Ryokusai Inoue becomes new general manager Japan

The sports company Puma has appointed Ryokusai Inoue as the new general manager of Puma Japan with immediate effect.

Inoue first joined Puma in 2015 as director of retail. He contributed to the success of the Japanese business by creating a stable commercial foundation for Puma’s own distribution channels and building strong teams in the retail business, according to the company. 

After a year as country manager at Tesla, the executive is now returning to Puma, succeeding Kohei Hagio, who has led Puma Japan since 2021. In this new position, he will report directly to CEO Arne Freundt.

“I am delighted that Ryokusai is returning to lead this important market,” says Puma CEO Arne Freundt. “I am very confident that Ryokusai’s extensive retail experience and understanding of Puma’s culture, products and distribution make him the right candidate to take Puma Japan to the next level.” 

In the third quarter, Puma achieved better results than expected. Although sales declined by 1.8% to 2.3 billion euros, revenues increased by 6% adjusted for currency effects. The company also confirmed its forecast for the current year, with expected currency-adjusted sales growth in the high single-digit percentage range and expected earnings before interest and taxes of 590 to 670 million euros.