Retail Imports To Set New Record This Month

Driven by increasing consumer demand and rising retail sales, imports at the nation’s major retail container ports are expected to set a new record this month even though new tariffs on goods from China just took effect, according to the monthly Global Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

Helen of Troy’s Houseware’s Sales Climb 19 Percent

The gains reflected incremental distribution with existing domestic customers, an increase in online sales, new product introductions for both the Hydro Flask and OXO brands, an increase in sales into the club channel, an acceleration of Hydro Flask orders by retailers in advance of the Hydro Flask integration into the Helen of Troy ERP system and international growth.

SGB Exec Q&A: Locally’s Founder And President Mike Massey

In an interview with SGB, Mike Massey, Locally’s founder who is also the owner of Massey’s Outfitters in New Orleans, discussed the rapid expansion and evolution of Locally since its launch in 2014, as well as the fast-changing dynamics of online and offline retailing.

‘Battle Has Begun’: Global Trade War Now Underway

Trade associations called Friday the first official day of the trade war between the U.S. and China, as $34 billion in tariffs on Chinese goods kicked in overnight. The U.S. is expected to add tariffs on an additional $16 billion of Chinese goods at a later date.

Aisle Talk Week Of July 2

Top headlines from the active lifestyle industry you may have missed this week, including Pentland Group’s solid year driven by a record performance from JD Sports Fashion PLC.

June Retail Jobs Increase But Trade War Could Turn Confidence

Retail industry employment in June increased by 50,200 jobs unadjusted over the same time last year despite a seasonally adjusted drop from May of 25,800, the National Retail Federation said Friday. The numbers exclude automobile dealers, gasoline stations and restaurants. Overall, U.S. businesses added 213,000 jobs over May, the Labor Department said.

Outdoor Retailer Names Lisa Ramsperger Public Relations Manager

Outdoor Retailer on Tuesday named Lisa Ramsperger public relations manager, effective immediately. Ramsperger brings nearly 20 years of public relations experience in a wide range of sports and events, working with iconic brands and teams, including the Houston Astros, U.S. Olympic Committee, Volvo Ocean Race, America’s Cup and Amgen Tour of California.

Active-Lifestyle Stocks Bounce Back In First Half 

With the nine-year bull market facing some choppiness this year due to a number of macro challenges, many stocks in the athletic-lifestyle space stood out for their outsized performances. Big gainers included Canada Goose, Under Armour, Lululemon, Deckers Outdoor and Crox.