The Canadian fitness fashion leader Lululemon is following its blistering quarter of revenue gains with news it is now stepping into the footwear market.
Known initially for its line of tights and crop tops for fitness buffs, Lululemon has been steadily expanding its offerings, and now produces everything from underwear to business casual outfits for men and women.
Almost two years ago, Lululemon also announced it would be moving into footwear following a successful collaboration with the running shoe brand APL in late 2017.
“We tested, and we learned a lot on footwear, and what we learned is, the guest resonates with us selling footwear,” said CEO Calvin McDonald. “We believe we’ve identified an opportunity that will be unique to us and unique within the marketplace.”
The move will pit Lululemon against a wide range of very large and very powerful existing brands, like Nike and Adidas, but the Canadian retailer is feeling confident after logging an impressive 20 per cent gain in revenue in its last quarter, driven particularly by sales to women and a 94 per cent rise in DTC (Direct-To-Consumer) sales.