Wolverine World Wide has recently made a significant change in its leadership structure by eliminating the role of active group president, leading to Susie Kuhn’s departure from the company as of Monday. Kuhn, who joined Wolverine in October 2024, had been responsible for brand strategies and managing commercial performance for the active group, which includes brands such as Merrell, Saucony, Sweaty Betty, and Chaco. This restructuring comes after a notable financial performance for the active group, which saw its revenue increase by 9.3% to $388.4 million in the last quarter, while the company’s total revenue was up by 6.8% to $506.4 million.
Primark Expands in Georgia
Primark continues to expand its presence in the United States with the opening of a new store in Augusta, Georgia. This latest addition brings Primark’s total number of U.S. locations to 48 stores. The new outlet at Augusta Mall follows closely on the heels of the retailer’s first store launch in Georgia earlier this month in Lawrenceville. Primark U.S. President Kevin Tulip expressed excitement about the rapid expansion in Georgia and highlighted the brand’s commitment to providing excellent value to consumers. The company’s growth in the region is part of a broader strategy to increase its U.S. footprint, with U.S. sales rising by 14% this year and 16% in the third quarter alone.
Seasonal Products Take a Spooky Turn
As the fall season officially begins, brands are releasing an array of themed products, pushing the boundaries of creativity and taste. Among the more unusual offerings, Hidden Valley Ranch has launched a “Spooky Ranch” dressing, characterised by its black hue achieved through the use of fruit juice and cocoa powder. Priced at about $4, it comes in a glow-in-the-dark bottle and is available solely at Walmart. Additionally, Cup Noodles has introduced “Vampire Noodles” with garlic and chicken flavors, which change to a bright red when hot water is added. To promote this, Cup Noodles partnered with Titan Casket to design a collector casket that can be won through a sweepstake or purchased for roughly $4,000.
J. Crew’s Iconic Barn Jacket Reaches Milestone
The iconic Barn Jacket from J. Crew is celebrating its 40th anniversary. To commemorate the event, J. Crew conducted a photographic campaign featuring 160 individuals across major U.S. cities like New York City, Los Angeles, Boston, Chicago, and Austin, Texas. According to Chief Marketing Officer Julia Collier, the campaign underscores the jacket’s long-lasting appeal across various communities and eras. For 2026, the Barn Jacket is offered in 29 different styles for men, women, and children, priced between $98 and $898, and available on J. Crew’s website and in selected stores.
The Uncertain Future of Michael Kors
Michael Kors appears to be causing trouble for its parent company, Capri Holdings, with its latest quarterly report showing a 7% drop in sales and a decline in operating income. Joaquín Nieves Uría of El Corte Inglés highlighted the brand’s current stagnation and lack of a clear strategy moving forward. Analyst reports have noted dwindling social media engagement and weak sales for new handbags. The brand’s difficulties are partly attributed to changing fashion trends and the impact of the resale market. With rumours circulating about potential investors showing interest in acquiring Michael Kors, Capri’s path forward remains uncertain. Previously, Capri has sold Versace to Prada for over $1 billion and owns Jimmy Choo.
Reporting based on coverage first published by retaildive.com.