The Importance of Marketing Research: A Case Study of Adidas in China

May 18
21:17

2024

LIE PLIAN

LIE PLIAN

  • Share this article on Facebook
  • Share this article on Twitter
  • Share this article on Linkedin

Marketing research is a cornerstone for any business aiming to expand its market share, and Adidas' strategy in China serves as a compelling case study. This article delves into how Adidas plans to increase its market share in China's third and fourth-tier cities, the challenges it faces, and the strategies it employs to overcome them.

Summary

Adidas is focusing on expanding its market share in China's third and fourth-tier cities. With plans to open 2,500 new stores over three years,The Importance of Marketing Research: A Case Study of Adidas in China Articles the company aims to counter rising costs and declining gross margins by increasing prices and reducing marketing expenses. By 2015, Adidas expects China, Russia, and the United States to account for 50% of its total sales. This article explores Adidas' strategic moves, the growth of China's sports industry, and the company's financial performance.

Adidas' Expansion Strategy in China

Current Market Presence

As of now, Adidas has a significant presence in 20 major Chinese cities. Colin Currie, the Managing Director of Adidas in China, revealed that the company plans to open 2,500 new stores over the next three years, primarily targeting third and fourth-tier cities. This expansion is crucial for Adidas to maintain its growth trajectory in a competitive market.

Financial Performance and Projections

In 2010, Adidas reported a total sales revenue of €12 billion, marking a 15% increase from the previous year. The company's gross profit margin also improved by 2.4%, reaching 47.8%. Despite these gains, rising costs for raw materials, labor, and transportation have pressured Adidas to raise prices and cut marketing expenses to sustain profitability.

Market Share and Global Strategy

Adidas aims to make China, along with Russia and the United States, account for 50% of its global sales by 2015. This ambitious goal underscores the importance of the Chinese market in Adidas' global strategy. In 2010, China's sports industry grew by 20%, generating over $30 billion, with 80% of this revenue coming from sporting goods sales.

Challenges and Solutions

Rising Costs

The cost of raw materials, labor, and transportation has been increasing, affecting Adidas' gross margins. To mitigate these challenges, Adidas plans to raise product prices and reduce marketing expenses. This strategy aims to balance the increased costs while maintaining profitability.

Market Penetration

Adidas currently operates in 550 Chinese cities and aims to expand to 1,400 cities by 2015. This expansion will involve opening new stores based on customer needs and demands. The company plans to establish more than 10 owned stores in 2011 alone.

The Growth of China's Sports Industry

Economic Impact

China's sports industry has been growing at an impressive rate. In 2010, the industry grew by 20%, contributing over $30 billion to the economy. This growth is driven by increasing disposable incomes and a rising interest in sports and fitness activities among Chinese consumers.

Consumer Behavior

Chinese consumers are increasingly viewing sports and fitness as essential aspects of their lifestyle. This shift in consumer behavior presents a significant opportunity for Adidas to capture a larger market share by offering products that cater to this growing demand.

Financial Performance

Sales and Revenue

In 2010, Adidas achieved sales of €1 billion in China, representing a 3% growth. The company's overall sales reached €12 billion, a 15% increase from the previous year. These figures highlight the importance of the Chinese market in Adidas' global strategy.

Profit Margins

Adidas' gross profit margin improved to 47.8% in 2010, up by 2.4% from the previous year. This improvement was attributed to reduced discounts, increased high-margin retail sales, and lower costs.

Future Outlook

Strategic Goals

By 2015, Adidas aims to cover 1,400 Chinese cities, up from the current 550. This expansion will involve opening new stores based on customer needs and demands. The company also plans to achieve sales of over €100 million in China.

Market Potential

China's sports industry is expected to continue its rapid growth, driven by increasing disposable incomes and a rising interest in sports and fitness activities. This presents a significant opportunity for Adidas to capture a larger market share.

Conclusion

Adidas' strategy to expand its market share in China's third and fourth-tier cities is a testament to the importance of marketing research. By understanding consumer behavior and market dynamics, Adidas can effectively navigate the challenges of rising costs and competitive pressures. As China's sports industry continues to grow, Adidas is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend and achieve its ambitious goals.

References

  1. Adidas Group Financial Performance
  2. China's Sports Industry Growth
  3. Global Market Share of Adidas

By leveraging detailed market research and strategic planning, Adidas aims to solidify its position as a leading sportswear brand in China and beyond.