Shanghai emerges as a hub for stylish sneaker brands

Shanghai has solidified its position as a shopping hub for stylish sneakers, with an increasing number of footwear and apparel brands opening new stores in the bustling metropolis.

The iconic former cinema site of Yongle Palace on Anfu Road, which underwent renovations, recently unveiled Shanghai's first adidas Originals flagship store, making it the first international sports brand in the area.

German sports brand adidas Originals opens its first flagship store in Shanghai's Xuhui district. [Photo/WeChat ID: xuhuifabu]

On May 7, international footwear brand HOKA opened its global flagship brand experience center in Shanghai Xintiandi. "Shanghai is the top destination for international visitors to China, allowing us to engage with runners from various countries and provide valuable consumer data from the Asian market to our headquarters," said Wu Xiao, general manager of HOKA China. The decision to establish the world's largest store in Shanghai Xintiandi represents a significant move in HOKA's global expansion strategy, Wang added.

The first global brand experience center of HOKA in Shanghai's Xintiandi area. [Photo/WeChat ID: shhuangpu]

Nike's House of Innovation 001, its global flagship store, is located in Shanghai's Huangpu district. [Photo/WeChat ID: shhuangpu]

In addition, Swedish professional sports brand Craft launched its first brand experience space in Zhangyuan, while Danish brand ECCO's Active Lifestyle flagship store for sports and outdoor activities recently opened in Huaihai Road.

Shanghai has become a hub for international renowned sports brands such as Nike, Adidas, On Running, and Skechers, hosting their China regional headquarters, as well as leading domestic enterprises like Li-Ning, Anta, and Xtep, which have established their global headquarters in the city.