(BRK.A), (BRK.B)
Brooks Running, a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, concluded 2024 with record-breaking global revenue, marking a 9% year-over-year increase. This milestone represents eight consecutive years of growth, with a 13% compound annual growth rate over that period. The brand’s international expansion played a significant role, with standout performances in Europe and Asia. In France and Germany, Brooks outpaced the performance running market, while in China, sales surged by an impressive 228%.
Dominance in the U.S. Market
For the third year in a row, Brooks maintained its status as the No. 1 adult performance running footwear brand in U.S. national retail. The brand also led in the specialty retail channel, experiencing a 19% year-over-year increase in Q4. The growing global interest in running was evident, with an 8% rise in race participation in the U.S. and running emerging as the fastest-growing sport on Strava.
Innovation Drives Sales
Brooks introduced updated versions of all its core footwear franchises in 2024, marking the first refresh since 2021. This innovation led to a 12% increase in active sales. The Ghost and Adrenaline GTS lines captured over 10% of the U.S. performance running market, while the Ghost Max saw a 203% revenue increase in its first full year. The launch of the Glycerin Max in September further bolstered sales, becoming the top-selling shoe on Tmall in China on its debut day. Additionally, the Hyperion speed franchise gained traction, with sales climbing 41% in China.
Expanding Brand Presence
In 2024, Brooks launched its global brand platform, “Let’s Run There,” reinforcing its mission to inspire runners. The campaign, featuring actor Jeremy Renner, won multiple Clio Awards and earned recognition in Fast Company’s “Brands That Matter” list. Brooks also engaged new audiences through collaborations, including a partnership with Extra Butter for exclusive sneaker designs and a sponsorship with the Seattle Kraken as their Official Off-Ice Performance Partner. Additionally, runDisney named Brooks its official running shoe sponsor.
Digitally, the Brooks Run Club surpassed 1 million members in North America and expanded into the U.K., with plans for further international growth in 2025. Brooks Running Clubs on Strava also saw remarkable growth, with membership increasing by 165% in the U.S. and 346% in Europe.
Investing in Running Communities
Brooks’ commitment to the sport extended beyond sales, supporting both elite athletes and grassroots initiatives. In 2024, Brooks Beast Josh Kerr secured an Olympic silver medal in the 1500m and set a new course record at the 5th Avenue Mile. Fellow athlete Michael Roeger also earned silver in the men’s 1500m T46 category, while the Brooks Beasts team set a new world record in the distance medley relay.
The company invested over $6 million in community impact programs, benefiting more than 800,000 runners worldwide. This included $4 million in gear and financial support for organizations like parkrun and $2 million through the Future Run program, which expands youth access to running.
With record-breaking growth, innovative product launches, and increased community engagement, Brooks Running continues to solidify its position as a global leader in performance running footwear.
© 2025 David Mazor
Disclosure: David Mazor is a freelance writer focusing on Berkshire Hathaway. The author is long in Berkshire Hathaway, and this article is not a recommendation on whether to buy or sell the stock. The information contained in this article should not be construed as personalized or individualized investment advice. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.