JD Sports has completed its acquisition of French sneaker retailer Courir, reinforcing its presence in the European market.
- The acquisition, valued at €520 million, received necessary approval from the European Commission.
- Courir, a leading name in the French sneaker market, operates numerous stores across Europe and beyond.
- JD Sports will divest certain Courir stores to comply with regulatory requirements.
- This acquisition aligns with JD Sports’ strategy to widen its customer base and strengthen its market position.
JD Sports, a major player in the sportswear industry, has successfully acquired the French sneaker retailer Courir. This move, officially completed at a cost of €520 million, marks a significant step in JD Sports’ strategic plan to expand its influence across Europe. The acquisition follows the necessary green light from the European Commission, underscoring the regulatory compliance involved in this international transaction.
Courir is a prominent entity in France, operating as a market leader in the sneaker industry. It runs 323 stores not only in France but also in Spain, Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Luxembourg, in addition to 36 franchise locations in North West Africa, the Middle East, and French overseas territories. This extensive network positions JD Sports to significantly bolster its presence in these regions.
The transaction necessitates that JD Sports divest certain assets to German sneaker company Snipes, specifically 15 Courir stores in France and all six stores in Portugal. These stores will continue under the Courir brand until the sale is finalised, a move required to meet the stipulations set by the European Commission. The divestment is scheduled for the first quarter of the fiscal year 2026.
Revenues for Courir were reported at €725.8 million in 2023, with a profit before interest and tax reaching €50.3 million. JD Sports aims to integrate Courir’s management, led by Pierre Chambaudrie, into its team, which is anticipated to aid in further development and expansion across the European market.
JD Sports CEO, Régis Schultz, emphasised that the acquisition is a crucial element of their Complementary Concepts strategy in Europe. According to Schultz, the integration of Courir is expected to broaden JD Sports’ customer base to include a more diverse and fashion-conscious audience, complementing its existing clientele.
The acquisition of Courir not only reflects JD Sports’ growth ambitions but also its commitment to diversifying its market reach in Europe.
