Brooks Running’s DTC Sales Leapt 16%

Footwear and apparel retailer Brooks Running reported it achieved record revenue in 2022, up 6% over 2021 with growth in all regions, and direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales spiked 16%.

The brand said it navigated supply chain obstacles during the first half of the year, returning to complete inventories in the back half with a record fourth quarter, up 26% year over year.

“In 2022, Brooks overcame economic and supply chain headwinds to gain new customers across all categories including running, walking, hiking, and more,” said Jim Weber, CEO at Brooks Running. “As we head into the new year, we’re positioned for continued growth in multiple fitness and outdoor performance categories.”

During 2022, Brooks launched e-commerce sites in six additional countries and invested in new distribution centers in the U.S. and U.K. to address increasing demand and scale for growth.

In the Europe, Middle East, and Africa region, Brooks grew revenue 15% in local currency year over year. The Asia Pacific and Latin America region grew 33%, with Australia and China up 24% and 21% respectively, driven by wholesale success and a digital-first approach.

Brooks also made investments in the running community in 2022 through new initiatives, including the August launch of the “It’s Your Run” global brand campaign, which celebrates runners of all types on their journeys to achieving their best runs.

The brand’s loyalty program, Brooks Run Club, hit nearly a quarter million memberships last year as the community expanded from digital events to include physical activations across the U.S. Brooks also organized events at marquee trail and road races this year, including Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc (UTMB) in Chamonix, France, and the Boston and New York City Marathons.

As Brooks looks ahead to 2023, the brand will take further steps down its People and Planet path by deepening investments in youth running and developing elite athletes. Brooks will also launch additional carbon neutral products and a new Green Silence shoe that will showcase advancements in sustainability.

“The future has never been brighter for performance running,” added Weber. “We look forward to introducing more runners to Brooks this year, giving them the premium fit, performance, and experience they desire from their gear while connecting uniquely through our Run Happy spirit.”