated nearly 70% from its 2023 highs. However, the appointment of an interim leadership committee focused on "Agile Merchandising" has successfully slashed product development cycles from 18 months to just 12, allowing the brand to respond to micro-trends with the speed of a fast-fashion retailer while maintaining its premium technical positioning.

...'Maybe when it goes on sale in four months but my god Nike has fallen off for a while now. What a shame, this might sound dumb but getting the new jersey is something I have always really looked forward too growing up, so seeing how poorly made these are makes me sad.' It has been reported that Nike partially leaned on AI during the design process for their latest cohort of kits. The sportswear giant is now said to be in conversation with the relevant federations and retailers regarding 'next steps' with the shirts.

After much criticism on social media from fans who have spent bucketloads on such shirts - England's home jersey costs up to £135 on the Three Lions' website - Nike has now acknowledged the comical flaw. The company said in a statement: 'During the recent international break, we observed a minor issue with our Nike national team kits, most noticeable around the shoulder seam. 'Performance is unaffected, but the overall aesthetic is not where it needs to be.'...

'We are a global team of best-in-class designers, creators and dreamers who spend every day thinking about how to innovate, challenge ourselves, and take risks that push the beautiful game,' Nike told the Guardian. 'We always hold ourselves and our products to the highest standards and this fell short. We're working quickly to make this right for players and fans, because every kit should reflect the care, precision and pride that the game deserves.'...

Andreeva flagged the rapid decline of Nike’s Classics business as a key concern, estimating the category will represent just 10% of sales by fiscal 2027, down from a period when Sportswear accounted for roughly 40% of revenues. "We worry what will replace that volume," she wrote. On leadership, Piper Sandler questioned whether Nike has sufficient fresh thinking to drive innovation at scale, noting that the vast majority of appointments under new leadership have been long-tenured Nike employees. Nike shares were down around 0.5% in premarket trading....

Under Armour has also faced corporate governance questions in the past but has strengthened its board with new independent directors possessing strong financial and retail expertise. These changes are viewed positively by some investors as supporting a potential strategic review, including possible sale or privatization scenarios, though no formal process has been announced. The company continues to invest in sustainability initiatives, digital transformation and athlete partnerships to drive long-term growth. Its connected fitness platform and apps remain part of the ecosystem, though less emphasized than in previous years....

...The company continues to invest in sustainability initiatives, digital transformation and athlete partnerships to drive long-term growth. Its connected fitness platform and apps remain part of the ecosystem, though less emphasized than in previous years. As of April 2026, Under Armour's path forward involves balancing near-term profitability pressures with strategic investments for future growth....

Under Armour has also faced corporate governance questions in the past but has strengthened its board with new independent directors possessing strong financial and retail expertise. These changes are viewed positively by some investors as supporting a potential strategic review, including possible sale or privatization scenarios, though no formal process has been announced....

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- It was quite the day over at Hawthrone Elementary School! Students got to bring their creativity to the forefront. Face paintings, a live DJ and free haircuts were just some of the fun offerings happening over at Hawthorne....

...Students got to bring their creativity to the forefront. Face paintings, a live DJ and free haircuts were just some of the fun offerings happening over at Hawthorne. But the main event was Adidas bringing in hundreds of pairs of shoes that functioned as a canvas for the students! Using paint, the styled up their shoes however they wanted - awakening a creative side that some maybe thought they didn't have!...

...Using paint, the styled up their shoes however they wanted - awakening a creative side that some maybe thought they didn't have! "The hope is that there is something else they can do that they didn't know, maybe an unlocked superpower that they have," said Alexander John, creative director and designer. "Now that starts a conversation about their creativity with someone else....

APRIL 17--A federal criminal investigation has uncovered a “large-scale theft” operation inside Nike’s Oregon headquarters, a scheme that targeted valuable sneaker prototypes and involved a Nike product manager, his predecessor at the shoe giant, and a Florida businessman who resold the “extremely rare” kicks to buyers nationwide, The Smoking Gun has learned. The reseller, Jason Keating, 35, was named yesterday in a U.S. District Court complaint charging him with receiving stolen property....

Nike officials told police that Ho had the “ability and authority” to order the production of sample shoes from a Nike factory in China. When those sneakers arrived at Nike’s campus, Ho would load the...

APRIL 17--A federal criminal investigation has uncovered a “large-scale theft” operation inside Nike’s Oregon headquarters, a scheme that targeted valuable sneaker prototypes and involved a Nike produ...

"Under Armour is proud to partner with Unrivaled Sports," said Craig Cummings, Under Armour Vice President, Team Division. "Unrivaled showcases a level of excellence in youth sport and Under Armour's committed to helping drive innovation and performance by delivering the best product and experiences for young athletes at Unrivaled tournaments and events. " In addition to the athlete-focused moments, DICK'S will serve as the Presenting-Level Sponsor of Ripken Nationals and the Ripken Nationals Championship, and deliver a premium brand presence throughout the tournament....

"These strategic partnerships and sponsorship models are incredibly meaningful as we strive to change the world of youth sports — by creating inspiring, inclusive, and memory-making experiences for young athletes everywhere, for boys and girls, across multiple sports, and across the country," said Andy Campion, Chief Executive Officer & Chairman of Unrivaled Sports. Unrivaled Sports, Under Armour and DICK'S will collaborate on a series of integrated, experiential activations designed to bring the partnerships to life for participants and fans with a broader roadmap of initiatives to follow throughout the year and beyond....

Nike has admitted that its World Cup kits suffer from a design flaw affecting the shoulder area, conceding the appearance does not meet expectations. The sportswear giant confirmed in a statement to the Guardian that whilst the shirts perform as intended, the visual element has fallen below acceptable standards.

Nike has admitted that its World Cup kits suffer from a design flaw affecting the shoulder area, conceding the appearance does not meet expectations. The sportswear giant confirmed in a statement to the Guardian that whilst the shirts perform as intended, the visual element has fallen below acceptable standards.

...You can always ask people to come and run on the road. But we wanted to come back to the community concept of Ekiden,” he adds. The initiative quickly evolved into a broader collaboration....

ASICS India is sharpening its focus on India’s fast-growing running culture, and its latest initiative, the Ekiden relay, signals a shift in strategy from participation to ownership, from sponsorship ...

...The Japanese sportswear brand recently hosted the first edition of the ASICS Ekiden India 2026. The relay, rooted in Japan’s long-standing running tradition, brings teams together to pass a tasuki, a ceremonial sash that symbolises continuity, shared purpose and teamwork. With more than 240 teams participating, each comprising four runners including at least one Japanese participant, the event served as both a sporting contest and a cultural bridge between India and Japan. For ASICS, the move is deliberate....

A source familiar with that design process told the Guardian this week that Nike’s “computational design” is driven by performance data, and incorporates elements of AI to work alongside the company’s designers as they craft a product. A source familiar with Nike’s rollout said on Tuesday that the company is now in conversation with partner federations and vendors as they weigh any next steps....

...Outdoor matches at this summer’s World Cup, played in the US, Canada and Mexico, may be among the hottest ever played in tournament history, an issue ostensibly addressed through the Aero-FIT design that serves as the framework for all of its authentic World Cup kits. “[Aero-FIT] leverages computational design and a highly specialized, stitch-specific knitting process to help athletes stay cool,” the company’ marketing material reads.

“We are a global team of best-in-class designers, creators and dreamers who spend every day thinking about how to innovate, challenge ourselves, and take risks that push the beautiful game,” the company said in its statement to the Guardian. “We always hold ourselves and our products to the highest standards and this fell short. We’re working quickly to make this right for players and fans, because every kit should reflect the care, precision and pride that the game deserves.”

An electrical contractor is suing New Balance, alleging the shoe manufacturer has not paid it nearly $255,000 for work on its Maine factory. Keeley Electrical Contractors did work at the Skowhegan factory in November and has not been paid, according to a lawsuit filed March 23 in Somerset County Superior Court....

...Keeley first filed a lien Jan. 30 in the Somerset County Registry of Deeds. The company said the nearly $255,000 of work was done by Invaleon at the New Balance factory around Nov. 24, 2025, and was not paid for. A letter about the lien was sent to New Balance, the lawsuit said. No response is recorded in the registry of deeds. New Balance completed a $65 million expansion to its Skowhegan factory in September....

In addition to inadvertently allowing bad actors access to the sensitive information, Nike also neglected to alert shoppers to the in a timely manner, the suit said. Affected parties were informed on Feb. 25, over a month after claims it unearthed the issue. What’s more, the individuals responsible for the ransomware attack released 1.4 terabytes of the Nike data on its website....

In addition to inadvertently allowing bad actors access to the sensitive information, Nike also neglected to alert shoppers to the in a timely manner, the suit said. Affected parties were informed on ...

The Oregon-based athleticwear titan has landed itself in hot water in an Oregon federal court, with a plaintiff claiming that the brand failed to secure and safeguard consumers’ personally identifiable information during a January data breach. The lawsuit, filed by complainant Maria Gomez, alleged that Nike did not properly secure the shopper information that it stored within its information network, which ranged from names and emails to billing addresses, phone numbers, transaction data and even payment card specifics. Now, Gomez wants to take the brand to task through a nationwide class-action suit and is seeking individuals whose privacy was compromised during the breach, which she argued was caused by an “inadequately protected network.”...

A jury verdict in March 2025 found in favor of Nike on one of its two patent infringement claims and rejected the remaining claim. Damages were awarded as a fine in the amount of $355,450 in favor of ...

...The lawsuit, initially filed in January 2023, claimed that the athleisure brand’s sneakers — Chargefeel Mid, Chargefeel Low, Blissfeel and Strongfeel — infringed on Nike’s utility patents related to its Flyknit technology in connection with how they are manufactured and including their knitted textile and structural elements. filed petitions with the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) to challenge the validity of Nike’s patents. Judge Subramanian declined to stay the district court lawsuit pending the PTAB review.

A jury verdict in March 2025 found in favor of Nike on one of its two patent infringement claims and rejected the remaining claim. Damages were awarded as a fine in the amount of $355,450 in favor of Nike. Judge Subramanian’s ruling last week that Nike’s patent claims as a matter of law were invalid on the ground of obviousness voids the jury verdict and the fine....

A jury verdict in March 2025 found in favor of Nike on one of its two patent infringement claims and rejected the remaining claim. Damages were awarded as a fine in the amount of $355,450 in favor of ...

The event is part of a broader initiative to grow women’s golf in the country by creating a welcoming and empowering environment for players of all skill levels—from beginners taking their first swings to seasoned competitors. “Let’s Golf Siz” underscores the increasing visibility of women in Philippine golf, as more female players take to the fairways not only for competition but also for community-building and personal development....

...Participants are encouraged to wear pink or shades of pink in line with the event’s Women’s Month celebration theme. Special prizes will also be awarded to guests sporting apparel from the sportswear brand Puma.

...The message wasn't necessarily a bad one, but the messenger was controversial, and that's where Nike faced the backlash. Not to mention, Nike also supported biological males "competing" in women's sports, then released this ad: The more the company dives into these "culture wars," the worse it gets for them, as we saw with their stock price tumbling. Let's also not forget their ad celebrating anti-American former Women's National Soccer Team athlete Megan Rapinoe:

...I don't see nearly as many Nike items as I did back when I was in school. This could be the result of parents pulling back purchasing from Nike due to the company taking a hard stance and endorsing the idea that Colin Kaepernick was blackballed by the NFL, featuring him in a Nike advertisement, and plastering him on billboards in the heart of New York City. The message wasn't necessarily a bad one, but the messenger was controversial, and that's where Nike faced the backlash....

...Not to mention, Nike also supported biological males "competing" in women's sports, then released this ad: The more the company dives into these "culture wars," the worse it gets for them, as we saw with their stock price tumbling. Let's also not forget their ad celebrating anti-American former Women's National Soccer Team athlete Megan Rapinoe:

Columbia native Myles Williams grew up in the middle of it all — Baltimore on one side, Washington on the other. Now, he’s helping bring both cities together through a sneaker. As an associate product manager for New Balance, Williams played a key role in designing the brand’s new “Baltimore vs. DC” 993 pack, which released Thursday for $199 each on New Balance’s website, meant to honor the culture that helped define the company’s identity in the region....

Columbia native Myles Williams grew up in the middle of it all — Baltimore on one side, Washington on the other. Now, he’s helping bring both cities together through a sneaker. As an associate product manager for New Balance, Williams played a key role in designing the brand’s new “Baltimore vs. DC” 993 pack, which released Thursday for $199 each on New Balance’s website, meant to honor the culture that helped define the company’s identity in the region. “It was really about paying homage to the DMV,” Williams said....

...“I’m a DMV baby,” he said. “I love both for different reasons.” For him, the release is about something bigger than sneakers. “This was about unity,” Williams said.

Now I'm not a marketing maven or anything, but here's a thought: If you're an American business, maybe don't feature in your advertising people who hate America? I can't answer for Nike's crashing in the China market, although it wouldn't be at all surprising to learn that the Chinese sportswear market is going more domestic - that's where most of this stuff is made, anyway. Nike's recent ad campaigns have apparently featured not only Colin Kaepernick, who whines about being "oppressed" while enjoying fame and fortune, but also the woke Megan Rapinoe and a "non-binary esports player" - whatever that is - named Dominique McLean. That's not very likely to draw a wide audience of loyal American buyers.

The latest sell-off was triggered by a bleak outlook, with Nike forecasting sales will slump 4 percent this quarter - a staggering $500 million fall in the value of shoes, tracksuits, and t-shirts. The brand is being hit by a triple whammy: backlash to its more ‘woke’ image shift, a failed retreat from major retail partners in favor of direct-to-consumer selling, and a deepening slump in China. Maybe pull back from featuring anti-American nuts like failed NFL player Colin Kaepernick in your advertising? Just a thought....

The latest sell-off was triggered by a bleak outlook, with Nike forecasting sales will slump 4 percent this quarter - a staggering $500 million fall in the value of shoes, tracksuits, and t-shirts. The brand is being hit by a triple whammy: backlash to its more ‘woke’ image shift, a failed retreat from major retail partners in favor of direct-to-consumer selling, and a deepening slump in China. Maybe pull back from featuring anti-American nuts like failed NFL player Colin Kaepernick in your advertising?...

Through storytelling, fashion, and digital culture, "Be Loved" reframes men's self-care as part of everyday life. The adidas Adistar Control 5 serves as a visual symbol of confidence, openness, and individuality, demonstrating how cultural relevance and product storytelling can work together....

Through storytelling, fashion, and digital culture, "Be Loved" reframes men's self-care as part of everyday life. The adidas Adistar Control 5 serves as a visual symbol of confidence, openness, and individuality, demonstrating how cultural relevance and product storytelling can work together. "With 'Be Loved', we wanted to challenge outdated narratives around masculinity," said Ryan Cassar, Director of Brand Marketing at SNIPES. "The campaign around the adidas Adistar Control 5 is a reminder that confidence, care and individuality belong in men's everyday lives. " The "Be Loved" adidas Adistar Control 5 launches on March 27 and will be available at select SNIPES locations and online at SNIPES.com. WE ARE SNIPES!

Featuring digital creator and Twitch streamer Raud, the campaign uses humor and real-world interactions to promote confidence, self-care and community among men PHILADELPHIA, April 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- SNIPES US, a leading global sneaker and streetwear retailer, is putting self-expression at the center of men's style with the launch of the exclusive "Be Loved" adidas Adistar Control 5, a campaign designed to challenge outdated ideas of masculinity and encourage men to show up confidently for themselves and for their communities. The limited release reimagines the classic running silhouette through a vibrant palette of red, pink, and purple, signaling a shift away from traditional menswear norms....

Former CEO John Donahoe acknowledged that the brand’s aggressive shift away from wholesale partners toward its own digital channels failed to sustain momentum. Now undergoing a massive leadership rese...

...Following a disappointing fourth-quarter earnings report that revealed deeper-than-expected challenges in its direct-to-consumer pivot, the Swoosh suffered an unprecedented market valuation loss of roughly $28 billion USD. The sportswear giant reported a 2% decline in quarterly revenue, driven heavily by a 10% drop in digital sales and an 18% plunge for its Converse subsidiary. Executives attributed the slump to a lack of fresh product and a strategic pullback on classic silhouettes like the Air Force 1 and Dunk.

Summary Nike shares plummeted by 20 percent in their worst single-day drop on record after the company lowered its annual sales guidance Management expects a mid-single-digit decline in fiscal 2025 revenue due to softening demand and a slowdown in the lifestyle footwear category The company is shifting its strategy back toward wholesale partners and performance innovation to counter rising competition Nike is facing historic turbulence....

In 2023 cofounder Tim Brown stepped down as co-CEO. His partner Joey Zwillinger followed suit the following year. Vernachio took on the role of CEO after holding the position of COO since 2021....

In 2023 cofounder Tim Brown stepped down as co-CEO. His partner Joey Zwillinger followed suit the following year. Vernachio took on the role of CEO after holding the position of COO since 2021. Store closures accompanied the change....

...In 2025, the company had a net loss of $77.3 million and used $55.1 million in net cash for operating activities. At the end of the year, Allbirds had $26.7 million between its cash and cash equivalents, with $17.4 million outstanding in its credit agreement. In an SEC filing, the company said it “does not expect to continue its operations” once the sale is complete.

Mary Fowler has reportedly signed a new $10 million deal with Adidas, a move that will see the Matildas star become one the highest-paid female athletes in football. The deal is one of the largest contracts with a sportswear brand signed by a women’s football player and comes after a bidding war between Adidas, Nike and New Balance, according to Code Sports, who first revealed the deal. Adidas is yet to officially confirm the partnership....

...Other brands she’s worked with include Weet-Bix, CommBank, Samsung, Rebel Sport, and Barbie. In 2024, she was one of nine female athletes honoured with a Barbie doll in their image. The new deal with Adidas is a significant milestone for women’s football in Australia, with the reported $10 million deal surpassing even Sam Kerr, who is being paid $13 million by Nike over 13 years.

...Throughout, the company failed to turn a profit. In financial filings Tuesday, Allbirds said it has “incurred significant net losses since inception” and expects “to incur significant losses and negative cash flows from operating activities in the future.” At the close of the year, the company employed 362 people, nearly 90% in the United States. More than 200 people worked in its stores at that point, though Allbirds now has fewer than 50 retail employees. The sale to AXNY is expected to close in Q2.

This audio is auto-generated. Please let us know if you have feedback. Dive Brief: American Exchange Group, whose brand portfolio includes Aerosoles, has agreed to buy direct-to-consumer footwear br...

...Throughout, the company failed to turn a profit. In financial filings Tuesday, Allbirds said it has “incurred significant net losses since inception” and expects “to incur significant losses and negative cash flows from operating activities in the future.” At the close of the year, the company employed 362 people, nearly 90% in the United States....

...Investors zeroed in on Nike’s weak outlook, which overshadowed the earnings beat and sent shares sharply lower. The company warned that sales will drop 2% to 4% in the current quarter and decline for the rest of the calendar year, driven in part by an expected 20% plunge in China. Over the past five years, Nike’s financial performance has been marked by stagnation at the top line and a sharp erosion in profitability. “If Nike’s recovery is a marathon rather than a sprint, then the company seems to be hitting a wall,” wrote Russ Mould, investment director at AJ Bell....

Anxiety is reportedly spreading at Nike as executives are telling employees to curb excess spending in the midst of disappointing earnings, which sent the storied company’s stock plummeting by 14% on ...

...“I’m so tired, and I know you are too, of talking about fixing this business,” he was quoted as saying. “I want to move to inspiring and driving growth and having fun.” Nike CFO Matthew Friend warned employees to tighten spending as the company grapples with a faltering turnaround, telling staff they must be disciplined about where money is allocated because the business “is not moving in the right direction,” according to a recording of the meeting. “We’re going to be managing costs carefully as we have been doing,” the CFO said.

Nike is leveraging technologies to differentiate its product offerings and strengthen its competitive position. Innovations such as self-inflating thermal apparel powered by Nike Air, the Liquid Air Max cushioning system, and Aero-FIT cooling technology demonstrate the company’s commitment to integrating engineering and digital intelligence into its products. These advancements are not only enhancing performance but also reinforcing Nike’s brand as a leader in sportswear innovation....

...The company expects these changes to generate tangible financial benefits starting in FY2027, with further improvements anticipated in the following years. AI Platforms Accelerate Innovation and Engagement Artificial intelligence is emerging as a central pillar of Nike’s long-term growth strategy. The company highlighted its Nike MIND platform as a key innovation engine that integrates AI into product development and consumer engagement. The platform has demonstrated strong traction, with more than 150 patents filed globally and over 2 million consumer sign-ups through Nike’s digital ecosystem....

...AI Platforms Accelerate Innovation and Engagement Artificial intelligence is emerging as a central pillar of Nike’s long-term growth strategy. The company highlighted its Nike MIND platform as a key innovation engine that integrates AI into product development and consumer engagement. The platform has demonstrated strong traction, with more than 150 patents filed globally and over 2 million consumer sign-ups through Nike’s digital ecosystem. Product launches linked to this platform have seen strong demand, frequently selling out across multiple markets....

(NBC, KYMA) - Nike is being sued after customers' personal information was exposed. A lawsuit filed in California alleges the global sneaker company failed to protect sensitive information, and waited too long to notify customers of a data breach....

...Nike is being sued after customers' personal information was exposed. A lawsuit filed in California alleges the global sneaker company failed to protect sensitive information, and waited too long to notify customers of a data breach. The suit claims names, addresses, phone numbers, and payment info were exposed. It says Nike discovered the breach around January 21, but didn't notify victims for over a month....

(NBC, KYMA) - Nike is being sued after customers' personal information was exposed. A lawsuit filed in California alleges the global sneaker company failed to protect sensitive information, and waited too long to notify customers of a data breach. The suit claims names, addresses, phone numbers, and payment info were exposed....

Hill, who took the helm in 2024, has looked to reset the business as the company grappled with a sluggish digital business, stubborn excess inventory and intensifying competition from Chinese sportswear brands such as Anta and Li Ning, which have deeper connections with Chinese consumers. TURNAROUND IN TURMOIL The turnaround "is taking longer than I would like," Hill said on Nike's third-quarter earnings call....

Nike has also lagged competition due to years of strategy missteps and lack of innovation. Meanwhile, Chief Financial Officer Matthew Friend said on the earnings call that the conflict in the Middle East is disrupting shopping behavior across its Europe, the Middle East and Africa business....

Hill, who took the helm in 2024, has looked to reset the business as the company grappled with a sluggish digital business, stubborn excess inventory and intensifying competition from Chinese sportswe...

The onetime darling of tech workers' feet was just purchased for a song. Allbirds, which IPOed in 2021 and hit a valuation of around $4 billion after its first day of trading, on Monday said it has agreed to sell its remaining assets for $39 million, reports Marketwatch. The buyer is brand management firm American Exchange Group, which the Wall Street Journal reports has brands including Ed Hardy and Aerosoles in its portfolio....

Analysts say Allbirds' signature Merino wool sneaker remained its only real hit as expansion into apparel, new shoe materials, and a growing store network failed to catch on beyond its early Silicon Valley fan base. Allbirds never turned a profit post-IPO, shut all but two outlet stores in the US, saw sales drop almost 20% last year, and reported a $77 million net loss for the year. The Times reports that shoes by On, Hoka, and Common Projects are what Silicon Valley tech workers are now flocking to....

...Attracting more than 2,000 participants each year, the trail race showcases Cappadocia’s unique landscapes while promoting sports tourism. The event was recently awarded first place in the “Community Impact in Sports Tourism” category at the inaugural UN Tourism Awards for Excellence in Sustainable Sports Tourism, organised in collaboration with the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA). These awards recognise initiatives that combine sustainability, innovation, and community engagement....

...These awards recognise initiatives that combine sustainability, innovation, and community engagement. The Cappadocia Ultra Trail stood out for its strong environmental awareness, contributions to local development, and its role in enhancing the region’s global image.

