This article first appeared on GuruFocus.
Lululemon Athletica (NASDAQ:LULU) shares climbed about 7% on Thursday morning to around $223 after the athletic apparel maker outlined plans to expand its international footprint in 2026.
The company said it plans to enter six new markets next year, marking its largest single-year international expansion to date. The move relies on a franchise partnership model rather than company-owned stores.
Under the plan, Lululemon will launch operations in Greece, Austria, Poland, Hungary, and Romania through a partnership with Arion Retail Group. The company also reaffirmed its previously disclosed plan to enter India via a partnership with Tata CLiQ.
Lululemon said preparation work for the new markets will continue through 2025. It expects to share details on store locations, opening timelines, and local community initiatives during 2026.
The expansion update comes as activist investor Elliott Investment Management reportedly built a stake of more than $1 billion in Lululemon, making it one of the company’s largest shareholders. The Wall Street Journal reported that Elliott has also begun exploring potential CEO candidates.
