Group 1 - Anta Sports has confirmed a deal to acquire a 29.06 percent stake in Puma SE for $1.8 billion, making it the largest shareholder of the brand [1] - Analysts speculate that under Anta's guidance, Puma could see significant market amplification and enhanced marketing efforts, including new endorsements and store openings in key markets [2] - Puma is expected to adopt a more premium positioning globally, inspired by Salomon's successful strategy, which has included expanding offerings and opening flagship stores in prime locations [2] Group 2 - Salomon has experienced steady growth, supported by Anta's acquisition of Amer Sports in 2019 and Amer's IPO on the New York Stock Exchange in 2024, with a reported net income of $143.1 million in Q3 2024, up from $55.8 million in the same quarter the previous year [3] - Amer Sports CEO highlighted strong demand for Salomon's footwear across all regions, particularly in Asia, with growth in related products such as bags and socks [4] - The acquisition by Anta provides Puma with additional financial resources to address its ongoing "reset program," aimed at reducing high inventory levels and rethinking distribution strategies in key markets including Europe, the Middle East, Africa, China, and the U.S. [4]

MILAN — Denim specialist Dondup and pant-maker PT Torino have named a new chief executive officer, recruited from within the executive ranks of their owner. Mauro Grange, founding partner of the Made in Italy Fund, a private equity group managed by Quadrivio and Pambianco, which own the two brands, is succeeding Matteo Anchisi in the CEO role at both fashion labels. Anchisi had been CEO at Dondup since 2019 and CEO at PT Torino since 2023. More from WWD “I am pleased to personally guide the companies thr ...

Core Insights - Cracker Barrel is undergoing significant changes following a controversial brand revamp that received negative public feedback and disapproval from notable figures [1][2] - The company has ended its engagement with Prophet, the consultancy that advised on the failed rebranding efforts, signaling a shift in strategy [2][6] Company Performance - Cracker Barrel has faced challenges in 2025, with a reported 16% decline in stock value year-to-date, attributed to decreased foot traffic and the backlash from the rebranding [3][5] - Recent initiatives include menu updates, new breakfast specials, and a pause on restaurant remodeling plans, aimed at regaining customer interest [4][6] Market Outlook - Analysts on Wall Street express cautious optimism, with a mean price target for the stock just below $48, indicating a potential 8% increase from recent closing prices [5][6] - The stock has shown recovery potential from its April lows of $34.75, suggesting that there may be room for growth despite the current downturn [5]

Core Insights - Cracker Barrel has decided to abandon its controversial rebranding effort that faced significant public backlash and criticism from notable figures, including President Donald Trump [2][3] - The company has announced leadership changes and has ended its relationship with Prophet, the consultancy that advised on the failed rebranding [3][8] Company Performance - Cracker Barrel has experienced a challenging 2025, with a reported 16% decline in stock value year-to-date, alongside decreased foot traffic in its restaurants [4][6] - Recent initiatives include menu changes, new breakfast specials, and a halt on the new logo and restaurant remodeling plans, indicating a shift towards regaining customer loyalty [5][8] Market Outlook - Wall Street analysts express cautious optimism regarding Cracker Barrel's stock, with a mean price target of just below $48, suggesting potential gains of approximately 8% from recent closing prices [6][8] - The stock has shown some recovery from its 2025 lows of $34.75, indicating a possible positive trend moving forward [6]