Core Viewpoint - The marketing competition among sports brands has intensified ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Adidas showcasing its new jerseys and official match ball at the China International Import Expo, aiming to leverage the event's global appeal to enhance consumer engagement and brand loyalty [1][3][8]. Group 1: Adidas Marketing Strategy - Adidas has unveiled jerseys for national teams including Germany, Argentina, Spain, and Italy, incorporating classic elements and climate-adaptive technology for the North American conditions [1][3]. - The company has sponsored 22 teams and aims to use technology to enhance player performance while also fostering a deeper love for football among fans through exclusive gear [3][4]. - Adidas' CEO has indicated a shift towards blending fashion with football, planning to launch a second away jersey that emphasizes style and cultural connection [4]. Group 2: Competitor Activities - Nike has introduced Aero-FIT cooling technology for its national team jerseys and has launched a promotional campaign featuring top players to build anticipation for the World Cup [4][6]. - PUMA has signed a long-term partnership with the Portuguese Football Association, planning to provide gear for all teams, reflecting confidence in the upcoming World Cup [6]. - Under Armour is focusing on coaching staff, having appointed Arsenal's head coach as a brand ambassador, indicating its strategy to establish a foothold in a market dominated by larger brands [6]. Group 3: Marketing Insights and Trends - According to Guoxin Securities, effective brand marketing is crucial for establishing long-term consumer recognition, with a noted correlation between marketing expenditure and brand performance [6][7]. - Adidas' marketing spending has historically been around 12% of revenue, with a recent focus on digital channels leading to a decline in brand heat, while a return to sports marketing during the 2022 World Cup resulted in over 50% growth in football category sales [7]. - The 2026 World Cup is expected to be the largest and most inclusive, with ticket sales exceeding 1 million, indicating significant consumer interest and potential for brand engagement [7][8].

Investment Rating - The investment rating for the industry is "Positive" and is maintained [6]. Core Insights - In FY2025Q3 (July 1, 2025 - September 30, 2025), the company achieved revenue of €6.63 billion, representing an 8% year-over-year increase at constant exchange rates. The revenue performance was in line with expectations, with the Adidas brand revenue increasing by 12% [2][4]. - The gross profit margin improved by 0.5 percentage points to 51.8%, driven by lower product and transportation costs, improved business mix, and strong sales [2][4]. - Operating profit margin increased by 1.8 percentage points to 11.1%, while the net profit margin rose by 0.1 percentage points to 7.0% [2][4]. Revenue Breakdown - By region, the Adidas brand saw revenue growth across all markets: Europe (+9%), North America (+1%), Emerging Markets (+11%), Japan/Korea (+6%), and Greater China (+6%). The Adidas brand revenue in these regions grew by 12%, 8%, 13%, 11%, and 10% respectively [5]. - By channel, all channels for the Adidas brand experienced double-digit growth: wholesale (+10%), DTC (+14%), self-operated stores (+13%), and e-commerce (+15%) [5]. - By product category, both footwear and apparel for the Adidas brand achieved double-digit growth, with footwear up by 11% and apparel by 16%. Accessories saw a modest increase of 1% [5]. Inventory and Guidance - As of FY2025Q3, the company's inventory increased by 21% year-over-year to $5.47 billion, attributed to a low base last year and pre-purchases for the World Cup, which is expected to support revenue growth [11]. - The company raised its full-year guidance, projecting a 9% year-over-year revenue increase for FY2025 at constant exchange rates, with the Adidas brand expected to achieve double-digit growth. Operating profit is forecasted to be €2 billion, up from a previous estimate of €1.7 to €1.8 billion [11].

