Contact IR

If you have any questions about the PUMA share and the financial results of PUMA SE, our Investor Relations team will be happy to help you. Please be aware that we will not reply to questions relating to non-Investor Relations topics.

Mail Phone

Herzogenaurach, Germany, July 26, 2017
Strong Sales and EBIT growth continues in the Second Quarter
Senior Head of Communications

UPGRADE OF THE FULL-YEAR GUIDANCE FOR 2017

 

2017 Second Quarter Facts

  • Sales increase by 16% currency adjusted to € 969 million (+17% reported), with all regions showing double-digit growth and footwear being the main growth driver
  • Gross profit margin up by 90 basis points to 46.5%

  • OPEX increases by 11% caused by higher sales-related variable costs as well as higher marketing and retail investments

  • Operating result (EBIT) improves to € 43 million (last year: € 12 million)

  • Three major wins in football with Arsenal FC winning FA Cup, BVB Borussia Dortmund winning DFB cup and Chivas winning Mexican championship

  • PUMA’s new lacing technology NETFIT introduced across performance and sportstyle footwear

2017 Half-Year Facts

  • Sales up by 16% currency adjusted to € 1,974 million (+18% reported) with double-digit growth in all regions
  • Gross profit margin up 60 basis points at 46.8%

  • Operating leverage with OPEX increasing only by 12%

  • Operating result (EBIT) more than doubled from € 53 million last year to € 114 million

  • Net earnings increase from € 27 million last year to € 72 million and earnings per share increase from € 1.84 last year to € 4.79 respectively

  • Continued strong women business driven by BASKET HEART and FIERCE footwear styles

  • Successful introduction of “Run the Streets” with IGNITE Limitless and TSUGI footwear styles featuring R&B star and style icon The Weeknd

Bjørn Gulden, Chief Executive Officer of PUMA SE:

“In another positive quarter, we achieved double-digit growth in all regions and in both footwear and apparel. This combined with a good sell-through in retail and a good orderbook for the next quarters made us raise the outlook for the full year. We now expect a currency adjusted sales growth for the full year between 12% and 14% and a full-year EBIT between € 205 million and 215 million.”

 

Second Quarter 2017

PUMA's sales growth continued in the second quarter of 2017. Sales increased by 16.3% currency-adjusted to € 968.7 million (+17.2% reported), compared to € 826.5 million in the previous year. All regions contributed with double-digit increases. Footwear continued to be the main growth driver though Apparel also grew double-digit, while Accessories grew at a more modest rate.

The gross profit margin improved, despite negative currency effects, by 90 basis points from 45.6% in the second quarter last year to 46.5%.

Operating expenses (OPEX) rose by 11.4% to € 410.8 million in the second quarter. The increase of operating expenses in the quarter is mainly due to higher sales-related variable costs as well as further marketing and retail investments. Costs for other operating functions grew only moderately.

The operating result (EBIT) increased from € 11.9 million last year to € 43.4 million due to strong sales growth combined with an improved gross profit margin.

Net earnings increased from € 1.6 million to € 21.9 million and earnings per share were up correspondingly at € 1.46 compared to € 0.11 in the second quarter last year.

First Half-Year 2017

Sales for the first half-year 2017 improved by 15.8% currency adjusted to € 1,973.8 million (+17.6% reported) and were above expectations. All regions showed double-digit growth with Footwear being the main growth driver. Major gains were achieved by the Running and Training and Sportstyle categories, with Platform, Suede, BASKET HEART and IGNITE Limitless footwear styles performing well. Including eCommerce, PUMA's own and operated retail sales increased by 21.8% currency adjusted to € 430.3 million. This represents a share of 21.8% of total sales for the first half of 2017 (20.5% in the previous year). The performance was achieved by positive like-for-like growth in our existing retail stores, strong growth in our eCommerce business and opening of new additional stores. The gross profit margin improved, despite negative currency effects, by 60 basis points from 46.2% to 46.8% in the first half-year 2017. The increase was mainly due to further improvements in sourcing and selective price adjustments.
Operating expenses (OPEX) increased by 11.9% and amounted to € 817.6 million. The increase was driven by higher sales-related variable costs, intensified marketing activities and investments in own retail stores. Costs for other operating functions grew only moderately. The operating result (EBIT) more than doubled from € 53.2 million last year to € 113.6 million in the first half of 2017 underlining the improved operating performance, with strong sales growth, a higher gross profit margin and an improved operating leverage.

