Puma reported that second quarter consolidated sales increased 46.1% to €300.9 ($342.2) million. On a currency neutral basis, sales were up 56.8%. Apparel recorded the strongest growth in percentage terms, increasing 63.4% to €78.1 ($88.8) million. Footwear grew 41.2% to €202.1 ($229.8) million and accessories increased 37.7% to €20.7 ($23.5) million.

Due to the takeover of Japan, effective April 1, 2003 the Japanese footwear and accessories business was consolidated for the first time in Q2. Without effects of the first-time consolidation, organic growth of 31.5% or 42.2% currency adjusted was realized.

In Europe, Q2 sales increased 40.1% to €187.5 ($213.2) million and in the first half of this year 51% to €442.8 ($489.2) million. In the first half of 2003 all countries in this region showed a significant double-digit increase. Europe comprised almost 70% of group sales.

Within the Americas, the positive development in the U.S. continued. Sales in U.S. Dollars increased 37.7% in Q2 and 40.7% in the first half-year. In Euro terms, the Americas increased 16.9% to €65.8 ($74.8) million in the quarter and 18.1% to €132.5 ($146.4) million in the first half-year. On a currency neutral basis, sales increased 41.7% and 44.6% respectively.

Sales in the Asia/Pacific Rim Region were influenced by the first-time consolidation of Japan and increased from €10.3 ($11.7) million to €41.0 ($46.6) million. Without Japan, sales increased 4%. Sales in the first half-year reached €53.6 ($59.2) million versus €23.8 ($26.3) million last year. Adjusted for the Japan effect, sales in the region declined 1.3% but on a currency adjusted basis increased approximately 8%.

Sales in the Africa/Middle East region improved 22.1% to €6.6 ($7.5) million in Q2 or 59.9% to €15.2 ($16.8) million in the first half-year.


Future orders increased 40.5% from €422.4 ($480.4) million to €593.4 ($674.8) million as of June 30, 2003. Currency adjusted orders increased 47.6%. Excluding Japan orders were up by 28.3% or 35.4% currency adjusted.

Consolidated net income rose 123.7% for the quarter.

Look for the full, comprehensive second quarter report on Puma, including WSA Show highlights, in SPORTS EXECUTIVE WEEKLY on Monday…