The fashion industry is looking diverse this week: While companies from Adidas to Prada are wrestling with different business developments, structural changes and new strategies are shaping the picture. In retail, it is clear that topics such as artificial intelligence, changing consumer behavior and emotional customer loyalty – as discussed at the World Retail Congress – are becoming increasingly important. At the same time, creative trends, personnel changes and cultural projects provide new impulses.
Business
Business figures and the economy
The quarterly reports paint an inconsistent picture: While Adidas, Prada Group, Crocs and Björn Borg are increasing, Lanvin Group and Armani Group are recording declines. Puma improves earnings despite falling revenues, while Puig suffers from currency effects and SMCP remains stable.
Platforms are also developing dynamically: Amazon and Ebay are growing significantly. In macroeconomic terms, surprisingly strong growth in the German economy is providing a tailwind, although this is being put into perspective by rising inflation as a result of geopolitical tensions.
Strategy and structural change
Companies are increasingly focusing on realignment: Chanel is pursuing a long-term brand strategy, while Armedangels is focusing on direct-to-consumer in the USA. At the same time, Fenix Outdoor is driving forward its expansion through acquisitions.
Restructuring remains present: Saks Global is cutting jobs while the process surrounding LuisaViaRoma is being accelerated. At the same time, Gildan and Basicnet report growth following strategic moves.
New players and perspectives
New initiatives and challenges complement the picture: a former LVMH executive is founding Ireland’s first luxury group, while Mikuta is pursuing ambitious growth goals. At the same time, Richemont is struggling with structural problems in the soft luxury segment, while Columbia Sportswear is surprising positively despite tariff burdens.
fashion
Accessories and brand positioning are in focus: The handbag trends for autumn/winter 2026 range from hobo bags to landscape formats. In the Lyst Index, Chanel takes the top spot, while the LVMH Prize finalists shine a spotlight on new talent. At the same time, Heidi Klum relies on media appeal as a testimonial for S.Oliver.
Personal details
The industry remains in flux: a new finance chief is taking over at Puma, while leadership changes are taking place at Ganni and Woolworth. Casablanca and Études Studio are also filling key positions.
At the same time, management structures are being expanded: Closed is strengthening sales, while The Lycra Company is strategically anchoring sustainability. Further changes include Hoff, ANWR Schuh as well as Celine and Aeffe.
retail
Retail is under pressure to adapt: In addition to the discussions at the World Retail Congress, studies show that Gen Z in particular is placing new demands on spaces and concepts. At the same time, a weak consumer climate as a result of geopolitical tensions is weighing on purchasing sentiment.
There is still movement in stationary retail: new and modernized areas are being created by Sport 2000 Meppen, Loeb Bern and Panos Gotsis, among others. Brands like Wolford and Joop are focusing on expansion.
Digital and emotional concepts are becoming increasingly important: Mytheresa is expanding its services, while discussions about emotional customer loyalty and innovative store concepts – for example in the context of the “coolest stores” – are shaping the future of retail.
Measure
Techtextil and Techprocess show the innovative power of technical textiles, but also make it clear that the implementation of new technologies is becoming a central challenge.
culture
Exhibitions and design events provide creative inspiration: The Design Museum in London is dedicating itself comprehensively to Nigo’s work for the first time, while Demna reinterprets the history of Gucci. In Augsburg, the focus is on Talbot Runhof couture.
The Fuorisalone in Milan also combines fashion and design: projects from Stone Island to H&M Home show how closely the disciplines are increasingly interlinking.
This post was created using AI.