Group 1: Core Insights - The China International Import Expo (CIIE) serves as a platform for understanding the transformation of foreign investment in China, highlighting the shift from merely importing to local production and R&D [1] - Amid global uncertainties, China's commitment to "openness and development" is increasingly evident, making it a key player in global trade [1] Group 2: Global Competitiveness - Companies like Zeiss emphasize the importance of China's complete and responsive supply chain as a critical support for enhancing global competitiveness [2] - Zeiss is dynamically adjusting its global supply chain to minimize tariff impacts, moving parts of its supply chain from the U.S. to Germany and from Germany to China [2][3] - China has become Zeiss's largest market, contributing nearly 20% to the group's revenue, with ongoing discussions about local procurement standards [3] Group 3: Localization and Innovation - Companies are increasingly focusing on localizing their operations in China, with a shift from "local manufacturing" to "local R&D" and "local decision-making" [5] - Adidas has achieved over 60% of its products in China being designed by local teams, leading to significant growth in the Greater China region [8] - The collaboration between Japanese and Chinese teams in companies like Kao Group highlights the importance of local R&D in meeting diverse consumer needs [11] Group 4: Supply Chain Resilience - The establishment of local production bases, such as Schott's facility in Zhejiang, enhances supply security and benefits from China's supply chain advantages [4] - Schott's revenue in China reached approximately 2.42 billion RMB, reflecting a 3% growth after excluding exchange rate factors [10] - The new production line for Schott in Suzhou aims to support the innovation of the Chinese automotive industry, particularly in electric vehicles [10] Group 5: Sustainability and Innovation - SKF's commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2030 aligns with China's dual carbon goals, showcasing a commitment to sustainable manufacturing practices [12] - The introduction of SKF's near-zero carbon bearings at the CIIE demonstrates the company's focus on innovative and sustainable solutions [11][12]

Core Insights - Adidas has showcased its commitment to the Chinese market by participating in the China International Import Expo for the fourth time, emphasizing its strategy of "In China, For China" [1][4] - The company has introduced innovative products and localized designs, aiming to meet the evolving demands of Chinese consumers while promoting high-quality development in the sports industry [1][4] Group 1: Event Participation and Strategy - Adidas highlighted its theme "Three Stripes Energy, Powering in China" at the expo, featuring a dedicated area for the FIFA World Cup and showcasing technological innovations in running shoes [1] - The global sales head of Adidas expressed the company's intention to continue collaborating with the Chinese government, athletes, consumers, and partners to leverage opportunities in China's sports sector [1][4] Group 2: Product Innovations - At the expo, Adidas unveiled the home jerseys for the German, Argentine, Spanish, and Italian national teams for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, emphasizing their design inspirations from history and culture [2] - The new jerseys incorporate Adidas' CLIMACOOL technology, designed to help players adapt to varying climate conditions during the World Cup [2] Group 3: Technological Advancements - The official match ball for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, named "Trionda," features a revolutionary four-panel structure and advanced side chip system for precise flight trajectories and real-time data collection [3] - This innovation aims to enhance the accuracy of officiating in matches, providing a smoother experience for fans [3] Group 4: Localized Design and Market Engagement - Over 60% of Adidas products sold in China are designed by local teams, reflecting the company's commitment to "China Creation" and local market needs [3] - Recent product lines, such as New Chinese Style and Future of Style, have gained popularity among domestic consumers and attracted interest from international markets, particularly in Japan and South Korea [3]

Core Insights - Adidas aims for 100% local resonance in China, focusing on sports events, technological innovation, and local cultural creation [1][2] Group 1: Event Participation - Adidas will showcase at the 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE) from November 5 to 10, emphasizing the theme "Three Stripes Energy, Powering in China" [2] - The company will feature three main exhibition areas and an experience zone, highlighting its sports technology innovations and progress in China [2] Group 2: Product Launches - The official match ball for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, named "TRIONDA," was globally launched on October 3, with Adidas presenting it at the CIIE [3] - Adidas will also globally unveil World Cup jerseys at the event, marking the first appearance of several teams' home jerseys in China [3] Group 3: Youth Engagement - Adidas recognizes the importance of nurturing young talent in football, as demonstrated by its sponsorship of the National Youth Campus Football League (CHFL), which garnered significant attention [3] - The finals of the CHFL attracted over 10,000 fans, showcasing the connection between youth players and the sport [3] Group 4: Technological Innovations - The "CHASING 100" project, featuring the adidas ADIZEROEVO PRIME X shoes, will debut at the expo, highlighting a significant achievement in ultra-distance running [4] - The project culminated in a record-breaking performance by South African athlete Sibusiso Kubheka, who completed 100 kilometers in under 6 hours [4] Group 5: Product Performance - The ADIZERO 0 series has been instrumental in athletic success, with athletes winning over half (51%) of the championships in the top 50 global track and road running events in 2024 [6] - The series has also broken seven world records in road running and track events this year, demonstrating its effectiveness [6] Group 6: Local Cultural Integration - The Shanghai Creative Center (CCS) celebrates its 20th anniversary, showcasing "Honorary Home" and "Chinese Creative Workshop" at the expo, reflecting on the rise of Chinese sports and consumer trends [7] - The "Honorary Home" section features top-tier equipment created for Chinese athletes, while the "Chinese Creative Workshop" highlights modern design interpretations of Chinese philosophy and culture [7]

