Adidas Probes China Bribery Claims, All Blacks x Gazelle 25th Anniversary Launches June 2024

Adidas is investigating bribery allegations in China following a whistleblower complaint, reports the Financial Times. Meanwhile, the All Blacks x adidas Gazelle 25th Anniversary edition is set to launch in June 2024, celebrating their long-standing partnership.

Adidas Launches Investigation into Bribery Allegations in China Following Whistleblower Complaint, FT Reports

The Financial Times reported on June 16 (via Reuters), that Adidas has initiated an inquiry into allegations of widespread bribery in China in response to a whistleblower complaint that accused senior employees of embezzling "millions of euros."

The anonymous letter, purportedly composed by "employees of Adidas China," identifies numerous Chinese Adidas employees, including a senior manager who is responsible for the country's marketing budget, which the document asserts is 250 million euros ($267.5 million) annually, according to the Financial Times.

Adidas received an anonymous letter on June 7 indicating potential compliance violations in China. Adidas confirmed this information. The German sportswear company was investigating this matter with external legal counsel.

"Adidas takes allegations of possible compliance violations very seriously and is clearly committed to complying with legal and internal regulations and ethical standards in all markets where we operate."

it stated in a statement released in response to a query from Reuters. Adidas indicated it could furnish additional information once the investigation was finalized.

According to the Financial Times, the letter alleges that Adidas staff received kickbacks from external service providers the company commissioned. These kickbacks include "millions in cash from suppliers and physical items such as real estate."

As previously disclosed, the German sportswear giant's sales in China increased by 8% during the first quarter.

Adidas and All Blacks Celebrate 25-Year Partnership with Special Edition Gazelle Release

In a recent report by Sole Retriever, adidas' influence in the sports industry is unparalleled, and it has extended its influence to rugby. The brand has strongly partnered with the New Zealand national rugby team, the All Blacks. In honor of this remarkable 25-year partnership, adidas is preparing to issue a special edition of the iconic Gazelle silhouette.

adidas and All Blacks' partnership celebrates its 25th anniversary with a sophisticated redesign of the Gazelle. The upper is made of premium suede, which emanates a luxuriant touch. The leather embellishments on the Three Stripes, heel tab, sock liner, and tongue further enhance the premium aesthetic.

The metallic silver Gazelle branding on the midfoot beautifully contrasts the dark upper. The silver look is further accentuated by the Trefoil logo on the tongue and the All Blacks' feather symbol debossed on the heel. The insole of this commemorative release is adorned with a distinctive 25-year insignia. The sneaker's streamlined, cohesive appearance is facilitated by the black midsole and outsole, which are situated beneath the foot.

The All Blacks x adidas Gazelle 25th Anniversary will be available on June 15, 2024, at adidas and select online and in-store retailers. The retail price is $110, available in men's sizes. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to remain informed about recent releases, contests, news, and other developments in the sneaker and streetwear industry.

Photo: Microsoft Bing