...These awards recognise initiatives that combine sustainability, innovation, and community engagement. The Cappadocia Ultra Trail stood out for its strong environmental awareness, contributions to local development, and its role in enhancing the region’s global image.

...We are building, brand by brand, sport by sport, country by country, partner by partner. We are reshaping our marketplace, rewiring how we operate, and investing in the technology platforms that we expect will help us serve more consumers better and run our business more effectively.

...Now we are rebalancing our offense through an integrated and elevated marketplace, and running a Key City offense. These moves require us to rewire our supply chain and upgrade our technology platforms. You saw the early signs of those actions this quarter, and it is a critical step in our return to double-digit EBIT margins.

SG&A Expense -- Increased 2%, including a $230 million charge for employee-related severance costs concentrated in Supply Chain and Technology. North America Revenue -- Up 3%; Running and Global Football grew double digits, Basketball up high single digits, Sportswear down double digits....

...Nike reported tangible demand signals for innovative products, notably with the Nike MIND platform selling out and triggering increased production for future periods. A $230 million severance expense was incurred to reset fixed cost structures in Supply Chain, Technology, and Converse, fueling expectations for profitability improvements beginning in fiscal 2027. Guidance calls for low single-digit revenue declines into year-end as North America improves, offset by a sharp downturn in Greater China from ongoing marketplace management and reduced sell-in....

We have new leadership in place, clearer strategies taken straight, and structural changes underway designed to strengthen these businesses over the long term. We are moving with urgency. We are not s...

...The company cited that as an outdoor apparel brand, it recorded a return rate of as high as 69.7 percent during the 2025 Double 11 shopping festival. From 2023 to 2025, shipments from its Tmall flagship store generated 190.36 tons of carbon emissions, while returns accounted for a further 40.9 tons. It even specifically cited the high return rate in women’s apparel....

Any unrefunded shipping fees will be donated to the environmental program “1% For The Planet” under the SEE Foundation, the announcement said. The company cited that as an outdoor apparel brand, it recorded a return rate of as high as 69.7 percent during the 2025 Double 11 shopping festival....

...It even specifically cited the high return rate in women’s apparel. “Therefore, we made a decision: during Earth Month this April, the Tmall flagship store will implement the ‘Earth usage fee’ policy,” the company said, adding that “it is not a punishment, but an invitation” for consumers to help reduce the environmental impact of online shopping.

...The company projects gross margin expansion to begin in the second quarter due to actions to mitigate tariffs and recovery of transitory impacts from Win Now. In the third quarter, the company's net income came in at $520 million or $0.35 per share, down 35 percent from $794 million or $0.54 per share last year. The latest quarter results included $230 million charge incurred due to employee-related severance costs primarily in supply chain and .

By Rawle Toney Kaieteur Sports – Rising sprint sensation Athaleyha Hinckson continues to make waves on and off the track, having officially secured a Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) deal with global sportswear giant Adidas. The agreement, which the athlete announced on her various social media platforms recently, marks another significant milestone in what has already been a standout freshman season at Louisiana State University (LSU)....

...As she prepares to represent Guyana at the upcoming CARIFTA Games over the Easter weekend, expectations are high for another strong showing. Hinckson will be looking to build on her junior success and translate her collegiate form onto the regional stage, where she has already proven herself a champion. Her Adidas deal also places her in elite company, as she joins fellow Guyanese and 400m standout Tianna Springer, who signed her own NIL agreement with the brand in 2024. Together, the two athletes highlight a growing Caribbean presence within one of the world’s most recognizable sports brands....

...Hinckson will be looking to build on her junior success and translate her collegiate form onto the regional stage, where she has already proven herself a champion. Her Adidas deal also places her in elite company, as she joins fellow Guyanese and 400m standout Tianna Springer, who signed her own NIL agreement with the brand in 2024. Together, the two athletes highlight a growing Caribbean presence within one of the world’s most recognizable sports brands. For Guyana, Hinckson’s rapid rise represents a bright future for the nation’s athletics programme, with a new generation of talent making its mark on the global stage.

Friend also detailed a $230 million charge for employee-related severance costs, primarily in supply chain and technology, with some associated with “right-sized operating costs at Converse.” He said the company is “reset[ting] our cost base” following pandemic-era investments that supported a larger digital/direct business but increased fixed costs as revenue later declined....

Friend also detailed a $230 million charge for employee-related severance costs, primarily in supply chain and technology, with some associated with “right-sized operating costs at Converse.” He said the company is “reset[ting] our cost base” following pandemic-era investments that supported a larger digital/direct business but increased fixed costs as revenue later declined. Friend said the actions should help lower costs, streamline operations and reduce capacity in distribution over time, shifting the supply chain toward a more variable cost structure....

Allbirds, the sustainable footwear maker co-founded by ex-All White Tim Brown, says it has sold its “intellectual property and certain other assets” for “an estimated transaction value of US$39 million ($68m)”. The firm will see shareholder approval for the asset sale, “and subsequent dissolution and winding down of the company”, Allbirds said in a statement. The process is expected to be completed by April 24, followed by a distribution to shareholders. Its fourth-quarter earnings call was cancelled and no financials will be released for the period. The buyer is the New York-based, privately-held American Exchange Group, founded by Syrian immigrant Alen Mamrout, which specialises in buying distressed or undervalued jewellery, lifestyle and footwear brands, then rebooting them with a leaner model....

...Cash started to run low as revenue dropped and Allbirds lost money quarter after quarter, despite cost-cutting measures that included closing most of its stores. Straight out of Wellington Brown quit as co-CEO in May 2023 but remains a director. The Wellington Phoenix midfielder and All Whites captain started Allbirds from a Cuba St flat in 2014....

...The firm will see shareholder approval for the asset sale, “and subsequent dissolution and winding down of the company”, Allbirds said in a statement. The process is expected to be completed by April 24, followed by a distribution to shareholders. Its fourth-quarter earnings call was cancelled and no financials will be released for the period. The buyer is the New York-based, privately-held American Exchange Group, founded by Syrian immigrant Alen Mamrout, which specialises in buying distressed or undervalued jewellery, lifestyle and footwear brands, then rebooting them with a leaner model....

...It expanded its product line too quickly, getting away from its core "wool runner" shoe and diluting the brand. Its focus on using sustainable materials meant that its products weren't always as durable as alternatives, and it opened brick-and-mortar stores too aggressively, eventually closing most of them. Allbirds' revenue peaked in 2022 and has steadily eroded since then as it has not had a quarter of positive revenue growth in more than three years....

The company made several errors that torched the business and the stock. It expanded its product line too quickly, getting away from its core "wool runner" shoe and diluting the brand. Its focus on using sustainable materials meant that its products weren't always as durable as alternatives, and it opened brick-and-mortar stores too aggressively, eventually closing most of them....

...It expanded its product line too quickly, getting away from its core "wool runner" shoe and diluting the brand. Its focus on using sustainable materials meant that its products weren't always as durable as alternatives, and it opened brick-and-mortar stores too aggressively, eventually closing most of them. Allbirds' revenue peaked in 2022 and has steadily eroded since then as it has not had a quarter of positive revenue growth in more than three years....

Since Hill took over as Nike chief executive officer in October 2024, Converse’s woes have worsened even as the parent company’s overall business has improved. For the latest quarter, sales likely fell around 26 percent from a year earlier, according to analysts’ average estimate....

More than a year into Elliott Hill’s attempt to revive Nike Inc., the sneaker giant’s Converse brand remains in free fall, with sales headed toward a 15-year low. One potential suitor has emerged: Authentic Brands Group Inc. has expressed interest in buying Converse if it’s put up for sale, people familiar with the matter told Bloomberg News....

Shares of Nike rose about 3 percent in Tuesday trading. The sportswear company releases its third-quarter results after the market closes on Tuesday. The report will offer an update on Converse’s perf...

A class-action lawsuit alleges that Nike failed to protect sensitive information and waited too long before notifying customers about a data breach in January, according to court documents. Lead plaintiff Maria Gomez, of Los Angeles County, California, filed the proposed class action suit on March 24 in U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon, according to Bloomberg Law News....

...The complaint alleges that the sports apparel giant breached its duties under common law, contract law, industry standards, and the Federal Trade Commission Act to implement reasonable and adequate data security measures. According to The Oregonian, the lawsuit claims that Nike discovered the breach around Jan. 21, 2026, but did not notify victims until more than a month later (Feb. 25). Court documents state that information exposed in the breach included names, email addresses, billing addresses, phone numbers and payment card information, according to a Nike notice referenced in the lawsuit.

...Lead plaintiff Maria Gomez, of Los Angeles County, California, filed the proposed class action suit on March 24 in U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon, according to Bloomberg Law News. The complaint alleges that the sports apparel giant breached its duties under common law, contract law, industry standards, and the Federal Trade Commission Act to implement reasonable and adequate data security measures. According to The Oregonian, the lawsuit claims that Nike discovered the breach around Jan. 21, 2026, but did not notify victims until more than a month later (Feb. 25)....

Hill in late January announced that Angela Dong, its top executive in China since 2015 , would be replaced by Cathy Sparks, who previously led Nike's Asia Pacific Latin America division. Nevertheless, Evercore said if the China results disappoint and management indicates it's too early to offer details on a turnaround strategy, the stock could see even more declines ahead....

...For that reason, Konik said investors want to understand where Nike stands on "sell-through," the term for retailers selling their inventory to customers. Under Hill, Nike has worked to repair its relationship with retailers after his predecessor, John Donahoe, made an aggressive push into selling directly to shoppers online and at its own stores. Nike's direct-to-consumer business has become a drag, with revenues declining 9% last quarter and 5% in the June-to-August quarter....

...It is CEO Elliott Hill's latest chance to show a skeptical Wall Street that his "Win Now" turnaround initiative is working. Since taking over in October 2024, Hill has made changes to executive leadership, managed to largely clear a backlog of classics inventory, and introduced a fresh lineup of products. Some of its recent drops include the Nike Mind collection , which officially launched in January, and the NikeSKIMS activewear collaboration with Kim Kardashian's brand.

Nike has now logged six straight quarters of decline in the China market. After a 17 per cent drop in the latest quarter reported in December, chief executive Elliott Hill described China as the “longest road” in the company’s global turnaround, conceding the need to “reset” its approach. The sportswear giant earlier this year appointed 25-year company veteran Cathy Sparks as vice-president and general manager of Greater China, succeeding long-time executive Angela Dong, charged with improving retail ties, clearing stale stock and speeding its digital push. Industry insiders say the problems run deeper than a growing rejection of foreign brands....

“Adidas is really trying to change the fit of the apparel, change the model of the sneaker, trying to respect our culture. But Nike is just changing the pattern, colour palette, or graphic – it’s not ...

...Structural issues have compounded Nike’s brand problems, according to two former and one current Nike China employees who spoke on condition of anonymity. A top-down decision-making culture blunted responsiveness to local demand, while repeated efforts to push poorly received products onto retail partners intensified inventory strains at a time of slowing consumer spending. Frequent discounting to clear excess inventory hurt Nike’s brand image and its wholesale relationships, they added.

BEAVERTON Ore. (KPTV) - A new lawsuit against Nike is now on file in federal court in Oregon, accusing the company of failing to adequately protect customer data and then waiting too long to notify people after a breach. The case was filed by Maria Gomez, a California resident, who is seeking to represent a proposed nationwide class of people whose personal information may have been compromised....

The lawsuit seeks class-action status and claims Nike’s handling of the incident amounts to negligence, breach of implied contract and unjust enrichment. It also raises California privacy claims on behalf of a proposed California subclass and asks a judge to order additional security measures....

...The lawsuit says customer information that may have been exposed includes names, email addresses, billing addresses, phone numbers, transaction information and payment card information. The suit also says Nike did not start notifying affected customers until Feb. 25, 2026, and that the company did not say when the breach started or how long it lasted. The complaint argues the incident was preventable and that the delay left people with less time to take steps to protect themselves.

...After a 17% drop in the latest quarter reported in December, Chief Executive Elliott Hill described China as the "longest road" in the company's global turnaround, conceding the need to "reset" its approach. The sportswear giant earlier this year appointed 25-year company veteran Cathy Sparks as Vice President and General Manager of Greater China, succeeding long-time executive Angela Dong, charged with improving retail ties, clearing stale stock and speeding its digital push.

...Nike has now logged six straight quarters of decline in the China market. After a 17% drop in the latest quarter reported in December, Chief Executive Elliott Hill described China as the "longest road" in the company's global turnaround, conceding the need to "reset" its approach. The sportswear giant earlier this year appointed 25-year company veteran Cathy Sparks as Vice President and General Manager of Greater China, succeeding long-time executive Angela Dong, charged with improving retail ties, clearing stale stock and speeding its digital push.

..."As a big Nike fan, I don't want to say Adidas is doing a better job than Nike, but I think sometimes you have to learn from your competitor. " Structural issues have compounded Nike's brand problems, according to two former and one current Nike China employees who spoke on condition of anonymity. A top-down decision-making culture blunted responsiveness to local demand, while repeated efforts to push poorly received products onto retail partners intensified inventory strains at a time of slowing consumer spending....

Structural issues have compounded Nike's brand problems, according to two former and one current Nike China employees ​who spoke on condition of ⁠anonymity. A top-down decision-making culture blunted responsiveness to local demand, while repeated efforts to push poorly received products onto retail partners intensified inventory strains at a time of slowing consumer spending....

Structural issues have compounded Nike's brand problems, according to two former and one current Nike China employees ​who spoke on condition of ⁠anonymity. A top-down decision-making culture blunted responsiveness to local demand, while repeated efforts to push poorly received products onto retail partners intensified inventory strains at a time of slowing consumer spending. Frequent discounting to clear excess inventory hurt Nike’s brand image and its wholesale relationships, they added....

Structural issues have compounded Nike's brand problems, according to two former and one current Nike China employees ​who spoke on condition of ⁠anonymity. A top-down decision-making culture blunted responsiveness to local demand, while repeated efforts to push poorly received products onto retail partners intensified inventory strains at a time of slowing consumer spending. Frequent discounting to clear excess inventory hurt Nike’s brand image and its wholesale relationships, they added....

...But Adidas is trying to crush that argument. By slapping them with heavy trade secret misappropriation charges alongside the standard copyright claims, Adidas is aiming to shut down that loophole for good. If the court sides with the three stripes, it’s going to set a massive legal precedent....

We aren't just talking about a blurry, leaked photo of a shoe taken on a factory floor. Adidas claims Sole Retriever somehow got their hands on highly confidential, unreleased product data. This included proprietary CAD (Computer-Aided Design) blueprints, exact retail pricing, and heavily guarded release dates. They even exposed top-secret details about upcoming signature sneaker models for NBA superstars Anthony Edwards and Donovan Mitchell....

...The kicker? The brand suspects those sources might actually include Adidas’s very own employees. Once Sole Retriever had the files, they’d blast them across their social media channels....

Beyond their revenue and their growth, ANTA is a company that focuses on “contributing to global humanitarian assistance,” as Lai Shixian, Executive Director and Co-CEO, stated. With this mission in mind, ANTA entered an official partnership with UNHCR in 2023 to reach 300,000 displaced children worldwide. Over the last two years, ANTA provided $1.5 million in financial support and 1.2 million pieces of sporting apparel and equipment to displaced youth,” to children in Burundi, Kenya, and Ethiopia....

ANTA’s contributions to UNHCR and global humanitarian assistance have been fundamental to assisting children who have been forcibly displaced across the globe, especially in Africa. Private partnershi...

...With this mission in mind, ANTA entered an official partnership with UNHCR in 2023 to reach 300,000 displaced children worldwide. Over the last two years, ANTA provided $1.5 million in financial support and 1.2 million pieces of sporting apparel and equipment to displaced youth,” to children in Burundi, Kenya, and Ethiopia. The Impacts

At Decathlon’s Northampton site, workers who previously walked up to 10km a day now cover closer to 1km, while workplace incidents linked to order preparation have fallen significantly, from “one per ...

He added that Exotec was selected because it could “deploy multiple sites in a short time and integrate scalable solutions that evolve with our needs”. “In five years, we have profoundly transformed the workplace experience within our warehouses and written the next chapter of logistics at Decathlon,” he said. Exotec co-founder and chief executive Romain Moulin said the programme demonstrates the company’s ability to deliver complex projects at scale....

...By standardising equipment and design choices across multiple locations, the company said it has been able to reduce costs and speed up deployment, particularly during the early performance ramp-up phase. Operations are coordinated through Exotec’s Deepsky® software, which ensures what the company describes as “seamless end-to-end operational continuity” across all sites using a shared system architecture. The programme has also delivered notable changes for warehouse staff, with a reduction in physically demanding tasks and increased opportunities for upskilling.

Through the partnership, adidas becomes the official Apparel Partner of the Canadian Futures Showcase presented by Rogers, continuing the brand’s commitment to supporting youth sports in Canada. The Canadian Futures Showcase is Canada’s marquee exhibition for high school baseball prospects to put their talents on display in front of scouts from elite colleges and Major League Baseball teams....

Through the partnership, adidas becomes the official Apparel Partner of the Canadian Futures Showcase presented by Rogers, continuing the brand’s commitment to supporting youth sports in Canada. The Canadian Futures Showcase is Canada’s marquee exhibition for high school baseball prospects to put their talents on display in front of scouts from elite colleges and Major League Baseball teams. Tryouts take place across the country, with only the best-of-the-best selected to participate in a week that includes a Scout Day, a full tournament, and a final exhibition that includes a Home Run Derby and the Tournament Championship Game....

ANTA also reported total charitable donations of over 800 million yuan in 2025 from the group and the Hemin Foundation, bringing cumulative donations to more than 3.5 billion yuan. "The Group's revenue surpassed 80 billion yuan for the first time....

...Revenue from all other brands surged 59.2% to 17.00 billion yuan, with operating profit jumping 55.3% to 4.74 billion yuan. DESCENTE's retail sales surpassed 10 billion yuan for the first time in 2025, making it the group's third brand to reach the milestone after ANTA and FILA. The group's research and development expenditure rose to approximately 2.2 billion yuan during the year as it launched an "AI365 Strategy" to integrate artificial intelligence tools across its value chain.

adidas is stepping into a space the performance footwear industry has long overlooked. With the launch of the Supernova Rise 3 Adaptive, the brand has introduced what it describes as its "first runnin...

...Functional additions like heel loops with magnetic toggles further address ease of use, an area often ignored in performance footwear. To get there, adidas partnered with GAMUT Management and worked with a broad set of users, including Paralympians such as Tracy Otto and Haven Shepherd, alongside individuals with mobility, sensory, and limb differences. The goal wasn’t simplification but usability – making a high-performance shoe that adapts to different bodies and needs....

These include a wider fit, a step-in heel designed for hands-free entry, a low-pressure lacing system to minimise irritation, and tactile elements to support those with visual or sensory needs. Functional additions like heel loops with magnetic toggles further address ease of use, an area often ignored in performance footwear....

...They added that there is “potential for Q4 gross margin stability as tariff mitigation ramps,” as Nike has started importing products at a lower 10% tariff rate following the IEEPA ruling. On the product front, Nike has begun rolling out its 2026 World Cup fan and performance apparel, featuring Aero‑FIT, a new performance fabric made entirely from textile waste. Analysts expect this launch to bolster Q4 and early fiscal 2027 sales....

The 2026 World Cup kicks off on June 11, and to get fans of every country primed to root for their squad, Nike has unveiled all its kits. They include France, Croatia, Türkiye, Poland, Nigeria, China...

All that activity was fully open to the residents of Brooklyn, no ticket required. A different version of a similar activation may be designed for broadcast, or hidden behind physical gating, but Nadia Kokni, Puma’s vice-president of brand marketing, says an open event in Brooklyn was a no-brainer....

...“Because this is where you can really see such a broad variety of communities and cultures coming together and fusing to drive culture forward... We love the idea of people from Morocco, Ghana, Ivory Coast, and New Zealand coming together and celebrating each other’s culture. Brooklyn is the perfect pivot point of that within the New York landscape.”

...It’s where cultures come together. So for us, it’s like, yo, Brooklyn is the one”. Expect to see this celebration of diversity throughout Puma’s World Cup output, says Kokni – across its athlete partnerships (including with US captain Christian Pulisic) and cultural partnerships (including with designer KidSuper). From a strategic point of view, Kokni says, all of that activity is rooted in experiences.

...Thomas seeks payment in excess of $50,000 and demands a jury trial. Thomas said the defendants profited from selling items using his identity without his permission, notably the sale of City Connect 2.0 jerseys that bear his name without his consent. Thomas claims he has received no compensation or other consideration from Nike, Fanatics and the White Sox for the use of his name and likeness “The complaint we filed alleges violations of the Illinois Right to Publicity Act,” wrote William T. Gibbs of Corboy & Demetrio, the law firm representing Thomas, in a statement. “Companies may not profit from anyone’s identity without their permission....

...The lawsuit was filed March 19 in Cook County, Illinois, and also named Nike and Fanatics as defendants. Thomas seeks payment in excess of $50,000 and demands a jury trial. Thomas said the defendants profited from selling items using his identity without his permission, notably the sale of City Connect 2.0 jerseys that bear his name without his consent. Thomas claims he has received no compensation or other consideration from Nike, Fanatics and the White Sox for the use of his name and likeness “The complaint we filed alleges violations of the Illinois Right to Publicity Act,” wrote William T. Gibbs of Corboy & Demetrio, the law firm representing Thomas, in a statement....

...Between 2017 and 2025, we all watched as Nike lost its way. A strategic pivot away from wholesale, a digital-first obsession, the sidelining of its creative directors, massive layoffs, and a relentless focus on short-term financial returns gutted the brand’s cultural capital. As someone who loved Nike and spent so many years with the brand, it was very hard to watch....

...As someone who loved Nike and spent so many years with the brand, it was very hard to watch. As a result, the revenue dropped 10 per cent year-on-year by 2025. Profit fell 44 per cent. On a single day in June 2024, the stock dropped 21 per cent, which was the worst trading day in the company’s history.

...Profit fell 44 per cent. On a single day in June 2024, the stock dropped 21 per cent, which was the worst trading day in the company’s history.

CHICAGO -- Hall of Famer Frank Thomas has filed a lawsuit against the Chicago White Sox--the team he played with for 16 of his 19 MLB seasons -- over what he alleges is unauthorized use of his likeness on uniforms. The suit, which was filed in Cook County, Illinois, also names Nike and Fanatics as co-defendants, seeks payment in excess of $50,000 and demands a jury trial. Thomas' complaint stems from the team's sale of City Connect 2.0 jerseys "on or about April 28, 2025" with Thomas' No. 35 on the front and Thomas' name and No. 35 on the back, alongside White Sox trademarks, logos and team and Nike branding....

"The complaint we filed alleges violations of the Illinois Right to Publicity Act," said Thomas' attorney, William T. Gibbs of Corboy & Demetrio, in a statement to ESPN. "Companies may not profit from anyone's identity without their permission. We believe our filing speaks for itself. " The White Sox said they do not comment on active litigation....

...The suit, which was filed in Cook County, Illinois, also names Nike and Fanatics as co-defendants, seeks payment in excess of $50,000 and demands a jury trial. Thomas' complaint stems from the team's sale of City Connect 2.0 jerseys "on or about April 28, 2025" with Thomas' No. 35 on the front and Thomas' name and No. 35 on the back, alongside White Sox trademarks, logos and team and Nike branding. ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7....

That pitch has resonated with investors, including apparel giant Lululemon, which itself produces mountains of clothing made from plastics. Lululemon recently participated in a $12 million funding round that also included Exantia, Happiness Capital, Kompas VC, and Leitmotif....

