Skechers' Ambitious Plans

In an industry that is monopolized by one company (ABC Mart) Skechers will try to do what many performance and lifestyle footwear companies have desired and few have acheived, establish their own retail business independent of third-party distrisbution. Already active in Japan through third-party distribution Skechers will launch thier full-line of women's, men's and children's footwear this year with thier fall/winter 2012 collection. Within the next five years look to Skechers to increase their business in Japan by 50% through the opening of retail doors and their partnership with Osaka-based SSK for domestic distribution. Do you think Skechers has what it takes to break into the retail market and succeed where others have failed? Information Skechers USA & WWD