Retail Imports To See Lowest Annual Total In Four Years

Imports at major U.S. retail container ports during 2020 are expected to see their lowest total in four years as the impact of the coronavirus on the U.S. economy continues, according to the monthly Global Port Tracker report released by the National Retail Federation.

Wolverine Worldwide Appoints President, CEO-Designee

Wolverine World Wide Inc. announced the appointment of Brendan Hoffman as its next president and his appointment as a member of its Board of Directors, effective September 8. He is expected to transition over a period of time to become the future CEO of the company.

Fitness International’s Debt Ratings Downgraded

Moody’s downgraded the debt ratings on Fitness International, the parent of LA Fitness, due to the recent surge in coronavirus cases in states on the West Coast, South, Southwest and the resultant mandated re-closing of gyms in California and Arizona as well as the possibility of additional mandated gym closures in other states.

Sports Industry Execs Launch NextUp Ventures And NextUp Partners

A cadre of leading sports industry executives announced the launch of NextUp Ventures and NextUp Partners, investment vehicles designed to fuel startups and emerging brands in the sports betting, esports and sports technology spaces. The executives include Craig Heisner, formerly at Newton Running, and Rob Purvy, formerly at Hoka One One.

PGA Golf Exhibitions To Launch Half-Day Virtual Summit

PGA Golf Exhibitions announced details for the PGA Show Connects Virtual Summit, August 18, to include a half-day online event of multiple webinars addressing market trends, player development, customer experience and retail strategies.

Legendary Headwear Appoints Head Of Sales And Marketing

Legendary Headwear, the manufacturer of the caps in the sports and outdoor markets, has tapped Andy Gilkison as their senior director of sales and marketing. His previous roles include national sales manager at Ogio and head of golf accessories at Puma.

Maria Sharapova Invests In Therabody

Therabody, formerly known as Theragun, announced that tennis champion and entrepreneur Maria Sharapova has made an investment in the company while also joining Therabody as a member of its Advisory Board.

Delta Apparel Returns To Growth In July

Delta Apparel Inc. reported net sales in July grew over 10 percent compared to the prior year period, with growth in each of its business units. The Delta Group and Salt Life segments reported year-over-year growth of 9 percent and 23 percent, respectively, in July.

Canada Goose’s Q1 Sales Plunge

Canada Goose Inc. reported sales collapsed 63.3 percent in its seasonally-slow first quarter ended June 28 due to the impact of store closings due to COVID-19 and slow reopening phases. The loss widened in the period. The company now expects a decline in wholesale segment sales in its fiscal year.