According to Montrail, new products, strong sell-through, and a healthy retail climate have all contributed to Montrail's leap in first quarter sales for 2004. Q1 sales for the Seattle-based outdoor footwear manufacturer have grown by 33%.
Montrail attributes the growth primarily to the introduction of new
products, including a whole new category. The company's inaugural line of
rock climbing shoes debuted this spring. The company also had new offerings
in all categories: trail running, hiking and alpine footwear.
One new product success story is the Hardrock, Montrail's toughest trail
shoe, suited to trail running, hiking, fastpacking, approach and adventure
racing. “We have a new mega hit in the Hardrock,” noted Montrail President
Scott Tucker. “This shoe just bolted out of the gate.”
Additionally, healthy sell-through of perennially strong models has been
excellent, according to Tucker. “Our dealers are telling us that spring has
been good,” said Tucker. “Also, our receivables are in good shape, which is
a good indicator of a healthy retail climate.”
The first quarter result continues an eleven-year trend of strong growth for
Montrail. Since the company was established in 1993, sales have
increased at a compound rate of 26% per year.
