Does Dicks Sporting Good Have Stores Outside of the Us

Dick’s Sporting Goods primarily operates within the United States and does not have physical retail stores outside the country. While the brand has a growing international online presence, its brick-and-mortar footprint remains strictly domestic. This article explores the company’s global reach, expansion plans, and alternatives for international customers.

If you’re a sports enthusiast or outdoor adventurer living outside the United States, you might have wondered: Does Dick’s Sporting Goods have stores outside of the US? It’s a fair question. After all, Dick’s is one of the largest sporting goods retailers in North America, known for its massive selection of athletic gear, footwear, apparel, and equipment for everything from baseball to yoga. With over 850 stores across the country, it’s easy to assume the brand has expanded globally—especially in an era where retail giants like Nike, Adidas, and Decathlon have a strong international presence.

But here’s the truth: as of 2024, Dick’s Sporting Goods does not operate any physical retail locations outside the United States. All of its stores are located within the 50 states, with concentrations in the Northeast, Midwest, and West Coast. While the company has made strides in digital commerce and has a growing international online customer base, its brick-and-mortar footprint remains strictly domestic. This means if you’re in Canada, the UK, Australia, or anywhere else in the world, you won’t find a Dick’s Sporting Goods store in your local mall or shopping district.

That said, the story doesn’t end there. While the brand hasn’t opened international stores, it hasn’t completely ignored the global market. Through its e-commerce platform, Dick’s has enabled international shipping to select countries, allowing customers abroad to purchase products directly from the U.S. website. Additionally, the company has explored partnerships and licensing deals that bring Dick’s-branded products to international retailers. So while you can’t walk into a Dick’s store in London or Tokyo, you might still be able to buy a Dick’s-labeled backpack or pair of running shoes through a third-party seller.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the global presence—or lack thereof—of Dick’s Sporting Goods. We’ll explore the company’s history, its current business model, its international e-commerce strategy, and what the future might hold for expansion beyond U.S. borders. Whether you’re a traveler looking to stock up on gear, an expat missing your favorite U.S. retailer, or simply curious about retail globalization, this article will give you the full picture.

Key Takeaways

• No physical stores outside the US: Dick’s Sporting Goods currently operates over 850 stores, all located within the United States.
• International online sales available: Customers worldwide can shop on the official website, though shipping and return policies vary by region.
• No owned international subsidiaries: The company does not own or operate retail chains in other countries under the Dick’s brand.
• Partnerships and licensing: Limited international presence through third-party retailers and licensed products in select markets.
• Future expansion considerations: While international growth is discussed, no concrete plans for overseas stores have been announced.
• Alternatives for global shoppers: International customers can use package forwarding services or shop during US visits.
• Strong domestic focus: The company continues to invest in US-based retail, e-commerce, and community programs.

Quick Answers to Common Questions

Does Dick’s Sporting Goods ship internationally?

Yes, Dick’s Sporting Goods ships to over 50 countries, including Canada, the UK, Australia, and Germany, though some products and regions are restricted.

Can I return items to Dick’s if I live outside the U.S.?

Returns from outside the U.S. are possible but may require you to pay for return shipping and customs fees, and the process can be more complex.

Are there Dick’s Sporting Goods stores in Canada?

No, there are no Dick’s Sporting Goods stores in Canada or any other country outside the United States.

Can I use a U.S. credit card to shop on Dick’s website from abroad?

Yes, but your bank may block the transaction unless international purchases are enabled. Using PayPal or a U.S.-based virtual card can help.

Does Dick’s have plans to open stores in Europe or Asia?

As of 2024, Dick’s has not announced any plans to open physical stores outside the U.S., though international expansion remains a possibility in the future.

Dick’s Sporting Goods: A Brief Overview

Founded in 1948 by Richard “Dick” Stack in Binghamton, New York, Dick’s Sporting Goods began as a small bait and tackle shop. Over the decades, it evolved into a national powerhouse, becoming the largest sporting goods retailer in the United States. Today, the company operates under several banners, including Dick’s Sporting Goods, Golf Galaxy, and Field & Stream (though the latter was sold in 2020). It also owns and operates the online marketplace Public Lands, which focuses on outdoor and adventure gear.

