Wolverine Worldwide has reported higher sales for the third quarter, primarily driven by a double-digit increase at its athletic apparel brand, Saucony.

The company’s revenue increased 6.8 per cent year-on-year to $470 million in the quarter ended September 27. 

Saucony continued to lead the growth with a 27 per cent uplift in sales, followed by Merrell with a 5.1 per cent improvement. Wolverine brand revenue fell 8.2 per cent, while Sweaty Betty decreased 3.9 per cent.

The company’s gross margin expanded by 240 basis points to 47.5 per cent, while net earnings rose from $23.9 million in the year-ago period to $26.3 million.

“While we are pleased with our progress, we recognize there is still more work to do,” said Chris Hufnagel, president and CEO. “Our teams remain focused on executing our brand-building model at pace while navigating a dynamic environment.

“As we approach the end of a pivotal year for Wolverine Worldwide, I’m encouraged by the improvements we’ve made across the enterprise – new strategies, new talent, new capabilities, new processes, new culture,” Hufnagel added.

For the full year, the company expects revenue to be approximately $1.855 billion to $1.870 billion, representing a 6-6.8 per cent increase. Gross margin is forecast to be up 280 basis points to 47.1 per cent. 

The outlook reflects the impact of foreign currency and the inclusion of a 53rd week this year.