Net earnings improved significantly in the first half-year and came in at € 71.5 million (last year: € 27.4 million). This result translates into earnings per share of € 4.79 compared to € 1.84 last year.

Working Capital

Despite the double-digit sales growth and a higher number of owned and operated retail stores, PUMA’s working capital increased only moderately by 6.4% to € 700.1 million. Inventories were up 10.8% at € 850.6 million in order to ensure product availability and to support further growth as well as to meet the increased need for products due to our additional retail stores. Trade receivables rose by only 9.0% to € 561.8 million despite the strong sales growth. Trade payables were up 12.6% to € 645.1 million.

Cashflow

As a result of the working capital development and higher capital expenditures the free cash flow came in at € -117.9 million compared to € -107.3 million in the first half of 2016, while the net cash position improved from € 129.9 million as of June 30 to € 152.4 million.

Outlook 2017

In light of the strong second-quarter increase in sales and profitability as well as the positive business outlook for the current year 2017, PUMA raises the full-year guidance for its consolidated sales and operating result (EBIT). The Management now expects that currency adjusted sales will increase between 12% and 14% (previous guidance: currency adjusted increase at a low double-digit percentage rate). The operating result (EBIT) is now anticipated to come in between € 205 million and € 215 million (previous guidance: between € 185 million and € 200 million). In line with the previous guidance, the Management still expects that net earnings will improve significantly in 2017.

 

Financial Calendar FY 2017

February 9, 2017

Financial Results FY 2016

April 12, 2017

Annual General Meeting

April 25, 2017

Quarterly Statement Q1 2017

July 26, 2017

Interim Report Q2 2017

October 24, 2017

Quarterly Statement Q3 2017

The financial releases and other financial information are available on the Internet at „about.puma.com“.

Notes to the editors:

  • The financial reports are posted on about.puma.com.
  • PUMA SE stock symbol:

Börse Frankfurt: ISIN: DE0006969603– WKN: 696960

Notes relating to forward-looking statements

This document contains forward-looking statements about the Company’s future financial status and strategic initiatives. The forward-looking statements are based on the current expectations and assumptions of the management team. These are subject to a certain level of risk and uncertainty including, but not limited to those described above or in other disclosures, in particular in the chapter Risk and Opportunity Management in the Group Management Report. In the event that the expectations and the assumptions do not materialize or unforeseen risks arise, the Company's actual results can differ significantly from expectations. Therefore, we cannot assume responsibility for the correctness of these statements.

Kerstin Neuber
Kerstin Neuber
Senior Director Corporate Communications
Johan-Philip Kuhlo
Johan-Philip Kuhlo
Investor Relations – PUMA SE

Download press releases and images

Herzogenaurach, Germany, October 18, 2017
PUMA publishes preliminary results for the third quarter 2017 and raises full-year guidance for 2017
Disclosure of an inside information according to Article 17 Market Abuse Regulation

In the third quarter 2017, consolidated sales increased currency adjusted by approx. 17% (approx. 13% in reported terms) to € 1,122 million compared to € 990 million in the third quarter last year. The operating result (EBIT) in the third quarter 2017 increased to approx. € 101 million (Q3 2016: € 60 million).In light of the strong third-quarter increase in sales and profitability as well as the positive business outlook for the fourth quarter of 2017, PUMA raises the full-year guidance for its consolidated sales, gross profit margin, operating expenses and operating result (EBIT).

The Management now expects that currency adjusted sales will increase between 14% and 16% (previous guidance: currency adjusted increase between 12% and 14%). The gross profit margin is now anticipated to improve to approx. 46.5% (previous guidance: approx. 46.0%). Due to the expected increase in sales, the Management now foresees operating expenses (OPEX) to increase at a low double-digit percentage rate (previous guidance: increase at a high single-digit percentage rate).As a consequence, the operating result (EBIT) is now anticipated to come in between € 235 million and € 245 million (previous guidance: between € 205 million and € 215 million). In line with the previous guidance, the Management still expects that net earnings will improve significantly in 2017.

A complete overview of PUMA’s business development for the third quarter 2017 and the first nine months of 2017 will be published on October 24, 2017.

