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Beneath the Surface of Women’s World Cup Marketing

Companies like Nike and Adidas see big growth opportunities in women’s football. But while the game is often marketed with an inspirational wrapper of female empowerment, its growing prominence has also drawn attention to the persistent exploitation of largely women workers in the apparel and footwear supply chain.
Nike, World Cup, Alessia Russo
Nike, whose marketing around the Women's World Cup has championed a roster of female footballing stars, only began making women’s team-specific kits in 2019. (Getty Images)

This Sunday, Spain and England are set to face off in the final of a record-breaking Women’s World Cup. It will also be a high-stakes competition between

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Further Reading

As World Cup Breaks Records, Adidas, Nike Navigate Bumps in Retail Demand

Adidas and Nike and retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods and Fanatics have made significant investments in merchandise. Total sponsorship value grew to at least $349 million, from $342 million in 2019, according to GlobalData, with many brands aligning themselves with themes of women’s empowerment.

Seizing Fashion’s World Cup Opportunity

As FIFA’s Women’s World Cup tournament continues, the chance for brands to get in front of its growing audience is exponential. That, and what else to watch for in The Week Ahead.

About the authors
Sarah Kent
Sarah Kent

Sarah Kent is Chief Sustainability Correspondent at The Business of Fashion. She is based in London and drives BoF's coverage of critical environmental and labour issues.

Daniel-Yaw Miller

Daniel-Yaw Miller is a contributing writer at The Business of Fashion. Miller is a New York based journalist, editor and advisor who specialises in sports, fashion and business.

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