Academy Sports Logs 12% Outdoor Sales Growth, Plans 15–20 New Stores and Rewards Relaunch
ASO•Academy Sports saw a 12% Q1 increase in outdoor sales, led by fishing and shooting, while firearms share gains for an eighth quarter offset a 110-bp tariff headwind that reduced gross margin by 71 bps. It will open 15–20 new midsize-market stores in H2 2026 and relaunch myAcademy Rewards.
1. Q1 Sales Performance
In Q1, Academy Sports recorded a 12% increase in outdoor category sales, driven by strong fishing and shooting equipment demand. Firearms market share expanded for an eighth consecutive quarter, helping offset a tariff-related gross margin reduction of 71 basis points, including a 110 basis-point headwind.
2. Tariff Impact and Margin Pressure
Tariff pressures trimmed gross margins by 71 basis points in the quarter, primarily from higher import costs. Management expects tariff impacts to moderate in the second half of 2026 as supply chain adjustments and renegotiated supplier terms take effect.
3. Store Expansion Plans
The company plans to open 15 to 20 new stores in the back half of 2026, focusing on underserved midsize markets. Two locations opened in Q1 and three more are slated for Q2, supporting the strategy to broaden geographic reach and capture new customer segments.
4. Loyalty Program Relaunch
Academy is overhauling its myAcademy Rewards program, aiming to boost customer engagement and repeat purchases. Enhanced rewards tiers and personalized offers are expected to drive sales growth and improve customer retention across its store network and digital channels.
