Import Volume Remain Strong Despite Recent Strike

Despite the strike that briefly shut down operations at ports from Maine to Texas, import levels at the nation’s major container ports are expected to continue at elevated levels throughout October, according to the Global Tracker Report from the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

Ted Ligety Joins DPS Skis and PHANTOM Glide Product Teams (COPY)

A member of the U.S. Ski Team for 18 seasons, Ligety has 25 World Cup wins under his belt and is regarded as one of the best giant slalom skiers in ski racing history. Ligety will help develop the DPS and Phantom Glide product lines, working with Senior VP Thomas Laakso and DPS Founder Peter Turner.

Bain Forecasts Record Black Friday/Cyber Monday Sales

U.S. retail sales over Black Friday – Cyber Monday (BFCM) weekend may set a new record, surpassing $75 billion in sales, according to a forecast from Bain & Company. The weekend is expected to deliver year-over-year growth of around 5 percent, outpacing Bain’s overall holiday sales growth forecast of 3 percent for the entire holiday season.

Ski Kare Has New Owners

Ski Kare, LLC, the largest distributor of Vola Racing Waxes in the United States, was acquired by Kyle and Rachel Kucin. Gifford Hoback, the former owner, will continue to work for the company in a consulting and manufacturing capacity.

EXEC: Is The Vista Outdoor Bidding War Finally Over?

Vista’s Outdoor’s moves over the weekend to find a buyer for the Revelyst outdoor business and receive yet another higher offer for its Kinetic Group ammunition and firearms business should be enough to secure shareholder approval and avoid another hostile bid, according to several analysts following the stock.

Accell Group Undergoes Debt Restructuring

Backed by Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co (KKR), Accell Group agreed to a restructuring that writes off 40 percent of its debt and will see its liabilities at the operating group level cut to €800 million ($881 million) from €1.4 billion, with maturities extended through to 2030.

Paka Expands Senior Leadership to Fuel Brand Growth

The Peru-based sustainable apparel brand hired Christian Castellani as director of wholesale sales, Matt Etzler as senior director of e-commerce, Erika Marsh as senior director of supply chain and operations, and Megan Krajco as design director. Paris Karstedt was promoted to director of brand and marketing.

Malbon Golf Hires Ex-Nike Exec as CEO

Heiser worked for Nike for over 17 years before leaving the company in September 2023. As CEO of Malbon Golf, Heiser will work closely with Founders Stephen and Erica Malbon, who will continue as co-chief creative officers and board members.