The company’s success is built on a combination of wide product selection, competitive pricing, in-store expertise, and a strong omnichannel strategy. Customers can shop online, pick up in-store, or have items shipped directly to their homes. The brand is also known for its community engagement, sponsoring youth sports leagues and offering coaching clinics and equipment donations.

Despite its size and influence, Dick’s has remained focused on the U.S. market. Unlike competitors such as Academy Sports + Outdoors or Scheels—which also operate primarily in the U.S.—Dick’s has not pursued international franchising or joint ventures. This domestic focus has allowed the company to deeply understand American consumer behavior, tailor its inventory to regional sports preferences (like football in the South or skiing in the Rockies), and build strong relationships with national brands like Nike, Under Armour, and Columbia.

Why No International Stores?

So why hasn’t Dick’s Sporting Goods expanded internationally? Several factors come into play. First, the sporting goods retail market is highly competitive and fragmented globally. In Europe, for example, Decathlon dominates with over 1,700 stores in more than 60 countries. In Asia, brands like Li-Ning and Anta have strong local followings. Entering these markets would require significant investment in real estate, staffing, supply chains, and marketing—without a guaranteed return.

Second, Dick’s business model relies heavily on in-store experiences, including expert staff, fitting rooms, and hands-on product testing. Replicating this model abroad would be challenging due to differences in consumer shopping habits, real estate costs, and labor laws. For instance, European consumers often prefer smaller, specialized stores over big-box retailers, which could limit Dick’s appeal.

Third, the company has prioritized digital growth and U.S. market saturation. Instead of expanding overseas, Dick’s has invested in enhancing its e-commerce platform, improving supply chain efficiency, and opening new stores in underserved U.S. regions. This strategy has paid off: in 2023, the company reported over $12 billion in revenue, with online sales accounting for a growing share.

International Online Shopping: Can You Buy from Dick’s Abroad?

While Dick’s Sporting Goods doesn’t have physical stores outside the U.S., it does offer international shipping through its official website. This means customers in select countries can order products directly from dicks sporting goods.com and have them delivered to their door—though with some important caveats.

Shipping Destinations and Restrictions

As of 2024, Dick’s Sporting Goods ships to over 50 countries, including Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, Japan, and Mexico. However, not all products are available for international delivery. Certain items—such as firearms, ammunition, large fitness equipment, and some electronics—are restricted due to legal, regulatory, or logistical reasons.

Shipping costs can also be high, especially for heavier items like treadmills or golf clubs. Customers may also be responsible for import duties, taxes, and customs fees, which vary by country. For example, a customer in the UK ordering $200 worth of running shoes might pay an additional $30–$50 in VAT and handling fees upon delivery.

Payment and Currency Options

The Dick’s website primarily accepts U.S. payment methods, including credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) and PayPal. International customers may face issues if their bank blocks transactions from U.S. retailers or if their card isn’t enabled for international purchases. Some users recommend using a U.S.-based virtual credit card or a service like Wise (formerly TransferWise) to simplify payments.

Currency conversion is handled at checkout, with prices displayed in U.S. dollars. While this ensures transparency, it means customers are subject to exchange rate fluctuations. For instance, if the U.S. dollar strengthens against the euro, the same product becomes more expensive for European buyers.

Returns and Customer Service

One of the biggest challenges for international shoppers is the return process. Dick’s offers a 90-day return policy for most items, but returns from outside the U.S. can be complicated and costly. Customers may need to pay for return shipping, and some items (like personalized gear) are non-returnable. Additionally, customer service is primarily U.S.-based, so non-English speakers or those in different time zones may experience delays.

Despite these hurdles, many international customers successfully shop on the Dick’s website. Reviews on forums like Reddit and Trustpilot show that while the process isn’t seamless, it’s doable—especially for high-value or hard-to-find items not available locally.

