adidas Plans to Continue Using Yeezy Designs After Ye Split

Ever since adidas cut ties with Ye (formerly known as Kanye West) there’s been some speculation as to what will happen to the existing Yeezy designs and inventory. Though it was revealed that adidas did indeed own the majority of Yeezy designs, it remained unclear as to whether the 3-Stripes would continue to put them into production now that they were unable to sell them under the Yeezy name.

In an earnings call earlier this week, the brand was able to provide some answers to the outstanding questions that surrounded the end of the partnership. Admitting that the Yeezy line accounted for around 8% of the brand’s annual revenue, Chief Financial Officer Harm Ohlmeyer reiterated the fact that adidas owns all of the IP, colourways and designs of Yeezy products, and said that the brand ‘intends to make use of these rights’. Ohlmeyer then added that a dedicated team was also working on plans to leverage the existing Yeezy inventory, with details to be provided early next year.

According to the 3-Stripes, Ye’s departure is expected to cut almost $251 million from the company’s net profits this year. Selling off the remaining stock and continuing to produce the designs without having to pay Ye royalties and marketing fees would help to compensate for some of the shortfalls.

More info is expected to be announced at the start of 2023, giving new CEO Bjorn Gulden quite the challenge to tackle when he takes over in the new year.

Up next, adidas partners with Sporty & Rich on a new capsule collection.