Wolverine World Stock Price, News & Analysis

Wolverine Worldwide (NYSE: WWW) announced strategic changes aimed at enhancing the operating performance of Sweaty Betty, a premium women's activewear brand acquired in August 2021. Sweaty Betty will now report to Wolverine's International Group in London, aligning it with global growth opportunities. The company plans to reduce office space in London and implement cost-saving measures, which may include workforce reductions in the UK. These actions aim to optimize Sweaty Betty's cost structure and prepare for future investments. CEO Julia Straus is set to leave in June 2023, with a search for her successor already underway.

Wolverine World Wide (NYSE: WWW) announces the retirement of Blake Krueger as Chairman, effective May 4, 2023, succeeded by Tom Long, the Lead Independent Director. Krueger's nearly 30-year tenure transformed the company into a leading global brand. New Board members Stacia Andersen, Jodi Bricker, and DeMonty Price bring extensive experience in omnichannel retail and brand-building, effective March 14, 2023. The Board also acknowledges David McCreight's resignation to focus on his role at Lulu’s. This transition aims to bolster Wolverine's growth strategy and industry leadership.

Merrell, a leading outdoor footwear brand, announced the addition of ultrarunner Reid Burrows to its international trail team. Based in Canada, Burrows has achieved notable success in trail running since 2019, including first-place finishes in events such as the 2022 Sulphur Springs 50km and the Herring 20k Run. Merrell believes Burrows will enhance its athlete roster while contributing to product development through the Merrell Test Lab. In 2023, Burrows is set to participate in various high-profile races, promoting mental health awareness and community involvement through his initiatives. Merrell is a division of Wolverine World Wide (NYSE: WWW).

Wolverine continues its partnership with 343 Industries by launching a new limited-edition Spartan-inspired boot collection on March 16, 2023. Following the success of the previous Wolverine x Halo Master Chief boot that sold out quickly, this new collection features four unique styles: Wild Kovan, Foxwood Seal, Scorpion Horvath, and Midnight Frost. These boots incorporate design elements inspired by the Halo universe, including a reflective patch, UNSC insignia, and premium materials. Available for $175 on Wolverine.com, buyers will also receive an exclusive Halo Infinite Nameplate Background titled 'Plasma Lock'.

Merrell has been named the winner of the Footwear Plus 24th Annual Plus Awards in the outdoor category for the fourth consecutive year, marking the 14th time since the awards' inception in 1999. The awards highlight design and retail excellence in the footwear market, determined by industry and consumer votes. Merrell aims to continue being a leader in hiking and trail running footwear while expanding into stylish lifestyle options. In 2022, Merrell was recognized as Footwear News's Brand of the Year and received other accolades for its innovative products.

Wolverine World Wide reported fourth quarter revenue of $665 million, a 4.6% growth year-over-year, with an 8.4% increase on a constant currency basis. The Active Group experienced a significant revenue rise of 16.8% to $397.6 million. However, the gross margin declined to 33.7% from 41.3% due to inventory liquidation and increased promotions. The company anticipates a 2023 revenue growth of 0% to 2% and an operating margin around 8.5%. Notably, diluted EPS for the quarter was reported at ($4.59), a significant drop compared to the previous year.

Merrell, the leading outdoor footwear brand, has launched a collaboration with Northern Cheyenne artist Jordan Ann Craig, showcasing Indigenous artwork across a new collection of footwear and accessories. This partnership features five footwear styles and apparel items, integrating Craig's designs to celebrate Indigenous culture. The launch coincides with Merrell's Inclusivity in the Outdoors Report, highlighting barriers faced by Indigenous Peoples in outdoor spaces. Additionally, Merrell is donating $45,000 to support the Fort Robinson Outbreak Spiritual Run, with proceeds from sales benefitting the event. The collection aims to bridge art and outdoor exploration.

Wolverine World Wide, Inc. (NYSE: WWW) has announced a quarterly cash dividend of $0.10 per share, payable on May 1, 2023, to stockholders recorded by April 3, 2023. This maintains the company's previous dividend and results in an annualized dividend of $0.40 per share. Established in 1883, Wolverine is a leading marketer of branded footwear and apparel, including well-known brands like Merrell, Saucony, and Sperry. Their products are distributed in the U.S. and approximately 170 countries worldwide.

Wolverine World Wide (NYSE: WWW) has announced the sale of its Keds brand to Designer Brands, Inc. and plans to grant an exclusive license for Hush Puppies footwear in the US and Canada to DBI. These transactions, effective February 4, 2023, for Keds and anticipated on July 1, 2023, for Hush Puppies, aim to simplify Wolverine's portfolio and enhance profitability. Combined, the transactions are expected to generate over $90 million in cash, which will be used to reduce debt and improve capital structure. The upcoming earnings call on February 22, 2023, will provide further insights into the impact of these agreements.