That pitch has resonated with investors, including apparel giant Lululemon, which itself produces mountains of clothing made from plastics. Lululemon recently participated in a $12 million funding round that also included Exantia, Happiness Capital, Kompas VC, and Leitmotif. The raise will help fund a demonstration-scale facility near Imperial College London; the company plans to follow that with a commercial scale facility that it expects to bring online in 2028 and that should be capable of producing 20,000 metric tons per year of monomer....

...The 2026 collection will be available from March 24th, featuring ULTRAWEAVE technology and dryCELL fabric across all jerseys. Replica kits are produced through RE:FIBRE as part of PUMA’s commitment to responsible innovation.

Retired White Sox slugger Frank Thomas filed a lawsuit against his former ballclub, Nike and Fanatics last week for allegedly using his identity for commercial purposes without his agreement. The complaint, filed March 19 in the Circuit Court of Cook County, alleges that Nike, Fanatics, Fanatics Apparel and White Sox violated the Illinois Right to Publicity Act by profiting from selling items like jerseys and uniforms bearing Thomas’ name without his consent or compensation. The complaint, filed by Corboy & Demetrio, asks for a sum not limited to $50,000 in response to the economic damage suffered from the alleged infringement....

Last year, jerseys like the City Connect 2.0 with Thomas’ name in the front and his number “35” in the back were sold by Nike, Fanatics, Fanatics Apparel and the White Sox, while no agreement between them and Thomas existed, the complaint alleges. Playing for the White Sox from 1990 to 2005 before officially retiring in 2010, Thomas earned the nickname “The Big Hurt,” a power-hitting first baseman and designated hitter known for “damage he inflicted on opposing pitchers,” according to the Baseball Hall of Fame, which inducted him in 2014....

Despite all the success he enjoyed with the White Sox in the past, Thomas has now filed a lawsuit against the organization. Also included in the legal dispute are sportswear manafacturing giants Nike ...

...The slugger claimed that the Chicago White Sox, Nike and Fanatics used his name and retired No. 35 to market and sell Chicago’s “City Connect 2.0” jerseys without asking for his permission or offering him any compensation. Frank Thomas claims the Chicago White Sox, Nike and Fanatics have been "unjustly enriched" In his lawsuit, Frank Thomas calls out the Chicago White Sox, Nike and Fanatics, claiming they have been "unjustly enriched" by using his name, jersey number and likeness without any prior permission.

...Also included in the legal dispute are sportswear manafacturing giants Nike and digital sports platform Fanatics. Per sources, Thomas has cited the “unlawful” selling of jerseys bearing his name and number without his consent or compensation in any way as the reason for filing the lawsuit. The slugger claimed that the Chicago White Sox, Nike and Fanatics used his name and retired No. 35 to market and sell Chicago’s “City Connect 2.0” jerseys without asking for his permission or offering him any compensation. Frank Thomas claims the Chicago White Sox, Nike and Fanatics have been "unjustly enriched" In his lawsuit, Frank Thomas calls out the Chicago White Sox, Nike and Fanatics, claiming they have been "unjustly enriched" by using his name, jersey number and likeness without any prior permission.

Summary adidas has officially introduced Project R.A.P. (Radical Athlete Perception), a cutting-edge new platform designed to create next-generation sports products through additive manufacturing Marking the first sports performance application of the new technology, the brand revealed an unnamed, fully 3D-printed basketball shoe The highly anticipated silhouette recently made its on-court debut on the feet of elite Kansas University guard Darryn Peterson and is slated to release in the coming months adidas is officially taking performance footwear into the future. During a special Pro Day event hosted at the newly renovated Innovation Lab at its North America headquarters in Portland, the sportswear giant unveiled Project R.A.P. (Radical Athlete Perception)....

...Built entirely around athlete movement and perception, the innovative silhouette is specifically designed to deliver a completely bespoke fit. By utilizing advanced 3D-printing techniques, the shoe’s internal structure can be perfectly tuned to provide highly specific, tailored levels of support, cushioning, and stiffness that traditional sneaker manufacturing methods simply cannot achieve. While the futuristic sneaker was only just officially introduced, it has already been battle-tested on the biggest stage in college hoops....

...During a special Pro Day event hosted at the newly renovated Innovation Lab at its North America headquarters in Portland, the sportswear giant unveiled Project R.A.P. (Radical Athlete Perception). Serving as a massive leap forward for the brand’s ongoing 3D-printing efforts, the cutting-edge platform utilizes advanced additive manufacturing to completely redefine how athletes experience movement, support, and on-court performance.

Fury is mounting among England fans after it emerged that the latest England national football team kit will be the most expensive in the nation’s history with many accusing manufacturer Nike of pricing loyal supporters out of the game. The new strip, released ahead of the 2026 World Cup, may have avoided design controversy this time around but it has ignited a fresh storm over cost.

In addition to Eddie Bauer, University Village recently lost a Tommy Bahama store. On Monday, Susie Plummer, University Village’s executive vice president, praised Brooks for its “strong commitment to community.” However, the announcement of the stand-alone Brooks location doesn’t necessarily mean the city can expect a smattering of store openings in the future....

The company’s Seattle-based workforce is around 600 employees, with a total of 1,400 around the world, Billish said. Brooks doesn’t originally hail from Seattle. Its roots trace back to a Philadelphi...

...“U Village alone is one of the premier retail destinations in the U.S., full stop,” he said. “The demographic perfectly overlaps with kind of the core of our consumer base.” The company plans to hire 12 to 24 staffers for both full-time and part-time roles to run the store, Billish added. At its new space in University Village, Brooks will join several other stores slated to open soon, including Catbird jewelry, Sézane women’s apparel, Mendocino Farms fast-casual restaurant and Visual Comfort & Co. lighting.

...The kits available from today are priced at approximately GH¢1,600 for the replica versions and are built using PUMA’s ULTRAWEAVE and dryCELL fabric technologies. Replica jerseys are produced under PUMA’s RE:FIBRE initiative using recycled textile waste.

Both kits were designed under the creative direction of renowned Ghanaian artist Prince Gyasi, merging high-performance sportswear with deep-rooted cultural aesthetics. The collaboration represents a shift in how kit design is approached for African teams, placing a local creative voice at the centre of an international product that will be seen on one of the world’s biggest stages. The unveiling also marks another chapter in one of African football’s most enduring kit partnerships....

Ghana’s 2026 World Cup kits go on sale globally today, and behind the bold colours and high-performance fabric lies a deliberate act of cultural storytelling, one that draws on West African folklore, Accra’s most famous market, and a 19-year partnership between the Black Stars and PUMA that has outlasted four World Cup campaigns. Rather than launching in a stadium setting or through a cinematic brand film, PUMA chose to reveal the kits in play, first worn by local community members from each nation on the streets of New York, with football legend and Ghana’s all-time leading scorer Asamoah Gyan taking centre stage to represent the Black Stars at the event.

...Also Read: Fernandez: There Was No Way I Would Turn Down Super Eagles Invitation The away kit is a clean white base adorned with dynamic green flame motifs rising from the lower body across the front, back, and sleeves. It is complemented by a dark green shallow V-neck collar and black-trimmed cuffs. According to Nike, the two designs emphasise performance fabric with Dri-FIT technology and incorporate sustainable materials. The launch of the kits comes at a time when Super Eagles are preparing for a four-nation international friendly tournament with Jordan, Iran and Costa Rica.

The jersey is built with Nike’s Dri-FIT technology and made from 100% recycled polyester, ensuring breathability and comfort for players and fans alike. Super Eagles' home kit keeps it classic with a modern twist Alongside the bold away strip, Nike also revealed a refreshed home kit that leans into tradition with a vibrant light-green base....

...The away kit boasts a clean white base adorned with dynamic green flame motifs rising from the lower body across the front, back, and sleeves. It is complemented by a dark green shallow V-neck collar and black-trimmed cuffs. Nike said both designs emphasise performance fabric with Dri-FIT technology and incorporate sustainable materials. The jerseys are pegged at 109.99 pounds, while the kids’ version is priced at 84.99 pounds....

...The away kit boasts a clean white base adorned with dynamic green flame motifs rising from the lower body across the front, back, and sleeves. It is complemented by a dark green shallow V-neck collar and black-trimmed cuffs. Nike said both designs emphasise performance fabric with Dri-FIT technology and incorporate sustainable materials.

...The kits are produced using Nike’s Aero-FIT technology, designed to ensure optimal ventilation and temperature regulation under high-performance conditions. Built with advanced materials and recycling processes, they also reflect a more sustainable approach to sportswear production. Subscribe to our newsletter the fields marked with * are required

...The look offers a strong and elegant visual identity while complementing the classic red-and-white home shirt. Both kits are produced by Nike and incorporate Aero-FIT technology, designed to improve ventilation and regulate temperature during matches. The shirts are also made using advanced materials and recycled components, reflecting a more sustainable approach to sportswear production.

...Equipping nations across four continents, with close to a quarter of all nations heading into this summer’s biggest competition wearing PUMA, we’re showing up at football’s biggest moment, reinforcing PUMA’s position as one of the leading brands in international football. “Combining cutting-edge performance innovation with cultural identity, this collection unites technical excellence and the spirit that brings nations together on the world’s biggest stage”, said Dominique Gathier, PUMA Vice President Teamsport. The 2026 kit collection will be available from March 24, featuring ULTRAWEAVE technology and dryCELL fabric, with replica jerseys produced through RE:FIBRE as part of PUMA’s sustainability drive. DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Adidas has filed a lawsuit against the sneaker information platform Sole Retriever, alleging a range of illicit activities, including extortion and the unauthorized use of trade secrets. The sportswear giant claims the site uses “stolen” data to leak confidential release dates and product details, which Adidas argues disrupts its marketing cycles and devalues its intellectual property....

Adidas has filed a lawsuit against the sneaker information platform Sole Retriever, alleging a range of illicit activities, including extortion and the unauthorized use of trade secrets. The sportswear giant claims the site uses “stolen” data to leak confidential release dates and product details, which Adidas argues disrupts its marketing cycles and devalues its intellectual property. Furthermore, the brand alleges that the platform’s business model exploits internal data for profit....

The company aims to shorten its product development cycle from the current 18-24 months to approximately 12-14 months. This acceleration will leverage automation and AI tools to improve speed-to-market without sacrificing the brand's high quality standards. Inventory composition and unit growth targets Management expressed confidence in current inventory health, noting that Q4 units were up only 6% despite higher dollar values driven by tariffs....

“With this addition, Lululemon has added five new independent directors to the board in the last five years, reflecting the board’s commitment to ongoing refreshment,” the company said in a statement. Activist investor Elliott Investment Management has also taken a more than US$1 billion stake in Lululemon. Jane Nielsen, a former chief financial officer and chief operating officer at Ralph Lauren, has worked with Elliott as it built up its stake....

...Lululemon is also increasing new product launches and enhancing the in-store experience. “We know we must improve our performance in North America,” chief financial officer Meghan Frank, who’s also serving as interim co-CEO, said during the company’s call with analysts. The company is looking for a permanent chief executive officer after Calvin McDonald exited the role earlier this year. In addition to Frank, chief operating officer André Maestrini is serving as interim co-CEO....

Shares of Lululemon fell as much as 2.2 per cent in premarket trading on Wednesday. The stock has declined 23 per cent this year through Tuesday’s close, much steeper than the drop of the S&P 500 Index over the same period. The performance gives founder Chip Wilson added fuel as he calls for strategic changes and an overhaul of the company’s board. Lululemon has also recently found itself back in an uncomfortably familiar position: facing backlash for poor-quality clothing that is too sheer for comfort....

When the shopkeeper finally brings out the RCB jersey and hands it to him, the boy’s face lights up. “Yeh wala mujhe bohot pasand hai (I really like this one),” he says with delight. Soon after, his g...

Eddie Bauer is shutting down almost 200 stores in North America after failing to find a buyer for the company that operates the locations. The operating entity is Eddie Bauer LLC, a portion of the holding company Catalyst Brands, which licenses the rights to operate Eddie Bauer stores in North America, Business Insider reported. The bankruptcy does not affect Authentic Brands Group and SPARC Group LLC, which own the brand and the intellectual property, according to The Street....

Eddie Bauer is shutting down almost 200 stores in North America after failing to find a buyer for the company that operates the locations. The operating entity is Eddie Bauer LLC, a portion of the holding company Catalyst Brands, which licenses the rights to operate Eddie Bauer stores in North America, Business Insider reported. The bankruptcy does not affect Authentic Brands Group and SPARC Group LLC, which own the brand and the intellectual property, according to The Street. Eddie Bauer stores have already started liquidation sales, with closings expected to wrap up by the end of April, Business Insider reported....

...The bankruptcy does not affect Authentic Brands Group and SPARC Group LLC, which own the brand and the intellectual property, according to The Street. Eddie Bauer stores have already started liquidation sales, with closings expected to wrap up by the end of April, Business Insider reported. An auction scheduled for March 6 to sell all or part of the business was canceled after no qualified bids were submitted. “The debtors will continue store-closing sales at all of their brick-and-mortar locations unless and until a more value-maximizing transaction becomes available,” the company said in court documents.

Regulatory, Policy, and Geopolitical Factors UFLPA Compliance: Lululemon maintains a "zero-tolerance" policy regarding forced labor, but rigorous auditing under the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act remains a high operational cost. Trade Tariffs: New 2025-2026 trade policies have placed significant pressure on Lululemon's Asian-centric supply chain, forcing the company to explore near-shoring in Mexico and Central America....

Regulatory, Policy, and Geopolitical Factors UFLPA Compliance: Lululemon maintains a "zero-tolerance" policy regarding forced labor, but rigorous auditing under the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act remains a high operational cost. Trade Tariffs: New 2025-2026 trade policies have placed significant pressure on Lululemon's Asian-centric supply chain, forcing the company to explore near-shoring in Mexico and Central America. ESG Accreditation: Achieving full accreditation from the Fair Labor Association (FLA) in late 2024 has helped insulate the brand from some social governance criticisms. Conclusion As we look at Lululemon on March 17, 2026, the company is no longer the high-flying growth darling it once was....

Board Under Fire: Board Chair Marti Morfitt is facing a proxy fight from founder Chip Wilson, who has nominated three independent directors (including former executives from On Running and Activision) to refocus the company on "technical excellence. " Strategic Void: The primary challenge for 2026 is finding a permanent CEO who can balance Wilson’s vision for exclusivity with the institutional need for scale. Products, Services, and Innovations Innovation is the lifeblood of Lululemon’s premium pricing....

Geography: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Rest of the World Key Players in the Outdoor Apparel Market Adidas AG – Focus on performance apparel and sustainability initiatives Nike Inc. – Expanding technical apparel and smart fabric integration VF Corporation – Diverse brand portfolio with specialty outdoor offerings Columbia Sportswear Company – Innovative fabrics and global retail presence Amer Sports – Strong DTC strategy and growth in Asia-Pacific markets Conclusion The outdoor apparel market is set for steady growth, driven by rising participation in outdoor activities, health-conscious lifestyles, and the use of advanced fabrics. Sustainable materials, regulatory compliance, and the expansion of e-commerce and direct-to-consumer channels are further supporting market growth....

Geography: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Rest of the World Key Players in the Outdoor Apparel Market Adidas AG – Focus on performance apparel and sustainability initiatives Nike Inc. – Expanding technical apparel and smart fabric integration VF Corporation – Diverse brand portfolio with specialty outdoor offerings Columbia Sportswear Company – Innovative fabrics and global retail presence Amer Sports – Strong DTC strategy and growth in Asia-Pacific markets Conclusion The outdoor apparel market is set for steady growth, driven by rising participation in outdoor activities, health-conscious lifestyles, and the use of advanced fabrics. Sustainable materials, regulatory compliance, and the expansion of e-commerce and direct-to-consumer channels are further supporting market growth....

...The Aero-Fit tech is, at its core, a hybrid cooling material that utilizes mesh zones to move air across the body and lift the fabric off the skin. The unique fabric is made out of in-house recycled materials, reformatted into a highly fibrous yarn. This allows for increased air flow, which evaporates moisture at a much higher rate....

According to Hypebeast, on March 12, adidas filed a lawsuit against Sole Retriever, alleging that the people behind the popular sneaker app were committing “corporate extortion” by threatening to leak their trade secrets along with unreleased product imagery in exchange for preferential treatment. In their lawsuit, adidas is accusing Sole Retriever and its founder, Harris R. Monoson, of threatening to leak adidas’ upcoming sneaker lineup if the brand didn’t keep its promises made to Sole Retriever....

According to Hypebeast, on March 12, adidas filed a lawsuit against Sole Retriever, alleging that the people behind the popular sneaker app were committing “corporate extortion” by threatening to leak their trade secrets along with unreleased product imagery in exchange for preferential treatment. In their lawsuit, adidas is accusing Sole Retriever and its founder, Harris R. Monoson, of threatening to leak adidas’ upcoming sneaker lineup if the brand didn’t keep its promises made to Sole Retriever. In an email sent in August of 2025, Sole Retriever wrote, “Just a heads up — we have the full AE2 lineup in every colorway…...

...The AE3 post alone pulled in over 12,200 likes, with the platform’s account allegedly boasting in the comments that the images came “directly from the brand.” The lawsuit notes that these materials were provided by unnamed individuals—listed as Does 1 through 5—who adidas suspects may include internal employees based in Oregon. Interestingly enough, the streets weren’t that hyped about the new Anthony Edwards sneakers (no shots), but still, Monoson felt that that info held enough weight to get adidas to play ball....

Summary adidas has reportedly filed a federal lawsuit against the sneaker release app Sole Retriever and its founder Harris R. Monoson, alleging trade secret theft, copyright infringement, and extortion The complaint claims Sole Retriever sent an ultimatum email, threatening to leak the full unreleased Anthony Edwards 2 lineup unless granted insider access Following the threats, Sole Retriever allegedly posted stolen confidential CAD designs for upcoming sneaker lines, prompting adidas to seek substantial financial damages and a permanent injunction adidas is taking aggressive legal action against the popular sneaker release platform Sole Retriever, alleging a shocking attempt at corporate extortion. Filed on March 12, 2026, in the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon, the lawsuit claims that Sole Retriever and its founder Harris R. Monoson weaponized stolen trade secrets and unreleased product imagery to demand preferential treatment from the sportswear giant.

The conflict allegedly reached a boiling point on August 31, 2025, when Monoson sent a highly aggressive email to adidas and Pitchblend contacts. According to court documents, Monoson accused adidas basketball of “stringing Sole Retriever along,” ignoring outreach, and making false promises. Framing the message as a “last attempt” to salvage the relationship, Monoson explicitly threatened the brand with massive leaks: “Just a heads up — we have the full AE2 lineup in every colorway…...

...The AE3 post alone pulled in over 12,200 likes, with the platform’s account allegedly boasting in the comments that the images came “directly from the brand.” The lawsuit notes that these materials were provided by unnamed individuals—listed as Does 1 through 5—who adidas suspects may include internal employees based in Oregon.

...Nike’s After Dark Tour global race is returning this year, with Manila one of the stops for the first time. The After Dark Tour, Nike said, “offers women around the world the opportunity to push new limits and celebrate their collective power and potential.” It will be a one-of-one event, as it combines running with an “electrifying night-time experience that seamlessly blends sport, culture and community, resulting in a one-of-one event at every stop.”...

MANILA, Philippines — On your marks. Nike’s After Dark Tour global race is returning this year, with Manila one of the stops for the first time. The After Dark Tour, Nike said, “offers women around ...

...Half marathon runs will be held in Los Angeles, Mexico City and Sydney. The After Dark tour is now in its second year, and builds on Nike’s longstanding history of supporting women runners around the world. Last year, the tour drew more than 50,000 women to seven races across five continents.

“Some of the most compelling stories in American soccer still come from the grassroots level,” said Kevin Miranda, Umbro’s digital consultant for North America. “El Farolito represents the kind of authentic community football culture that has always existed in the U.S., and we want to help support and celebrate that.” For the players, the World Cup is less a business opportunity than a mirror....

...There is something different about this year that goes beyond the fixture. The World Cup comes to the United States in June — the first time since 1994 — and the attention it brings has already found its way to the Mission District. Umbro, the English sportswear brand that kits out clubs across the Premier League and La Liga, recently signed El Farolito as part of its grassroots expansion in the United States. S. The team will serve as the showcase for Umbro’s new custom kit program — a platform that allows amateur clubs to design their own uniforms.

According to Nike, the company hosted a series of women’s races in major global cities from 2005 to 2015. The After Dark Tour, which Nike said last year’s inaugural event drew more than 50,000 women t...

In a press release, Nike said its After Dark Tour is a women-focused, “electrifying nighttime experience” designed to “blend sport, culture and community.” “The tour offers women everywhere the opportunity to push new limits and celebrate their collective power and potential,” Nike explained. In addition to Los Angeles, Nike After Dark 2026 will be held in six other major cities across the world:...

In a press release, Nike said its After Dark Tour is a women-focused, “electrifying nighttime experience” designed to “blend sport, culture and community.” “The tour offers women everywhere the opport...

...What the Program Includes Beyond the immediate NIL benefits for Booker — exclusive KD footwear, apparel, and access that no college athlete has had before — the partnership has a broader educational dimension. The University of Texas, Nike, and Boardroom will co-host an annual sports business summit open to all UT student-athletes and sports business students. The inaugural summit is set for later in 2026 and will feature marquee speakers, content and storytelling strategy sessions, financial literacy programming, and more....

...What the Program Includes Beyond the immediate NIL benefits for Booker — exclusive KD footwear, apparel, and access that no college athlete has had before — the partnership has a broader educational dimension. The University of Texas, Nike, and Boardroom will co-host an annual sports business summit open to all UT student-athletes and sports business students. The inaugural summit is set for later in 2026 and will feature marquee speakers, content and storytelling strategy sessions, financial literacy programming, and more. The goal, as articulated by the partners, is to equip student-athletes with real-world knowledge about the business of sports — preparing them not just to monetize their NIL while in school, but to build lasting careers and brands beyond their playing days.

...The inaugural summit is set for later in 2026 and will feature marquee speakers, content and storytelling strategy sessions, financial literacy programming, and more. The goal, as articulated by the partners, is to equip student-athletes with real-world knowledge about the business of sports — preparing them not just to monetize their NIL while in school, but to build lasting careers and brands beyond their playing days.

“We’ve seen an influx of new customers come to us through Reconsidered, so we’re excited to continue offering them even more options through our expansion into the apparel category.” Reconsidered is supported by resale platform Archive and Tersus Solutions, which provides cleaning, fulfilment and warehousing solutions for the scheme. “With Reconsidered seeing strong engagement and continued growth, New Balance expanding into apparel is a natural next step,” added Emily Gittins, CEO of Archive....

...“With Reconsidered seeing strong engagement and continued growth, New Balance expanding into apparel is a natural next step,” added Emily Gittins, CEO of Archive. “We’re proud to work with a brand that’s investing for the long term, building systems to help keep products in circulation at scale and proving that resale can be core to how a modern brand operates.”

Reconsider, which launched two years ago and has already helped to circulate 100,000 pairs of new Balance shoes, will now include apparel products. The scheme aims to extend the life of New Balance products....

In the letter, Wilson criticized management's willingness to invest and what he described as a reliance on heavy discounting. He cautioned that without meaningful changes in the boardroom, any new chief executive could face ongoing struggles to restore the company's performance....

This article first appeared on GuruFocus. Chip Wilson, the founder of Lululemon (NASDAQ:LULU) and one of the company's largest shareholders, is intensifying his pressure campaign against the retailer's board just as the company searches for a new chief executive. In an open letter directed at potential CEO candidates, Wilson warned that the role could prove difficult without deeper governance changes, suggesting that simply installing a new leader may not resolve the company's broader challenges....

...Chip Wilson, the founder of Lululemon (NASDAQ:LULU) and one of the company's largest shareholders, is intensifying his pressure campaign against the retailer's board just as the company searches for a new chief executive. In an open letter directed at potential CEO candidates, Wilson warned that the role could prove difficult without deeper governance changes, suggesting that simply installing a new leader may not resolve the company's broader challenges. Warning!...

