World Footwear

Highlights

Japan Retail: Higher rates meet an uneven fashion recovery

Sep 15, 2026 Japan

Against a backdrop of renewed price pressures and a weaker yen, the Japanese fashion market has experienced an uneven recovery. Interest rates have continued to rise, and consumer confidence remains subdued. Within the fashion sector, clothing inflation has outpaced that of footwear. Commercial sales also diverged, with textile sales enjoying a strong rebound, whereas apparel and accessories only returned to marginal growth. Meanwhile, despite falling volumes, footwear import value held up, supported by higher average prices

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JD Sports strengthens leadership team

Sep 18, 2026 United Kingdom

The UK-based sportswear retailer has appointed John Mersho as President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the JD fascia in North America and Mike Grimes as Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of the group