American sports equipment company Brooks Running has reported robust double-digit growth in the first quarter (Q1) of 2026, driven by strong demand for its performance running footwear and apparel across key global markets.

The company recorded 20 per cent growth in North America and 30 per cent currency-neutral growth in Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA), while China sales surged 136 per cent year on year (YoY), reflecting rapid expansion in international markets.

Brooks Running has reported strong Q1 2026 growth, with sales rising 20 per cent in North America, 30 per cent in EMEA and 136 per cent in China.
Growth was driven by footwear innovation and expanding apparel demand.
The brand-maintained US leadership in performance running footwear and strengthened global presence through new launches, partnerships and athlete performances.

“Our record quarter is proof our long-term strategy is resonating,” said Dan Sheridan, CEO of Brooks Running, highlighting strong execution across product innovation, consumer engagement and global brand positioning.

“Across product, experiences, and how we show up for the sport globally, our teams are executing at the highest level and earning runners’ trust every day. Our record quarter is proof our long-term strategy is resonating,” added Sheridan.

Brooks maintained its leadership in the US, holding the No 1 market share in performance running footwear at specialty retail. At national retail, it sustained around 20 per cent market share for the 11^th consecutive quarter, with its core franchises ranking among the top five styles.

Growth was supported by a broad product portfolio, with both new launches and core franchises delivering strong momentum. The newly introduced Glycerin Flex, featuring an articulated segmented midsole, accounted for 4 per cent of global footwear revenue within its first quarter. Trail segment performance was also notable, with the Cascadia Elite contributing to a 59 per cent rise in trail footwear sales, Brooks Running said in a press release.

Among established products, the Glycerin line grew 34 per cent YoY, while the Adrenaline GTS increased 31 per cent, underscoring continued consumer trust. Performance racing footwear also expanded sharply, with the Hyperion Elite franchise growing 114 per cent.

Brooks’ apparel segment recorded 33 per cent growth, driven by strong demand for products such as the Dash collection and sports bras. The brand also strengthened its position in the run-specialty channel, securing five of the top 10 bra styles at Fleet Feet.

Regionally, Brooks outperformed the market in Europe, with Germany and France recording growth of 24 per cent and 15 per cent, respectively.

The company also advanced its brand presence through partnerships and marketing campaigns, including global initiatives such as ‘Let’s Run There’ and collaborations with athletes and communities. Limited-edition collections and lifestyle collaborations further expanded its reach beyond performance running.

Brooks continued to invest in its athlete ecosystem, with strong performances across track, road and trail disciplines reinforcing its brand credibility.

Looking ahead, the company remains focused on scaling its global footprint, supported by innovation, community engagement and an expanded leadership structure aimed at driving long-term growth.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (SG)

The Australian wool market remained relatively resilient during Week 45 of May 2026 (Week ending May 8) despite pressure from a stronger Australian dollar. The Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) declined by 11 Australian cents, while the Western Market Indicator (WMI) eased 3 cents in AUD terms. However, both indicators posted gains in US dollar terms due to currency movements, according to AWI (Australian Wool Innovation) Commentary.

The Australian dollar climbed above US 72 cents for the first time since 2022 following the Reserve Bank of Australia’s interest rate hike and continued weakness in the US dollar. The stronger currency created headwinds for local wool prices, though the broader market tone stayed positive.

Fine Merino wool types between 16.5 and 19 microns slipped 10-15 Australian cents, while medium Merinos in the 19.5-21 microns range fell 20-25 cents. Meanwhile, crossbred wool categories from 26 to 32 microns rose 10-15 cents and Merino cardings gained 15-20 cents across selling centres.

The Australian wool market remained resilient this week despite pressure from a stronger Australian dollar, which weighed on local currency returns.
While the Eastern and Western Market Indicators recorded slight declines in AUD terms, both posted gains in US dollar terms.
Firmer crossbred wool prices, stronger Merino cardings, and selective buyer demand helped support overall market sentiment.

Industry observers noted firm demand for crossbred and oddments sectors, supported by interest in blended fibre applications and woollen-spinning inputs as processors looked for comparatively lower-cost raw materials amid ongoing macroeconomic uncertainty.

Lower-style Merino fleece types continued to face subdued demand, reflecting selective buying patterns focused on fibre quality, processing efficiency, and consistency as manufacturing margins remain under pressure.

Weekly auction offerings fell to 33,055 bales, while next week’s roster is expected to decline further to 31,329 bales. Fremantle will hold a Tuesday-only auction, while Sydney and Melbourne will conduct sales across Tuesday and Wednesday.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (CG)

Cotton yarn prices further increased by ****;** per kg in the Ludhiana market. Spinning mills are raising their mill rates to pass on additional burden of rising cotton prices. A trader from Ludhiana market told Fibre*Fashion, ““Indian spinning mills are receiving support from export markets as mills in Bangladesh and Vietnam continue to face energy-related disruptions amid the ongoing war situation. As a result, the textile and apparel industries in both countries are increasingly sourcing cotton yarn from Indian spinners.”

In Ludhiana, ** count cotton combed yarn was sold at ****;***–*** (~$*.**–*.**) per kg (inclusive of GST); ** and ** count combed yarn were traded at ****;***–*** (~$*.**–*.**) per kg and ****;***–*** (~$*.**–*.**) per kg, respectively; and carded yarn of ** count was noted at ****;***–*** (~$*.**–*.**) per kg today, according to trade sources.