Core Insights - The relationship between Adidas and the Chinese market can be summarized as "mutual pursuit," highlighted by CEO Bjoern Gulden's recent visit to China, marking his fourth trip and first as a formal member of the Shanghai Municipal Advisory Council [1][3] - Adidas continues to emphasize its strategic importance in China, showcasing its commitment through various initiatives, including a fashion show that blends sports and street culture [3][9] - The company reported record revenue of €6.63 billion for Q3 2025, driven by double-digit growth across all markets and categories, with a notable increase in operating profit and gross margin [9][11] Group 1: Strategic Engagement - Gulden's participation in high-level meetings and events in China signals Adidas's intent to deepen its engagement with local stakeholders [1][3] - The "POWER OF THREE" series event in Shanghai reflects the brand's strategy to resonate with local consumers through creative collaborations [3][9] Group 2: Financial Performance - Adidas achieved a historic quarterly revenue of €6.63 billion, marking a 12% growth driven by strong performance across various product categories [9][11] - The operating profit reached €736 million, with a gross margin increase of 0.5 percentage points to 51.8% [9][11] Group 3: Localization Strategy - Adidas's localization strategy focuses on understanding and resonating with Chinese consumers, emphasizing the importance of local insights in product development [12][15] - The company has established a creative center in Shanghai to foster local design and collaboration with local artists and athletes [20][29] Group 4: Supply Chain and Innovation - Adidas is enhancing its flexible supply chain capabilities to address inventory challenges, implementing an "end-to-end" model to streamline operations [31][32] - The company has invested in a new distribution center in Suzhou, capable of processing over one million items daily, with over 95% of products sold in China being locally manufactured [31][32] Group 5: Cultural Resonance - Adidas aims to create emotional connections with consumers through its branding and community engagement initiatives, such as sponsoring local sports events and youth programs [41][44] - The brand's new slogan "YOU GOT THIS" reflects its commitment to inclusivity and encouraging a love for sports among young people [39][41] Group 6: Future Outlook - Adidas is focused on maintaining its growth trajectory in China, with plans for continued investment in local design and supply chain capabilities [11][50] - The company recognizes the importance of cultural identity and aims to position "Chinese design" as a global trendsetter [29][50]

Core Viewpoint - Adidas faces backlash from consumers over high-priced down jackets produced by a third-party manufacturer, Snow Flying, which offers similar products at lower prices, raising questions about brand premium and consumer awareness [1][2][5] Financial Performance - Adidas reported third-quarter revenue of €6.6 billion, a 3% year-on-year increase, and operating profit of €736 million, up 23% [1][6] - In the Greater China region, third-quarter revenue reached €947 million, marking a 10% year-on-year growth and achieving ten consecutive quarters of growth [1][8] - The company has raised its annual performance forecast despite the ongoing controversy [8][12] Market Position and Competition - Adidas has seen a resurgence in the Chinese market after a decline due to the Xinjiang cotton controversy, but faces strong competition from local brands like Anta and Li Ning, which have surpassed Adidas in revenue and market share [1][6][15] - Adidas's market share in China has dropped from 15% in 2021 to 8.7% in 2024, while local brands continue to grow [15][16] Consumer Sentiment and Brand Strategy - Consumer complaints about product quality and service have surged, with over 25,000 complaints on platforms like Black Cat Complaints, primarily focused on quality issues [4][5] - The shift in consumer focus towards value for money over brand prestige is evident, with a significant increase in consumers prioritizing product pricing [16] - Adidas has adapted its strategy by positioning itself as a fashion brand and engaging popular celebrities for endorsements, which has helped regain consumer interest [9][11] Industry Trends - The use of third-party manufacturing is common in the industry, allowing brands like Adidas to reduce costs, but it can negatively impact brand image if consumers feel misled about product origins [5][12] - The overall sportswear market in China is projected to grow from ¥542.5 billion in 2024 to ¥598.9 billion by the end of 2025, indicating a competitive landscape for all brands [12][16]

