[imagesource: PUMA]

We mostly hear about how the COVID-19 pandemic has crushed businesses, big and small, across the world.

Almost every industry has taken hard knocks, what with supply-chain challenges across the board.

The fashion and sports apparel industry has also suffered, being forced to rely on expensive air freight rather than container ships to complete the supply chain.

There have also been political problems in China to contend with, as consumers have boycotted Western brands in favour of their Chinese counterparts.

But despite all these hurdles, PUMA is still flying high.

It is safe to say that demand for the German company’s sneakers and sports apparel overcame pandemic disruptions and pushed sales and earnings to record heights.

In fact, PUMA’s shares have outperformed those of its crosstown rivals, Nike Inc. and Adidas AG, in the past year.

Take a look at the latest figures from Bloomberg:

PUMA said sales reached a record 6,8 billion euros in 2021, up 32% on a constant-currency basis. Fourth-quarter operating income of 65 million euros topped the average analyst estimate.

PUMA cited brand momentum and strong global demand for its products, which overcame the negative impacts of COVID-19 restrictions and ongoing supply chain constraints. The stock rose as much as 4,3%.

As PUMA likes to say, “we are Forever Faster” and always looking to do better.

When a brand does a really cool collab with a ridiculously popular pop star, plus much to attract more niche customers, it’s obvious the company doesn’t rest on its laurels.

To see what PUMA South Africa has in store for us – including that Dua Lipa collab – keep an eye on their online store.

[source:bloomberg]