Backcountry Boom: Alpine Touring Business On The Right Track

For the casual onlooker, noticing an increase in skiers taking the uphill track at a resort or seeing an overcrowded parking area near an out-of-bounds ski trail might provide anecdotal evidence that more people want to “earn their turns.” But the data backs up an industry trend that shows no sign of stopping: The backcountry ski business is booming.

Aisle Talk Week Of February 18

Top headlines from the active lifestyle industry you may have missed this week, including Asics North America appointing Kevin McHale as its new director of run specialty sales.

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.

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.

Nike Plans Investigation Following Zion Williamson’s Injury

Nike said it was planning an investigation after one of its sneaker worn by Duke University’s basketball standout Zion Williamson ripped open during a high-profile game Wednesday night. “We are obviously concerned and want to wish Zion a speedy recovery,” Nike said in a statement. “The quality and performance of our products are of utmost […]

Former Cabela’s Employees Launch Nexgen Outfitters

Another group of former Cabela’s Inc. employees has helped launch an e-commerce website offering outdoor and active lifestyle gear. Several avid outdoorsmen and women teamed up to form Nexgen Outfitters, based in Sidney, NE.

REI Co-op To Open New Store in Birmingham, AL, In October

Outdoor co-op REI is opening a new store in Birmingham, AL, in October. The new 20,000-square-foot store will be located at The Summit, just 20 minutes from Oak Mountain State Park and less than an hour from the Talladega and Bankhead National Forests.

OC Sports Appoints New National Sales Manager

OC Sports on Thursday announced the promotion of Brad Reagan to national sales manager following Joe Rubertino’s retirement. Reagan has more than 15 years of experience in the team sports industry, nine of which have been with Outdoor Cap, the parent company of OC Sports.