Partnerships and Licensed Products Abroad

While Dick’s doesn’t operate its own stores overseas, the brand does have a limited presence in international markets through partnerships and licensing agreements.

Third-Party Retailers

In some countries, Dick’s-branded products are sold through third-party retailers. For example, in Canada, certain Dick’s Sporting Goods apparel and accessories can be found in sporting goods stores or online marketplaces like Amazon.ca. These items are typically sourced through authorized distributors and may carry a premium price due to import costs.

Similarly, in the Middle East, some luxury sporting goods retailers have carried Dick’s merchandise, particularly in high-end malls in Dubai and Riyadh. However, this is not an official expansion—just a result of global supply chains and demand for U.S. brands.

Licensing and Private Label Brands

Dick’s owns several private label brands, such as CALIA (activewear), Top-Flite (golf), and evoShield (protective gear). These brands are sometimes licensed to international manufacturers or sold through global distributors. For instance, CALIA products have appeared in select Asian markets through partnerships with local retailers.

These licensing deals allow Dick’s to earn revenue from international sales without the overhead of managing overseas operations. However, they also mean less control over branding, pricing, and customer experience—factors that could dilute the brand’s identity if not managed carefully.

Why International Expansion Hasn’t Happened (Yet)

Given the global demand for sporting goods and the success of international retailers like Decathlon and Nike, why hasn’t Dick’s made a move abroad? The answer lies in a combination of strategic priorities, market dynamics, and operational challenges.

Domestic Market Saturation and Growth

The U.S. sporting goods market is large and continues to grow, driven by increasing participation in fitness, outdoor activities, and youth sports. Dick’s has focused on capturing more of this market by opening new stores, remodeling existing ones, and expanding its e-commerce capabilities. In 2023, the company opened over 30 new locations and invested in technology like mobile checkout and inventory tracking.

Expanding internationally would require diverting resources from these domestic initiatives. For a company that prides itself on community involvement and local store support, maintaining a strong U.S. presence is a strategic priority.

Regulatory and Logistical Hurdles

Opening stores in foreign countries involves navigating complex regulations, including labor laws, import/export restrictions, and product safety standards. For example, selling athletic footwear in the European Union requires compliance with REACH chemical regulations, while selling fitness equipment in Australia may require certification from local safety bodies.

Additionally, building a reliable supply chain across borders is challenging. Dick’s relies on a network of U.S.-based distribution centers to fulfill orders quickly. Replicating this model abroad would require significant investment in warehouses, transportation, and inventory management.

Brand Recognition and Local Competition

While Dick’s is a household name in the U.S., it has limited brand recognition overseas. In many countries, local retailers have deep roots and strong customer loyalty. For example, in France, Decathlon is not just a store—it’s a cultural institution. In Japan, brands like Mizuno and Asics dominate the athletic wear market.

Entering these markets would require massive marketing campaigns and price competitiveness, which could erode profit margins. Dick’s may also struggle to adapt its product mix to local tastes. For instance, while American consumers favor football and baseball gear, European customers are more interested in soccer and cycling equipment.

Future Outlook: Could Dick’s Go Global?

So, what does the future hold? Could we see Dick’s Sporting Goods stores in London, Toronto, or Sydney in the next decade?

Statements from Leadership

In recent earnings calls and investor presentations, Dick’s executives have acknowledged the potential of international markets but emphasized a cautious approach. The company’s CEO has stated that while global expansion is “on the radar,” it’s not an immediate priority. Instead, the focus remains on strengthening the U.S. business and exploring digital opportunities.

That said, the rise of cross-border e-commerce and the growing popularity of American brands abroad could change the calculus. If international online sales continue to grow, Dick’s may consider launching localized websites, offering multi-currency checkout, or partnering with global logistics providers to improve delivery times.

