US activewear records 'phenomenal' growth
29/08/2012
Activewear is the fastest-growing apparel sector in the US, with sales increasing 9% in the 12 months to the end of June to more than $30 billion, according to retail analyst NPD Group.
"Total apparel is growing 3.2% and women's apparel isn't growing much," said NPD Group chief retail analyst Marshal Cohen to Investors Business Daily. "So you can see why this is such a healthy business. Five percent growth is considered great growth; 9% is considered phenomenal.”
Gap opened its first women's sportswear store Athleta two years ago, and has opened 11 branches in the last quarter alone. It is halfway to its goal of 50 stores by the end of next year.
Yogawear brand Lululemon's sales grew 53% to $285.7 million in the quarter ending April 29 compared with a year ago, with same-store sales up 25%.
Target has expanded its sportswear division C9 by Champion into a $1 billion brand since 2004, this year adding performance products and expanding floor space. Its first standalone store is due to open in San Francisco in October.
Kohl's active and fitness apparel sectors outperformed its other areas, and Wal-Mart is expanding its sportswear ranges, according to analysts.
The London 2012 Olympics has been a major driver of activewear growth this year, they said.
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