Former Kathmandu CEO Reuben Casey is set to take the reins of outdoor wear brand Macpac as current brand managing director Cathy Seaholme plans to step down after four years in the rike,
Casey worked at Kathmandu up until mid-2022. Currently, Casey is the chief operating officer and deputy CEO of New Zealand agribusiness company Craigmore Sustainables.
Prior to this, he held senior leadership positions at TaylorMade Adidas Golf and Meridian Energy.
Anthony Heraghty, MD and CEO of Macpac’s parent company Super Retail Group, thanked Seaholme for her contribution to the group.
“Under her leadership, Macpac achieved record sales and expanded its market share in a highly competitive segment. On behalf of everyone at Super Retail Group, I wish Cathy all the best for her retirement and return to Australia.
“I also look forward to working closely with Reuben to drive the next phase of growth for Macpac.”
The news of Casey’s appointment comes alongside Super Retail’s annual results announcement today, which showed Macpac sales increasing 3.8 per cent, supported by new store openings.
The brand’s like-for-like sales increased by 2 per cent, which like-for-like sales improving in the second half of FY25, with first half up just 0.1 per cent.
Super Retail noted that growth in the number of transactions at Macpac was partially offset by lower average transaction value.
Like-for-like growth of 3.7 per cent in Australia was also partially offset by a decline of 0.9 per cent in New Zealand. Both regions improved in the second half, with New Zealand returning to positive growth. Other retailers in NZ, including Briscoe Group, have struggled to keep sales elevated amid economic challenges in the country.
Super Retail added that baselayers, midlayers and gear and accessories were among the best-performing categories at Macpac. In contrast, demand for insulation products was weaker, with the overall mix of sales reflecting milder conditions prevalent throughout much of the period.
“Market share increased in Australia, amidst subdued overall category growth,” Super Retail reported. “Gross margin improved by 30 bps. Promotional discipline was maintained despite the softer market conditions.”
The brand’s profit before tax also declined by 390 basis points, as the improvement in gross margin was more than offset by negative operating leverage.
Super Retail added that operating cost inflation was partly driven by network investment, including the opening of ten new stores with revenue yet to reach maturity.
“Active club membership grew 8 per cent and club members represented 76 per cent of sales. Online sales of $42 million represented 18 per cent of total sales. Macpac opened ten stores, closing four, resulting in 103 stores at period end.”