Nike Reshuffles Leadership in Design, Marketing and Technology

Nike, Inc. implemented a number of executive changes and additions, highlighted by John Hoke becoming chief innovation officer, Martin Lotti assuming the role of chief design officer, Nicole Hubbard Graham rejoining Nike as chief marketing officer, and Muge Erdirik Dogan joining Nike as chief technology officer.

Oiselle Names New CEO

Oiselle hired Arielle Knutson as CEO. She joins the women’s running brand from Nuun Hydration, where, most recently, she was VP of marketing.

Cole Haan Opens 500th Store

Cole Haan opened its 500th store, marking its accelerated expansion since spinning off from Nike in 2012. The brand is sold in over 100 countries, up from 13 in 2013.

NSSRA Names New Chairman 

The National Ski & Snowboard Retailers Association named Tom Fuerst of Pedigree Ski Shop in White Plains, NY, the new chairman of its Board of Directors. Fuerst’s family has been a part of the snow sports industry for over 60 years.

Report: Varsity Brands Exploring IPO

Varsity Brands, the parent of BSN Sports and Varsity Spirit, is exploring a sale or initial public offering (IPO) that could value the company at more than $6 billion, including debt, sources told Reuters.

Great Britain Q3 Golf Rounds Played Gives Lift to YTD Trend

Sporting Insights noted that January was the only month in 2023 that saw a dip against 2019 figures, while the remainder of the year has, so far, seen 2023 track, and often exceeded, the “booming totals” seen outside lockdowns during the period 2020/22.

Paka releases Fully Traceable, Ethically Sourced Apu Parka

Paka, the maker of alpaca apparel, launched its “ethically-insulated” jacket—the Apu Parka. The patent-pending insulation is fully traceable, ethically sourced from local ‘alpaqueros’ and proves a more sustainable future for the clothing industry.

Free Fly Signs Surf Icon Mark Healey to Team

Free Fly, the family-owned brand and manufacturer of performance bamboo apparel, reported it signed big-wave surfer, free diver, and spear-fisherman Mark Healey as its first surf athlete and ambassador.