Strategic Brand Enhancements and MAP Policy Evolution Justify Buy Rating for Crocs and HEYDUDE

Crocs (CROX – Research Report), the Consumer Cyclical sector company, was revisited by a Wall Street analyst today. Analyst Sam Poser from Williams Trading maintained a Buy rating on the stock and has a $135.00 price target.

Sam Poser has given his Buy rating due to a combination of factors that suggest positive changes for Crocs and its associated brand, HEYDUDE. After meetings at FFANY, it became evident that both brands are taking steps to refine their product assortments and are gearing up to implement more strategic brand strategies by FY26. This includes identifying key SKUs that will be consistently protected under their MAP pricing policies, ensuring that these products are not discounted outside of designated promotional periods.
Additionally, beginning in 2026, Crocs and HEYDUDE are evolving their MAP policies to better protect core items and new products, which is expected to enhance brand value. By excluding iconic items and new collaborations from MAP holidays, and limiting promotional activities for seasonal colors of core items for a period after their release, the brands aim to train consumers to appreciate the value of their products beyond just promotional periods. These strategic changes are anticipated to elevate the brand perception and drive long-term growth, justifying the Buy rating.

In another report released on June 5, Piper Sandler also maintained a Buy rating on the stock with a $120.00 price target.