Retail industry employment in December increased by 15,200 jobs seasonally adjusted from November and 37,600 jobs unadjusted year-over-year, the National Retail Federation said.
Author: SGB Media
Coco Ho Joins Reef Team
Reef welcomed Coco Ho as an ambassador. Ho comes from a long line of professional surfers. Sister of current Reef ambassador Mason Ho, daughter of surfing Icon, Michael Ho and Niece to 1993 World Champion and former Reef ambassador, Derek Ho.
Aquilo Sports Extends Sponsorship Of Movistar Cyling Team
Aquilo Sports, known for its recovery pants, announced the continuation of its partnership with the Movistar Professional Cycling Team. 2019 marks the teams 40th consecutive season with its 25-rider men’s team and 12-member women’s team.
Introducing Catapult Outdoor Recreation Accelerator
Active Interest Media (AIM), the Outdoor Industry Association (OIA), ICELab @ Western, and Moosejaw have joined forces to launch the Catapult Outdoor Recreation Accelerator open to outdoor industry startups throughout the U.S.
CTA: Tech Revenue to Reach Record $398 Billion In 2019
Artificial intelligence (AI) and fast connectivity – critical ingredients for the next era of category leaders such as smartphones, smart home devices and smart speakers – will drive the U.S. consumer technology industry to a record-breaking $398 billion in retail revenues ($301 billion wholesale) in 2019 and 3.9 percent year-over-year (YOY) growth, which includes streaming services revenue, according to the Consumer Technology Association (CTA).

Callaway Golf Completes Jack Wolfskin Acquisition
Callaway Golf Company announced that it has completed the previously announced acquisition of Jack Wolfskin for €418 million, or approximately $476 million. The acquisition furthers Callaway’s push into the active lifestyle category after its successful 2017 acquisitions of TravisMathew and Ogio.
Outdoor Voices Opens Chicago Store
Outdoor Voices, the women’s activewear brand, has opened its first Chicago store. The store is at 841 W Armitage Ave.
Nike Faces Trademark Lawsuit Over Cool Compression Line
Lontex Corp. has filed a trademark infringement lawsuit against Nike Inc. charging that Nike has used its trademarked ‘Cool Compression’ branding term without permission.

Nike And Under Armour Land On Piper Jaffray’s “2019 Ideas” List
In a note, Erinn Murphy, analyst for Piper Jaffray, listed Nike and Under Armour among her team’s “2019 ideas.” Also making the list were Crocs, Ulta Beauty and Funko.
Dick’s Supports Teacher Champion Challenge
DonorsChoose.org and The Dick’s Sporting Goods Foundation are calling on football fans to support public school classrooms through the Teacher Champion Challenge, launching January 3. The Dick’s Sporting Goods Foundation will award $100,000 to support team sports-related classroom project requests in the playoff city that raises the most in total donations-per-student.
Puma Enters Sponsorship With Porsche Motorsport
Puma has signed a long-term sponsorship agreement with Porsche Motorsport to become the exclusive technical partner for fireproof racing clothing as well as shoes, caps and luggage.

Bonobos Signs PGA Golfer Justin Rose To Apparel Deal
Justin Rose, the second-ranked PGA Tour player in the world, has signed an apparel deal with Bonobos. He had long been with Adidas.
Weber State To Host Outdoor Recreation Business Competition
Weber State University’s (WSU) Hall Global Entrepreneurship Center has announced its second annual Outdoor Weber outdoor recreation idea competition, sponsored by Camping World.
Darby Communications Announces 2019 Stand Up Initiative Partners
Darby Communications, a boutique public relations firm specializing in the outdoor, fitness and wellness industries, has announced selections for its 2019 Stand Up Initiative.
Antigua Celebrating 40th Anniversary
Said Ron McPherson, president and CEO of Antigua. “We are very proud of our history and heritage and look forward to continuing
our growth in the markets we serve. Antigua will have several promotions at the January trade shows and throughout the year to commemorate our 40th Anniversary.”