GMG, a leading retailer and distributor of renowned international sports brands such as Nike, Vans, Timberland, The North Face, Columbia and Sun & Sand Sports (SSS) across Southeast Asia (SEA) and Hong Kong, has solidified its position as a key player in Asia with significant milestones achieved throughout 2024.
Since starting operations in March 2021, GMG now runs over 200 stores in Southeast Asia, aiming for 400 stores in the next five years. These milestones show GMG’s commitment to providing great shopping experiences and building strong community ties.
In 2024, GMG celebrated the opening of Nike Orchard Road, a huge three-level store in Singapore that covers 28,000 square feet. This store is the largest Nike-only store in Asia outside of China and features special digital and online-to-offline (O2O) services to enhance customer experience. Its success led GMG to win the Brand Store of the Year and Store Retail Initiative of the Year awards at the Retail Asia Awards 2024.
Another important achievement was the launch of the first Sun & Sand Sports store, GMG’s own brand, at Mid Valley Megamall in Malaysia, strengthening the company’s presence in Southeast Asia. GMG also opened three more stores in Malaysia to continue its growth.
The company also announced the expanded presence of VF’s brands, including Vans, The North Face, and Timberland, in the region through a growing network of new mono-brand partner stores across the Southeast Asia (SEA) and Hong Kong markets, the Middle East, and North Africa (MENA).
Mohammad A. Baker, Deputy Chairman and CEO of GMG, said: “Our journey in SEA has been transformative. Reaching a portfolio of over 200 stores in such a short time demonstrates our commitment to innovation and excellence. We are especially proud of our efforts to engage local communities and promote active lifestyles. Southeast Asia remains a vital pillar of our global strategy, and we are eager for the opportunities ahead.”
To meet customer needs and create enjoyable shopping experiences, GMG took part in Malaysia’s 11.11 Mega Event by engaging with customers on popular platforms like Shopee and Lazada. Vans® and Timberland® were among the top five favorite brands on Shopee.
Along with its growth in retail, GMG has focused on building strong connections with local communities across Southeast Asia. The company has teamed up with organizations like Yayasan Chow Kit and the Malaysia Breast Cancer Welfare Association, helping by providing sports equipment, food, and other goods.
Through its GMG Cares program, which is part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts, GMG has participated in well-known events that support good causes like environmental protection and cancer research. Additionally, the company has started initiatives like health workshops, fitness programs, and a support group for women to enhance employee well-being.
GMG entered the Asian market by buying Royal Sporting House in late 2020, then acquiring Nike-only stores from SUTL Corporation in Singapore and Malaysia in April 2022. In May 2023, GMG launched its flagship concept, SSS, in Southeast Asia with its first store in Singapore, planning to open 11 more stores across the region by 2026 to strengthen its presence. These important steps set the stage for GMG’s focus on retail innovation and growth in the region.