JD Sports is a British-based sports fashion retailer that specializes in selling branded athletic and casual wear. The company has over 800 stores across several countries, including the UK, Ireland, Europe, Asia, and Australia. JD Sports offers a wide range of products from popular brands such as Nike, Adidas, Puma, and Reebok, as well as its own exclusive brands.
JD Sports was founded in 1981 by John Wardle and David Makin in Bury, Greater Manchester. Initially, the company was called John David Sports and sold mainly sports shoes. However, over the years, the company expanded its product range and rebranded to JD Sports in 1996.
JD Sports has experienced significant growth over the years, expanding its retail presence both domestically and internationally. In addition to its physical stores, the company also has a strong online presence, offering customers a convenient way to shop for sports and fashion apparel. The company’s success is attributed to its focus on offering the latest fashion trends and high-quality products from the world’s leading brands.
Let’s take a look at these 22 interesting facts about JD Sports to know more about it.
- JD Sports was founded in 1981 in Bury, Greater Manchester, UK.
- The company was initially called John David Sports and specialized in selling sports shoes.
- JD Sports is now one of the largest sports fashion retailers in the world, with over 3000 stores across several countries.
- The company’s first store was located in Bury, and it is still operating today.
- JD Sports offers a wide range of products, including sports and fashion apparel, footwear, and accessories.
- The company sells products from many popular brands, including Nike, Adidas, Puma, and Reebok.
- JD Sports has its own exclusive brands, such as Supply & Demand, McKenzie, and Pink Soda.
- The company’s headquarters are located in Bury, Greater Manchester.
- JD Sports has expanded its retail presence across several countries, including the UK, Ireland, Europe, Asia, and Australia.
- In 2011, JD Sports acquired the retailer Blacks Leisure Group, which included the brands Millets and Blacks.
- JD Sports also acquired outdoor clothing and equipment retailer Go Outdoors in 2016.
- The company has a strong online presence, with a website that offers a convenient way to shop for sports and fashion apparel.
- JD Sports has been recognized for its success and has won several awards, including the Retailer of the Year award at the Drapers Awards.
- The company has a strong social media presence, with over 2 million followers on Instagram.
- In 2020, JD Sports announced plans to acquire American sportswear company Finish Line.
- JD Sports has sponsored several sports teams and events, including the JD Football World Cup and the JD Scottish Cup.
- The company has also collaborated with celebrities and influencers, such as Stormzy and Maya Jama, to create exclusive clothing collections.
- JD Sports has a commitment to sustainability and has implemented several initiatives, such as using recycled materials in its products.
- The company’s revenue in 2022 was £8.5 billion.
- JD Sports has faced criticism for its use of zero-hour contracts, which offer little job security to employees.
- The company has a charity arm called the JD Foundation, which supports young people facing disadvantage.
- JD Sports has plans to expand further in the US market, with a goal of opening 200 stores across the country.
JD Sports is a thriving global sports fashion retailer that has grown significantly since its founding in 1981. The company’s success is largely attributed to its focus on offering customers the latest fashion trends and high-quality products from the world’s leading brands. With over 800 stores across several countries, a strong online presence, and exclusive brands, JD Sports is a major player in the sports and fashion retail industry. While the company has faced some criticism over its use of zero-hour contracts, it has also implemented several sustainability initiatives and has a charity arm dedicated to supporting young people facing disadvantage. JD Sports is set to continue its expansion and is expected to remain a dominant force in the industry for years to come.