Photo Credits: Conné/ PUMA
Kerstin Neuber
Kerstin Neuber
Senior Director Corporate Communications
Johan-Philip Kuhlo
Johan-Philip Kuhlo
Investor Relations – PUMA SE

Download press releases and images

Herzogenaurach, Germany, October 24, 2017
Strong Sales and EBIT growth continues in the Third Quarter Upgrade of the Full-Year Guidance for 2017

2017 Third Quarter Facts

  • Sales increase by 17% currency adjusted to € 1,122 million (+13% reported) with double-digit growth in all regions
  • Gross profit margin up by 230 basis points to 48.1%
  • Operating expenses (OPEX) increases by 11% driven by higher marketing, selling and retail expenses
  • Operating result (EBIT) rises to € 101 million (last year: € 60 million)
  • PUMA partners with singer, actress and social media icon Selena Gomez
  • The new PUMA ONE collection drives improved Football sell-through

2017 Nine Month Facts

  • Sales up by 16% currency adjusted to € 3,096 million (+16% reported), with all regions showing double-digit growth and footwear being the main growth drive
  • Gross profit margin up 120 basis points at 47.3%
  • Operating leverage with operating expenses (OPEX) increasing by only 12%
  • Operating result (EBIT) improves to € 215 million (last year: € 114 million)
  • Net earnings almost doubled from € 67 million last year to € 134 million and earnings per share increase from € 4.48 last year to € 8.94 respectively
  • PUMA footwear styles “BASKET HEART” and “IGNITE Limitless” continued to be popular with customers
  • Women’s business further strengthened through second Rihanna collection this year, launched in September

Third Quarter 2017

PUMA's sales growth continued in the third quarter of 2017. Sales rose by 17.4% currency-adjusted to € 1,121.8 million (+13.3% reported), compared to € 990.2 million in the previous year. All regions supported the sales growth showing a double-digit increase. Footwear continued to be the main growth driver and Accessories also increased double-digit, while Apparel grew at a more modest rate.

The gross profit margin improved by 230 basis points from 45.8% to 48.1% in the third quarter. Further improvements in sourcing, higher sales of new products with a higher margin and selective price adjustments helped to improve the gross profit margin despite negative currency impacts.

Operating expenses (OPEX) grew by 11.4% to € 442.6 million in the third quarter. The increase was driven by higher marketing, selling and retail expenses, while costs for other operating functions grew only moderately.

The operating result (EBIT) increased from € 60.3 million last year to € 101.2 million due to strong sales growth combined with an improved gross profit margin.

Net earnings rose from € 39.5 million to € 62.1 million and earnings per share increased correspondingly from € 2.64 to € 4.16 in the third quarter.

Nine Months 2017

Sales for the nine-month period increased by 16.4% currency adjusted to € 3,095.6 million (+16.0% reported) and were above expectations. All regions showed double-digit growth with Footwear being the main growth driver. Major gains were achieved by the Running and Training and Sportstyle categories, with Platform, Suede, BASKET HEART, FIERCE and IGNITE Limitless footwear styles performing well.

Including eCommerce, PUMA's own and operated retail sales rose by 22.0% currency adjusted to € 673.0 million. This represents a share of 21.7% of total sales for the nine-month period (20.6% in the previous year). The performance was achieved by positive like-for-like growth in our existing retail stores, opening of new stores and strong growth in our eCommerce business.

The gross profit margin improved by 120 basis points from 46.1% to 47.3% in the first nine months of 2017. The increase of the gross profit margin, despite the negative currency impacts, was driven by further improvements in sourcing, higher sales of new products with a higher margin and selective price adjustments. Operating expenses (OPEX) rose by 11.7% and amounted to € 1,260.3 million. The increase was due to higher sales-related variable costs, intensified marketing activities and investments in own retail stores. Costs for other operating functions grew only moderately. The operating result (EBIT) improved from € 113.5 million last year to € 214.8 million in the first nine months of 2017. This development underlines the improved operating performance, with strong sales growth, a higher gross profit margin and an improved operating leverage. Net earnings in the first nine months almost doubled and came in at € 133.6 million (last year: € 67.0 million). This result translates into earnings per share of € 8.94 compared to € 4.48 last year.

Working Capital

Despite the double-digit sales growth and a higher number of owned and operated retail stores, PUMA’s working capital increased only modestly to € 762.8 million, an increase of 4.3%. Inventories were up 11.3% at € 795.8 million in order to ensure product availability, to support further growth and to meet the increased need for products due to our additional retail stores. Trade receivables rose by 16.0% to € 677.4 million and trade payables were up 20.6% to € 580.5 million.

