US footwear market “fared well” in 2007
According to the latest US footwear sales report released by consumer and retail information provider the NPD Group, Inc., dollar volume sales for the total US footwear market (combined fashion and athletic footwear) reached $44.4 billion in 2007, 2% higher than in 2006 despite a challenging environment.
“Some may see this 2% as minor growth but considering it comes on the heels of 10% growth in 2005 and 5% in 2006, it’s encouraging that the industry continues to find more business,” said Marshal Cohen, chief industry analyst. He added: “This past year has had more challenges than most, yet the industry fared well overall. Not all fashion categories can say that.”
Fashion footwear again posted the biggest growth margins with boots, such as Uggs, continuing their popularity. Meanwhile, low performance athletic footwear recorded the highest growth rates with the total market for leisure/low performance increasing 11% for 2007, while skateboard shoes posted a 34% rise.
