U.S. Consumer Confidence Down Again in March as Forward Outlook Crashes
EXEC: EY M&A Outlook Signals Cautious U.S. Deal Market
EXEC: Fila Sets U.S. Re-Org and Inventory Sell-Off; Market Re-Entry TBD
Nike, Inc. Sees Turnaround Efforts Lasting through Fiscal 2026
EXEC: The Apparel Brands Bringing the Brand Heat in 2025
SGB Update
Specialist Sports Adds Category Director for UK and Europe
With over 25 years of experience in the golf industry, Ben Davis will focus primarily on driving the growth and success of the company’s golf brand representation in the UK and Europe for Payntr Golf,
Roger Cleveland Returns to Cleveland Golf as Founder and Brand Advisor
Since 1988, when Roger Cleveland first showcased the 588 Wedge, Cleveland Golf has been a game-changer in wedges, played with by 33 champions and responsible for over 400 PGA Tour victories. The company reports over 15 million wedges sold worldwide.
Recall: Specialized Vado and Como IGH E-Bikes with Chain Guards
Consumers should immediately stop using the Specialized Vado and Como IGH e-bikes and contact their nearest authorized Specialized retailer for a free installation of an updated protective chain/belt guard. Specialized Bicycle is contacting all known purchasers directly.
Academy Sports + Outdoors Opens 300th Store, Adds Two More States to Mix
The full-line sporting goods and outdoor recreation retailer will add five stores through April, with 20 to 25 stores planned for the fiscal 2025 full year.
Pure Hockey Expands Nationwide Footprint with Acquisition of Off The Bench
This strategic move marks Pure Hockey’s first entry into Nebraska and underscores the company’s commitment to serving the needs of hockey players across the U.S. and continued growth trajectory. Pure Hockey also operates a network of 81 retail locations across 30 states nationwide.
SGB Executive
EXEC: EY M&A Outlook Signals Cautious U.S. Deal Market
EY expects U.S. deal volume will rise 10 percent in 2025, building on a robust 13 percent advance in 2024, driven by sustained economic activity, decreasing interest rates, pent-up demand & reduced valuation gaps.
EXEC: Sports Direct to Expand South Asia Presence with Map Active
This latest strategic partnership between Sports Direct parent Frasers Group and MAP Active will expand the sporting goods retailer further into Indonesia, with entry into India, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia.
EXEC: Spartoo Improves 2024 Cash Flows Through Improved Inventory Management
Spartoo is signaling that it will continue offering a wide range of footwear, ready-to-wear, bags, and accessories throughout 2024, even as it manages its online inventory more tightly.
EXEC: Fila Sets U.S. Re-Org and Inventory Sell-Off; Market Re-Entry TBD
The company has essentially shuttered the U.S. business and expects full clearance by strategically selling off Fila USA inventory by the end of 2025, and determine if best avenue for re-entry in the market is direct operations, licensing or a distribution model.
Nike, Inc. Sees Turnaround Efforts Lasting through Fiscal 2026
Analysts were optimistic about the “Win Now” initiatives outlined by CEO Elliott Hill, but many shared concerns that the path ahead is likely to be long and volatile, pushing into the 2026 fiscal year, which commences in July 2025.
