Footwear retailer Genesco has formed the Journeys Global Retail Group, consolidating its Journeys, schuh and Little Burgundy retail brands.
The reorganisation is aimed at enhancing the company’s focus on the youth footwear market, with a particular emphasis on female customers.
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The retailer stated that the restructuring will “boost the company’s global voice, unlock greater growth potential for brand partners and elevate its world-class talent.”
The responsibilities of new group include coordinating international operations, supporting brand partnerships and managing talent.
Genesco manages more than 1,250 retail outlets across North America, the UK and the Republic of Ireland, alongside its portfolio of owned and licensed brands.
In line with the formation of the Journeys Global Retail Group, Genesco has announced key leadership appointments to drive the new strategy forward.
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By GlobalDataAndy Gray has been elevated to the role of CEO of the newly formed group. He has worked in general management, merchandising and consumer strategy roles, and became president of Journeys in January 2024.
Before joining Genesco, Gray spent more than two decades at Foot Locker in senior positions, including global president, chief commercial officer, chief merchandising officer, general manager of Foot Locker North America and general merchandise manager for Foot Locker Europe.
Chris Santaella has been appointed chief merchandising officer of the Journeys Global Retail Group.
He joined Journeys in February 2024 after more than 30 years at Foot Locker, where he served as senior vice-president and chief merchandising officer for Foot Locker, Kids Foot Locker and Champs Sports.
Commenting on the development, Genesco board chair, president and CEO Mimi Vaughn stated: “Journeys, schuh and Little Burgundy are the destination retailers for the young, style-led female across their respective markets. We see clear opportunities in every market to grow share by reaching more consumers as we strengthen our brand awareness and elevate our experiences,”
“With unified global leadership, we will maximise opportunities, strengthen market positioning with the consumer and drive even greater growth with our brand partners. Andy and Chris are the right leaders for this new organisation, building on their tremendous success in repositioning Journeys, their extensive experience in athletic and fashion footwear, their expansive brand partner relationships and strong connection to youth culture.”
The leadership teams of schuh and Little Burgundy will continue in their current roles and will report to the new organisation.
