Dick’s Sporting Goods set to acquire Foot Locker in major retail shakeup

In a move poised to reshape the landscape of American sports retail, Dick’s Sporting Goods is nearing a deal to acquire Foot Locker, according to multiple industry sources. This potential acquisition, first reported by The Wall Street Journal, signals a bold step for Dick’s as it aims to strengthen its position among top sporting goods retailers and expand its reach in the competitive athletic footwear and apparel market.

The deal, if finalized, would unite two of the most recognized names in sports retail, creating a powerhouse with an extensive brick-and-mortar presence and a robust digital footprint. For Dick’s, the acquisition represents an opportunity to diversify its portfolio and tap into Foot Locker’s loyal customer base, particularly among sneaker enthusiasts and younger shoppers. Industry analysts note that the move could help Dick’s capture more market share from rivals like JD Sports and Nike, as well as respond to evolving consumer preferences for athletic footwear and streetwear.

The acquisition of Foot Locker comes at a pivotal time for both companies. Foot Locker has faced mounting challenges in recent years, including shifting brand partnerships, increased competition from direct-to-consumer brands, and changing shopping habits. Meanwhile, Dick’s has experienced steady growth, driven by investments in e-commerce, exclusive product lines, and in-store experiences. By joining forces, the combined entity could leverage Foot Locker’s expertise in sneaker culture and Dick’s operational scale to deliver enhanced value to customers.

The news has already sparked reactions across the industry. JD Sports, a major competitor in the global sneaker market, has indicated that it is closely monitoring the situation but remains confident in its own growth strategy. According to Footwear News, JD Sports’ CEO expressed optimism about the future, emphasizing the importance of differentiation and customer engagement in a rapidly evolving retail environment.

As the deal moves closer to completion, retail experts are watching how the integration of Dick’s Sporting Goods and Foot Locker could impact the broader athletic retail sector. The acquisition is expected to create new opportunities for growth, innovation, and competition, while also posing challenges in terms of brand alignment and store footprint optimization.

For shoppers, the merger, which is predicted to happen in the second half of 2025, could mean access to a wider selection of athletic apparel, more exclusive sneaker releases and enhanced loyalty programs. For the industry, it marks the latest chapter in the ongoing transformation of the U.S. retail landscape, where adaptability and scale are key to long-term success.

Sources:

• Business of Fashion

• The Wall Street Journal

• WWD/Footwear News