
Wilson Launches Team Shop Website
Wilson Sporting Goods has introduced a new Wilson Team Shop website that streamlines the process for coaches, parents and players ordering gear for the upcoming baseball and softball season.
Fila Announces Partnership With Tommy Haas
Fila announced that it has reached a sponsorship agreement with former World No. 2 ranked tennis star Tommy Haas.

Umbro To Sponsor Soccer Shots
Umbro has signed a multi-year deal to be the official apparel partner for Soccer Shots, an international franchise program that provides children ages two through eight with an age-appropriate soccer and character development experience.
Kathmandu Announces North American Sales Teams
Kathmandu, the New Zealand travel and adventure brand, announced new sales representation in the Pacific Northwest, Rockies, and Southwest by The Alta Group, Urban Outdoors, and Pacific Crest Trading accordingly.
Tariff Hike Postponed
On Sunday, President Donald Trump delayed the March 1 deadline to increase tariffs on Chinese goods, citing “substantial progress” during a week of trade talks in Washington, D.C. between U.S. and Chinese officials.

Retail Reports Roundup
Retail studies arrived over the last two weeks on the value of in-person customer service, in-app spending growth, mobile payments, virtual assistants, supply chain digitization and more…
QuintSoul Hires West Coast Sales Manager
Quintsoul, the swimwear brand, has appointed Maria Barnes as west coast sales manager.

MLB Players Association Releases Statement Supporting New Era Workers
The MLB Players Association (MLBPA) issued a statement on Thursday in support of workers at the soon-to-be-closed New Era plant in Derby, NY. New Era earlier this month reached an agreement with plant workers on comprehensive severance benefits ahead of the plant’s scheduled closure in March.
Fitch Downgrades Newell Brands To Junk Status
Fitch Ratings downgraded Newell Brands Inc.’s long-term issuer default rating to BB-plus from BBB-minus, lowering it to speculative-grade, or “junk” status, from investment grade.
Arc’teryx’s Sales Grew 11 percent In 2018
Amer Sports issued its annual report review for 2018 that showed Arc’teryx’s sales grew 11 percent last year to drive growth across Softgoods, a strategic growth priority for the company.
Under Armour CEO’s Relationship With MSNBC Anchor Draws Scrutiny
The Wall Street Journal reported that Kevin Plank, Under Armour’s CEO, has been scrutinized by his board of directors for his personal relationship with MSNBC anchor Stephanie Ruhle and its impact on the company.
Lids Sports Group Acquisition Secures Financing
PNC Bank, N.A. announced the closing of a $140 million senior secured credit facility to support Maryland-based Ames Watson, LLC’s acquisition of Lids Sports Group (LSG). PNC Bank, N.A., served as administrative agent.

Trade Talks Showing Some Positive Signals
Facing a March 1 deadline before tariffs on some $200 billion in Chinese imports rise, Chinese and U.S. negotiators held high level talks Thursday and Friday in Washington D.C. The discussions come amid signs of progress on resolving some issues in the seven-month trade dispute.
Under Armour Extends Partnership With Virginia Military Institute
Virginia Military Institute has extended its athletics apparel and footwear partnership with Under Armour. The agreement, which runs through 2022 with a two-year renewal option, continues the partnership that began in 2014.
Asics Appoints Director Of Run Specialty Sales
Asics North America appointed Kevin McHale as its new director of run specialty sales. In this role, McHale will manage the run specialty business. Asics also said it is unveiling a newly created Technical Representatives Program to provide rep coverage across the country.