Consider the following changes over a two year period:
1. Store numbers increase by 71.4%
2. Sales decrease by 25.9%
Now, you may well be scratching your head as to how this equation balances.
After all, the math just doesn’t seem to be mathing.
Here’s the answer:
Stores^1.151602 + a broken proposition = -25.9
The subject of this calculation is Allbirds.
Looking at the current state of the business it is hard to reach any other conclusion than Allbirds has a broken proposition. Despite more visibility from stores, and marketing spend being largely around the same level as last year, demand for the product is simply dropping off a cliff.
The truth is that Allbirds is simply not aligned with what the consumer wants and its focus on sustainability, while worthy, is all wrong.
By and large, sustainability does not sell footwear. Despite consumers being generally concerned about sustainability issues, it is hardly ever the key determinant of footwear purchases; it is only ever an afterthought.
Allbirds has pushed the sustainability message because it is a passion of its founder. That’s fine, but the passions of individuals are not selling strengths if they are misaligned with the market.
Allbirds needs to find a point of view that resonates with customers and to focus on that to rebuild share. It should use the new vision to design and create assortments that have purpose and offer benefits that go way beyond sustainability. In doing all of this, Allbirds must differentiate itself from labels like On and Hoka which have been capturing consumer attention
A further challenge is that of distribution. While Allbirds has a small handful of wholesale accounts, most notably REI, it arguably needs more. Its rivals are in front of customers through a whole variety of channels and outlets. Allbirds needs to have the same presence by partnering with retailers that can showcase its offer. This is especially important if physical stores are to be closed.
All these changes will take time to enact.
#allbirds #retail #retailnews #footwear
Thanks for this refreshing perspective, Anand. It's crucial to view market shifts as opportunities and act proactively.