Outlook 2017

In light of the strong third-quarter increase in sales and profitability as well as the positive business outlook for the fourth quarter of 2017, PUMA raises the full-year guidance for its consolidated sales, gross profit margin, operating expenses and operating result (EBIT).The Management now expects that currency adjusted sales will increase between 14% and 16% (previous guidance: currency adjusted increase between 12% and 14%). The gross profit margin is now anticipated to improve to approx. 46.5% (previous guidance: approx. 46.0%). Due to the expected increase in sales, the Management now foresees operating expenses (OPEX) to increase at a low double-digit percentage rate (previous guidance: increase at a high single-digit percentage rate).

As a consequence, the operating result (EBIT) is now anticipated to come in between € 235 million and € 245 million (previous guidance: between € 205 million and € 215 million). In line with the previous guidance, the Management still expects that net earnings will improve significantly in 2017.

Financial Calendar FY 2017

February 9, 2017

Financial Results FY 2016

April 12, 2017

Annual General Meeting

April 25, 2017

Quarterly Statement Q1 2017

July 26, 2017

Interim Report Q2 2017

October 24, 2017

Quarterly Statement Q3 2017

The financial releases and other financial information are available on the Internet at „about.puma.com“.

Notes to the editors:

  • The financial reports are posted on about.puma.com.
  • PUMA SE stock symbol:

    Reuters: PUMG.DE, Bloomberg: PUM GY,
    Börse Frankfurt: ISIN: DE0006969603– WKN: 696960

Notes relating to forward-looking statements:

This document contains forward-looking statements about the Company’s future financial status and strategic initiatives. The forward-looking statements are based on the current expectations and assumptions of the management team. These are subject to a certain level of risk and uncertainty including, but not limited to those described above or in other disclosures, in particular in the chapter Risk and Opportunity Management in the Group Management Report. In the event that the expectations and the assumptions do not materialize or unforeseen risks arise, the Company's actual results can differ significantly from expectations. Therefore, we cannot assume responsibility for the correctness of these statements.

Photo Credits: Conné/ PUMA
Kerstin Neuber
Kerstin Neuber
Senior Director Corporate Communications
Johan-Philip Kuhlo
Johan-Philip Kuhlo
Investor Relations – PUMA SE

Download press releases and images

Herzogenaurach, GERMANY - January 11, 2018
Kering SA proposes to distribute PUMA shares to Kering shareholders through a distribution in kind

PUMA welcomes the transaction as it enhances PUMA’s free float and strengthens its capital markets positioning, visibility and opportunities.

PUMA SE (ISIN: DE00069696303 WKN: 696960)
PUMA WAY 1, D-91074 Herzogenaurach

Kering SA (Paris), the major shareholder of PUMA SE with a current shareholding of approx. 86%, today informed the Administrative Board of PUMA SE that it has decided to propose to the Annual General Meeting of Kering SA on April 26, 2018 to distribute to the shareholders of Kering SA, by way of a dividend in kind, a portion of Kering's shareholding in PUMA which corresponds to approx. 70% of the total share capital of PUMA SE.

Kering SA will remain a shareholder of PUMA SE with a shareholding of approx. 16%. Through the distribution in kind, Artémis SA, the controlling shareholder of Kering SA (and thus indirectly of PUMA SE) will receive shares in PUMA SE, representing approximately 29% of the share capital, and will thereby become a direct and, according to its own statement, also a long-term shareholder of PUMA SE. As a result, the future free float of PUMA SE will amount to approx. 55% after the transaction.

The transaction is subject to approval by the Annual General Meeting of Kering SA to be held on April 26, 2018.

The Administrative Board of PUMA SE welcomes the transaction. Kering SA and Artémis SA will remain strong partners of PUMA. The transaction does not affect PUMA’s current strategy, which PUMA will continue to execute and which has already shown initial results. The transaction is expected to improve the liquidity of the PUMA share as a result of a significantly larger free float, which will make it easier for investors to invest in PUMA SE directly.

