FDRA Criticizes Additional Tariffs

The FDRA (Footwear Distributors & Retailers Of America) said the potential for additional tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese goods will likely “negatively impact all Americans of every walk of life.”

Varsity Brands To Be Acquired By Bain Capital

Varsity Brands, the parent of BSN Sports, Varsity Spirit and Herff Jones, announced the signing of a definitive agreement to be acquired by Bain Capital Private Equity, the private investment firm. Varsity Brands is being acquired from Charlesbank Capital Partners and funds managed and/or advised by Partners Group, which purchased the company in 2014.

Iconix’s CEO Exits Amid Proxy Battle

Iconix Brands Group said John Haugh has resigned as CEO, president and a board member. The exit comes 17 days after Sports Direct said the company planned to nominate four members to Iconix’ board after vexing about the loss of major direct-to-consumer license agreements for Starter, Danskin, Ocean Pacific and Mossimo.

Puma Leaps Back Into Basketball

Marking its return to basketball in a big way, Puma announced the signing of Deandre Ayton, widely expected to be the number-one pick in Thursday’s NBA Draft, to an multi-year endorsement deal. Puma also honored basketball legend Walt “Clyde” Frazier with a lifetime contract and hired Jay Z as creative director to help guide basketball marketing.

American Sportfishing Association Elects Board Members For 2018

Four members of the American Sportfishing Association (ASA) were elected to fill two at-large seats and two regional seats on the board of directors. Their terms begin October 1 and they each will serve three-year terms. ASA is the trade association that represents the recreational fishing industry. 

Retail Report Roundup – June 18

Studies arrived last week on the growth of customization in footwear and apparel, omnichannel order tracking, online-ad spam, mobile pay, the important of brand’s values and retailers paying off hackers.