Puma SE reported earnings that topped analysts’ estimates as demand in China rebounds for sneakers and apparel.
Second-quarter operating profit of €115 million ($127 million) beat the €110-million average analyst estimate, according to a statement Wednesday.
The recovery in demand in China boosted the German company’s business in Asia, where sales jumped by about a quarter. Demand was also strong in Europe and Latin America. Puma confirmed its guidance, saying that if momentum keeps picking up in the third quarter it may raise the financial targets later this year.
Since taking over as chief executive officer in January, Arne Freundt has sought to maintain the fast growth of recent years by focusing on higher-priced soccer, basketball and running sportswear in the US as well as winning market share in China, where larger rivals like Nike Inc. and Adidas AG have struggled.
Big shoemakers are also fending off fast-growing smaller brands like On Holding AG and Hoka, which are especially gaining ground in running.