...However, they added that a greater collaboration with law enforcement has already led to multiple arrests in 2026 alone. The source also stated that Lululemon is continuing to enhance its security measures, including the use of advanced technology and individuals on hand to monitor potential robberies in real time. “The safety and well-being of our people, guests, and the communities we serve is our top priority....

...The source also stated that Lululemon is continuing to enhance its security measures, including the use of advanced technology and individuals on hand to monitor potential robberies in real time. “The safety and well-being of our people, guests, and the communities we serve is our top priority. We take retail crime seriously and work alongside law enforcement partners to respond to incidents and support investigations,” a spokesperson said....

...This is not the first time they have faced organized retail crime. However, they added that a greater collaboration with law enforcement has already led to multiple arrests in 2026 alone. The source also stated that Lululemon is continuing to enhance its security measures, including the use of advanced technology and individuals on hand to monitor potential robberies in real time....

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission. Adidas is bringing the Nineties back, just in time for t...

Lululemon has paid a $702,900 fine for sending hundreds of thousands of emails that customers had no way of unsubscribing from. This comes after the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) launched an investigation against the companies over violations against the country's spam laws....

..."We have completed a thorough review of our practices for communicating with our guests and have made updates to our standard guest journey emails, including our order confirmation and delivery notifications to ensure ongoing compliance," the spokesperson assured. What Australian Law Requires Spam laws in Australia require businesses to include the option to unsubscribe from marketing and promotional emails and texts. In addition to the fine for violating Australian laws, Lululemon has also agreed to enter into an independent review of its spam rule compliance. The company is also required to regularly report to the ACMA regarding the implementation of recommended improvements.

..."In this case Lululemon sent service emails such as shipping updates that also contained sales material and direct links to promotions," ACMA member Samantha Yorke said in a statement. Yorke added, "This was an easily avoidable error that has led to hundreds of thousands of marketing emails being sent without a way for people to opt out."

When it comes to tennis kits, Nike is usually the brand that garners the most criticism (excluding Naomi Osaka’s kit); however, Nike is not drawing as much ire at Indian Wells as Adidas is. If you ar...

...Advertisement Lululemon has its main ambassador Leylah Fernandez in a bluish purple kit. MORE: Jessica Pegula shares reasons for her Indian Wells R2 slow start Except for Adidas, the major brands pivoted to different colors and styles from the Australian Open and Middle Eastern swing to the US Sunshine Double. This is another misstep that brings back memories of last year’s Y3 branding fiasco at last year’s US Open that thankfully bit the dust because no one understood it. — Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead — NFL: Predicting the first three 2026 NFL Free Agency signings MARCH MADNESS: ACC Tournament men’s basketball bracket, schedule revealed MLB:...

The collapse of the sale process is the clearest sign yet that Eddie Bauer's brick-and-mortar business may be at the end of the trail. The Seattle-founded retailer's store operator filed for Chapter ...

...The Seattle-founded retailer's store operator filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Feb. 9, citing declining sales, supply chain problems and rising operating costs. It was the third bankruptcy filing tied to Eddie Bauer's retail operations since 2003. "This is not an easy decision," Marc Rosen, chief executive of Catalyst Brands - the company that holds the license to operate Eddie Bauer stores in the United States and Canada - said in a statement....

Eddie Bauer's Bay Area stores, along with the rest of its North American retail fleet, are on track to close after the company's store operator failed to find a buyer in bankruptcy court. Eddie Bauer LLC, which operates the brand's U.S. and Canadian stores, said it received no qualified bids for its assets by a March 3 deadline, according to court filings. That forced the cancellation of a planned March 6 auction in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in New Jersey and left the company moving ahead with store-closing sales....

PENNSYLVANIA (WHTM) — Less than a month after Eddie Bauer’s store operator in North America and Canada filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, dozens of stores are hitting the market. Nexstar’s WHTM reported in February that Eddie Bauer, LLC announced that its retail operator had entered into a Restructuring Support Agreement (“RSA”) pact with its secured lenders as part of its Chapter 11 proceedings....

...However, at the time, it was uncertain which stores would eventually shutter. On Friday, RCS Real Estate Advisors, which is managing Eddie Bauer’s real estate matters during this bankruptcy process, announced it is now marketing 174 store leases across North America. To check out a full list of available store leases, you can click here.

PENNSYLVANIA (WHTM) — Less than a month after Eddie Bauer’s store operator in North America and Canada filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, dozens of stores are hitting the market. Nexstar’s WHTM reported in February that Eddie Bauer, LLC announced that its retail operator had entered into a Restructuring Support Agreement (“RSA”) pact with its secured lenders as part of its Chapter 11 proceedings. The company, which blamed declining sales and a litany of other industry headwinds for the Chapter 11 filing, also said it would begin winding down operations at certain locations. However, at the time, it was uncertain which stores would eventually shutter....

All Eddie Bauer stores are on the verge of closing after the clothing retailer failed to find a buyer as it navigates Chapter 11 bankruptcy, according to court documents filed in early March. Eddie Bauer LLC, the operator of Eddie Bauer stores in the United States and Canada, and a licensee of the Eddie Bauer brand, could not find a satisfactory bidder for its assets by its March 3 deadline, according to a notice filed in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court of New Jersey....

The Feb. 9 filing marks the third time the retailer has filed for bankruptcy, with the other two times occurring in 2003 and 2009. "This is not an easy decision," Marc Rosen, CEO of Catalyst Brands, said in a statement....

All Eddie Bauer stores are on the verge of closing after the clothing retailer failed to find a buyer as it navigates Chapter 11 bankruptcy, according to court documents filed in early March. Eddie Bauer LLC, the operator of Eddie Bauer stores in the United States and Canada, and a licensee of the Eddie Bauer brand, could not find a satisfactory bidder for its assets by its March 3 deadline, according to a notice filed in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court of New Jersey. Since the retailer had no qualified bids for its remaining assets, the auction set for March 6 was canceled....

Pentagon Labels Anthropic a Supply-Chain Risk, Amodei Apologizes for Memo The label could have far-reaching consequences for other companies that work with the government, but Anthropic's CEO says the scope of the law is narrower than the Pentagon has suggested. ---- Nike to Record $300 Million Charge From Cost-Cutting Efforts The sneaker company said the charge is primarily associated with employee severance costs, and that it is continuing to evaluate opportunities to operate more efficiently and profitably. ---- Costco Evaluating Possibility of Tariff Refunds as Second-Quarter Revenue Rises Costco is evaluating the potential for tariff refunds, with plans to pass on savings to shoppers through lower prices if the warehouse retailer manages to land a windfall....

Vancouver-based athleticwear brand Lululemon is expanding its performance apparel toolkit with a new sweat-concealing fabric technology engineered for high-intensity sport. The Canadian sportswear company introduced the latest iteration of its ShowZero platform, a yarn-level innovation engineered to conceal visible sweat during activity while maintaining breathability, moisture management and lightweight comfort. The technology works by altering how light interacts with the textile so that the fabric doesn’t visibly darken when wet....

“Our ambassadors play a critical role in how we innovate, which starts with understanding how we can best solve for their unique needs,” said Yuki Aihara, Lululemon’s senior director of product innovation. “We’ve combined advanced sweat-concealing technology with our feel-first design approach to develop a high-performance tennis kit to keep [Tiafoe] feeling confident and focused through even the most intense matches.” The development was informed by testing with professional tennis player Frances Tiafoe, whose sweat rate, movement patterns and match conditions were studied through in-lab and on-court trials. The resulting kit will debut during the BNP Paribas Open, where Tiafoe will wear a custom burgundy-striped uniform incorporating the technology.

...The Canadian sportswear company introduced the latest iteration of its ShowZero platform, a yarn-level innovation engineered to conceal visible sweat during activity while maintaining breathability, moisture management and lightweight comfort. The technology works by altering how light interacts with the textile so that the fabric doesn’t visibly darken when wet. Lululemon said the yarn construction allows sweat to evaporate quickly while preventing the typical visual contrast that appears when garments absorb moisture.

Brands like Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour are incorporating sustainable manufacturing processes and transparent supply chains to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. The integration of smart textiles, such as temperature-regulating fabrics and odor-control technology, further differentiates premium product lines....

Brands like Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour are incorporating sustainable manufacturing processes and transparent supply chains to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. The integration of smart textiles, such as temperature-regulating fabrics and odor-control technology, further differentiates premium product lines....

Brands like Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour are incorporating sustainable manufacturing processes and transparent supply chains to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. The integration of smart textiles, such as temperature-regulating fabrics and odor-control technology, further differentiates premium product lines....

Brands like Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour are incorporating sustainable manufacturing processes and transparent supply chains to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. The integration of smart textiles, such as temperature-regulating fabrics and odor-control technology, further differentiates premium product lines....

Brands like Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour are incorporating sustainable manufacturing processes and transparent supply chains to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. The integration of smart textiles, such as temperature-regulating fabrics and odor-control technology, further differentiates premium product lines....

Brands like Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour are incorporating sustainable manufacturing processes and transparent supply chains to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. The integration of smart textiles, such as temperature-regulating fabrics and odor-control technology, further differentiates premium product lines....

Puma has a new investor in the form of U.K. billionaire Mike Ashley. But what does Ashley, known to be a bottom-fisher of brands that are down-and-out, want with ? A stock-exchange filing on Thursday showed that Frasers has taken a 5.77 percent stake in the German sportswear brand. That stake, under Ashley’s name, makes the billionaire investor Puma’s second largest stakeholder after Anta Sports, which owns Fila....

Puma has a new investor in the form of U.K. billionaire Mike Ashley. But what does Ashley, known to be a bottom-fisher of brands that are down-and-out, want with ? A stock-exchange filing on Thursda...

...Ashley, Frasers’ chairman, is a controversial investor, taking stakes in Debenhams and Asos, among other fashion and sports brands and retailers. While he has said previously that some share acquisitions or options purchases are for investment purposes, he background and interest in distressed retailers and brands often has critics wondering if he’s building up stakes to pounce on an opportune takeover.

The disappointing 2026 outlook took the shine off broadly positive results for 2025, with net income jumping 75 percent to €1.34 billion. Sales rose around five percent to €24.8 billion, with strong ...

...The group’s shares fell more than eight percent in Frankfurt, extending recent declines, but won back some ground later in the session and closed 3.6 percent lower at around €142. Nevertheless, 2025 profits were up sharply and Adidas extended the contract of CEO Bjorn Gulden, who has put the group on a more stable footing after the messy end of its lucrative partnership with US rapper Kanye West. The Middle East conflict that began at the weekend with US-Israeli strikes on Iran, triggering Iranian retaliatory attacks, is the latest geopolitical turmoil that global businesses are having to contend with.

An Adidas franchise store in Israel was destroyed in an attack, but it was closed at the time and no staff were affected, a group executive told reporters on an earnings call. Gulden said there would be a “revenue impact” where stores in the region have had to close and there could be disruptions to air freight that goes through the Middle East, potentially delaying delivery of some products....

When Bjørn Gulden assumed control of Adidas in January 2023, the industry veteran inherited a company in turmoil. With determination, grit and seasoned business instincts, the chief executive officer...

“The extension of his contract is a clear commitment to continuity, stability, and a continued trustful collaboration between the executive board and the supervisory board,” Rabe noted. “We are convinced that, together with his executive board team, Bjørn Gulden will continue to make Adidas successful in the long run.”...

Nevertheless, 2025 profits were up sharply and Adidas extended the contract of CEO Bjorn Gulden, who has put the group on a more stable footing after the messy end of its partnership with US rapper Kanye West. The Middle East conflict that began at the weekend with US-Israeli strikes on Iran, triggering Iranian retaliatory attacks across the region, is the latest geopolitical turmoil that global businesses are having to contend with. An Adidas franchise store in Israel was destroyed in an attack, but it was closed at the time and no staff were affected, a group executive told reporters on an earnings call. Gulden said there would be a "revenue impact" where stores in the region have had to close and there could be disruptions to air freight that goes through the Middle East, potentially delaying delivery of some products....

Nevertheless, 2025 profits were up sharply and Adidas extended the contract of CEO Bjorn Gulden, who has put the group on a more stable footing after the messy end of its partnership with US rapper Ka...

Nevertheless, 2025 profits were up sharply and Adidas extended the contract of CEO Bjorn Gulden, who has put the group on a more stable footing after the messy end of its partnership with US rapper Kanye West. The Middle East conflict that began at the weekend with US-Israeli strikes on Iran, triggering Iranian retaliatory attacks across the region, is the latest geopolitical turmoil that global businesses are having to contend with....

Chief financial officer Harm Ohlymeyer said the company would not immediately join firms seeking refunds after the US Supreme Court ruled many of the global duties illegal. “We will wait and see,” he ...

...Adidas reported net income rising 75 per cent to 1.34 billion euros, while sales increased around five per cent to 24.8 billion euros, driven by strong demand for footwear and apparel. Adidas also extended Gulden’s contract until 2030, signalling confidence in his leadership. He took charge in 2023 after the company severed ties with US rapper Kanye West, now known as Ye, following backlash over antisemitic remarks. Adidas had previously collaborated with West on the popular Yeezy trainer line....

An Adidas franchise store in Israel was destroyed in an attack, though it was closed at the time and no staff were affected, a company executive told reporters during an earnings call. Chief executive Bjorn Gulden said there could be a “revenue impact” as stores in the region close and air freight routes through the Middle East face disruptions, potentially delaying product deliveries....

Adidas is proposing board member Nassef Sawiris as its new chairman, taking over from Thomas Rabe, the sportswear company said on Wednesday. Adidas has also extended to the end of 2030 the contract of CEO Bjorn Gulden, who has led a turnaround at the brand since the start of 2023....

Adidas is proposing board member Nassef Sawiris as its new chairman, taking over from Thomas Rabe, the sportswear company said on Wednesday. Adidas has also extended to the end of 2030 the contract of CEO Bjorn Gulden, who has led a turnaround at the brand since the start of 2023. The sportswear company has faced shareholder revolt over Rabe at its last two annual general meetings, with just 64 per cent supporting his reelection last year as many investors said he was not sufficiently focused on Adidas due to other executive roles. Egyptian billionaire Sawiris has been on the board since 2016....

...Egyptian billionaire Sawiris has been on the board since 2016. His election as chairman will be subject to a vote at Adidas’ annual general meeting on May 7.

“Most notably, the updated design pays tribute to South Africa’s 12 official languages – a powerful reflection of the nation’s diversity, unity, and shared love for football. “The subtle graphic elements woven into the fabric symbolise the many voices that rise together in stadiums across the country and around the world.” Tom Brown, Senior Marketing Director for adidas South Africa, added: “The iconic adidas SAFA jersey of the 2010 World Cup had a distinctive reference to the diverse national languages of South Africa, represented by 11 small lines in the collar....

“Most notably, the updated design pays tribute to South Africa’s 12 official languages – a powerful reflection of the nation’s diversity, unity, and shared love for football. “The subtle graphic elements woven into the fabric symbolise the many voices that rise together in stadiums across the country and around the world.” Tom Brown, Senior Marketing Director for adidas South Africa, added: “The iconic adidas SAFA jersey of the 2010 World Cup had a distinctive reference to the diverse national languages of South Africa, represented by 11 small lines in the collar. “This design is re-imaged for a proud new era, with a design pattern which proudly reflects the now 12 national languages on the national jersey.” South Africa’s Banyana next play at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, while Bafana will take part at the FIFA World Cup....

...“The subtle graphic elements woven into the fabric symbolise the many voices that rise together in stadiums across the country and around the world.” Tom Brown, Senior Marketing Director for adidas South Africa, added: “The iconic adidas SAFA jersey of the 2010 World Cup had a distinctive reference to the diverse national languages of South Africa, represented by 11 small lines in the collar. “This design is re-imaged for a proud new era, with a design pattern which proudly reflects the now 12 national languages on the national jersey.” South Africa’s Banyana next play at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, while Bafana will take part at the FIFA World Cup. Adidas South Africa’s women are set to play at WAFCON from March 17 to April 3 in Morocco, while the men will represent South Africa at the World Cup in June/July in North America.

...Worn For Life. campaign, Reebok Full Circle served as a reminder that classics are defined by the communities who wear them, and that their future depends on who picks them up next. For three days, heritage and new energy shared the same room—past icons, present voices and the next generation passing the baton in real time....

...“He’s been obsessed with Reebok. It was affordable, which meant you could buy a pair and be part of a culture.” Saturday belonged to South London's own K-Trap. One of the city's biggest up-and-coming artists took the time to work with a group of emerging artists were given studio access, collaboration time and direct mentorship, as well as music producers, engineers and members of his management team. For many of the young artists, this was their first time in a professional recording environment....

...One of the city's biggest up-and-coming artists took the time to work with a group of emerging artists were given studio access, collaboration time and direct mentorship, as well as music producers, engineers and members of his management team. For many of the young artists, this was their first time in a professional recording environment. Watching K-Trap bridge his established network with new talent made the wider intention of Full Circle tangible....

...“unspun’s manufacturing model fundamentally transforms how and where products are made — unlocking meaningful financial benefits and significantly reducing the industry’s carbon footprint. I am honored to lead unspun at this pivotal moment and look forward to scaling our proven model into broad, lasting industry impact.” unspun is rebuilding apparel manufacturing for speed and efficiency — replacing long, offshore production cycles with software and hardware-driven systems that enable garments to be produced closer to demand. Its proprietary 3D weaving technology, Vega™, weaves semi-finished products directly from yarn in minutes, dramatically shortening supply chains and reducing waste.

...unspun is rebuilding apparel manufacturing for speed and efficiency — replacing long, offshore production cycles with software and hardware-driven systems that enable garments to be produced closer to demand. Its proprietary 3D weaving technology, Vega™, weaves semi-finished products directly from yarn in minutes, dramatically shortening supply chains and reducing waste.

Arne spent over a decade at The North Face, where, as Global Brand President, he led the brand through a period of significant global growth, cementing its position as one of the world’s leading outdoor companies. He later became CEO of Boardriders, the global action sports and lifestyle company behind Quiksilver, Billabong, and Roxy, leading the business through its acquisition by Authentic Brands Group for approximately $1.25 billion....

“Because unions have a tenuous foothold in the region and face harsh employer resistance,” he added, “workers often cannot fight back.” An investigation by Nova’s group found that women at a Central ...

But workers told the news organizations that problems have persisted at other factories in Central Java. Ten workers at one supplier said many women’s toilets hadn’t been working for months. Two workers at other factories said they received written reprimands after they told their employers they were injured on the job. Asked about these workers’ accounts, Nike said that a “safe and healthy work environment is a fundamental human right” and that it audits factories annually for compliance with its code of conduct....

...If your factory wages don’t cut it, your employer should have a plan to get you there. But Nike’s expansion in Indonesia over the last decade has directly undermined these goals, an analysis by ProPublica and The Oregonian/OregonLive found. Over the last decade, employment at factories supplying the world’s largest athletic apparel brand expanded dramatically in regions of Indonesia where, according to one leading estimate, the minimum wage is less than the amount workers need to live on. Meanwhile, Nike’s supply chain shrank overall in places that pay this estimated living wage, our analysis found.

I’m strolling around a converted warehouse in Melbourne’s Collingwood, and with each step I take, the soles of my feet are being delicately kneaded and massaged. It’s a sensation akin to walking on bu...

I’m strolling around a converted warehouse in Melbourne’s Collingwood, and with each step I take, the soles of my feet are being delicately kneaded and massaged. It’s a sensation akin to walking on bu...

...Nike’s latest innovation, which I’m trialling today, is footwear developed by neuroscientists with purported “mind-altering” qualities. Both the Nike Mind 001, a slipper made from moulded foam, and the Mind 002, a lace-up sneaker, have 22 rubber nodes embedded in the soles to stimulate acupressure receptors in the foot. Nike’s claim is that activating these pressure points can help athletes feel more grounded and sharpen their mental focus....

Along with the campaign, Merrell is launching Merrell Outside: Futures Project to expand access and opportunities for future designers. The brand developed the program with the late Virgil Abloh’s “Post-Modern” scholarship fund, administered by the Fashion Scholarship Fund and Pensole Lewis College of Business and Design. Merrell will select more than 30 students to participate in a creative curriculum and apprenticeships within its design studio. “[The Futures Project] provides an opportunity for us to invest in the next generation of creative talent,” McLeod said....

...The campaign features three vignettes that capture the subtle transformation that happens when you step outside. The cast includes Olympic runner Alexi Pappas hiking alongside visually impaired marathon runner Lisa Thompson. “The casting was intentional, with unexpected people and occasions, to reflect the breadth of audience we need to reach but also speak to people’s real lives,” said Steve Zaroff, chief strategy officer of Uncommon....

...The cast includes Olympic runner Alexi Pappas hiking alongside visually impaired marathon runner Lisa Thompson. “The casting was intentional, with unexpected people and occasions, to reflect the breadth of audience we need to reach but also speak to people’s real lives,” said Steve Zaroff, chief strategy officer of Uncommon. “It brings in people who may feel alienated by the traditional outdoor category.” The work will roll out globally across social, digital, and connected TV.

The founder of Lululemon Athletica Inc. LULU-Q is continuing to pressure the retailer to shake up its board and processes after he says it responded to his suggestions in a “weak and insufficient” way. In a letter sent to Lululemon shareholders Friday, Chip Wilson said it took the company’s board 70 days to address three board nominations and several other suggestions he made in December....

Wilson has been pushing Lululemon to make change in part because Lululemon’s stock has lost nearly half of its value in the last few years. He began his crusade last year when Lululemon CEO Calvin Mc...

...In a letter sent to Lululemon shareholders Friday, Chip Wilson said it took the company’s board 70 days to address three board nominations and several other suggestions he made in December. The response “does not reflect serious engagement toward resolving Lululemon’s challenges,” Wilson said. Rather than heed his suggestions, he alleged the board only expressed openness to making some unspecified director changes over several years and dismissed his idea to create a brand product committee. Lululemon did not immediately comment on the letter from Wilson, who left its board in 2015 and has since been estranged from the company, but remains a significant shareholder.

"Run as One has always been more than a tagline for us, it's the lens through which we make every decision," said Rob Griffiths, Brand President at Saucony. "'The Runners' captures the spirit of what we believe: that running is ultimately about the connections we forge, the communities we build, and the collective energy that propels us forward. Bringing our community together for last night's premiere at the Metrograph was a continuation of that philosophy, creating a moment where we could experience something meaningful, together. This film is a tribute to every runner who has ever felt that sense of belonging on the run."...

"We wanted to create something that felt honest and meditative, something that captured the quiet power of connection that happens when people come together," said Gus Johnston, Creative Director at Saucony. "This isn't a marketing campaign, it's a reflection of who we are." The film tells a story of pure human connection, a visual thread woven through the diverse individuals, experiences, and expressions that make up the Saucony community. From products and events to run crews, collaborations, and partnerships, the film serves as an allegory for everything Saucony creates: connected, purposeful, and unashamedly loyal to the sport and community it serves.

...Saucony, a global performance running and lifestyle brand, today unveiled "The Runners," a meditative short film exploring the profound connections that unite us all. Building on the brand's guiding mantra of "Run as One," the film offers an unbroken visual journey through the people, products, and moments that define Saucony's commitment to its growing community. The film made its debut last night at an invite-only world premiere at New York City's iconic Metrograph theater, bringing together brand partners, creative collaborators and members of its community, for a screening that mirrors the film's ethos of connection and shared experience....

...The retail company is filing for bankruptcy protection, leaving Eddie Bauer patrons with under a month to use their gift cards and loyalty program points. Points and gift cards earned via Eddie Bauer's Adventure Points program will expire after March 12, based on court documents. Catalyst Brands, which operates Eddie Bauer stores, is trying to sell the business as it closes its American and Canadian locations. All items purchased at these stores are final – with no refunds allowed on merchandise acquired during the liquidation phase.

