Core Viewpoint - Adidas has successfully turned around its performance in the Chinese market, achieving double-digit growth in revenue for 2024, driven by a localized strategy and increased consumer engagement [1][2]. Group 1: Financial Performance - In 2024, Adidas reported global revenue of €23.68 billion, with the Greater China region contributing €3.46 billion, reflecting a 10.3% year-over-year increase [1]. - The fourth quarter of 2024 saw Greater China revenue reach €794 million, marking a 16.1% increase compared to the previous year [1]. - Adidas expects operating profit to rise to between €1.7 billion and €1.8 billion by 2025, excluding any revenue from the YEEZY line [1]. Group 2: Market Challenges and Recovery - From 2022, Adidas faced significant challenges, including a decline in revenue due to competition from local brands like Anta and a failure to adapt to changing consumer demands [1][2]. - The company experienced a severe inventory backlog and disruptions in sales channels, particularly after ending its collaboration with the YEEZY brand [2][6]. Group 3: Product Strategy and Innovation - In 2024, footwear accounted for over half of Adidas's revenue, with a 17% year-over-year increase when excluding currency effects [5]. - The Samba shoe line saw a remarkable 300% increase in sales, becoming a new revenue driver, while the YEEZY line's sales were significantly reduced [5][6]. - Adidas launched the "Adidas Essentials" line, which became one of the fastest-growing product lines, and increased the proportion of locally designed products in China to over 80% [6]. Group 4: Strategic Changes and Future Outlook - The new CEO, Bjørn Gulden, has emphasized the importance of direct-to-consumer (DTC) strategies while also strengthening relationships with wholesale partners, resulting in a 14% growth in wholesale channels and an 11% growth in DTC channels in 2024 [8][9]. - Adidas is focusing on expanding its presence in traditional sports like football and athletics while also investing in emerging sports and niche markets [10]. - The company aims to enhance brand visibility and health through innovative product lines and localized strategies, despite potential challenges in 2025 due to a lack of major sports events [10].