JD Sports Fashion finalizes €520m acquisition of Courir after EU clearance.
- Courir boasts 323 stores across multiple European countries and beyond.
- Acquisition adds a diverse customer base, especially women, to JD’s profile.
- 15 Courir stores in France and all 6 in Portugal to be sold to Snipes by 2026.
- JD CEO highlights the strategic importance of expanding its customer demographics.
JD Sports Fashion has successfully completed its acquisition of the French sportswear and footwear retailer Courir for €520 million, following the necessary clearance by the European Commission. This strategic acquisition represents a significant expansion for JD Sports into the European market, particularly strengthening its presence in countries like France, Spain, Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Luxembourg.
Courir operates a substantial network of 323 stores across these countries, adding significant retail capabilities to JD Sports’ portfolio. In addition, Courir has ventured into the niche market of women’s sneakers through its Naked brand, which includes three specialty stores, and also manages 36 franchise stores in north-west Africa, the Middle East, and French overseas territories.
Under the conditions set by the European Commission for this acquisition, specific divestitures are required to maintain fair market competition. Consequently, 15 of Courir’s stores within France and all six of its stores in Portugal will be sold to the German sportswear retailer Snipes. This divestment process is expected to be finalized during the first quarter of 2026.
The CEO of JD Sports Fashion, Régis Schultz, commented on the acquisition, highlighting its alignment with JD’s strategic goals. He noted, “This acquisition will broaden the JD Group’s customer reach, adding a more female, fashion-conscious and older customer base to complement the group’s core customers.” This statement underscores the importance of diversifying JD Sports’ customer demographics to include a wider array of consumer interests and preferences.
This acquisition marks a pivotal point in JD Sports’ expansion into diverse markets, enhancing its competitive stance in the European sector.
