In recent years, many teen apparel retailers have filed for bankruptcy due to declining mall traffic, competition from e-tailers and fast-fashion retailers, and shifting teen tastes. However, more resilient apparel retailers have survived by closing stores, expanding their e-commerce initiatives, and launching fresh brands.
Piper Jaffray recently released its 35th semiannual "Taking Stock with Teens" survey of 6,000 teen shoppers across the U.S. In the clothing category, teens favored five brands: Nike (NKE -0.36%), American Eagle Outfitters (AEO 0.63%), Adidas (ADDYY 0.22%), Forever 21, and Urban Outfitters.
Data source: Piper Jaffray. Chart by author.
Nike's popularity was supported by robust demand for high-end footwear and athletic apparel, but the brand continues to struggle against Adidas in North America. Nike's North American sales fell 6% year over year last quarter, but Adidas' grew 31% on a currency-neutral basis, fueled by strong demand for its retro styles and Boost foam shoes.
American Eagle's popularity among teens is rooted in its jeans and female apparel. The company saw comparable-store sales jump 8% last quarter, led by a 34% surge in its Aerie segment. Forever 21 remains ahead of fast-fashion rivals like H&M, while Urban Outfitters' unique blend of kitsch merchandise and apparel lifted the brand's comparable-store sales by 2% in its fiscal fourth quarter.
