Reebok 2011 Annual Report Download - page 37

adidas Group
2011 Annual Report
TO OUR SHAREHOLDERS
33
2011
01.2 Interview with the CEO
? Looking forward to 2012, are you still as confident about
your financial outlook as you were back in November?
!
Absolutely. Although there is still a high degree of economic
uncertainty, I am confident that 2012 will be another record year for the
adidas Group. Through our unmatched innovation, our cutting-edge
product pipeline as well as our marketing and point-of-sale execution
strength, we are in a great position to sustain momentum as we
execute our Route 2015 plan. We expect sales to increase at a mid- to
high-single digit rate on a currency-neutral basis, with growth in all
regions. While gross margin pressures will persist, particularly in the
first half, we expect a similar gross margin compared to the prior year
at a level around 47.5%. We will again leverage our operating cost base
and expect our operating margin to increase to a level approaching
8%. And earnings per share will improve at a rate of 10% to 15% to a
level between € 3.52 and € 3.68.
? Herbert, to sum up, the title of this annual report is
“Together We Win”. What does this mean for you and the
adidas Group?
!
This statement really sums who we are: our attitude, our
ambition, our passion and the responsibility we have undertaken in
sport and society. It’s taking the ups with the downs, never giving up,
and always striving for better. From the time the first Olympians wore
Adi Dassler shoes in 1928 to today’s age of real-time social engagement
this has not changed. Our role as creator, innovator and inspirer is
only made possible by our openness to serve the desires, hopes and
dreams of millions of people. On the pitch and on the street. To be
there when great athletes do great things or simply take inspiration
from the energy and creativity of youth. This is what pushes us to raise
our game every day. It lives in everything we do: the boot with a brain,
CrossFit, miCoach, RocketBallz and our unwavering commitment to
being a responsible corporate citizen. This is
life at the adidas Group. It’s a team effort, and
it’s all inclusive. For me, I am proud of our team
and I thank them for bringing this culture to
life. We have accomplished so much in 2011,
and I am convinced their passion, discipline and
dedication to succeed will continue our legacy
well into the future. Together we win.
Herbert, thank you for this interview.