JD Sports became the main highlight at the 2024 FN Achievement Awards (FNAAs) on December 4 evening. The renowned sports clothing and accessories brand has earned the coveted title of “Retailer of the Year.” Régis Schultz, the CEO of JD Sports, accepted the honor with a speech that recognized Nike as a key brand partner.

A Special Mention of Nike

During his acceptance speech, Schultz emphasized Nike’s importance to JD Sports. He described the iconic brand as its “number one partner in the world.” The speech was delivered by Jason Kirrer, Vice president of Nike’s North American sales and 

marketplace, who presented the award.

In a prior interview with Footwear News, John Hall, president and managing director of JD North America, said, “Nike is a significant part of our business and a great brand partner.” 

Hall even elaborated that the partnership has deepened through initiatives like the Nike Connected Membership program, launched in August 2024, which connects JD’s loyalty program with Nike Membership accounts.

This integration has allowed JD’s US customers exclusive access to Nike member-only footwear and apparel. As of October 2024, JD Sports’ Status loyalty program amassed 5.1 million active members in the US, reflecting the program’s success and the brand’s expanding influence.

Strength in Diversity

While Nike received a special mention at FNAAs 2024, Schultz also took the opportunity to celebrate JD Sports’ relationships with other leading brands. “We are a house of brands,” he said. “We love brands. We want to serve you for the best purposes. We want to give you the access to our customers. That’s what we do for a living.”

This commitment to exceptional customer experience has positioned JD as a global retail powerhouse. To appeal to a diverse consumer base, JD entered valuable partnerships with a wide array of footwear and apparel brands.

Expanding Footprint in the US 

Since JD Sports entered the US market in 2018 with the acquisition of Finish Line, the company has significantly grown its presence nationwide. Schultz talked about the company’s impressive expansion and revealed that JD currently operates 2,500 stores across the US. The number includes 1,179 Hibbett locations acquired earlier this year.

Financially, JD Sports presents a strong performance for 2024. The company has earned $6 billion in US sales and more than $1 million in profit this year. 

Schultz emphasized that the company intends to reinvest much of this profit into improving its retail footprint in the country. “We will make more than $1 million profit and will invest most of this cash in new doors, in better propositions and in better stores,” he said, highlighting the company’s mission to enhance the shopping experience.

Legacy of the FN Achievement Awards

Known as the “Shoe Oscars,” the FN Achievement Awards have celebrated excellence in the footwear industry for nearly four decades. This year’s event is supported by sponsors like Listrak, Marc Fisher, Nordstrom, and Vibram. In 2024, FNAAs again honored the industry’s most influential players, from emerging talents to seasoned veterans.

Schultz expressed pride in JD Sports’ role in this dynamic sector, saying, “We love this industry and are very proud to be here in the US for you.”

The Path Ahead 

As JD Sports plans to expand its reach through valuable partnerships and invest more in enhancing customer experience, the “Retailer of the Year” accolade shows its commitment to excellence. By aligning with industry leaders like Nike and diversifying its offerings, JD Sports is on track to sustain its position as a global leader in sports and lifestyle retail for many more years.

The recognition of JD Sports’ success at the 2024 FNAAs reflects the power of strategic partnerships, a customer-focused approach, and bold expansion efforts that paved the way for the company’s continued achievements.