READ MORE : Operator of 106-year-old retailer could file for bankruptcy with nearly 200 stores at riskREAD MORE : Iconic department store closing popular mall location after 20 years Eddie Bauer LLC operates roughly 180 stores across the US and Canada. If the company cannot find a purchaser, "we will commence an orderly wind down of... store operations," the chief executive stated. "This is not an easy decision," Rosen admitted about the bankruptcy filing, telling the Associated Press....

..."This is not an easy decision," Rosen admitted about the bankruptcy filing, telling the Associated Press. "However, this restructuring is the best way to optimize value for the retail company's stakeholders and also ensure Catalyst Brands remains profitable and with strong liquidity and cash flow. " Court filings from Ontario show 24 of the company's 175 North American stores are situated in Canada. The business had approximately 379 employees nationwide when it filed for bankruptcy protection....

Synopsis Puma has cancelled its dividend and anticipates an annual loss in 2026. Chief Executive Arthur Hoeld is leading a turnaround for the German sportswear brand. China's Anta is becoming a strategic investor, acquiring a 29% stake....

Synopsis Puma has cancelled its dividend and anticipates an annual loss in 2026. Chief Executive Arthur Hoeld is leading a turnaround for the German sportswear brand....

...China's Anta is becoming a strategic investor, acquiring a 29% stake. Puma expects an operating loss between 50 million and 150 million euros in 2026.

...Chief Executive Arthur Hoeld is leading a turnaround for the German sportswear brand. China's Anta is becoming a strategic investor, acquiring a 29% stake. Puma expects an operating loss between 50 million and 150 million euros in 2026.

Brands such as Nike, Adidas and Puma are expected to lead through and . And while there will be challenges from increased competition, counterfeit products and fluctuating raw material prices, opportunities in emerging markets will ensure continued growth of the sneaker category. Technical advancements in design and manufacturing were also cited as representing new opportunities for expansion....

...The report noted that sustainability has become a defining feature of the modern sneaker market, with consumers increasingly preferring eco-friendly materials and ethical production practices. Investments in recycled fabrics, biodegradable soles and energy-efficient manufacturing methods help to reduce carbon footprints. And the rise in customization options and design innovations are allowing brands to cater to individual style preferences.

The increasing integration of sportswear into everyday fashion has evolved what was once a niche athletic footwear segment into a major lifestyle category. In addition, brands that can leverage digitalization, sustainability and celebrity collaborations will be best able to cater to diverse consumer preferences, which in turn will drive innovation. Moreover, the influence of celebrity endorsements, sports collaborations and limited-edition releases have helped to enhance brand visibility and customer loyalty....

The increasing integration of sportswear into everyday fashion has evolved what was once a niche athletic footwear segment into a major lifestyle category. In addition, brands that can leverage digitalization, sustainability and celebrity collaborations will be best able to cater to diverse consumer preferences, which in turn will drive innovation. Moreover, the influence of celebrity endorsements, sports collaborations and limited-edition releases have helped to enhance brand visibility and customer loyalty....

...Technical advancements in design and manufacturing were also cited as representing new opportunities for expansion. Moreover, anti-counterfeiting technologies, such as blockchain tracking and RFID tagging, can be used to ensure product authenticity. “The combination of comfort, functionality, and fashion will continue to drive consumer interest, ensuring the sneakers market remains one of the most dynamic sectors in the global footwear industry,” ResearchAndMarket said....

Brands such as Nike, Adidas and Puma are expected to lead through and . And while there will be challenges from increased competition, counterfeit products and fluctuating raw material prices, opportunities in emerging markets will ensure continued growth of the sneaker category. Technical advancements in design and manufacturing were also cited as representing new opportunities for expansion....

The increasing integration of sportswear into everyday fashion has evolved what was once a niche athletic footwear segment into a major lifestyle category. In addition, brands that can leverage digitalization, sustainability and celebrity collaborations will be best able to cater to diverse consumer preferences, which in turn will drive innovation. Moreover, the influence of celebrity endorsements, sports collaborations and limited-edition releases have helped to enhance brand visibility and customer loyalty....

...Technical advancements in design and manufacturing were also cited as representing new opportunities for expansion. Moreover, anti-counterfeiting technologies, such as blockchain tracking and RFID tagging, can be used to ensure product authenticity. “The combination of comfort, functionality, and fashion will continue to drive consumer interest, ensuring the sneakers market remains one of the most dynamic sectors in the global footwear industry,” ResearchAndMarket said....

Brands such as Nike, Adidas and Puma are expected to lead through and . And while there will be challenges from increased competition, counterfeit products and fluctuating raw material prices, opportunities in emerging markets will ensure continued growth of the sneaker category. Technical advancements in design and manufacturing were also cited as representing new opportunities for expansion....

...It also canceled its dividend for 2025. It had paid out a dividend of 0.61 euros to shareholders a year earlier. Under its new CEO Arthur Hoeld, Puma is undergoing a turnaround after tepid demand for its sports outfits and Speedcat sneakers as well as an industry-wide hit from United States tariffs on imports weighed on the business. The company said it expected an operating loss of between 50 million and 150 million euros ($59-$177 million) in 2026....

GERMAN sportswear maker Puma on Thursday said it still expected to report a loss this year, after reporting a narrower-than-expected loss in 2025. It also canceled its dividend for 2025. It had paid out a dividend of 0.61 euros to shareholders a year earlier. Under its new CEO Arthur Hoeld, Puma is undergoing a turnaround after tepid demand for its sports outfits and Speedcat sneakers as well as an industry-wide hit from United States tariffs on imports weighed on the business....

...The company said it expected an operating loss of between 50 million and 150 million euros ($59-$177 million) in 2026. The forecast included one-time effects related to the implemented cost efficiency program, it said in a statement. For 2025, it posted a loss before interest and tax of 357.2 million euros, which compared with a profit of 548.7 million a year earlier.

In January, Chinese sportswear brand Anta struck a deal to become Puma’s biggest shareholder and is promising to help the German sportswear maker improve sales in China. Both Hoeld and Neubrand expressed themselves “extremely excited” about their new shareholder but added that there were also some uncertainties....

...Net loss was 645.5 million euros. Although the outcomes were slightly better than analysts expected, it was still one of the biggest net losses has ever had. Given the losses, Puma plans to propose that no dividends are paid out to shareholders this year. Perhaps no wonder then that, at the beginning of the online press conference unveiling the 2025 results, Puma executives played all those attending a rousing video clip, especially to address their new strategy.

Over a montage of sports and a stirring soundtrack, a female narrator told viewers, “we’ve been in this game for over 75 years, it’s fair to say we have what it takes … but the truth is we’ve also lea...

Many of us across the state of Maine have been hit with some bad news recently as it was announced that we must say goodbye to our beloved outdoor brand, Eddie Bauer. They officially announced, as per Portland Press Herald, plans to close several Maine stores after a recent bankruptcy filing....

We don’t know as of yet when the exact closing date will be but the news is showing yet another shift in the retail world, where long standing brand names have to close their doors due to rising costs...

...They officially announced, as per Portland Press Herald, plans to close several Maine stores after a recent bankruptcy filing. This is leaving many of us shocked and sad. This store has been a staple in Maine, founded more than a century ago and will now shut the doors of about 175 locations across the United States and Canada....

Canady’s impact extends beyond her NIL deals. Texas Tech softball stand-out pitcher NiJaree Canady made history by becoming the first college softball player to release her own signature player-edition cleat in partnership with Adidas. Canady, a senior and one of college softball’s most decorated players, debuted her player-edition Adidas cleat, the ADIZERO Instinct 2.0 PT “NiJa,” during a game against Fresno State on Feb. 19 at the Mary Nutter Classic....

Her collaboration with Adidas is one facet of the college athlete’s very lucrative NIL agreement. Canady joined Adidas as part of the inaugural “Team Mahomes” athlete cohort. The Team Mahomes cohort is a partnership with the brand and NFL quarterback Patrick Mahomes that supports NIL opportunities for Texas Tech athletes. The 2024 inaugural cohort of Team Mahomes includes other college superstars across sports, including Micah Hudson (Football), Jasmine Shavers (Basketball), Matthew Comegys (Golf), Sam Courtwright (Soccer), and TJ Pompey (Baseball), according to Texas Tech....

Canady’s impact extends beyond her NIL deals. She has been a central figure at Texas Tech, leading the Red Raiders to the Women’s College World Series finals in 2025, where she earned national recogni...

Young golfers across Cleveland’s west side and neighboring communities will have a new opportunity to compete this spring. The Junior Tour Powered by Under Armour-Cleveland West officially launched and is accepting registrations for its inaugural 2026 Spring Tour season. Open to boys and girls ages 6–18 of all skill levels, the tour will host professionally organized tournaments at six area courses located in Fairview Park, North Olmsted, Amherst, Lorain, LaGrange and Norwalk, providing convenient access for families throughout Cuyahoga, Lorain and Erie counties. Matt and Mandy Moos are the directors of the Under Armour-Cleveland West Junior Tour....

“We’re trying to help create more opportunities for kids in the area,” said Matt Moos, a certified and award-winning golf instructor and club fitter at GOLFTEC Cleveland West in North Olmsted. As a y...

...“By hosting events close to home, we’re creating accessible, professionally run tournaments where young athletes can compete, develop confidence, and create lasting memories.” With youth sports participation strong throughout Northeast Ohio, The Junior Tour aims to provide an affordable and structured alternative to extensive regional travel, while maintaining a high standard of organization and competition. Multiple age divisions and age appropriate distances ensure fair matchups and meaningful tournament experiences for every participant, regardless of skill level. Registration for the 2026 Spring Tour is open, and space is limited for this inaugural season....

Since 2019, Anta Sports has been the largest shareholder of Amer Sports, the publicly traded, Helsinki-based parent company of Arc’teryx, known for its high-end waterproof jackets that have become a Tiktok meme; Salomon, whose “Gorpcore” hiking shoes have been worn by Hailey Bieber and Bella Hadid; and Wilson, the maker of NBA’s official basketballs. As of June 2025, Anta Sports operated more than 13,000 stores across all its brands and employed about 65,500 employees, according to the company’s August interim financial report. The company, which had roughly 250 stores outside of China as of end of June 2025, has set a goal of growing to 1,000 stores in Southeast Asia over the next three years, Bloomberg reported in September....

...Irving, who has signed on with the company as its chief creative officer, launched his own line of “Kai” basketball shoes, including a recent one that celebrated Chinese New Year. The new store reflects Anta’s “commitment to the U.S. market,” Anta brand’s Chief Executive Samuel Tsui said in a statement. The space is meant to function as a “community and cultural hub,” with run clubs and other programs intended to celebrate the “intersection of Chinese American heritage, sport, and performance innovation,” according to the company’s statement. Anta is the flagship label of parent conglomerate Anta Sports Products, which was founded in 1991 as a small footwear company....

What to know Nike signature athlete A’ja Wilson is set to begin her first global tour with Nike Basketball, visiting several cities in Europe next month. A’ja’s tour will include stops in Paris, London, Berlin and Hilversum, where she will inspire the next generation of hoopers and introduce more athletes to the aspirational energy she brings to the court. Each visit will be grounded at the intersection of community, sport, culture and fashion, with programming that ranges from basketball clinics to real conversations that engage the next generation of players and fans in Europe.

What to know Nike signature athlete A’ja Wilson is set to begin her first global tour with Nike Basketball, visiting several cities in Europe next month. A’ja’s tour will include stops in Paris, London, Berlin and Hilversum, where she will inspire the next generation of hoopers and introduce more athletes to the aspirational energy she brings to the court. Each visit will be grounded at the intersection of community, sport, culture and fashion, with programming that ranges from basketball clinics to real conversations that engage the next generation of players and fans in Europe.

Now we find out that Eddie Bauer, a staple in the industry, is closing all of its stores. Yahoo Finance reported that the brand plans to close all of its 200-plus stores in North America as it prepares to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy again. Unfortunately, the store has now closed at Westgate Mall....

Classes start at $40 and every dollar goes directly to BlacklistLA, a local nonprofit that has been running free community fitness events across Los Angeles since 2013. They do weekly runs through the city, women-led programming, full marathon training, all built around the idea that taking care of your body shouldn’t cost you anything....

...We showed up anyway, built our own thing, and found each other in the process. And now, during Black History Month, lululemon opened Studio Yet. on Melrose Ave in Los Angeles and put some of those very trainers who are driving our culture at the center of it.

Classes start at $40 and every dollar goes directly to BlacklistLA, a local nonprofit that has been running free community fitness events across Los Angeles since 2013. They do weekly runs through the city, women-led programming, full marathon training, all built around the idea that taking care of your body shouldn’t cost you anything. Studio...

The longtime clothing store has filed for bankruptcy in the United States and will also follow Eddie Bauer will conduct liquidation sales while continuing to pursue a buyer for all or part of

The longtime clothing store has filed for bankruptcy in the United States and will also follow Eddie Bauer will conduct liquidation sales while continuing to pursue a buyer for all or part of

Industry experts recommend several measures that companies like Adidas should implement — or verify are already in place — to mitigate third-party risk. These include requiring vendors to adhere to specific security frameworks such as SOC 2 or ISO 27001, mandating multi-factor authentication for all access to shared systems, conducting regular security audits of vendor environments, and establishing contractual obligations for breach notification timelines. Some organizations have gone further, implementing zero-trust architectures that limit vendor access to only the specific data and systems necessary for their function....

For Adidas specifically, this is not the first time the company has dealt with a data security incident. In 2018, the company disclosed a breach affecting millions of customers on its U.S. website, wh...

A hacker operating under the alias “Sp1d3r” has claimed responsibility for breaching systems connected to Adidas, allegedly exfiltrating a massive trove of customer data that includes millions of records. While the German sportswear giant has confirmed a data security incident, it has pointed the finger at a third-party customer service provider as the actual point of compromise — a distinction that raises significant questions about supply chain security and corporate accountability in an era of increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks....

...“Terralux marks an important evolution for Allbirds,” said the brand’s vice president of design, Jason Israel. “Innovera allowed us to achieve the look and feel of leather in a biobased material, opening the door to more elevated, versatile footwear—while still delivering on our comfort and sustainability promise.” Innovera is engineered to replicate the look and feel of traditional leather, crafted from plant-based proteins, biopolymers, and recycled rubber....

...“Terralux marks an important evolution for Allbirds,” said the brand’s vice president of design, Jason Israel. “Innovera allowed us to achieve the look and feel of leather in a biobased material, opening the door to more elevated, versatile footwear—while still delivering on our comfort and sustainability promise.” Innovera is engineered to replicate the look and feel of traditional leather, crafted from plant-based proteins, biopolymers, and recycled rubber. While the material has previously appeared in automotive interiors and accessories, Allbirds is the first brand to introduce it in footwear....

...While the material has previously appeared in automotive interiors and accessories, Allbirds is the first brand to introduce it in footwear. Modern Meadow said Innovera contains more than 80 percent renewable carbon content and is 25 percent lighter and twice as strong as conventional leather.

Adidas confirmed it is investigating a possible data breach involving one of its third-party customer service providers. The company stated that there is no indication its IT infrastructure, e-commerce platforms, or consumer data were impacted by the incident. An individual claiming to belong to the Lapsus$ Group posted on BreachForums alleging they had compromised the sportswear giant’s extranet....

Adidas confirmed it is investigating a possible data breach involving one of its third-party customer service providers. The company stated that there is no indication its IT infrastructure, e-commerce platforms, or consumer data were impacted by the incident. An individual claiming to belong to the Lapsus$ Group posted on BreachForums alleging they had compromised the sportswear giant’s extranet. The stolen dataset is described as containing 815,000 rows of information, including names, email addresses, passwords, birthdays, company names and technical data....

Adidas confirmed it is investigating a possible data breach involving one of its third-party customer service providers. The company stated that there is no indication its IT infrastructure, e-commerce platforms, or consumer data were impacted by the incident....

Adidas has confirmed it is investigating a third-party breach at one of its partner companies after digital thieves claimed they stole information and technical data from the German sportswear giant. "We have been made aware of a potential data protection incident at one of our independent licensing partners and distributor for martial arts products," an Adidas spokesperson told The Register....

...According to the crooks, the stolen files – 815,000 rows of information – allegedly include: first and last names, email addresses, passwords, birthdays, company names, and "a lot of technical data. " This latest breach follows a similar, third-party security incident last year affecting the sportswear multinational in May 2025. As we reported at the time, Adidas notified customers that some of their data was stolen after an "unauthorized" person swiped it from a "third-party customer service provider....

Allegations of an incident at Adidas emerged on February 16, when someone claiming to be the Lapsus$ Group posted on BreachForums (screenshot shared here on Daily Dark Web) that they compromised the sportswear giant’s extranet. According to the crooks, the stolen files – 815,000 rows of information – allegedly include: first and last names, email addresses, passwords, birthdays, company names, and "a lot of technical data. " This latest breach follows a similar, third-party security incident last year affecting the sportswear multinational in May 2025. As we reported at the time, Adidas notified customers that some of their data was stolen after an "unauthorized" person swiped it from a "third-party customer service provider....

Eddie Bauer, the longtime outdoor apparel retailer known for its down jackets and adventure gear, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection as it works to restructure its retail operations. The Eddie Bauer store at Arena Hub Plaza is among hundreds of locations nationwide expected to shut down following the company’s bankruptcy filing last week. The company submitted its filing in U.S. Bankruptcy Court earlier this month, marking the third time in roughly two decades that the brand has sought bankruptcy protection....

While exact employment figures have not been released, the potential shutdown of the company’s physical retail footprint could impact hundreds of workers. The Chapter 11 filing applies primarily to the company’s U.S. and Canadian retail stores....

Eddie Bauer, the longtime outdoor apparel retailer known for its down jackets and adventure gear, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection as it works to restructure its retail operations. The Eddie Bauer store at Arena Hub Plaza is among hundreds of locations nationwide expected to shut down following the company’s bankruptcy filing last week....

Adidas says the jacket was created by its Shanghai-based design team targeting Chinese consumers as part of a wider strategy to design in — and for — the country’s domestic market. The company has also worked on Chinese New Year collaborations with homegrown designers, such as Gui Yang, and celebrities like the Canada-born Hong Kong actor and singer Edison Chen....

Adidas says the jacket was created by its Shanghai-based design team targeting Chinese consumers as part of a wider strategy to design in — and for — the country’s domestic market. The company has also worked on Chinese New Year collaborations with homegrown designers, such as Gui Yang, and celebrities like the Canada-born Hong Kong actor and singer Edison Chen. (Sales figures suggest its localization efforts are paying off: Adidas reported a 10% increase in China revenues in 2024, a significant turnaround from a 36% drop in sales in the country in 2022).

Adidas says the jacket was created by its Shanghai-based design team targeting Chinese consumers as part of a wider strategy to design in — and for — the country’s domestic market. The company has also worked on Chinese New Year collaborations with homegrown designers, such as Gui Yang, and celebrities like the Canada-born Hong Kong actor and singer Edison Chen....

Adidas says the jacket was created by its Shanghai-based design team targeting Chinese consumers as part of a wider strategy to design in — and for — the country’s domestic market. The company has also worked on Chinese New Year collaborations with homegrown designers, such as Gui Yang, and celebrities like the Canada-born Hong Kong actor and singer Edison Chen. (Sales figures suggest its localization efforts are paying off: Adidas reported a 10% increase in China revenues in 2024, a significant turnaround from a 36% drop in sales in the country in 2022).

Shoppers at Eddie Bauer stores have just under a month to use their gift cards and loyalty program points. Court filings show gift cards and rewards earned through Eddie Bauer’s Adventure Points program won’t be accepted after March 12 at stores closing in Canada and the U.S. The move is part of bankruptcy protection proceedings the operator of Eddie Bauer’s Canadian and U.S. stores began earlier this month south of the border. Catalyst Brands, which runs Eddie Bauer’s stores, is looking to sell the business while it liquidates its Canadian and American shops....

Shoppers at Eddie Bauer stores have just under a month to use their gift cards and loyalty program points. Court filings show gift cards and rewards earned through Eddie Bauer’s Adventure Points program won’t be accepted after March 12 at stores closing in Canada and the U.S. The move is part of bankruptcy protection proceedings the operator of Eddie Bauer’s Canadian and U.S. stores began earlier this month south of the border. Catalyst Brands, which runs Eddie Bauer’s stores, is looking to sell the business while it liquidates its Canadian and American shops....

Lululemon founder Chip Wilson, who parted ways with the company over a decade ago, called the situation a “total operational failure” on LinkedIn. He also blamed the company’s board for “destroying the brand and the stock price,” alleging that its board members are uninterested in product development. After temporarily pulling the leggings from its website, Lululemon returned them....

...Lululemon did not respond to a request for comment on its recent performance or its plans to revitalize U.S. sales. During the most recent earnings call in December 2025, former Lululemon CEO Calvin McDonald touted a new performance fabric the company designed for weight training, and promised Lululemon would continue to innovate across its performance wear portfolio, which includes running, yoga, golf and tennis apparel. McDonald stepped down as Lululemon CEO at the end of January. The company has yet to announce a permanent replacement. See-through leggings Lululemon has faced complaints in recent weeks that one of the fabrics for one of its pairs of leggings — called “Get Low” — is see-through.

Nike also revealed that this jacket showcases what they’re calling A.I.R. Technology, which stands for Adapt, Inflate, Regulate. The whole design is informed by body mapping data from Nike’s Sport Research Lab and uses computational design to create those sculptural baffles you see on the surface....

Nike also revealed that this jacket showcases what they’re calling A.I.R. Technology, which stands for Adapt, Inflate, Regulate. The whole design is informed by body mapping data from Nike’s Sport Research Lab and uses computational design to create those sculptural baffles you see on the surface. It’s not just about making something that looks cool; it’s about strategically placing air where your body needs warmth most....

...There are sculpted design elements, a custom ACG pump (instead of the generic battery-powered fan initially mentioned), metallic twill branding, and an interior lining graphic depicting the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, where Team USA trains. More importantly, Nike built in accessibility features like interior thumb loops on the bottom hem and a magnetic zipper specifically designed to help Paralympic athletes put on and close the jacket independently.

Under Armour is deepening its investment in artificial intelligence, advanced analytics, and enterprise technology as it shifts from restructuring toward operational execution and premium brand growth. Guided by CEO Kevin Plank, the company is building a more connected, consumer-centric organization powered by AI-driven planning, digital platforms, and automation....

...Guided by CEO Kevin Plank, the company is building a more connected, consumer-centric organization powered by AI-driven planning, digital platforms, and automation. AI Becomes Central to Under Armour’s Demand-Led Strategy Artificial intelligence is emerging as a core pillar of Under Armour’s transformation. The company is moving away from a traditional push model toward a demand-led business built on predictive insights and data-driven decision-making. Generative AI Powers Marketing and Personalization Under Armour recently launched “The Ultimate Team Talk,” a generative AI initiative designed to synthesize insights from professional athletes and sports psychology....

Under Armour is deepening its investment in artificial intelligence, advanced analytics, and enterprise technology as it shifts from restructuring toward operational execution and premium brand growth...

Data, Personalization, and the Marketing Flywheel Perhaps the most underappreciated aspect of Adidas’s digital marketing strategy is the sophistication of its data infrastructure. The company has invested in customer data platforms, advanced analytics, and AI-driven personalization engines that allow it to deliver tailored messages at scale. A runner training for a marathon sees different content than a teenager browsing the latest Originals collection....

The Direct-to-Consumer Imperative Central to Adidas’s digital marketing strategy is its aggressive push into direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales. The company has invested heavily in its own e-commerce platform, the Adidas app, and its CONFIRMED app for sneaker drops and exclusive releases. These owned digital channels serve a dual purpose: they generate higher-margin revenue by cutting out wholesale intermediaries, and they produce a treasure trove of first-party consumer data that fuels increasingly sophisticated marketing. According to Adidas’s own financial disclosures, DTC revenue has grown substantially as a share of total sales in recent years....