Photo Credits: Conné/ PUMA
Kerstin Neuber
Kerstin Neuber
Senior Director Corporate Communications
Johan-Philip Kuhlo
Johan-Philip Kuhlo
Investor Relations – PUMA SE

Download press releases and images

Herzogenaurach, GERMANY - January 11, 2018
PUMA welcomes planned Change in Ownership Structure

Kering’s proposal to reduce its stake would enhance PUMA’s share free float, support business strategy and increase attractiveness of shares

PUMA SE welcomes the planned proposal of its majority shareholder Kering SA to distribute part of its PUMA shares to Kering’s shareholders (dividend in kind) and thus reducing its stake in the sports company. This would lead to a greater free float of PUMA stocks, providing investors an enhanced possibility to invest in PUMA, and allowing the company to reaffirm its business strategy.

We are very pleased that Kering has proposed this way to reduce its stake in PUMA. It would allow us to continue with our current business strategy that has started to show good results,” said Bjørn Gulden, CEO of PUMA. “We would be able to carry on to invest in becoming the Fastest Sports Brand in the world, create value for retailers, improve performance for athletes and excite consumers.”

French luxury group Kering, owner of approximately 86% of PUMA’s total share capital, announced earlier today that it will propose to its Annual General Meeting to distribute approximately 70% of the total share capital of PUMA to Kering’s shareholders, thus reducing its shareholding in PUMA to approximately 16%. As a consequence, Kering’s largest shareholder Artémis SA* would receive approximately 29% of PUMA’s share capital and would become a direct and long-term shareholder. The transaction enables Kering to focus on its core luxury business in high-end fashion, leather goods as well as jewelry and watches.

The transaction would increase PUMA’s free float from currently 14% to approximately 55%. “PUMA would become much more attractive for investors as our shares would have a substantially higher free float and larger trading volumes. Kering and Artémis, however, would remain strong partners and shareholders, which proves that they believe in our strategy and PUMA’s future success,” said Bjørn Gulden.

The transaction is subject to approval by the Annual General Meeting of Kering SA to be held on 26 April 2018.

*Artémis is the holding company of the Pinault family and the controlling shareholder of Kering.

Photo Credits: Conné/ PUMA
Kerstin Neuber
Kerstin Neuber
Senior Director Corporate Communications
Johan-Philip Kuhlo
Johan-Philip Kuhlo
Investor Relations – PUMA SE

Download press releases and images

Herzogenaurach, germany - February 8, 2018
PUMA AND SENEGAL FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCE LONG-TERM PARTNERSHIP

PARTNERSHIP WILL START FOR THE WORLD CUP 2018

PUMA and the Senegalese Football Association (Fédération Sénégalaise de Football, SFA) today, mutually announced a long-term agreement that will see the “Lions of Teranga” outfitted in the PUMA brand beyond the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

The Senegal National Team, will debut its new PUMA kit and training line in the upcoming FIFA window in March.  They will be seen on the world’s stage at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, which will be the second time in the history that Senegal will play a World Cup.

We are delighted to welcome Senegal back to the PUMA Family again. They are a great team with many promising talents who stood out during the qualification for the World Cup. With PUMA’s long history in African football and the characteristics of the Lions of Teranga with their style of play and joyfulness, it is a perfect fit to PUMA and our Forever Faster positioning” said Bjørn Gulden, Chief Executive Officer for PUMA.

I am pleased to confirm our partnership with PUMA. They represent a major international brand and we already know their professionalism and their commitment for African Football. We are looking forward to playing with our new kits.” said Augustin Senghor, President of the Senegalese Football Association.

The Senegal National Team, nicknamed the Lions of Teranga, will debut its new PUMA kit and training line in the upcoming FIFA window in March. 

The Senegal National Team joins the roster of federations like The Football Associations of Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Ghana and Czech Republic. PUMA Football clubs, including Borussia Dortmund, Arsenal FC and soon Olympique de Marseille are also part of PUMA's portfolio, as well as some of the world’s best players such as Antoine Griezmann, Olivier Giroud, Sergio ‘Kun’ Agüero, Cesc Fàbregas, Mario Balotelli, Hector Bellerin, Marco Reus, Julian Weigl, Gianluigi Buffon and Yaya Touré amongst others.