Potential Entry Strategies

If Dick’s does decide to expand internationally, it’s unlikely to follow a traditional brick-and-mortar model. Instead, the company might pursue a hybrid approach:

– **Pop-up stores:** Temporary locations in major cities to test demand and build brand awareness.
– **Franchising:** Partnering with local entrepreneurs to operate stores under the Dick’s brand.
– **Marketplace integration:** Listing products on international platforms like Amazon UK, Rakuten, or AliExpress.
– **Joint ventures:** Collaborating with established retailers in target markets to share risks and resources.

These strategies would allow Dick’s to enter new markets with lower upfront costs and greater flexibility.

Alternatives for International Shoppers

If you’re outside the U.S. and want to shop at Dick’s, there are still ways to access its products—even without a local store.

Package Forwarding Services

One popular option is using a package forwarding service like MyUS, Shipito, or Stackry. These companies provide you with a U.S. mailing address, allowing you to shop on dicks sporting goods.com as if you were in America. Once your order arrives at the forwarding address, the service ships it to your international location.

While this method adds extra cost (typically $10–$30 per package), it gives you access to the full Dick’s inventory, including sale items and exclusive products. Many users report positive experiences, though delivery times can vary from 1–3 weeks depending on the service and destination.

Shopping During U.S. Visits

If you’re planning a trip to the United States, consider visiting a Dick’s Sporting Goods store in person. This allows you to try on clothes, test equipment, and take advantage of in-store promotions. Just be mindful of customs limits when bringing sporting goods back home—some items may be subject to inspection or duties.

Local Alternatives

Before going through the hassle of international shipping, check if your local sporting goods stores carry similar products. Retailers like Decathlon (Europe), Sport Chek (Canada), Rebel Sport (Australia), and Decathlon (globally) offer comparable selections at competitive prices. You might find that local options are more convenient and cost-effective.

Conclusion

To answer the question directly: No, Dick’s Sporting Goods does not have stores outside of the United States. All of its physical locations are within the U.S., and the company has not announced any plans for international brick-and-mortar expansion. However, international customers can still shop online, use package forwarding services, or look for Dick’s-branded products through third-party retailers.

While the brand’s global footprint is currently limited, its growing e-commerce presence and strong reputation suggest that international opportunities may arise in the future. For now, Dick’s remains a proudly American retailer—deeply rooted in U.S. communities, committed to local sports, and focused on serving American athletes and outdoor enthusiasts.

Whether you’re in Miami or Mumbai, the spirit of Dick’s—quality gear, expert advice, and a passion for sport—is accessible, even if the storefront isn’t. As the world becomes more connected, the gap between domestic and international retail continues to shrink. And who knows? One day, you might just walk into a Dick’s Sporting Goods store in your own country.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Dick’s Sporting Goods operate in Canada?

No, Dick’s Sporting Goods does not have any retail locations in Canada. All of its stores are located within the United States. However, Canadian customers can shop online and have items shipped to Canada, subject to shipping fees and import duties.

Can I buy Dick’s Sporting Goods products in Europe?

While there are no Dick’s stores in Europe, some Dick’s-branded products may be available through third-party retailers or online marketplaces. International customers can also shop on the U.S. website, though shipping and customs may apply.

Why hasn’t Dick’s expanded internationally?

Dick’s has focused on strengthening its U.S. market presence, investing in e-commerce, and improving store operations. International expansion involves high costs, regulatory challenges, and strong local competition, which have led the company to prioritize domestic growth.

Is Dick’s Sporting Goods available in Australia?

There are no Dick’s Sporting Goods stores in Australia. However, Australian customers can order from the U.S. website, though shipping costs and delivery times may be significant. Some products may also be restricted.

Does Dick’s sell internationally through Amazon?

Dick’s does not officially sell through Amazon in international markets. However, third-party sellers on Amazon may list Dick’s products, especially in countries like Canada and the UK. Buyers should verify seller authenticity and return policies.

Will Dick’s Sporting Goods open stores abroad in the future?

While international expansion is possible, Dick’s has not announced any concrete plans. The company is currently focused on U.S. growth, but evolving e-commerce trends and global demand could influence future decisions.