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.

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.

Gildan Activewear Preps For Next Big Private-Label Launch

Emboldened by two successful private-label launches last year, Gildan Activewear Inc. will ramp up that segment of its business as soon as next quarter when the company unveils an underwear line for a high-volume customer that many analysts believe is Walmart.