Investigation Launched Into Lululemon Amid E-Commerce Issues in Athleisure Market
Investigation of Lululemon's Business Operations
Background
On January 23, 2026, Levi & Korsinsky, LLP announced an investigation into Lululemon Athletica Inc. (NASDAQ: LULU), raising concerns regarding the company's supply chain and product development after encountering difficulties in their recent e-commerce launch. This comes at a time when the global athleisure market, estimated at around $350 billion, experiences fierce competition, particularly from brands like Nike, Adidas, and emerging players in the direct-to-consumer space. Lululemon has traditionally set itself apart with its premium positioning, vertical retail integration, and innovation in technical fabrics, but the recent hiccup may be a significant setback.
The E-Commerce Halt
The investigation was prompted by the problematic launch of Lululemon’s “Get Low” collection, which commenced in mid-January 2026. This collection featured advanced seamless technology aimed at providing a sculpted appearance using lightweight and fast-drying materials. However, shortly after the launch, customers expressed disappointment over quality issues, particularly concerning the leggings that failed to perform adequately during common workout activities such as squatting and bending. The leggings were criticized for being overly revealing, contradicting the very promises made by the company about performance and fit.
Industry standards suggest that major apparel brands typically prepare for new collection launches well in advance—between 12 and 18 months—coordinating efforts across design, manufacturing, inventory allocation, and quality control. Lululemon’s apparent oversight in these areas could lead to substantial impacts on sales and consumer satisfaction, an unacceptable scenario for a brand of its stature.
Quality Control and Its Implications
This isn't the first time Lululemon has faced issues with product quality. In 2024, the company withdrew its