...The results have been nothing short of transformative. Adidas has systematically reduced its dependence on traditional sports body sponsorships and legacy media buys, redirecting hundreds of millions of dollars toward digital marketing channels that offer superior targeting, real-time feedback loops, and measurable return on investment. Industry insiders say the shift offers a masterclass for any consumer brand grappling with the economics of modern marketing....

Adidas’s digital transformation cannot be understood in isolation. It is part of a broader arms race with Nike, which has pursued its own aggressive digital strategy under the banner of “Consumer Direct Acceleration.” Nike’s SNKRS app, its Nike Training Club platform, and its membership ecosystem have set a high bar for digital engagement in the sportswear category. Both companies have recognized that the future of brand loyalty lies not in passive viewership of televised sports but in active, personalized digital relationships with consumers.

Earnings are forecast to grow 18.62% per year. If Nike executes on brand and profitability initiatives, including the Converse reset, the business could have more flexibility in how it allocates cap...

Earnings are forecast to grow 18.62% per year. If Nike executes on brand and profitability initiatives, including the Converse reset, the business could have more flexibility in how it allocates cap...

... Analysts have flagged that Nike's dividend, currently US$0.41 per share quarterly, is not well covered by earnings or free cash flow, so additional restructuring costs could keep the payout under scrutiny. ...

... The Board has continued to declare a cash dividend, which shows an ongoing willingness to return cash to shareholders even as the Converse turnaround gets underway.

...According to the NRF, December core retail sales didn’t quite reach 4%. What we’re watching Lululemon’s latest drop Weeks after Lululemon faced customer criticism for the see-through quality of its “Get Low” leggings, the retailer is debuting a new performance training fabric. And it could use a win.

...That last part may be important, as Lululemon faced customer complaints around squatting effectively in its Get Low line. A Bloomberg report this week called out yet another legging facing see-through complaints from the retailer.

...They finished behind Curaçao in their final qualifying group, and now head to the play-offs in Guadalajara, Mexico, where they must win two matches against New Caledonia and then (if they win) against DR Congo to qualify. Whether they make it to North America in the summer, they'll be inspired in these vital play-off games by wearing what has to be a contender as the best-looking football kits of 2026. Adidas and the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) have just revealed the new Home and Away kits, which are crafted in collaboration with Jamaican non-profit, the Bob Marley Foundation. The Jamaica home and away kits are more than a nod to the legacy of Bob Marley

...Adidas will be celebrating the Jamaica collection, including the Home and Away kits and Bob Marley range, with a launch party in-store at adidas Oxford Street on 19th February (7-9pm). The experience honours Jamaican culture and community, featuring live performances from Heartless Crew, Stush, DJ Jordss and DJ Surgery, and food by One Love Kitchen.

Under CEO Elliott Hill, the company is trying to reestablish itself after losing market share to rivals. The Converse brand had previously cut jobs as part of its parent company’s cost-saving plan in May 2024....

NIKE-OWNED Converse is cutting corporate roles as it aligns its operating model with its sportswear giant parent, a source familiar with the development told Reuters on Thursday. Reports from Monday said the brand’s employees were instructed to work from home this week as Nike makes strategic changes to recapture sales growth, which included new roles and team moves for some staff members. “Some roles are being eliminated, and many more will shift in scope and reporting structure,” the source said....

...“Some roles are being eliminated, and many more will shift in scope and reporting structure,” the source said. “Nearly everyone in corporate roles at Converse will experience some level of change,” the source said on condition of anonymity because the matter is private. Nike had laid off 775 employees in distribution roles in January, aiming to boost profits and accelerate its use of automation, following job cuts announced last year as part of its turnaround efforts.

Under CEO Elliott Hill, the company is trying to reestablish itself after losing market share to rivals. The Converse brand had previously cut jobs as part of its parent company’s cost-saving plan in May 2024. Converse will form cross-functional squads to cater to different sports similar to Nike’s broader strategy, the source added, noting that the brand’s squads include sportswear, basketball, energy and apparel.

...“Some roles are being eliminated, and many more will shift in scope and reporting structure,” the source said. “Nearly everyone in corporate roles at Converse will experience some level of change,” the source said on condition of anonymity because the matter is private. Nike had laid off 775 employees in distribution roles in January, aiming to boost profits and accelerate its use of automation, following job cuts announced last year as part of its turnaround efforts.

...Reports from Monday said the brand’s employees were instructed to work from home this week as Nike makes strategic changes to recapture sales growth, which included new roles and team moves for some staff members. “Some roles are being eliminated, and many more will shift in scope and reporting structure,” the source said. “Nearly everyone in corporate roles at Converse will experience some level of change,” the source said on condition of anonymity because the matter is private....

A “Football is Freedom” mantra, crafted in partnership with The Bob Marley Foundation, is featured prominently on key pieces like the golden yellow jersey and full-zip jacket, integrating Marley’s dee...

“This is more than just a partnership to us, it’s a landmark moment which signifies unity, inspiration and the spirit of Bob Marley on the global stage. His unwavering belief in the power of our people lives on and through this collection, the fans can carry the pride of Jamaica,” Chief Executive Officer at The Bob Marley Foundation, Cedella Marley said.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Global sportswear brand adidas has launched its Bob Marley Collection, featuring the 2026 Jamaica home and away kits that blend football heritage with the legendary musician’s cultural influence. Developed in close collaboration with The Bob Marley Foundation, the collection reflects a deep respect for Marley’s legacy, incorporating archival photos and vintage clothing associated with him, such as the iconic lilac firebird track pants worn whilst touring Europe, reimagined for the collection. Modelled by the Reggae Boyz, a prominent feature of the collection is a distinctive, repetitive wave pattern that flows across the designs, symbolically linking the rhythm of Marley’s music and the spirit of Jamaica, adidas explained.

Under CEO Elliott Hill, the company is trying to reestablish itself after losing market share to rivals. The Converse brand had previously cut jobs as part of its parent company's cost-saving plan in May 2024....

Feb 12 (Reuters) - Nike-owned Converse is cutting corporate roles as it aligns its operating model with its sportswear giant parent, a source familiar with the development told Reuters on Thursday. Reports from Monday said the brand's employees were instructed to work from home this week as Nike makes strategic changes to recapture sales growth, which included new roles and team moves for some staff. "Some roles are being eliminated and many more will shift in scope and reporting structure," the source said....

..."Some roles are being eliminated and many more will shift in scope and reporting structure," the source said. "Nearly everyone in corporate roles at Converse will experience some level of change," the source said on condition of anonymity because the matter is private. Nike had laid off 775 employees in distribution roles in January, aiming to boost profits and accelerate its use of automation, following job cuts announced last year as part of its turnaround efforts.

Under CEO Elliott Hill, the company is trying to reestablish itself after losing market share to rivals. The Converse brand had previously cut jobs as part of its parent company's cost-saving plan in May 2024. Converse will form cross-functional squads to cater to different sports similar to Nike's broader strategy, the source added, noting that the brand's squads include sportswear, basketball, energy and apparel. (Reporting by Neil J Kanatt in Bengaluru and Nicholas Brown in New York; Editing by Sriraj Kalluvila)

Feb 12 (Reuters) - Nike-owned Converse is cutting corporate roles as it aligns its operating model with its sportswear giant parent, a source familiar with the development told Reuters on Thursday. Reports from Monday said the brand's employees were instructed to work from home this week as Nike makes strategic changes to recapture sales growth, which included new roles and team moves for some staff....

...Before his seven-year stint leading the performance activewear brand, McDonald spent five years as president and CEO of Sephora Americas. He left Lululemon last month amid falling sales in North America, its top market, and quality control controversies. But overall his tenure was marked by massive growth, spurred by overseas expansion and a tripling of its revenues....

...He left Lululemon last month amid falling sales in North America, its top market, and quality control controversies. But overall his tenure was marked by massive growth, spurred by overseas expansion and a tripling of its revenues. He takes over from Executive Chair Glenn Murphy, who began overseeing the company a year ago after the departure of former CEO Annie Young-Scrivner. Murphy will remain as executive board chair to provide continuity and strategic advice....

Last week, the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission filed suit in federal court against Nike, seeking information indicating whether the company discriminated against white applicants and employees in a range of hiring, promotion, and mentoring decisions. The EEOC alleges that Nike failed to comply with initial requests and a subsequent administrative subpoena seeking such records....

Last week, the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission filed suit in federal court against Nike, seeking information indicating whether the company discriminated against white applicants and employees in a range of hiring, promotion, and mentoring decisions. The EEOC alleges that Nike failed to comply with initial requests and a subsequent administrative subpoena seeking such records. In its complaint, the EEOC claims that public information about Nike’s diversity, equity, and inclusion programs indicates potential discrimination against white people in terms of hiring and career development....

Last week, the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission filed suit in federal court against Nike, seeking information indicating whether the company discriminated against white applicants and employees in a range of hiring, promotion, and mentoring decisions. The EEOC alleges that Nike failed to comply with initial requests and a subsequent administrative subpoena seeking such records. In its complaint, the EEOC claims that public information about Nike’s diversity, equity, and inclusion programs indicates potential discrimination against white people in terms of hiring and career development....

...A competitive apparel market and economic headwinds affecting demand have led to a 1.6% modest decline in Under Armour’s stock over the past 52 weeks. The company also suffered from a data breach last year, affecting 72 million email addresses. However, a recent earnings beat has led to a surge, as the stock is up 41.35% year-to-date (YTD)....

...The closures mark another shift in the changing retail landscape across Michigan. Eddie Bauer Plans to Close Stores After Filling for Bankruptcy In addition to filing for bankruptcy, Eddie Bauer announced that it would be closing all store locations nationwide. Here in Michigan, there are nine locations that we'll see shuttered: Auburn Hills Birch Run Clinton Township Grandville Howell Livonia Novi Rochester West Branch This list doesn't include other retailers that carry Eddie Bauer products....

There are 175 locations nationwide that will close unless Catalyst Brands—the company that operates the Eddie Bauer stores—can find a buyer for the brand. READ ALSO:...

...Outdoor Retailer Closing All Locations If you're an outdoors person, you're probably familiar with the brand, Eddie Bauer. Eddie Bauer has been a purveyor of outdoor apparel, equipment, accessories, and gear for over 100 years now. However, all of that is coming to an end as the brand announced that it's filing for bankruptcy. The closures mark another shift in the changing retail landscape across Michigan....

Eddie Bauer, the outdoor apparel label synonymous with rugged jackets and adventure-ready gear, has recently entered Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the United States and Canada. This signals a dramatic shift for a company that has outfitted explorers and everyday consumers for more than a century....

This is the third bankruptcy case for the brand in just over 20 years. It comes at a time of falling sales, rising costs, and shifting shopping habits, especially the move away from traditional mall traffic and toward online shopping....

...Eddie Bauer's style was seen as more and more outdated or old-fashioned compared with sleeker outdoor labels such as Fjällräven and Arc'teryx. Falling Sales Hit Heritage Brand On 9 February, Eddie Bauer LLC — the entity that operates about 180 retail and outlet stores in the US and Canada — reportedly filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in New Jersey. The company has started liquidation sales and is looking for a possible buyer to keep the business going.

...McDonald also spent seven years as the CEO of Lululemon, where he tripled sales to over $10 billion. He stepped down in Jan. 2026 after the athleisure retailer’s US business began to slow and its original founder, Chip Wilson, publicly accused him and other leadership of causing a “loss of cool.”

As reported, the Eddie Bauer store operating company on Monday filed a voluntary Chapter 11 petition in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in New Jersey and will close its stores in the U.S. and Canada. This marks the third bankruptcy for the Eddie Bauer business, whose operating company was sold to SPARC Group Holdings and its intellectual property to an affiliate of Authentic Brands Group in 2021....

...Everything from tariffs, inflation and a post-pandemic shift away from outdoor apparel contributed to the demise of the Eddie Bauer stores operation. More from WWD Eddie Bauer Store Operator Files Chapter 11, Seeks White Knight to Keep Stores Open Eddie Bauer Store Operator Expected to File Bankruptcy EXCLUSIVE: Interparfums Inc. Picks Up Licenses for David Beckham, Nautica The retailer’s full tale of woe was outlined in the first-day motions in the Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing of Eddie Bauer LLC, a division of Catalyst Brands.

...In January 2025, SPARC was acquired by Catalyst Brands, which licensed the North American brick-and-mortar retail rights from Authentic. In a 131-page document filed by Eddie Bauer LLC’s co-chief restructuring officer Stephen Coulombe, he said the company, which operates 175 stores across 40 states and Canada and employs about 2,200 people, was benefiting from a renewed interest in the outdoors during the pandemic and posted positive earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization of $21 million during the last eight months of 2021. But the trend didn’t last long.

...Also read: Expand Energy shifts headquarters to Houston after CEO departure - what makes the city so attractive Here’s a look at some of the largest companies already impacted in 2026. Live Events Eddie Bauer Files for Bankruptcy Amid Declining Sales The US operations of Eddie Bauer filed for bankruptcy in February, blaming declining sales, as per an AOL report. The company hopes to attract a buyer during the process; if that fails, all US stores could close....

...Live Events Eddie Bauer Files for Bankruptcy Amid Declining Sales The US operations of Eddie Bauer filed for bankruptcy in February, blaming declining sales, as per an AOL report. The company hopes to attract a buyer during the process; if that fails, all US stores could close. Saks Global Shifts Focus to Luxury Brands, Closing Off 5th Stores

Republican EEOC Chair Andrea Lucas previously launched a commissioner’s investigation against Nike in May of 2024 to investigate the Company’s DEI objectives, and the EEOC’s latest filing represents a recent step in heightened enforcement efforts targeting workplace DEI programs as violations of Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. The filing comes one month after Chair Lucas posted a video on social media asking, “Are you a white male who has experienced discrimination at work based on your race or sex?...

Key Takeaways The EEOC has filed an enforcement action against Nike, seeking information on whether the company’s DEI initiatives resulted in discrimination against white employees and applicants, marking one of the first high-profile federal investigations into corporate DEI programs. This action signals a new era of heightened federal scrutiny and legal risk for employers with race-based DEI targets or practices, as the EEOC and other agencies intensify enforcement following recent executive orders aimed at curbing DEI initiatives....

In its filing, the EEOC says the charges were not triggered by internal complaints from workers but rather “based on publicly available information regarding Nike,” including the Company’s public pledges to employ “30% representation of racial and ethnic minorities at Director level and above in the U.S.,” and 35% representation across its entire U.S. corporate workforce. Nike appears to be the most prominent organization that the EEOC has publicly confirmed it is formally investigating for DEI practices....

...Sales at the sneaker brand continue to disappoint, even as Nike itself recovers. Working from home as a precursor Converse employees were told this week that they would have to work from home while management finalizes a reorganization plan. According to an internal memo obtained by Bloomberg, teams will be reorganized and new positions will be added....

However, there have already been previous rounds of layoffs within the Nike group. At the end of last summer, almost 1% of office staff were laid off, and there were also significant job cuts in 2024: in February of that year, Nike cut 2% of its global workforce (more than 1,600 jobs), while Converse carried out its first round of layoffs in May 2024 as part of a cost-cutting plan. While other divisions of Nike, led by CEO Elliott Hill, are now returning to growth, Converse is lagging behind....

...According to an internal memo obtained by Bloomberg, teams will be reorganized and new positions will be added. But CEO Aaron Cain hints that “difficult decisions” will also have to be made, which would mean forced departures.

Judgment day at Converse: parent company Nike will be cutting staff as part of a strategic restructuring. Sales at the sneaker brand continue to disappoint, even as Nike itself recovers....

However, there have already been previous rounds of layoffs within the Nike group. At the end of last summer, almost 1% of office staff were laid off, and there were also significant job cuts in 2024: in February of that year, Nike cut 2% of its global workforce (more than 1,600 jobs), while Converse carried out its first round of layoffs in May 2024 as part of a cost-cutting plan. While other divisions of Nike, led by CEO Elliott Hill, are now returning to growth, Converse is lagging behind....

However, there have already been previous rounds of layoffs within the Nike group. At the end of last summer, almost 1% of office staff were laid off, and there were also significant job cuts in 2024: in February of that year, Nike cut 2% of its global workforce (more than 1,600 jobs), while Converse carried out its first round of layoffs in May 2024 as part of a cost-cutting plan. While other divisions of Nike, led by CEO Elliott Hill, are now returning to growth, Converse is lagging behind....

...A banner promoting food at the mall is now prominently displayed in front of the former Eddie Bauer store site. A media representative for the mall confirmed on Wednesday that Shoe Palace would be going into the empty store space. The store operator of Eddie Bauer, known for its outdoor sportswear merchandise, on Feb. 9 filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of New Jersey, citing $100 million to $500 million in assets and $1 billion to $10 billion in liabilities.

A state Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification was filed by the retail operator, an entity under Catalyst Brands, with the state of Washington’s Employment Security Department on Monday announcing the closure of its corporate office in Seattle, affecting 60 workers. The company as of the petition filing has 175 retail locations across 40 states and six Canadian provinces, with a workforce of around 2,200....

A state Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification was filed by the retail operator, an entity under Catalyst Brands, with the state of Washington’s Employment Security Department on Monday announcing the closure of its corporate office in Seattle, affecting 60 workers. The company as of the petition filing has 175 retail locations across 40 states and six Canadian provinces, with a workforce of around 2,200. In August 2025, The News Tribune reported that Shoe Palace was to begin construction at the mall in early 2026, according to its permit filing with the city of Tacoma at the time....

As the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of its founding, Maine Historical Society (MHS) is launching Revolutionary Maine: America at 250. The year-long, collaborative initiative will impact hundreds of thousands of people from all backgrounds in every corner of the state through a major exhibition; educational programing; digital resources; special events; a historic Fourth of July celebration; and a 16-county tour of MHS’s copy of the Declaration of Independence that will give every Mainer the opportunity to see and experience this sacred national document. The Declaration of Independence Tour will visit libraries, museums, and other community organizations in each of Maine’s 16 counties from July through October 2026 to give all Mainers the opportunity to celebrate and reflect on the Declaration and its meaning to each of us as Mainers and Americans―and to participate in the 250th in deeply, local and meaningful ways.

As the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of its founding, Maine Historical Society (MHS) is launching Revolutionary Maine: America at 250. The year-long, collaborative initiative will impact hundreds of thousands of people from all backgrounds in every corner of the state through a major exhibition; educational programing; digital resources; special events; a historic Fourth of July celebration; and a 16-county tour of MHS’s copy of the Declaration of Independence that will give every Mainer the opportunity to see and experience this sacred national document. The Declaration of Independence Tour will visit libraries, museums, and other community organizations in each of Maine’s 16 counties from July through October 2026 to give all Mainers the opportunity to celebrate and reflect on the Declaration and its meaning to each of us as Mainers and Americans―and to participate in the 250th in deeply, local and meaningful ways.

Some of the pants are designed so athletes using wheelchairs can comfortably sit and perform in them, and many of the pieces are made with abrasion-resistant fabrics and magnetic zippers. Several of those features, like the jacket straps, were hits during prior Games and have since been included in broader collections Lululemon makes, said Hutcheson, who feels the company uses the Olympic uniform as a test bed....

In August last year, Nike trimmed just under 1 per cent of its corporate workforce as it continued restructuring under CEO Elliott Hill, who assumed the top role in 2024. Earlier, in February 2024, the company had announced plans to eliminate about 2 per cent of its global workforce, more than 1,600 positions....

In August last year, Nike trimmed just under 1 per cent of its corporate workforce as it continued restructuring under CEO Elliott Hill, who assumed the top role in 2024. Earlier, in February 2024, the company had announced plans to eliminate about 2 per cent of its global workforce, more than 1,600 positions. According to the report, Converse has also been impacted by these cost-control measures....

...Cost Cuts And Automation Drive Broader Overhaul The latest move follows a series of workforce reductions across Nike’s operations. In late January, Reuters reported that 775 employees were laid off, primarily affecting distribution centre positions in Tennessee and Mississippi. The cuts were part of a plan to enhance profitability and fast-track automation initiatives, according to the report, citing a source familiar with the matter....

...Nike-owned Converse has asked its employees to shift to remote work this week ahead of layoffs, signalling further changes inside the global sportswear group as it works to reignite momentum, according to a report from Bloomberg released on Monday, citing an internal memo outlining the transition. The directive comes as part of broader organisational adjustments designed to position the brand for improved performance, it added. The communication, sent by Converse Chief Executive Officer Aaron Cain, detailed upcoming structural tweaks. The memo referenced the creation of new roles and adjustments to existing teams, indicating a reorganisation effort aimed at sharpening focus and execution, according to the report. Converse “also had to make difficult decisions” which will include “saying goodbye to friends and teammates,” the CEO wrote.

Nike Layoffs: The restructuring will also include ‌new roles and team moves for some staff. Nike-owned Converse has asked its employees to shift to remote work this week ahead of layoffs, signalling further changes inside the global sportswear group as it works to reignite momentum, according to a report from Bloomberg released on Monday, citing an internal memo outlining the transition. The directive comes as part of broader organisational adjustments designed to position the brand for improved performance, it added....

...According to the report, Converse has also been impacted by these cost-control measures. In May 2024, the subsidiary reduced headcount as part of Nike’s broader savings initiative. Latest News Priya Raghuvanshi author She is working as a Chief Copy Editor at Times Now’s Business Desk, where she covers key developments in the stock market, Indian corporates across se ......

Eddie Bauer’s store operator plans to permanently shutter its headquarters in Seattle and lay off 60 workers in the process, according to a state filing. The Seattle-based outdoor apparel brand’s Sodo office at 2200 First Avenue South will close, and all 60 employees who work there will lose their jobs between April and June, per a worker adjustment and retraining notification filed Monday. The layoffs were announced on the same day Eddie Bauer’s retail operator confirmed filing for chapter 11 bankruptcy, which media reported this month. Texas-based Catalyst Brands, which operates Eddie Bauer’s physical locations, declined to comment....

...“After eight years at Eddie Bauer, I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to help steward a truly iconic brand with a rich history and a clear sense of purpose.” In addition to the closure of its headquarters, Eddie Bauer retail and outlet locations in the United States and Canada will also shutter if a sale process of its store operations — in full or partially — doesn’t go through, according to a news release Monday. Eddie Bauer has more than 200 stores around the United States, including 11 in Washington, per the company’s website....

Eddie Bauer’s store operator plans to permanently shutter its headquarters in Seattle and lay off 60 workers in the process, according to a state filing. The Seattle-based outdoor apparel brand’s Sod...

Converse CEO Aaron Cain said that the company had to make difficult decisions, in an internal memo reported by Bloomberg, including "saying goodbye to friends and teammates," and senior executives are expected to be leaving as well. It's unclear how many jobs are being cut in the move, but it follows a round of layoffs at Nike as the sportswear giant tries to regain its footing and return to profit....

Converse CEO Aaron Cain said that the company had to make difficult decisions, in an internal memo reported by Bloomberg, including "saying goodbye to friends and teammates," and senior executives are expected to be leaving as well. It's unclear how many jobs are being cut in the move, but it follows a round of layoffs at Nike as the sportswear giant tries to regain its footing and return to profit. Today's Change ( -2.36 %) $ -1.51 Current Price $ 62.41 Key Data Points Market Cap $95B Day's Range $ 62.37 - $ 63.91 52wk Range $ 52.28 - $ 82.44 Volume 13M Avg Vol 18M Gross Margin 40.72 % Dividend Yield 2.52 % What it means for Nike stock

...In Nike's most recent quarter, revenue from Converse fell 30% to $300 million, including declines in all of its regions, continuing a long run of negative growth at the sub-brand. Layoffs could be coming After several quarters of declining revenue at Converse and sales at a 15-year low, layoffs now seem to be on the docket for the footwear brand, according to reporting in several media outlets.

