Moody’s: J.C. Penney Store Closings Pressure U.S. REITS
Store closures as part of J.C. Penney’s turnaround plan will keep the pressure on US real estate investment trusts (REITs) and commercial mortgage-backed securities (CMBS) to mitigate their exposure to associated risks, Moody’s Investors Service said in a new report.

US Youth Soccer Unveils New Brand Identity
US Youth Soccer, the largest youth sport organization in the United States, today announced a complete redesign of its brand. The refreshed look and feel reflects the organization’s commitment to making soccer the preeminent youth sport in the country.
Outdoor Companies Step Up For “We Keep It Wild” Campaign
A diverse assortment of 22 companies are hosting fundraisers and online promotions during the month of April to benefit The Conservation Alliance in the fifth annual “We Keep It Wild” campaign.
Salomon Announces New Outdoor, Run Marketing Hires
Salomon welcomed two new hires to its brand marketing leadership team in the United States, Becky Marcelliano and Erin Cooper, bolstering its commitment to the run and outdoor categories. Cooper, formerly of Saucony, joins as run marketing manager while Marcelliano, formerly of Deuter USA, will serve as outdoor marketing manager.
Reebok Launches First Loyalty Program
Reebok launched its first loyalty program, Unlocked, featuring both experiential and product-based benefits.
Gildan Announces Board Of Directors Leadership Succession Plan
Gildan Activewear Inc. announced that its board of directors has approved the appointment of Donald C. Berg as chairman of the board effective May 2, 2019, contingent upon his reelection to the board at the company’s annual shareholder meeting to be held that day.

First Ever Marika Branded Store Opens Inside Baltimore Airport
Marika, the women’s activewear brand, announced the opening of its first branded retail store at the Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport.

Minor League Baseball Launches National Retail Program
Minor League Baseball (MiLB) announced the creation of the largest retail program in Minor League Baseball history. The “Grilling All-Stars” program merges MiLB with local retailers and brands associated with a summer grill-out: Bush’s Beans, Scott Bath Tissue, Scott Paper Towels, Ball Park Buns and The Original Louisiana Brand Hot Sauce.
RYU Apparel Closes Final Tranche Of $6 Million Private Placement
RYU Apparel Inc., the fitness apparel specialist based in Vancouver, announced that it has closed a final tranche of the non-brokered private placement financing of up to 80 million units at a price of $0.075 per unit for gross proceeds of up to $6 million.
Umbro Extends Deal With Everton
Umbro signed a multi-year extension with Everton, the Liverpool soccer team that competes in the Premier League.
JCPenney To Close 27 Stores In 2019
JCPenney announced plans to close 27 stores this year. The closures include 18 full-time department stores and nine home and furniture shops.
Puma Signs Long-Term Partnership With Valencia CF
Puma announced a new long-term partnership with Valencia CF, one of Spain’s most successful soccer teams.

Nike Accredited For Fair Labor Practices
The Fair Labor Association (FLA) announced that its board of directors voted to re-accredit Nike’s social compliance program, the third FLA accreditation for the company.
Zoot Sports Launches TeamZoot Camps
Zoot Sports, the specialist in triathlon training and race day apparel, saw over 50 athletes attend its inaugural U.S. Team Zoot Camp in San Diego.

Foot Locker Finding New Paths To Growth
At its Investor Day, Foot Locker Inc. didn’t alter its long-term growth goals but officials detailed how new store concepts, fresh engagement approaches and other digitally-savvy concepts would significantly reshape the retailer in the years ahead.