Core Insights - Adidas is experiencing a significant recovery after reporting its first loss in 30 years in 2023, with a projected return to profitability in 2024 and double-digit sales growth across all business lines and markets in the first half of 2025 [2][4] Financial Performance - In Q3, Adidas reported a revenue increase of 12% year-on-year to €6.6 billion, achieving the highest quarterly revenue in its history [2] - The gross margin reached 51.8%, and operating profit increased by 23% to €736 million, raising the operating profit margin for the first nine months to 10.1%, exceeding the CEO's initial target [4] - Adidas has raised its full-year guidance for 2025, expecting brand revenue to grow by double digits and operating profit to reach €2 billion, up from a previous estimate of €1.7 billion to €1.8 billion [4] Product Line Performance - Revenue from footwear increased by 11% to €3.75 billion, with the ADIZERO series running shoes seeing over 30% growth [5] - Apparel revenue grew by 16% to €2.38 billion, while accessories saw a modest increase of 1% [5] Regional Performance - Sales in Europe grew by 12% to €2.33 billion, North America by 8% to €1.3 billion, and Greater China by 10% to €947 million [7] - Greater China has shown consistent quality growth for ten consecutive quarters, with Q3 revenue reaching €974 million, a 10% year-on-year increase [7] Strategic Initiatives - Adidas is focusing on sports marketing and professional endorsements to rebuild its reputation in vertical markets like running and football [5] - The company is implementing a "China for China" strategy, emphasizing local consumer engagement and innovation, with China being defined as a growth engine and innovation testing ground [7][9] Market Challenges - Adidas has faced increased costs due to higher tariffs on goods from Vietnam and Indonesia, impacting its pricing strategy in the U.S. market [7] - Recent consumer feedback highlighted concerns over the quality of Adidas products compared to local competitors, leading to discussions about pricing and product sourcing [11]

Core Insights - The discussion around the pricing of international brands like Adidas and Nike has intensified, particularly regarding their reliance on Chinese manufacturers like Xuezhongfei, which has led to questions about brand value and consumer perception [1][2]. Group 1: Brand Perception and Consumer Behavior - Consumers are increasingly skeptical of brand premiums and are focusing on the actual value and quality of products, comparing specifications and prices rather than simply relying on brand names [2][9]. - The shift in consumer behavior indicates a preference for products that align with personal values, such as sustainability, rather than just brand prestige [9][18]. - The traditional brand premium model is being challenged as consumers demand transparency and justification for higher prices [7][9]. Group 2: Evolution of Chinese Manufacturing - Chinese manufacturers like Xuezhongfei and Shenzhou International are evolving from mere subcontractors to strategic partners with international brands, showcasing their manufacturing capabilities and quality standards [5][18]. - The Chinese apparel industry has developed a comprehensive and specialized supply chain that is difficult to replicate, maintaining its competitive edge despite some production moving to Southeast Asia [16][18]. - The transformation of Chinese manufacturing is marked by a shift from low-end processing to high-end manufacturing, with a focus on quality, efficiency, and innovation [18]. Group 3: Financial Performance and Market Dynamics - Xuezhongfei, under Bosideng, reported a 26.4% year-on-year increase in its OEM business revenue, indicating a growing market presence and recognition of its manufacturing capabilities [10]. - The financial performance of Bosideng's OEM business highlights the increasing importance of manufacturing partnerships in driving revenue growth [10][12]. - The concentration of major clients poses risks for manufacturers, emphasizing the need for diversification in client relationships to mitigate potential revenue losses [12][18].

Core Insights - The controversy surrounding Adidas's down jackets being produced by the OEM Snow Flying has highlighted the brand's reliance on outsourcing production to third-party manufacturers, allowing it to focus on high-value activities like design and marketing [3][6][9] Group 1: Outsourcing and Production Strategy - Adidas has almost entirely outsourced its production, with very few products manufactured in-house, primarily high-end items produced in Germany [6][9] - The company has historically closed its own factories in China, relying on a network of OEMs concentrated in regions like Guangdong and Fujian for manufacturing [6][7] - The global production strategy includes expanding capacity in countries like Vietnam and Indonesia to optimize costs and mitigate risks [7][9] Group 2: Market Dynamics and Consumer Sentiment - The price difference between Adidas and Snow Flying products has led consumers to question the value of purchasing branded items when cheaper alternatives are available [4][9] - There is a growing consumer awareness regarding the origins of products, with many now scrutinizing manufacturing labels for transparency [19] Group 3: Financial Performance and Business Model - The outsourcing model has allowed Adidas to operate with a lighter asset base, significantly reducing fixed asset investments and risks [14] - In 2024, Adidas's revenue in Greater China grew by 10%, with a gross margin of 51.7% in Q2 2025, showcasing the financial benefits of the light asset model compared to traditional heavy asset models [14][15] Group 4: Challenges and Quality Control - The shift to outsourcing has raised concerns about quality control, with reports of product defects linked to manufacturing in regions like Vietnam and Cambodia [15][17] - The relationship between brands and OEMs is complex, balancing the need for production capacity with the risk of OEMs producing competing products [17]