Converse CEO Aaron Cain said that the company had to make difficult decisions, in an internal memo reported by Bloomberg, including "saying goodbye to friends and teammates," and senior executives are expected to be leaving as well. It's unclear how many jobs are being cut in the move, but it follows a round of layoffs at Nike as the sportswear giant tries to regain its footing and return to profit....

...In Nike's most recent quarter, revenue from Converse fell 30% to $300 million, including declines in all of its regions, continuing a long run of negative growth at the sub-brand. Layoffs could be coming After several quarters of declining revenue at Converse and sales at a 15-year low, layoffs now seem to be on the docket for the footwear brand, according to reporting in several media outlets.

Employees of Nike’s ailing Converse brand have been told to work from home this week ahead of a round of layoffs, according to a Bloomberg report. The struggling brand also is expected to be restruct...

Employees of Nike’s ailing Converse brand have been told to work from home this week ahead of a round of layoffs, according to a Bloomberg report. The struggling brand also is expected to be restructured, according to Bloomberg, which viewed a note sent to employees by Converse CEO Aaron Cain. Nike declined comment....

Employees of Nike’s ailing Converse brand have been told to work from home this week ahead of a round of layoffs, according to a Bloomberg report. The struggling brand also is expected to be restruct...

...In December, Nike reported its second consecutive quarter of sales growth. But Hill has cautioned investors that Nike’s comeback won’t be “linear,” telling stock analysts in December that Converse and the company’s China business will take longer to recover. This is the fourth consecutive year of significant Nike layoffs. In January, Nike announced 775 layoffs at its distribution centers....

...But Hill has cautioned investors that Nike’s comeback won’t be “linear,” telling stock analysts in December that Converse and the company’s China business will take longer to recover. This is the fourth consecutive year of significant Nike layoffs. In January, Nike announced 775 layoffs at its distribution centers. Last year, Nike laid off 1% of its corporate workforce. In 2024, Nike laid off 740 Oregon workers as part of a 2% cut to its global workforce, part of a $2 billion cost-cutting effort. In 2023, Nike laid off workers in several departments, including human resources, recruiting and sourcing....

The company’s journey through corporate ownership has also contributed to its current predicament. Eddie Bauer has changed hands multiple times over the past two decades, passing through a series of private equity owners and corporate parents. This revolving door of ownership often brought leveraged buyouts that loaded the company with debt while extracting value through management fees and dividends. The pattern is a familiar one in American retail: a heritage brand with strong consumer recognition is acquired, leveraged, and ultimately left without the financial flexibility to invest in the innovation, marketing, and digital infrastructure needed to compete in a rapidly evolving market....

Private Equity’s Fingerprints on Another Retail Casualty The role of private equity in Eddie Bauer’s decline deserves scrutiny. The leveraged buyout model, which has been applied to countless retail brands over the past three decades, often prioritizes short-term financial engineering over long-term brand building. By loading companies with debt to fund acquisitions, private equity firms can generate attractive returns for their investors even as the underlying businesses deteriorate....

...For the communities that host Eddie Bauer stores — many of them in suburban malls and lifestyle centers already grappling with rising vacancy rates — the bankruptcy adds another blow. Each store closure represents not just lost jobs but a further erosion of the retail ecosystem that anchors these commercial properties. Mall operators and landlords, many of whom are themselves navigating financial stress, will be forced to find replacement tenants in a market where demand for physical retail space continues to contract.

...At roughly 3,000 square feet, the store features a curated assortment of running, basketball, lifestyle and apparel products. It also features athlete storytelling and will celebrate “the intersection of Chinese American heritage, sport, and performance innovation.” Dive Insight: Anta is making moves in the U.S. market.

Dive Brief: Weeks after Anta Sports acquired a stake in Puma, namesake brand Anta is opening its first flagship store in the U.S. Located in Beverly Hills, California, the store will open Friday and ...

Reevemark handles Eddie Bauer LLC as the retailer inks a Chapter 11 restructuring pact that has it conducting liquidation sales at its US and Canadian stores while working to find a buyer for either all of or part of the chain. Wholesale and e-commerce activities are not affected by the wind-down....

...Marc Rosen, CEO of EB parent Catalyst Brands, said the retail operation faced declining sales and supply chain issues. Inflation and tariff uncertainty exacerbated EB’s dire situation. Going the Chapter 11 route was a difficult decision but one that maximizes value for all stakeholders, according to Rosen. Reevemark has Hugh Burns, Renee Soto and Luc Herbowy working the Chapter 11 process.

CBS NEWS) – Sources from CBS News say that Eddie Bauer said Monday that it has declared bankruptcy — the third time the 106-year-old outdoor apparel retailer has filed for Chapter 11 protection from its debts. The Bellevue, Washington-based company, which operates roughly 180 stores across the U.S. and Canada, said its retail locations will continue serving customers as the company starts winding down some stores. Its e-commerce and wholesale operations are not affected by the filing because they are operated separately....

In recent years, the company has faced dwindling sales, supply-chain issues and what Rosen on Monday cited as “ongoing tariff uncertainty.” “While the leadership team at Catalyst was able to make significant strides in the brand, including rapid improvements in product development and marketing, those changes could not be implemented fast enough to fully address the challenges created over several years,” he said....

CBS NEWS) – Sources from CBS News say that Eddie Bauer said Monday that it has declared bankruptcy — the third time the 106-year-old outdoor apparel retailer has filed for Chapter 11 protection from its debts. The Bellevue, Washington-based company, which operates roughly 180 stores across the U.S. and Canada, said its retail locations will continue serving customers as the company starts winding down some stores....

The future of Eddie Bauer’s Canadian stores is hinging on whether the company can find a buyer. The apparel retailer announced Monday that it is looking to sell the 220 stores it has across Canada and the U.S. after filing for bankruptcy protection south of the border. It said a similar filing was impending in Canada, where its website listed 31 stores, predominantly in Ontario....

Catalyst Brands was formed last year through a merger between U.S. department store JCPenney and SPARC Group, a retail holding company that acquired the Eddie Bauer brand in May 2021. Before Catalyst Brands was conceived, CEO Marc Rosen said Monday that Eddie Bauer was already “in a challenged situation, with declining sales, supply chain challenges and other issues.” “Over the past year, these challenges have been exacerbated by various headwinds, including increased costs of doing business due to inflation, ongoing tariff uncertainty, and other factors,” he said in a news release. “While the leadership team at Catalyst was able to make significant strides in the brand, including rapid improvements in product development and marketing, those changes could not be implemented fast enough to fully address the challenges created over several years.”

...Lululemon cuts 100 part-time jobs in customer care division Its more recent history, however, has been one of struggles. It has filed for creditor protection twice before and while it has rebounded under new ownership several times, it has not been able to garner the same appeal as hit brands like Patagonia and The North Face.

An iconic American outdoors brand is being forced to rethink its business route, with a major operator filing for bankruptcy amid plummeting sales. The operator of roughly 180 Eddie Bauer stores across the US and Canada has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, citing declining sales and a host of other industry challenges. This marks the third bankruptcy in just over two decades for the storied - but increasingly struggling - brand, which began as a Seattle fishing shop in 1920....

An iconic American outdoors brand is being forced to rethink its business route, with a major operator filing for bankruptcy amid plummeting sales. The operator of roughly 180 Eddie Bauer stores across the US and Canada has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, citing declining sales and a host of other industry challenges. This marks the third bankruptcy in just over two decades for the storied - but increasingly struggling - brand, which began as a Seattle fishing shop in 1920. A spokesperson for Authentic Brands Group, which continues to own the Eddie Bauer brand and all associated intellectual property worldwide, told the Daily Mail that a new strategy is in place to ensure the brand endures for the next generation....

...In 2021, it was purchased by Authentic Brands and SPARC Group LLC. A year ago, Catalyst was formed through the merger of SPARC and JCPenney, which had been acquired by Simon Property Group and mall operator Brookfield out of bankruptcy. On Monday, Eddie Bauer LLC announced it had entered a restructuring agreement with its secured lenders as part of its Chapter 11 filing in the US Bankruptcy Court for the District of New Jersey.

By ANNE D’INNOCENZIO, AP Business Writer NEW YORK (AP) — The operator of roughly 180 Eddie Bauer stores across the U.S. and Canada has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, blaming declining sales and a litany of other industry headwinds. The bankruptcy filing marks the third time in a little over two decades for the storied-but-now-tired brand that began as a Seattle fishing shop, later outfitted the first American to climb Mount Everest and made thousands of newfangled down jackets and sleeping bags for the military during World War II....

By ANNE D’INNOCENZIO, AP Business Writer NEW YORK (AP) — The operator of roughly 180 Eddie Bauer stores across the U.S. and Canada has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, blaming declining sales and a litany of other industry headwinds. The bankruptcy filing marks the third time in a little over two decades for the storied-but-now-tired brand that began as a Seattle fishing shop, later outfitted the first American to climb Mount Everest and made thousands of newfangled down jackets and sleeping bags for the military during World War II. Eddie Bauer LLC said Monday it had entered into a restructuring pact with its secured lenders as it made the filing in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of New Jersey.

...“This is not an easy decision,” said Marc Rosen, CEO of Catalyst Brands, which maintains the license to operate Eddie Bauer stores in the U.S. and Canada. “However, this restructuring is the best way to optimize value for the retail company’s stakeholders and also ensure Catalyst Brands remains profitable and with strong liquidity and cash flow.” Eddie Bauer’s stores outside of the U.S. and Canada are operated by other licensees, are not included in the Chapter 11 filings, and will stay open, according to the release.

The operator of roughly 180 Eddie Bauer retail and outlet stores across the United States and Canada has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, citing declining sales and mounting pressures across the retail industry. Eddie Bauer LLC said Monday that it entered into a restructuring agreement with its secured lenders and filed for bankruptcy in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of New Jersey....

A history of bankruptcies and ownership changes Following Spiegel’s bankruptcy in 2003, Eddie Bauer was reorganized as Eddie Bauer Holdings Inc. in 2005. The company filed for bankruptcy again in 200...

...Eddie Bauer LLC said Monday that it entered into a restructuring agreement with its secured lenders and filed for bankruptcy in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of New Jersey. The filing marks the third bankruptcy tied to the iconic outdoor brand in just over two decades. Most Eddie Bauer stores in the U.S. and Canada will remain open for now, though the company said it plans to wind down certain locations as part of the restructuring process....

Outdoor apparel retailer Eddie Bauer has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and is weighing the sale of its stores in the U.S. and Canada as in-store sales have struggled in recent years. Eddie Bauer’s leadership announced Monday that through the court’s help, it plans to liquidate up to 200 stores “as quickly and efficiently as possible,” stating that inflation and tariffs have interfered with its ability to pay back around $1 billion in debt....

Outdoor apparel retailer Eddie Bauer has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and is weighing the sale of its stores in the U.S. and Canada as in-store sales have struggled in recent years. Eddie Bauer’s leadership announced Monday that through the court’s help, it plans to liquidate up to 200 stores “as quickly and efficiently as possible,” stating that inflation and tariffs have interfered with its ability to pay back around $1 billion in debt. SEE ALSO: Bam Lands $60M to Build Rental Development in Coral Gables...

...“We are working to minimize the impact on the retail company’s employees, vendors, customers and other stakeholders,” Rosen continued. “However, this restructuring is the best way to optimize value for the retail company’s stakeholders and also ensure Catalyst Brands remains profitable and with strong liquidity and cash flow.” In the New York metro area, Eddie Bauer has retail locations in Paramus and at American Dream mall in East Rutherford, N.J. Eddie Bauer did not immediately respond to a request for further comment.

TORONTO — The future of Eddie Bauer’s Canadian stores is hinging on whether the company can find a buyer. The apparel retailer announced Monday that it is looking to sell the 220 stores it has across Canada and the U.S. after filing for bankruptcy protection south of the border. It said a similar filing was impending in Canada, where its website listed 31 stores, predominantly in Ontario....

Before Catalyst Brands was conceived, CEO Marc Rosen said Monday that Eddie Bauer was already “in a challenged situation, with declining sales, supply chain challenges and other issues.” “Over the pa...

...The apparel retailer announced Monday that it is looking to sell the 220 stores it has across Canada and the U.S. after filing for bankruptcy protection south of the border. It said a similar filing was impending in Canada, where its website listed 31 stores, predominantly in Ontario. Eddie Bauer LLC said locations on both sides of the border will remain open, but host liquidation sales as the court processes get underway and the company seeks a potential buyer....

By ANNE D’INNOCENZIO, AP Business Writer NEW YORK (AP) — The operator of roughly 180 Eddie Bauer stores across the U.S. and Canada has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, blaming declining sales and a litany of other industry headwinds. The bankruptcy filing marks the third time in a little over two decades for the storied-but-now-tired brand that began as a Seattle fishing shop, later outfitted the first American to climb Mount Everest and made thousands of newfangled down jackets and sleeping bags for the military during World War I. Eddie Bauer LLC said Monday it had entered into a restructuring pact with its secured lenders as it made the filing in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of New Jersey.

By ANNE D’INNOCENZIO, AP Business Writer NEW YORK (AP) — The operator of roughly 180 Eddie Bauer stores across the U.S. and Canada has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, blaming declining sales and a litany of other industry headwinds. The bankruptcy filing marks the third time in a little over two decades for the storied-but-now-tired brand that began as a Seattle fishing shop, later outfitted the first American to climb Mount Everest and made thousands of newfangled down jackets and sleeping bags for the military during World War I. Eddie Bauer LLC said Monday it had entered into a restructuring pact with its secured lenders as it made the filing in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of New Jersey.

By ANNE D’INNOCENZIO, AP Business Writer NEW YORK (AP) — The operator of roughly 180 Eddie Bauer stores across the U.S. and Canada has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, blaming declining sales and a litany of other industry headwinds. The bankruptcy filing marks the third time in a little over two decades for the storied-but-now-tired brand that began as a Seattle fishing shop, later outfitted the first American to climb Mount Everest and made thousands of newfangled down jackets and sleeping bags for the military during World War I. Eddie Bauer LLC said Monday it had entered into a restructuring pact with its secured lenders as it made the filing in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of New Jersey.

What does that actually mean? Well, the space-age jacket is an example of adaptive outerwear, powered by Nike’s A.I.R. (Adapt. Inflate. Regulate.) technology. In other words, it enables athletes – read: anyone with a body – to respond in real-time to thermal conditions, inflating or deflating sections of the jacket according to their personal preferences, with warmth levels ranging from a hoodie to a mid-weight puffer....

...technology. In other words, it enables athletes – read: anyone with a body – to respond in real-time to thermal conditions, inflating or deflating sections of the jacket according to their personal preferences, with warmth levels ranging from a hoodie to a mid-weight puffer. This is made possible by a breakthrough two-layer composite laminate material that’s designed to be both durable and soft to the touch, creating a whole new sensation in performance outerwear....

...In other words, it enables athletes – read: anyone with a body – to respond in real-time to thermal conditions, inflating or deflating sections of the jacket according to their personal preferences, with warmth levels ranging from a hoodie to a mid-weight puffer. This is made possible by a breakthrough two-layer composite laminate material that’s designed to be both durable and soft to the touch, creating a whole new sensation in performance outerwear. And where better to debut this new innovation than this year’s home for the most elite competition in winter sports?

Eddie Bauer LLC filed for bankruptcy protection in New Jersey Monday, beginning liquidation sales at 180 of its outdoor apparel stores in the U.S. and Canada, while keeping the door open for a buyer to acquire the company’s entire brick-and-mortar retail business. The bankruptcy will not impact Eddie Bauer’s online sales, apparel manufacturing or wholesale sales businesses, which are owned and operated separately from the Eddie Bauer-branded retail stores....

Eddie Bauer LLC filed for bankruptcy protection in New Jersey Monday, beginning liquidation sales at 180 of its outdoor apparel stores in the U.S. and Canada, while keeping the door open for a buyer to acquire the company’s entire brick-and-mortar retail business. The bankruptcy will not impact Eddie Bauer’s online sales, apparel manufacturing or wholesale sales businesses, which are owned and operated separately from the Eddie Bauer-branded retail stores. The bankrupt Eddie Bauer retail company has $1.7 billion in debt, according to its court filings. Eddie Bauer, founded in Seattle, has sold outdoor sportswear for 106 years....

...Eddie Bauer’s retail and outlet stores will remain open during the bankruptcy sales. Eddie Bauer aims to get court approval for a potential sale by March 12, according to court filings. Eddie Bauer previously went bankrupt in 2009.

What distinguishes the ASICS deal is not its branding value but its architecture. In addition to performance footwear and apparel, the agreement covers travel, coaching allowances and physical therapy—inputs that, in elite sprinting, tend to be decisive rather than discretionary. For athletes operating at the margins of world-class performance....

Under collegiate scholarships, athletes enjoy world-class coaching, medical care, sports science, nutrition and competition schedules, often at no personal cost. The problem arises after graduation. ...

...It underlines a simple but often ignored reality: raw talent alone is insufficient without the systems that allow that talent to mature. Structure over cash benefits Globally, leading brands now combine capital with access to sports science, medical services, competition planning and research-led product development. For athletes from countries like Ghana, without fully resourced national high-performance systems, such arrangements effectively substitute for state-backed infrastructure.

"Seochon is home to a highly passionate running community," said Markus Morent, managing director of Adidas Korea, on Friday at the store's media opening. "As running communities continue to grow across Seoul, with more running routes developing around the palace area, we hope to contribute to Seochon's emergence as one of the city's key running hubs. " Seochon is known for popular running routes along Gyeongbokgung's stone walls and toward Inwangsan, making it a natural setting for a community-oriented running space. The managing director added that the store is intended to become not merely a retail outlet, but a hub that will connect local culture, runners and the brand's global running philosophy....

..." Seochon is known for popular running routes along Gyeongbokgung's stone walls and toward Inwangsan, making it a natural setting for a community-oriented running space. The managing director added that the store is intended to become not merely a retail outlet, but a hub that will connect local culture, runners and the brand's global running philosophy. The first floor features a courtyard-linked layout designed for rest and interaction, centered on a launch zone showcasing Seoul Marathon-related products and Adidas outdoor lines....

– Anta Sports, China’s top sportswear company, has leapt onto the international stage with an acquisition-driven global portfolio, including January’s US$1.8 billion (S$2.3 billion) deal for a 29 pe...

...“With Anta coming in, I expect more investment in larger, better stores that can elevate the brand image.” Puma brings missing global mass market scale With the Puma deal, Anta gains what its global portfolio lacks: a mass-market, globally recognised brand with strong resonance in the US and Europe. Anta has already begun pushing its own brand overseas....

“Mr Ding wants Anta to be the biggest sportswear conglomerate in the world and over the past decade, he’s been going step by step in that direction,” said Morningstar analyst Ivan Su. A person with knowledge of Anta’s acquisition strategy said the Puma deal is unlikely to be Anta’s last....

– Anta Sports, China’s top sportswear company, has leapt onto the international stage with an acquisition-driven global portfolio, including January’s US$1.8 billion (S$2.3 billion) deal for a 29 pe...

“Mr Ding wants Anta to be the biggest sportswear conglomerate in the world and over the past decade, he’s been going step by step in that direction,” said Morningstar analyst Ivan Su. A person with knowledge of Anta’s acquisition strategy said the Puma deal is unlikely to be Anta’s last. “Anta is quite aggressive for a Chinese company and quite ambitious,” said the person, who declined to be named as they are not authorised to speak to the media ....

...This is a hoodie you’ll live in. adidas Women’s Essentials Small Logo Sweatshirt $14.98 (was $45) Classic adidas vibes with ultra-soft comfort and sustainable materials. Perfect for layering or lounging....

As Under Armour enters what Plank called the next phase, he emphasized operating principles he has been communicating internally under the theme “Unleashing Intentionality,” which he described as selling “so much more, of so much less at a much higher full retail price.” Plank also outlined targeted leadership changes aimed at accelerating execution: Kara Trent named Chief Merchandising Officer with end-to-end responsibility for product mix, pricing, and margin performance. Adam Peake named President of the Americas....

...Kara Trent named Chief Merchandising Officer with end-to-end responsibility for product mix, pricing, and margin performance. Adam Peake named President of the Americas. Eric Liedtke named Chief Marketing Officer and EVP of Strategy. Yassine Saidi transitioned to an external senior advisor role, which Plank said is intended to ensure design continuity....

...Adam Peake named President of the Americas. Eric Liedtke named Chief Marketing Officer and EVP of Strategy. Yassine Saidi transitioned to an external senior advisor role, which Plank said is intended to ensure design continuity. Product focus: building pricing power in apparel while resetting footwear

...Now, however, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) announced on February 4 that it had filed an action in federal court against Nike. Advertisement The EEOC is investigating Nike over its various diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) projects and goals for last year. The court filing, according to the federal agency, accuses Nike of "a pattern or practice of disparate treatment against white employees, applicants, and training program participants" based on DEI ideology.

...Advertisement The EEOC is investigating Nike over its various diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) projects and goals for last year. The court filing, according to the federal agency, accuses Nike of "a pattern or practice of disparate treatment against white employees, applicants, and training program participants" based on DEI ideology.

...Either that or it just assumed that it was too big to face any real consequences. For Our VIPs: Reagan’s Observations on Taxation and Government Spending Are Even More Urgent Today The EEOC press release on the court filing explains: Information sought included criteria used in selecting employees for layoffs; information related to the company’s tracking and use of worker race and ethnicity data, including as a factor in setting executive compensation; and information about 16 programs which allegedly provided race-restricted mentoring, leadership, or career development opportunities. When the company failed to produce all the information sought by the subpoena, the agency filed an enforcement action in federal court....

Nike and Adidas are set to face a challenger after China’s Anta Sports acquired a 29 per cent stake in Germany’s Puma for $1.8 billion, sharpening its push into the global big league of sportswear. T...

Nike and Adidas are set to face a challenger after China’s Anta Sports acquired a 29 per cent stake in Germany’s Puma for $1.8 billion, sharpening its push into the global big league of sportswear. T...

Nike and Adidas are set to face a challenger after China’s Anta Sports acquired a 29 per cent stake in Germany’s Puma for $1.8 billion, sharpening its push into the global big league of sportswear. The Fujian-based company now leads China’s sportswear market with a 23 per cent share, ahead of its Western rivals, and carries a market capitalisation of about $28 billion. Over the past decade, Anta has steadily assembled a diversified portfolio across price points and categories. Its brands include Fila in China and parts of Southeast Asia, Descente, Kolon Sport, MAIA Active, Jack Wolfskin and Amer Sports, the Finnish group it acquired for $6.29 billion in 2018 and relisted in 2024.

...The recent incident at the Langham Place branch reflected shortcomings in our operational management and resulted in an unpleasant experience. We sincerely apologise,” it said. The company said it was handling the matter seriously to prevent similar incidents from happening again. It said the temporary fitting room at the branch had been suspended and signs were added....

...The company said it was handling the matter seriously to prevent similar incidents from happening again. It said the temporary fitting room at the branch had been suspended and signs were added. The company would engage an independent consulting firm to carry out a comprehensive review of its fitting room designs to better protect customer privacy, it said. The staff member involved had been reassigned and the company would follow up based on the police investigation outcome, laws and internal guidelines, it added.

...It said the temporary fitting room at the branch had been suspended and signs were added. The company would engage an independent consulting firm to carry out a comprehensive review of its fitting room designs to better protect customer privacy, it said. The staff member involved had been reassigned and the company would follow up based on the police investigation outcome, laws and internal guidelines, it added.

...The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is investigating Nike over the company’s treatment of its White employees in its corporate diversity policies. The investigation is one of the first high-profile cases of its kind under the Trump administration, which has urged workers to come forward with discrimination complaints. On Wednesday, the EEOC revealed that it filed a subpoena enforcement action in a Missouri court to force Nike to turn over records tied to allegations that the company discriminated against White workers, as part of its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) program. The agency claims Nike may have engaged in “a pattern or practice of disparate treatment against White employees, applicants and training program participants in hiring, promotion, demotion, or separation decisions, including selection for layoffs; internship programs; and mentoring, leadership development and other career development programs.”