Herzogenaurach, germany - February 9, 2018
PUMA PLANS TO DISTRIBUTE A ONE-OFF DIVIDEND OF 12.50 EUR PER SHARE FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR 2017

DISCLOSURE OF AN INSIDE INFORMATION ACCORDING TO ARTICLE 17 MARKET ABUSE REGULATION

PUMA SE (ISIN: DE00069696303 WKN: 696960)
PUMA WAY 1, D-91074 Herzogenaurach

The Administrative Board and the Managing Directors of PUMA SE intend to propose to the Annual General Meeting of PUMA SE on 12 April 2018 the distribution of a one-off dividend of 12.50 EUR per share for the financial year 2017.

Photo Credits: Conné/ PUMA
Kerstin Neuber
Kerstin Neuber
Senior Director Corporate Communications
Johan-Philip Kuhlo
Johan-Philip Kuhlo
Investor Relations – PUMA SE

Download press releases and images

Herzogenaurach, germany - March 20, 2018
PUMA COMMUNICATES MID-TERM FINANCIAL OUTLOOK AND DIVIDEND POLICY

DISCLOSURE OF AN INSIDE INFORMATION ACCORDING TO ARTICLE 17 MARKET ABUSE REGULATION

PUMA SE (ISIN: DE00069696303 WKN: 696960)
PUMA WAY 1, D-91074 Herzogenaurach

PUMA SE holds its Capital Markets Day today and communicates the following mid-term (2018-2022) financial outlook: PUMA expects the currency-adjusted consolidated net sales to grow around 10% on average per year until 2022. The EBIT margin is expected to reach a level of around 10% of consolidated net sales by 2022 at the latest.

In addition, PUMA will propose to the Annual General Meeting a distribution of a dividend of between 25% and 35% of the consolidated net earnings, starting with the dividend payout in 2019 for the financial year 2018.

 

Herzogenaurach, Germany - March 28, 2018
CAN BACTERIA IN CLOTHING REALLY MAKE AN ATHLETE FASTER?

PUMA AND MIT DESIGN LAB PRESENT LATEST RESEARCH IN THE FIELD OF BIODESIGN

A breathing sports shoe, that grows its own air passageways to enable personalized ventilation? A learning insole that prevents fatigue and improves athletes’ performance? A t-shirt that responds to environmental factors by changing its appearance to inform the wearer about the air quality?

What sounds like future visions are actually research results by Sports company PUMA and the MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) Design Lab that will be showcased at the Milan Design Week 2018 in April. PUMA and MIT Design Lab have been conducting research in the field of biodesign since June 2017. Biodesign is the practice of using living materials such as algae or bacteria to create products. It makes possible a football jersey made from the silk of a spider or a shoe box grown from mycelium, the root structure of mushrooms. PUMA Biodesign explores the new frontiers of biological design and fabrication to bring advances in science and biotechnologies closer to our daily lives through sport products.  

The exhibition in Milan, which is powered by the Biorealize desktop bioprototyping platform, will focus on how the next generation of athletic footwear, apparel and wearables can adapt in real-time by using living organisms to enhance performance.

The exhibition will show four experiments: a Breathing Shoe, a Deep Learning Insole, Carbon Eaters and Adaptive Packaging.

The biologically active Breathing Shoe pushes the boundaries of biofabrication and enables personalized ventilation by growing its own air passageways that keep the foot cool.

The next generation Deep Learning Insoles improve the athlete’s performance through real-time biofeedback. The sole uses organisms to measure long and short-term chemical phenomena that indicate fatigue and well-being.

The microbially-active t-shirt responds to environmental factors by changing its appearance and informing the user about air quality.

The research has also looked beyond current wearables and produced biologically programmable materials that change their shape and structure to become new types of alive, biodegradable and adaptive packaging.

The Milan Design Week runs from 17-22 April 2018.

Kerstin Neuber
Kerstin Neuber
Senior Director Corporate Communications

Download press releases and images

Herzogenaurach, germany - April 24, 2018
STRONG SALES AND EBIT GROWTH IN THE FIRST QUARTER

PUMA SLIGHTLY RAISES FULL-YEAR GUIDANCE FOR 2018

2018 First-Quarter Facts

  • Sales increase of 21.5% currency-adjusted to € 1,131 million (+12.5% reported) with double-digit growth in all regions and product segments
    Gross profit margin up by 110 basis points to 48.2%
  • Operating expenses (OPEX) increase only 7.5%, further improving our operating leverage
  • Operating result (EBIT) improves significantly to € 112 million (last year: € 70 million)
  • The highly exclusive Phenom Lux, the first shoe designed by Selena Gomez and released in limited quantities, will benefit the Lupus Research Alliance
  • PUMA will be offical sponsor of AC Milan (season 2018/19) and of Brazilian top club Sao Paulo Palmeiras (season 2019)
  • PUMA signs long-term agreements with World Cup qualifiers Senegalese and Serbian Football Associations

