ISPO Beijing Celebrates Successful Anniversary

More than 400 exhibitors representing 682 brands and approximately 30,000 trade visitors and key opinion leaders (KOLs) took part in ISPO Beijing and Alpitec China held at the China International Exhibition Center (CIEC) from January 16 to 19, 2019.

SGB Executive Q&A: NASGW Board Chair & Lipsey’s CEO Laurie Aronson

Laurie Aronson, president and CEO of Baton Rouge, LA-based wholesale firearms distributor Lipsey’s LLC, on January 1 became the first female board chair of the National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers (NASGW). She spoke with SGB about what that honor means and her goals for the trade association during the next two years.

Shred415 Accelerates Franchise Development Efforts For 2019

Shred415, a high-intensity interval training fitness concept combining strength training and treadmill work, announced Tuesday its significant achievements in 2018. The brand signed 80 franchise agreements and onboarded its first area representative, fueling the brand to continue its strategic growth in target markets in and beyond 2019.

Adidas, Foot Locker Partner To Create Shoes

Adidas and Foot Locker to create a new initiative that re-envisions the future of creativity and speed with the assistance of Adidas Speedfactory USA and Germany. Beginning this month, Adidas and Foot Locker will co-create consumer-inspired Adidas Made For (AM4) shoes across the country at various cultural events and sport moments throughout the year.

Clarus Corp. Sees Q4 Exceeding Guidance

Clarus Corp. again lifted its guidance for the year ended December 31 due to healthy revenue increases in the fourth quarter. The gains were led by 8 percent growth from Black Diamond and 14 percent growth from Sierra Bullets.

BSN Sports Add Birmingham’s Pennant Sports

BSN Sports,  a division of Varsity Brands, has finalized the acquisition of Birmingham, Al-based Pennant Sports, Inc. Pennant, previously named JP Sports, has been serving team customers since 1989, and is a leading distributor of team sports apparel and equipment in the Birmingham, AL metro area.

SG Helmets Announces Rebrand To Light Helmets

Safer Sports, LLC announced that it is rebranding as “Light Helmets.” The change follows Safer Sports’ acquisition last September of the assets of SG Helmets, the fifth largest manufacturer of football helmets in the world and a longtime leader in sports helmet safety technology.

Caleres Amends Credit Agreement

Caleres announced it has entered into an amendment of its credit agreement, which extends its senior secured asset-based revolving credit facility to January 2024, reduces upfront and unused borrowing fees, provides for less restrictive covenants, and offers more flexibility.

Retail Reports Roundup – January 21

A stack of retail surveys and studies arrived just in time for last week’s NRF Big Show in New York City. Research included the arrival of the “Emerging Male ‘Power Shopper” as well as retail developments with artificial intelligence, mobile apps, smart speakers, fulfillment technologies, personalization, card-not-present fraud and more.