...“We have shared thousands of pages of information and detailed written responses to the EEOC’s inquiry and are in the process of providing additional information.” “We are committed to fair and lawful employment practices and follow all applicable laws, including those that prohibit discrimination,” the statement continued. “We believe our programs and practices are consistent with those obligations and take these matters seriously....

OAN Staff Cory Hawkins 8:26 PM – Thursday, February 5, 2026 The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is investigating Nike over the company’s treatment of its White employees in its corporate diversity policies. The investigation is one of the first high-profile cases of its kind under the Trump administration, which has urged workers to come forward with discrimination complaints....

Royal Challengers Bengaluru lifted the women’s league title for the second time on Friday, confirming that winning is no longer an exception for the franchise, it is now the norm. To mark the moment, ...

...Tee featuring the same slogan, available for fans through its official online channels. As RCB’s official kit partner since the launch of WPL, PUMA has been closely tied to this journey while continuing to heavily invest in women’s sport through long-term partnerships. With another title secured, the image says it best: this is what consistency looks like, and RCB is setting the pace.

In its filing, the EEOC says the charges were not triggered by internal complaints from workers, but were “based on publicly available information regarding Nike,” including the company’s public pledg...

(WASHINGTON) — The federal agency that investigates workplace discrimination is seeking court enforcement of a subpoena it has issued to Nike as it pursues allegations that the athletic apparel maker ...

In its filing, the EEOC says the charges were not triggered by internal complaints from workers, but were “based on publicly available information regarding Nike,” including the company’s public pledges to have “30% representation of racial and ethnic minorities at Director level and above in the U.S.,” and 35% representation across its entire U.S. corporate workforce. The EEOC said in the filing that it has gone to court because the company provided some, but not all, of the data the agency requested on the racial and ethnic makeup of its workforce following the issuance of a subpoena last September. “Respondent NIKE’s failure to comply with the subpoena has delayed and hampered the EEOC’s investigation of alleged unlawful employment practices under Title VII” of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the motion states.

Authored by Naveen Athrappully via The Epoch Times (emphasis ours), The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is seeking a court order for investigating systemic race discrimination allegations against white workers by footwear and apparel corporation Nike Inc., according to a Feb. 4 statement from the agency. The EEOC filed an action in federal court to compel Nike, headquartered in Oregon, to produce information related to allegations that the company discriminated against white workers as part of its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs....

Lucas alleged that Nike, since at least 2020, engaged in “a pattern or practice of disparate treatment against white employees, applicants and training program participants in hiring, promotion, demotion, or separation decisions, including selection for layoffs; internship programs; and mentoring, leadership development and other career development programs.” EEOC is the sole federal agency that investigates and litigates against companies for violating federal law prohibiting employment discrimination....

...In its fiscal year 2024 “Representation by the Numbers” document published online, Nike said women made up 50.3 percent of the global corporate workforce. As for racial representation, white employees made up 57 percent, with black employees making up 9 percent, Asian 18 percent, and Hispanic 8.8 percent. Based on Bloomberg data, from 2020 to 2021, Nike showcased the largest amount of change against hiring white workers among large U.S. companies. While the numbers of black, Hispanic, and Asian people went up across the board, Nike let go of white workers, said the analysis. Kismet Mills is currently Nike’s chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer....

In its filing, the EEOC says the charges were not triggered by internal complaints from workers, but were “based on publicly available information regarding Nike,” including the company’s public pledg...

EEOC alleges anti-white discrimination at Nike, seeks court enforcement of subpoena Posted/updated on: February 5, 2026 at 4:31 pm (WASHINGTON) -- The federal agency that investigates workplace discrimination is seeking court enforcement of a subpoena it has issued to Nike as it pursues allegations that the athletic apparel maker has been discriminating against its white employees in its corporate diversity policies. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) filed its motion this week in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri, where Nike has a factory that produces its famous AIR footwear technology. The agency's charges against Nike date to 2024, when commission member, and current Trump-appointed chair, Andrea Lucas alleged that Nike had been engaging in a pattern of discriminatory practices, including “race-based workforce representation quotas,” and hiring, promotion, demotion and firing decisions that were a function of “disparate treatment against White employees, applicants, and training program participants."

In its filing, the EEOC says the charges were not triggered by internal complaints from workers, but were “based on publicly available information regarding Nike,” including the company’s public pledg...

So, the federal government is out here actively fishing for white people who have anti-white discrimination claims, which one wouldn’t have to do for the largest racial demographic in the nation if it...

...It just keeps tossing around words like “systemic” to describe unspecified “allegations” that the company is discriminating against white people. In fact, instead of citing any specific allegations from actual people who claim the sportswear company discriminated against them, the Trump-appointed EEOC chair, Andrea Lucas cited “compelling indications” that Nike’s DEI practices “may violate federal prohibitions against race discrimination,” which, again, indicates that the EEOC’s action is based solely on the fact that the company boasts about its commitment to diversity. It’s worth mentioning that this is the same Andrea Lucas who literally put out a video advertisement, soliciting white men to come forward with their reverse-racism claims.

Anyway, the administration’s Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has announced it is investigating Nike over vague allegations that it discriminated against white people. *yawn* Whatever, let’s get into it… The EEOC said in a press release that it “seeks court order for information related to systemic race discrimination allegations that athletic footwear and apparel giant discriminated against white workers,” which it seems to be basing largely on the fact that the company maintains a diversity, equity and inclusion page on its website, which notes that Nike is committed to “creating a workforce that represents different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.” The horror, right?

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has launched an investigation into Nike’s hiring practices due to allegations of discrimination against white employees. America First Legal (AFL) filed a civil rights complaint against Nike with the EEOC in 2024....

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has launched an investigation into Nike’s hiring practices due to allegations of discrimination against white employees. America First Legal (AFL) filed a civil rights complaint against Nike with the EEOC in 2024. “The Company’s ‘2025 Targets Summary’ reveals that Nike appears to use numerical quotas for hiring, training, and promotion,” according to AFL....

Nike received a regular subpoena but did not respond, prompting the EEOC to take the next step. “When there are compelling indications, including corporate admissions in extensive public materials, that an employer’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion-related programs may violate federal prohibitions against race discrimination or other forms of unlawful discrimination, the EEOC will take all necessary steps—including subpoena enforcement actions—to ensure the opportunity to fully and comprehensively investigate,” said EEOC Chair Andrea Lucas. The EEOC requested documents and information going back to 2018: Information sought included criteria used in selecting employees for layoffs; information related to the company’s tracking and use of worker race and ethnicity data, including as a factor in setting executive compensation; and information about 16 programs which allegedly provided race-restricted mentoring, leadership, or career development opportunities....

The dispute turned on the interpretation of the policies’ “single claims” or “related claims” provisions. Those provisions defined a single claim to include claims arising from the same wrongful act or from interrelated wrongful acts that are “logically or causally related,” and deemed such claims first made during the earliest applicable policy period. The defendant faced a series of civil lawsuits between 2016 and 2018 alleging misleading public statements about financial performance, as well as confidential investigations by the Securities and Exchange Commission focused on revenue “pull-forward” practices. The matters ultimately resulted in settlements exceeding $443 million....

RALEIGH, NC — The 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals reversed a federal district court ruling that had expanded directors and officers (D&O) insurance coverage for the defendant, holding that claims tied to accounting practices and related public statements constituted a single claim under the policies at issue. Multiple insurers sought review after the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland ruled that government investigations into the defendant’s accounting practices triggered a separate $100 million layer of coverage under a 2017–2018 D&O policy. The insurers argued that the investigations were interrelated with earlier securities class actions and shareholder derivative demands, and therefore fell within the limits of a 2016–2017 policy.

...The defendant faced a series of civil lawsuits between 2016 and 2018 alleging misleading public statements about financial performance, as well as confidential investigations by the Securities and Exchange Commission focused on revenue “pull-forward” practices. The matters ultimately resulted in settlements exceeding $443 million. The defendant contended that the government investigation involved distinct conduct and therefore triggered additional coverage under a later policy period.

Among the eight executive officers listed in the annual report, Nike’s executive vice president and chief commercial officer Craig Williams was the only one listed who isn’t white. As part of changes to the Swoosh’s senior leadership team, Williams was one of the employees whose role was eliminated....

Nike Inc. appears to be the latest example of how President Trump’s administration has escalated efforts to challenge diversity efforts across corporate America. As reported, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) on Wednesday filed an action for enforcement of an EEOC administrative subpoena against the athletic firm seeking the production of documents in connection to a discrimination probe. More specifically, the EEOC is probing “systemic allegations” involving DEI-related intentional race discrimination against White employees and job applicants....

Nike Inc. appears to be the latest example of how President Trump’s administration has escalated efforts to challenge diversity efforts across corporate America. As reported, the U.S. Equal Employmen...

The agency said it took the action after Nike failed to respond to a subpoena for various information, including the criteria used in selecting employees for redundancies and setting executives’ pay. EEOC chair, Andrea Lucas, an ardent critic of racial diversity initiatives who was appointed last year by President Donald Trump, said US anti-discrimination law is “colour-blind” and protects employees of “all races”....

...“Thanks to President Trump’s commitment to enforcing our nation’s civil rights laws, the EEOC has renewed its focus on even-handed enforcement of Title VII,” Lucas said in a statement, referring to a section of the 1964 Civil Rights Act that prohibits employment discrimination based on race, colour, religion or sex. Nike responds In response, Nike says it has provided thousands of documents to the EEOC and is fully cooperating, so they’re shocked that the commission would pursue the subpoena.

A Trump appointee is calling for a deep dive into Nike’s business practices as part of the administration’s efforts to abolish DEI. The US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) said on Wednesday that it had filed a court motion to compel Nike to produce information related to allegations of “intentional race discrimination” against white employees. Despite no employees speaking out, the February 4 filing relates to a suspected pattern of discrimination in “hiring, promotion, demotion, or separation decisions, including selection for layoffs; internship programs; and mentoring, leadership development and other career development programs.”...

Nike has unveiled an innovative inflatable jacket for Team USA for the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics, which can transform from a windbreaker to a mid-weight puffer with the push of a button. "You're able to take a jacket that looks like a windbreaker when it's deflated, but when you add air to it, you're able to take it all the way up to a mid-weight puffer," said Danielle Ekayembe from Nike's Apparel Innovation Team....

..."And so, instead of putting on so many layers and managing your warmth that way, you actually just have one garment that's able to meet all of those insulation needs at the push of a button. "The jacket comes with a rechargeable pump and takes about 30 seconds to fully inflate. While the jacket is currently not available for purchase, Ekayembe said, "So this is specifically being gifted to Team USA....

...And then obviously, yes, we will eventually also be retailing this. "Nike first experimented with inflatable clothing 20 years ago, and this latest innovation marks a significant advancement in their apparel technology.

Popular outdoor apparel brand Eddie Bauer is reportedly preparing to file for bankruptcy, which could mean the closure of its North American stores, including those in Ottawa. Women’s Wear Daily reported last week that Catalyst Brands, which owns the licensing rights to distribute Eddie Bauer products in retail stores, intends to file Chapter 11 bankruptcy […]

Popular outdoor apparel brand Eddie Bauer is reportedly preparing to file for bankruptcy, which could mean the closure of its North American stores, including those in Ottawa. Women’s Wear Daily reported last week that Catalyst Brands, which owns the licensing rights to distribute Eddie Bauer products in retail stores, intends to file Chapter 11 bankruptcy […]

...Founded in Seattle in 1920, the company built its reputation on functional outdoor clothing and innovation, including the first patented quilted down jacket in the United States. The brand has filed for bankruptcy twice before, in 2003 and 2009, before being acquired in 2021 by Authentic Brands Group in partnership with Simon Property Group through the Sparc joint venture. Sparc later became part of Catalyst Brands, which also operates retailers such as JCPenney....

Keith Lusher 02.05.26 Outdoor apparel retailer Eddie Bauer could be facing widespread store closures across the United States and Canada in 2026 as the company that operates its North American brick-and-mortar locations prepares a Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing. Sources familiar with the situation say an entity of Catalyst Brands, which runs Eddie Bauer’s roughly 180 to 200 stores in the region, is positioning the filing as a way to shed costly leases and reduce inventory-related liabilities. Most, if not all, of the brand’s mall and outlet locations could ultimately close, though a small number of higher-performing stores may survive if another operator steps in....

NEW YORK — The federal agency for protecting workers' civil rights revealed Wednesday that it is investigating sportswear giant Nike for allegedly discriminating against white employees through its diversity policies. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission disclosed the investigation in a motion filed in Missouri federal court demanding that Nike fully comply with a subpoena for information....

...It is unclear how many other companies the EEOC may be targeting through such commissioner's charges. The EEOC is prohibited from revealing any charge — by workers or commissioners — unless it results in fines, settlements, legal action or other such public actions. Lucas' charge, according to court filings, was based on Nike's publicly shared information about its commitment to diversity, including statements from executives and proxy statements. The charge, for example, cited Nike's publicly stated goal in 2021 of achieving 35% representation of racial and ethnic minorities in its corporate workforce by 2025.

NEW YORK — The federal agency for protecting workers' civil rights revealed Wednesday that it is investigating sportswear giant Nike for allegedly discriminating against white employees through its diversity policies. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission disclosed the investigation in a motion filed in Missouri federal court demanding that Nike fully comply with a subpoena for information. The EEOC sought the company's criteria for selecting employees for layoffs, how it tracks and uses worker race and ethnicity data, and information about programs which allegedly provided race-restricted mentoring, leadership, or career development opportunities, according to court documents. In a statement, Nike said the company has worked to cooperate with the EEOC and the subpoena "feels like a surprising and unusual escalation....

By ALEXANDRA OLSON and CLAIRE SAVAGE NEW YORK (AP) — The federal agency for protecting workers’ civil rights revealed Wednesday that it is investigating sportswear giant Nike for allegedly discriminating against white employees through its diversity policies. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission disclosed the investigation in a motion filed in Missouri federal court demanding that Nike fully comply with a subpoena for information. The EEOC sought the company’s criteria for selecting employees for layoffs, how it tracks and uses worker race and ethnicity data, and information about programs which allegedly provided race-restricted mentoring, leadership, or career development opportunities, according to court documents....

The disclosure comes two months after Lucas posted a social media call-out urging white men to come forward if they have experienced race or sex discrimination at work. The post urged eligible workers to reach out to the agency “as soon as possible” and referred users to the agency’s fact sheet on DEI-related discrimination. The investigation against Nike, however, does not stem from any worker complaint against the company. Rather, Lucas filed her own complaint in May 2024 through a more rarely used tool known as a commissioner’s charge, according to the court documents. Her charge came just months after America First Legal, a conservative legal group founded by top Trump adviser Stephen Miller, sent the EEOC a letter outlining complaints against Nike and urging the agency to file a commissioner’s charge.

Many U.S. companies made similar commitments in the wake of the widespread 2020 racial justice protests that followed the police killing of George Floyd, an unarmed Black man. Companies have said such commitments are not quotas but rather goals they hoped to achieve through methods such as widening recruitment efforts and rooting out any bias during hiring process. Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, employers are prohibited from using race as a criteria for hiring or other employment decisions. Lucas has long warned that many companies risk crossing that line through DEI efforts that would pressure managers to make race-based decisions. In its statement, Nike said it follows “all applicable laws, including those that prohibit discrimination....

The federal agency that enforces U.S. workplace discrimination laws said Wednesday it is investigating Nike over allegations that its diversity initiatives unlawfully discriminated against White employees and job applicants, according to a court filing. Reuters reported that the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) said Nike has refused to comply with a subpoena seeking information, including data on the racial and ethnic makeup of the global athletic apparel and footwear company based in Beaverton, Oregon. NIKE PLANS TO CUT HUNDREDS OF JOBS AMID AUTOMATION PUSH The subpoenas also seek a roster of employees selected for mentoring and development programs....

...NIKE PLANS TO CUT HUNDREDS OF JOBS AMID AUTOMATION PUSH The subpoenas also seek a roster of employees selected for mentoring and development programs. The commission said the investigation centers on claims that Nike deliberately treated White employees and job applicants unfairly, including allegations that they were disproportionately targeted for layoffs. The agency said it is seeking the records to determine whether Nike violated federal anti-discrimination law.

"We are committed to fair and lawful employment practices and follow all applicable laws, including those that prohibit discrimination," the spokesperson added. "We believe our programs and practices are consistent with those obligations and take these matters seriously....

...Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. The US federal agency for protecting workers’ civil rights is investigating sportswear giant Nike for allegedly discriminating against white employees through its diversity policies. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission disclosed the investigation in a motion filed in a Missouri federal court demanding that Nike fully comply with a subpoena for information....

America First Legal has flooded the commission with similar letters in recent years, urging investigations into the DEI practices of major US companies. It is unclear how many other companies the comm...

Alexandra Olson and Claire Savage February 5, 2026 — 11:14am You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add ar...

...“We believe our programs and practices are consistent with those obligations and take these matters seriously. We will continue our attempt to cooperate with the EEOC and will respond to the petition.” The EEOC, which filed the subpoena enforcement action in federal court in Missouri, said it is looking into allegations of discrimination tied to Nike’s diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI, objectives for 2025. The agency said in a statement Wednesday that it filed the legal action after the company failed to provide information it had subpoenaed....

...The EEOC, which filed the subpoena enforcement action in federal court in Missouri, said it is looking into allegations of discrimination tied to Nike’s diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI, objectives for 2025. The agency said in a statement Wednesday that it filed the legal action after the company failed to provide information it had subpoenaed. The agency said it has asked Nike for information dating back to 2018, including the criteria it used to select employees for layoffs and information on how the company tracks workers’ race and ethnicity data....

...The EEOC, which filed the subpoena enforcement action in federal court in Missouri, said it is looking into allegations of discrimination tied to Nike’s diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI, objectives for 2025. The agency said in a statement Wednesday that it filed the legal action after the company failed to provide information it had subpoenaed. The agency said it has asked Nike for information dating back to 2018, including the criteria it used to select employees for layoffs and information on how the company tracks workers’ race and ethnicity data. The EEOC was created under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits employment discrimination.

The US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has opened an investigation into Nike, alleging the sportswear giant discriminated against white employees, including through its diversity, equity and inclusion programmes. In court documents, the agency said it has asked Nike to turn over information on how the company selected employees for layoffs, how it tracks and uses race and ethnicity data and details on 16 programmes that allegedly offered race-restricted mentoring, leadership and career development opportunities....

The US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has opened an investigation into Nike, alleging the sportswear giant discriminated against white employees, including through its diversity, equity and inclusion programmes. In court documents, the agency said it has asked Nike to turn over information on how the company selected employees for layoffs, how it tracks and uses race and ethnicity data and details on 16 programmes that allegedly offered race-restricted mentoring, leadership and career development opportunities. The EEOC said it has received complaints about the brand dating back to 2018....

...Nike has also arguably stepped back in recent years, opting not to publish a 2025 impact report and scaling back high-profile initiatives such as Black History Month and Pride collections. Even so, the brand has long been viewed as one of the more progressive players in fashion, particularly for its visible championing of diverse athletes. In its filing, the EEOC invoked Title VII’s prohibition on race-based employment discrimination — a statute historically used to protect workers of colour and other marginalised groups from exclusion. The agency’s argument effectively turns that framework on its head, asserting that Nike’s DEI policies may have disadvantaged white employees. Learn more: Five Years After George Floyd: Can Fashion Still Stand for Something?

146 Nike is facing a federal investigation in the United States after a top government agency said the company may have discriminated against white workers. The US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) announced on Wednesday that it has taken legal action to look into the case. According to reports, the EEOC filed a subpoena enforcement action in federal court in Missouri to force Nike to hand over information it needs for the investigation....

...The US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) announced on Wednesday that it has taken legal action to look into the case. According to reports, the EEOC filed a subpoena enforcement action in federal court in Missouri to force Nike to hand over information it needs for the investigation. The legal action says that Nike’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs and targets may have led to unfair treatment of white employees, job applicants, and people in training programs....

...The EEOC also thanked President Donald Trump’s commitment to enforcing our nation’s civil rights laws, saying that the agency has renewed its focus on enforcing protections under the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as per reports. Nike Commented After EEOC Statement Nike has responded to the investigation. A spokesperson called the enforcement action “a surprising and unusual escalation.” Nike says it has provided “thousands of pages of information” and written responses to the EEOC.

Nike "failed to fully provide the information sought," the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) said in a filing that asked a US court in Missouri to enforce the subpoena. The filing cited 2024 charges from EEOC Commissioner Andrea Lucas that Nike may have violated the law "by engaging in a pattern or practice of disparate treatment against White employees, applicants and training programs" and by setting targets that 30 percent of Nike staff in senior position be held by racial and ethnic minorities....

"We have shared thousands of pages of information and detailed written responses to the EEOC's inquiry and are in the process of providing additional information," Nike said in an email to AFP. "We are committed to fair and lawful employment practices and follow all applicable laws, including those that prohibit discrimination," the company said, adding that it believes its programs comply with the law and that it will respond to the petition. Nike has at times marketed itself around social and political stances, unveiling major advertising campaigns centered on former NFL player Colin Kaepernick, who protested racial discrimination in policing....

...She has been an outspoken critic of programs promoting diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). Nike described the EEOC's action as a "surprising and unusual escalation," saying it has had "extensive, good-faith" engagement on the inquiry.

...The post urged eligible workers to reach out to the agency "as soon as possible" and referred users to the agency's fact sheet on DEI-related discrimination. The investigation against Nike, however, does not stem from any worker complaint against the company. Rather, Lucas filed her own complaint in May 2024 through a more rarely used tool known as a commissioner's charge, according to the court documents. Her charge came just months after America First Legal, a conservative legal group founded by top Trump adviser Stephen Miller, sent the EEOC a letter outlining complaints against Nike and urging the agency to file a commissioner's charge.

...It is unclear how many other companies the EEOC may be targeting through such commissioner's charges. Lucas' charge, according to court filings, was based on Nike's publicly shared information about its commitment to diversity, including statements from executives and proxy statements. The charge, for example, cited Nike's publicly stated goal in 2021 of achieving 35% representation of racial and ethnic minorities in its corporate workforce by 2025.

The disclosure comes two months after Lucas posted a social media call-out urging white men to come forward if they have experienced race or sex discrimination at work. The post urged eligible workers...

Feb. 4 (UPI) -- The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission filed a federal lawsuit seeking information regarding allegations of discrimination against athletic shoemaker Nike Inc. The EEOC has received complaints of systemic race discrimination against white workers via Nike's diversity, equity and inclusion programs and other mechanisms, the federal agency said in a news release on Wednesday. The EEOC filed its request for a court order for information on the matter in the U.S. District Court for Eastern Missouri, which is located in St. Louis....

"Title VII's prohibition of race-based employment discrimination is colorblind and requires the EEOC to protect employees of all races from unlawful employment practices," Lucas said. The federal agency is investigating claims that accuse Nike of engaging in a "pattern or practice of disparate treatment against white employees, applicants and training program participants in hiring, promotion, demotion or separation decisions," the EEOC said in a news release. The alleged discrimination includes selections for layoffs, internship programs and mentoring, leadership development and other career development programs, according to the EEOC....

...The alleged discrimination includes selections for layoffs, internship programs and mentoring, leadership development and other career development programs, according to the EEOC. The agency's investigation and subsequent subpoena seek information involving allegations dating back to 2018, including the criteria used when choosing which workers would be laid off and the company's tracking and use of worker race and ethnicity data. The EEOC wants information on 16 Nike programs that are said to have provided race-restricted mentoring, leadership and career development opportunities. Agency officials initially sought voluntary cooperation from Nike while undertaking the investigation....