Genesco (GCO) KeyBanc Capital Markets Consumer Conference 2025 summary

Consumer and product trends

• Demand peaks during key shopping periods, with strong back-to-school and Black Friday results driven by must-have products and higher average selling prices.

• Athletic footwear is seeing year-round growth, with a notable shift toward brown colorways and specific boot brands gaining traction.

• Casual and athletic categories are both growing, with athletic showing more pronounced gains.

• UK market is more promotional due to weaker consumer demand and economic headwinds.

Promotional and pricing strategies

• US business maintains a full-price selling strategy, focusing on exclusive and highly allocated products.

• UK operations are more promotional to match market conditions, impacting annual guidance.

• Guidance for the year was adjusted primarily due to increased promotions in the UK and inventory management.

Journeys business strategy

• Expanded target market to a broader teen demographic, emphasizing diversified trends and premium assortment.

• Introduced new brands, including Nike, starting in a limited number of stores with plans to expand based on performance.

• Focused on building brand awareness through increased marketing, social campaigns, and the Life On Loud initiative.

• 4.0 store remodels have driven over 25% sales increases, higher traffic, and new customer acquisition.