Allbirds debuts its first running shoe. To succeed, it must face rivals like Nike—and a pandemic
The Silicon Valley-based start-up, known for its comfy wool sneakers made out of sustainable materials, has been working on perfecting the running silhouette for years, said Allbirds co-founder Tim Brown. Prior to Covid-19 slamming the U.S. economy and forcing the closure of thousands of retailers' shops, including Allbirds', Brown said the company was targeting an April 2020 launch.
"In the midst of all this, people are running ... more than ever," Brown told CNBC in an interview. "We felt like the product was serving that purpose." At the moment, only four of Allbirds' 19 locations, globally, are open. But the company hopes it will gain trial on the internet by offering free returns for up to 30 days after a purchase.
"People's familiarity with shopping online is going to come out of this in a stronger place," Brown said. "Traditionally footwear has been dominated by wholesale ... and in-store purchases. That is not possible at the moment."
Canada Latest News, Canada Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Xbox leader Phil Spencer reflects on gaming's huge wins during a global crisis - Business InsiderXbox boss Phil Spencer says that the pandemic is driving a 'big flood' of new gamers, but it's a bittersweet victory: 'You wouldn't wish this is the way we get here'
Read more »
Your Video Therapist Will See You NowSessions have gone virtual during the pandemic, and many have struggled to find a private space to talk
Read more »
NYC Will Close 40 Miles Of Streets For Recreation During Social DistancingIt’s the city’s second attempt at shutting down car traffic during the pandemic.
Read more »
NYC Will Close 40 Miles Of Streets For Recreation During Social DistancingNYC Mayor Bill de Blasio announced today that the city will close at least 40 miles of streets to car traffic to create more outdoor spaces for New Yorkers during the coronavirus outbreak by theothersarahh
Read more »
COVID-19 Might Change The Way We Dress ForeverIt's proven that historical events such as pandemics and recessions change the way women dress.
Read more »