The co-branded pro and lifestyle footwear collection is scheduled to launch in July, designed for agricultural professionals, construction workers, outdoor enthusiasts, and trendsetters.
Author: SGB Media

EXEC: Mizuno Posts Strong Profit Growth for Fiscal Year on Sales Growth in All Regions
The company reported net sales were ¥229.7 billion in the fiscal year ended March 31. 2924, up 8.3 percent year-over-year. Profit attributable to owners of parent was ¥14.3 billion, up 44.4 percent versus the prior fiscal year.
On Holding Posts Another Strong Quarter in Q1, Led by Expanding DTC Sales
On’s total net sales reached CHF 508.2 million, an increase of 20.9 percent year-over-year and a 29.2 percent increase on a constant-currency basis. The results were led by strong demand and momentum in On’s direct-to-consumer channel.

EXEC: Giant Group Sees Improving Bike Picture as April Shipments Close to Flat
The 1.75 percent year-over-year decline was the smallest year-over-year decrease in sales since April 2023 when sales grew 20.3 percent to NT$7.03 billion. First quarter results that were down 20.3 percent.

EXEC: Giant Group Sees China Q1 Gains Offset by Inventory Reduction, OEM Sales Elsewhere
The Taiwan-based manufacturer of bikes, bike parts and components reported that the sharp sales decline came despite increased bike sales in China offset by inventory reductions in Europe and North America and order adjustments from OEM customers.

GU to Open First Overseas Flagship Store in New York in Fall 2024
GU (pronounced as the letters “G” and “U”) was founded in 2006 as a sister brand of Uniqlo and operates approximately 470 stores in Asia, mainly in Japan; this is the first official opening of a store outside of Asia.

Nextorch Signs Elite Outdoor Sports for Sales Representation
Elite Outdoor Sports is a full-service sales and marketing agency with a global reach. Representing hunting, shooting and law-enforcement equipment manufacturers.

United States Golf Association Officially Opens Golf House Pinehurst
The seven-acre campus is adjacent to the Pinehurst Resort & Country Club’s main clubhouse. It includes the USGA’s equipment-testing and research facility, the USGA Experience, an outdoor educational landscape feature, the recently relocated World Golf Hall of Fame, and administrative offices.

The British Footwear Association Appoints New CEO
The BFA tapped Richard Shetliffe as its new chief executive officer, effective May 14, bringing a reported depth of experience and knowledge to lead the association.

Nite Ize Adds Two Indie Sales Agencies in U.S. Market
Effective immediately, the company is partnering with Action Sports, Inc. serving the Southeast, and Sanitas Sales Group, located in Colorado and covering the West.

Dick’s x WNBA Launch Exclusive Girl’s Apparel Collection
Dick’s Sporting Goods launched an exclusive apparel collection with the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), the first for the retailer and organization.

Super Pacific Makes New Hires, Key Promotions and Expands Facility to Fuel Growth
Philip Kuroda was hired in the newly created position of B2B sales manager and Jessica Johnson was promoted to general manager of operations. The company is adding new square footage to its facility and the production team was expanded with new hires to support cutting, sewing and fabrication.

Firearm & Ammo Companies Contributed $222M to Conservation in Q4 via Excise Tax
Firearm and ammunition manufacturers topping $17 billion in excise tax contributions to the Wildlife Restoration Trust Fund since its inception in 1937, or more than $27.38 billion when adjusted for inflation.

Axil Brands Inks Distribution Agreement with Kinsey’s Inc.
Axil Brands, Inc. inked a distribution agreement with Kinsey’s, Inc. to distribute Axil hearing protection and enhancement products in the shooting sports and outdoor recreation/hunting market.

Nike Basketball Adds A’ja Wilson to Signature Athlete Roster
Wilson, the WNBA pro player for the Las Vegas Aces, has worked with Nike for over a year to create a signature collection, including a shoe.