Bjørn Gulden, Chief Executive Officer of PUMA SE:

“We started the year with both first-quarter sales and profitability (EBIT) coming in stronger than we had expected. The double-digit sales growth in all regions and product segments, including an exceptionally high growth in Asia, led to a very strong 21.5% organic sales increase. Operating result even grew by 60% to € 112 million due to higher sales, an improvement in our gross margin of 110 basis points and a tight OPEX management. 

Because of an uncertain business environment caused by volatile currency rates and the difficult economic trade environment, we raised our outlook for the full year only slightly. We now expect our sales to grow 10% to 12% in local currency (previous 10%) and EBIT to come in between € 310 to € 330 million (previous € 305 to € 325 million).”

 

Sales Development:

First Quarter 2018

PUMA's sales growth continued in the first quarter of 2018. Sales increased by 21.5% currency-adjusted to € 1,131.1 million (+12.5% reported) compared to € 1,005.1 million last year. Due to the strength of the Euro against all other major currencies during the first quarter 2018, there is a 9% negative difference between sales growth in Euro and constant-currency terms.

All regions and product segments supported the sales growth with a currency-adjusted double-digit increase. Particularly our Asia/ Pacific region, driven by China, achieved a strong sales growth of 34.8% in the first quarter. Footwear continued to be the main growth driver followed by Apparel and Accessories. Running and Training as well as Sportstyle were the categories with the strongest growth rates.

The gross profit margin improved by 110 basis points from 47.1% to 48.2%. The increase came from a favourable regional sales mix, higher sales of new products with a better margin and further sourcing improvements.

Operating expenses (OPEX) grew by 7.5% to € 437.3 million in the first quarter. The increase was mainly caused by higher marketing and retail investments as well as higher sales-related variable costs.

The operating result (EBIT) increased by 59.9% from € 70.2 million to € 112.2 million in the first quarter 2018 due to a strong sales growth, a higher gross profit margin and an improved operating leverage. This corresponds to an EBIT-margin of 9.9% compared to 7.0% in the first quarter last year.

Net earnings went up by 35.8% to € 67.4 million (last year: € 49.6 million). This translates into earnings per share of € 4.51 compared to € 3.32 in the first quarter 2017.

 

Working Capital

Strong currency effects and our continued focus on working capital management led to a decrease of working capital of 1.3% to € 791.0 million. Omitting these currency impacts, working capital would have grown by approx. 10%, lower than our growth in business. Inventories rose only slightly by 1.3% to € 760.4 million and trade receivables grew by only 5.8% to € 685.0 million. Trade payables decreased by 8.0% to € 471.4 million.

 

Outlook 2018

The first quarter saw a strong increase in sales and profitability, but several uncertainties in our business environment have recently developed. This includes adverse and volatile currency developments, political instabilities as well as the uncertain trade environment between the USA and China. Therefore, we adjusted our guidance for the full year 2018 only slightly. PUMA now expects that currency-adjusted sales will increase between 10% and 12% (previous guidance: currency-adjusted increase by approximately 10%). The operating result (EBIT) is now anticipated to come in between € 310 million and € 330 million (previous guidance: between € 305 million and € 325 million). In line with the previous guidance, the Management still expects that net earnings will improve significantly in 2018.

Rounding differences may be observed in the percentage and numerical values expressed in millions of Euro since the underlying calculations are always based on thousands of Euro.

Rounding differences may be observed in the percentage and numerical values expressed in millions of Euro since the underlying calculations are always based on thousands of Euro.

Financial Calendar FY 2018

February 12, 2018Financial Results FY 2017
April 12, 2018Annual General Meeting
April 24, 2018Quarterly Statement Q1 2018
July 26, 2018Interim Report Q2 2018
October 23, 2018Quarterly Statement Q3 2018


The financial releases and other financial information are available on the Internet at „about.puma.com“.

