Nike Inc. reported lower-than-expected sales in North America in its fiscal third quarter, even as earnings beat analysts’ estimates.
In North America, the sports shoe giant's sales grew +7 percent year-over-year to $3.81 billion (excluding currency changes) in the quarter, which was lower than what some analysts’ expected. Nike’s domestic business apparently continues to feel pressure from rival companies like Under Armour, Adidas and Vans.
Growth in international sales fared better. In Europe, the Middle East and Africa, sales grew +12% (excluding currency changes), as mentioned by Nike. Revenue in China surged +24%. Sales grew +14% in Asia Pacific and Latin America.
According to Nike, its revenue from Converse shoes declined -2% year-over-year to $463 million, largely due to softening sales in the U.S. and Europe.
Nevertheless, the company’s total adjusted earnings of 68 cents per share surpassed analysts’ estimates of 65 cents per share (based on Refinitiv data). Total revenue increased +7% year-over-year to $9.611 billion, which was almost in line with analysts’ expected $9.612 billion. Nike said that its digital business grew +36% year-over-year.
The shoe maker bought back 9.8 million shares, worth $754 million, during the quarter.