Zalando, a European online fashion retailer, saw its first-quarter revenue surpass expectations. The revenue for the three months ending March 31 reached 2.420 billion euros. This beat analysts’ forecasts. The company’s active customer base grew to 52.4 million. This is up from 49.5 million last year. Despite global economic uncertainties, Zalando reaffirmed its 2025 financial outlook.

Lifestyle and athletic footwear and apparel brand Skechers will be acquired by 3G Capital for $63 per share in cash, offering a 30 per cent premium.
Shareholders can alternatively opt for $57 and an equity unit in a new private firm.
The company will retain its leadership and HQ in Manhattan Beach, focusing on innovation, global growth, and strategic investments with 3G’s support.

Indonesia’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry is lobbying the US National Cotton Council (NCC), hoping to help the former’s garment exports enjoy the lowest US import tariff possible.
It is considering a deal with NCC in which the former purchases US-made processed cotton and exports the final garment product back to the US.
It also requested NCC to help lobby the US government through the USTR.

Bombay Dyeing & Manufacturing Co reported a significant decline in consolidated profit, down 82.6% to Rs 11.54 crore in Q4 2025, with total income also decreasing by 12.42%. The annual net profit for FY25 fell by 83.4% to Rs 490.16 crore, despite the board recommending a final dividend of 60% at Rs 1.20 per share.

South Korea’s apparel imports rose slightly to $3.054 billion in Q1 2025, with March imports jumping 6.32 per cent year-on-year and 20.67 per cent month-on-month.
Imports of knitted items grew, while non-knitted declined.
Apparel imports in 2024 reached $12.366 billion.
Textile exports such as man-made filaments and knitted fabrics fell in both Q1 2025 and full-year 2024 compared to previous periods.

3G Capital is set to acquire Skechers USA for $9.4 billion, marking the footwear industry’s largest buyout amidst challenges posed by US tariffs. The deal, expected to close in Q3 2025 and financed through a combination of cash and debt, will take Skechers private, with CEO Robert Greenberg continuing to lead the company.

US trade body FDRA, along with dozens of US footwear firms, recently urged President Donald Trump to exempt footwear from the new reciprocal tariffs to avoid severe consequences for workers and consumers.
Their letter cautions that without swift relief, the tariffs could force hundreds of businesses to close, eliminate tens of thousands of jobs and drive up costs for US families.

Gold prices surged by Rs 550, reaching Rs 97,350 per 10 grams, driven by global market trends. The rise occurred ahead of the US Fed’s FOMC meeting, influencing market sentiment. Silver prices, however, experienced a slight dip, decreasing by Rs 400 to Rs 96,700 per kg.

India’s cotton yarn sector anticipates significant revenue growth. Crisil Ratings projects a 7-9% increase this fiscal year. This growth is driven by rebounding exports, especially to China. Domestic demand also plays a crucial role. Stable cotton availability and prices will boost profitability. Credit profiles are expected to remain stable. Select players will undertake capital expenditure.

Jaipur Watch Company is growing its presence. It has launched franchise outlets in Mumbai, Gurgaon, and Surat. The expansion uses a FOCO model. The company plans eight more stores in Hyderabad and Bangalore. It targets Rs 20 crore revenue from these outlets by FY26. Franchise retail may contribute 50% of overall revenue. The stores are located in premium malls.