Notes to the editors:

  • The financial reports are posted on about.puma.com.
  • PUMA SE stock symbol:
     

    Reuters: PUMG.DE, Bloomberg: PUM GY,
    Börse Frankfurt: ISIN: DE0006969603– WKN: 696960

Notes relating to forward-looking statements:

This document contains forward-looking statements about the Company’s future financial status and strategic initiatives. The forward-looking statements are based on the current expectations and assumptions of the management team. These are subject to a certain level of risk and uncertainty including, but not limited to those described above or in other disclosures, in particular in the chapter Risk and Opportunity Management in the Group Management Report. In the event that the expectations and the assumptions do not materialize or unforeseen risks arise, the Company's actual results can differ significantly from expectations. Therefore, we cannot assume responsibility for the correctness of these statements.

Herzogenaurach, germany - April 26, 2018
PUMA APPOINTS MARTIN BENDA AS GENERAL COUNSEL

Sports company PUMA has appointed Dr. Martin Benda (49) as General Counsel (Global Director Legal Affairs) with immediate effect. In this position, Martin Benda will report directly to PUMA CFO Michael Laemmermann.

After finishing his PhD in industrial law at the Georg-August University in Göttingen, Martin started his professional career as Legal Counsel at Mannesmann Mobilfunk (now Vodafone). In 2001, Martin joined The Coca-Cola Company, where he gathered extensive experience and knowledge in positions as Legal Director GB & Ireland and Senior Legal Counsel Central & Eastern Europe.

The trained lawyer has a comprehensive expertise in competition-, trademark-, marketing-, employment- and property law.

Martin Benda succeeds Jochen Lederhilger, who served in this role since 2006. Lederhilger has decided to leave the company after 20 years to pursue his career as a self-employed lawyer.

Photo Credits: Christoph Maderer/ PUMA
Atlanta, USA - October 6, 2018
PUMA launches #REFORM to drive Social Change

Athletes and Artists support causes that matter most

Global Sports Brand PUMA has launched #REFORM, a new platform that will give activists from the worlds of sports, music and entertainment support in championing causes and encouraging conversations around issues such as universal equality and criminal justice reform.

 

#REFORM is directly inspired by Olympian Tommie Smith, and his “Silent Gesture” that sparked global debate around the issues of civil rights and universal equality at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics.

PUMA’s belief is that to achieve faster progress, a team is essential. Therefore, PUMA has created Team#REFORM. This is a collective of individuals who believe that progress toward universal equality needs to be achieved faster. To lead Team#REFORM, PUMA has selected Captains, including rapper Meek Mill (who will focus on criminal justice reform), and WNBA All-Star Skylar Diggins-Smith (gender equality), alongside Captain Emeritus, Tommie Smith (universal equality). The brand will also be partnering with entertainment company Roc Nation to spread the message of #REFORM through live and social engagement. Future #REFORM Captains will be named in the coming months.

PUMA’s goal is to go beyond inspiration and turn intentions into actions. #REFORM Captains will work with the brand to identify beneficiaries of #REFORM tactics, including product creation, recognition grants, and #REFORM Summits, where like-minded individuals will gather to promote an agenda for change.

In recognition of Tommie Smith’s lifetime of bravery, PUMA will present him with the first #REFORM AWARD this evening at the Tommie Smith Youth Initiative Gala. The award will be accompanied by a donation to the Tommie Smith Youth Initiative Foundation. This event will mark the kick off of PUMA’s #REFORM campaign.

On October 16th, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Silent Gesture at the 1968 Olympics, Team#REFORM Captains will call on PUMA brand ambassadors and all likeminded individuals to join Team#REFORM and celebrate Tommie’s achievements with the #THIRDSALUTE. The #THIRDSALUTE is a social media movement in which individuals challenge others to post an image of themselves with a raised fist, and make a donation to charities pursuing universal equality, including the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), an organization which has worked for more than 100 years to defend and promote the liberties enshrined in the United States Constitution. All donations from the #THIRDSALUTE will be matched by PUMA, up to $100,000 through December 31, 2018.

On the 16th, PUMA will also launch the “Power Through Peace” Collection, commemorating Tommie’s Silent Gesture, and featuring graphics designed by Lance Wyman, creator of the logo of the ‘68 Olympics. All profits from the sales of this collection will be donated to charities pursuing universal equality.

Throughout 2018/19 and beyond, PUMA will be working with #Reform Captains to launch other programs that will promote actions to further the goal of universal equality.

Kerstin Neuber
Kerstin Neuber
Senior Director Corporate Communications

Download press releases and images

Subscribe to Corporate