May Retail Sales Continue At Near-Record Levels

Retail sales remained at elevated levels in May despite month-to-month fluctuations that masked near-record performance, the National Retail Federation said. Sporting goods stores were down 0.8 percent month-over-month seasonally adjusted but up 40.9 percent unadjusted year-over-year.

NRF Calls On White House To Address Port Congestion Challenges

The National Retail Federation delivered a letter to the White House asking to meet with President Biden and other top administration officials regarding the challenges retailers are facing from continued supply chain disruptions that are leading to congestion at U.S. ports.

Saks Appoints NBA All-Star To Board

Saks has appointed NBA All-Star, entrepreneur and investor, James Harden, as an independent member of its Board. Harden also made a minority investment in the retailer.

HanesBrands Appoints Board Member

HanesBrands announced that William Simon has been appointed to the company’s board of directors. Simon was the former president and CEO of Walmart U.S..

Iconix Plans To Go Private

Iconix Brand Group Inc. announced it has entered into a definitive agreement and plan of merger to be acquired by Iconix Acquisition Corp., an affiliate of Lancer Capital, LLC, in an all-cash transaction that values Iconix at approximately $585 million, including net-debt.

Renfro Brands Acquired By The Renco Group

Renfro Brands, the sock manufacturer, announced new ownership with the private holding company, The Renco Group, Inc. Renfro’s brand portfolio includes Fruit of the Loom, Dr. Scholl’s, Merrell, Copper Defense, Smartwool, Hot Sox, and K. Bell.