The company’s total revenue rose 11 per cent year-on-year (YoY) to $457.6 million in the quarter ended April 4, 2026, compared with $412.3 million in the corresponding period last year. On a constant currency basis, revenue increased 7.3 per cent.
Wolverine Worldwide’s Q1 FY26 revenue rose 11 per cent YoY to $457.6 million, led by strong growth at Merrell and Saucony.
Gross margin stayed flat at 47.6 per cent, while operating margin improved to 7.4 per cent.
Net earnings increased to $20.2 million, and diluted EPS rose to $0.24.
The company maintained its FY26 revenue outlook of $1.96-1.98 billion.
“The team delivered a solid start to 2026, with first quarter revenue, gross margin, and earnings per share all exceeding our expectations,” said Chris Hufnagel, president and CEO of Wolverine Worldwide. “I believe we’re better brand builders today—led by Merrell and Saucony—with encouraging progress now evident across our broader portfolio.”
The revenue from the Active Group grew 13.7 per cent to $371.6 million, while Work Group revenue rose 1.2 per cent to $75.7 million. Revenue from the Other segment declined 4.6 per cent to $10.3 million, the Wolverine Worldwide said in a press release.
The gross margin remained flat at 47.6 per cent, as a favourable mix shift towards more full-price sales and recent price increases offset the impact of higher US tariffs. Operating expenses rose 5 per cent to $183.9 million, while operating margin improved by 230 basis points to 7.4 per cent.
The operating profit increased to $33.9 million from $21 million a year earlier. Net earnings attributable to Wolverine Worldwide rose to $20.2 million from $12.1 million. Diluted EPS increased 60 per cent to $0.24.
International sales strengthen in Q1
Among key brands, Merrell revenue increased 12.7 per cent to $169.7 million, while Saucony revenue jumped 20.1 per cent to $155.9 million. Wolverine brand revenue declined 2.5 per cent to $36.4 million, and Sweaty Betty revenue rose 1.5 per cent to $38.6 million.
International revenue increased 20.1 per cent to $249.6 million, while direct-to-consumer (DTC) revenue grew 3 per cent to $99.3 million.
As of April 4, 2026, cash and cash equivalents stood at $120 million, up 12.3 per cent YoY. Inventory was nearly flat at $280 million, while net debt declined 14.1 per cent to $519 million.
FY26 revenue outlook maintained
For full FY26, Wolverine Worldwide continues to expect revenue of approximately $1.96 billion to $1.98 billion, representing growth of 4.6 per cent to 5.9 per cent over 2025. The company now expects gross margin of around 46.4 per cent, compared with its earlier outlook of around 46 per cent.
The operating margin is projected at approximately 9.2 per cent, while adjusted operating margin is expected to be around 9.5 per cent. Diluted earnings per share are forecast in the range of $1.39 to $1.54, and adjusted diluted earnings per share are expected between $1.43 and $1.58.
Fibre2Fashion News Desk (SG)
