Core Viewpoint - Decathlon, once a dominant player in the Chinese sports retail market, is experiencing a decline in popularity and profitability due to increased competition and a shift in consumer preferences towards brands like Lululemon and Salomon [3][5][15]. Group 1: Market Position and Strategy - Decathlon's initial success in China was driven by its "high quality, low price" strategy, which resonated with urban young professionals and families seeking affordable sports gear [5][7]. - The company has faced challenges as competitors have emerged with more targeted pricing strategies, eroding Decathlon's market share in the entry-level sports segment [3][15]. - In 2024, Decathlon's net profit fell by 15.5% to €787 million, raising concerns about its profitability amidst a changing market landscape [9][11]. Group 2: Competitive Landscape - Competitors like Lululemon and Camel have gained traction, with Lululemon becoming a staple for middle-class consumers, further complicating Decathlon's market position [15][19]. - Decathlon's attempts to shift towards higher-end products have not resonated with its core consumer base, which primarily values affordability [25][40]. - The brand's identity as a "value leader" is at risk as it struggles to balance price increases with maintaining quality and consumer trust [19][36]. Group 3: Consumer Perception and Brand Narrative - The brand's recent price hikes have led to consumer backlash, with many feeling betrayed as Decathlon's value proposition diminishes [19][38]. - Decathlon's marketing efforts have focused on sustainability, but this narrative has not effectively connected with its primary consumer demographic, which prioritizes value over environmental concerns [43][45]. - The company is attempting to revitalize its image by reintroducing affordable products and leveraging nostalgic marketing strategies, such as the "urea bag" campaign, to reconnect with consumers [50][55]. Group 4: Future Outlook - Decathlon is exploring options to sell approximately 30% of its Chinese subsidiary as part of a significant capital restructuring effort [37]. - The company aims to enhance product quality and align its offerings with consumer expectations to regain market share and consumer loyalty [40][58]. - There is a focus on optimizing the supply chain and deepening market penetration to better meet the evolving needs of Chinese consumers in the next 20 years [58][60].

Core Viewpoint - Decathlon, once a dominant player in the Chinese sports retail market, is facing significant challenges as it loses its appeal among consumers, particularly in the face of rising competition and changing consumer preferences [7][9][10]. Group 1: Market Position and Strategy - Decathlon initially gained popularity in China with its "high quality, low price" strategy, appealing to urban young professionals and families seeking affordable sports gear [11][14]. - The company's unique in-store experience allowed customers to try various sports equipment, enhancing its attractiveness [14]. - However, the low-profit margin associated with this strategy has led to a decline in net profit, which fell by 15.5% to €787 million in 2024 [16]. Group 2: Competitive Landscape - Competitors like Lululemon and Salomon have emerged, capturing market share with more targeted pricing strategies and appealing brand narratives [21][22]. - Lululemon, in particular, has positioned itself as a must-have brand for the middle class, showcasing a strong growth trajectory with a 94% increase in net profit to €300 million in Q2 2025 [16]. Group 3: Pricing and Consumer Perception - Decathlon's decision to raise prices in an attempt to improve profitability has led to consumer backlash, as many feel betrayed by the loss of the brand's core value proposition of affordability [18][20]. - The brand's shift towards a higher-end market has not resonated with its traditional consumer base, who still associate Decathlon with low-cost sports gear [35][36]. Group 4: Brand Narrative and Consumer Engagement - Decathlon's attempts to pivot towards a more premium offering have been met with skepticism, as consumers still view it as the "IKEA of sports" rather than a high-end brand [35][36]. - The brand's environmental messaging has not effectively connected with its core audience, who prioritize value and quality over sustainability narratives [60][62]. Group 5: Future Outlook - Despite current challenges, Decathlon is exploring ways to reconnect with its consumer base, including a return to its low-price strategy and leveraging its supply chain to offer affordable products [65][73]. - The company aims to deepen its understanding of the Chinese market and consumer needs to regain its position as a leading sports retailer [77][80].