Capri Holdings is under pressure due to continued weak sales from Michael Kors, fueling talk of a potential sale, while J. Crew leverages a milestone anniversary to spotlight a classic piece of outerwear.
This week brought notable turbulence among leading apparel companies, bold new seasonal product launches, and a focus on the histories of established brands. Here’s a detailed roundup of the key stories capturing the retail industry’s attention, including major executive shakeups at Wolverine World Wide and Primark’s steady expansion in the United States.
Leadership Changes at Wolverine World Wide
Susie Kuhn left Wolverine World Wide after the company eliminated the active group president role on Monday, redistributing her responsibilities among other teams. This was disclosed in a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
Kuhn, appointed in October 2024, had been responsible for the strategy and commercial outcomes of brands including Merrell, Saucony, Sweaty Betty, and Chaco, following her previous position at Foot Locker as president of Europe, Middle East, and Africa. During her leadership, Wolverine’s active group achieved a 9.3% increase in revenue, reaching $388.4 million, while overall company revenue grew by 6.8% to $506.4 million in the most recent quarter.
Primark Grows Its Footprint in Georgia
This Thursday, Primark, the Irish fast-fashion chain, launched a new store in Augusta, Georgia—marking its second shop in the state after Lawrenceville’s opening earlier in the month. This brings the total number of Primark U.S. locations to 48.
Kevin Tulip, Primark U.S. president, said in a statement, “Primark is excited to have such a busy month in Georgia as it opens not one but two new stores in the state.” He noted the company’s focus on delivering value, particularly in Augusta’s diverse market. The retailer’s broader American expansion continues, with U.S. sales climbing 14% so far in 2024 and 16% growth in the third quarter alone.
Brands Embrace Unusual Autumn Offerings
Fall’s arrival has given rise to more experimental seasonal promotions. Beyond the ever-popular pumpkin spice and Halloween candies, brands are opting for even quirkier innovations. Hidden Valley Ranch, for instance, rolled out “Spooky Ranch”—a jet-black ranch flavor that includes fruit and cocoa, packaged in a glow-in-the-dark bottle and sold exclusively at Walmart for around $4.
Cup Noodles is also participating in the holiday spirit with “Vampire Noodles”. This limited edition product—turning bright red with hot water, flavored with garlic and chicken—partners with Titan Casket, which produced a custom collector’s casket available by sweepstakes or direct purchase for roughly $4,000.
J. Crew Puts the Spotlight on the Barn Jacket’s 40th Year
Celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Barn Jacket, J. Crew has kicked off a new campaign that highlights the jacket worn by 160 people in a variety of locations such as New York, Los Angeles, Boston, Chicago, and Austin.
Julia Collier, J. Crew’s Chief Marketing Officer, explained, “For 40 years, the Barn Jacket has moved across wardrobes, generations and communities without ever feeling fixed in one place or moment. This campaign celebrates that enduring relevance and the many people who continue to carry it forward.” J. Crew shared that the 2026 Barn Jacket collection is available in 29 different versions for men, women, and children, with prices ranging between $98 and $898, both online and at select retail locations.
Michael Kors’ Downturn Tests Capri Holdings
Capri Holdings is feeling the effects of Michael Kors’ loss of momentum, as the brand copes with a challenging luxury market and shifting style trends. The company’s latest results show more than a 7% drop in Michael Kors sales and a substantial decrease in operating income. Analysts at Wells Fargo and UBS cite shrinking social media impact and evolving customer preferences as reasons for Michael Kors’ underperformance, making a return to “healthy, mid-single-digit sales growth” seem doubtful.
According to Joaquín Nieves Uría, CFO of El Corte Inglés, Capri’s strategy remains up in the air, while reports suggest there is now investor interest in buying Michael Kors. Capri has not commented publicly. The company, which continues to own Jimmy Choo, offloaded Versace to Prada late last year in a deal exceeding $1 billion.
The rapid innovation, major leadership decisions, and strategic moves happening this week show just how quickly the retail world is evolving—from nostalgic campaigns and playful launches to high-profile corporate developments and possible major sales that could reshape iconic companies’ futures.