June M&A Roundup: Megaresorts Expand Their Empires

Summer is an odd time to discuss what’s happening at North American ski areas—especially with record high temps now sweeping the U.S.—but the escalating “arms race” between megaresort operators Vail Resorts Inc. and Alterra Mountain Co. was among the hottest M&A developments in June.

Retail Report Roundup – July 1

Studies arrived last week showing Nike ranked highest among active lifestyle brands, but lost ground on Brand Finance’s annual ranking of the most valuable American brands. Studies also rated the digital expertise of department stores, the relevance of social activism for brands with teens, robust urban population growth and apparel’s expansion online.

Salomon Signs Sophie Caldwell

American Nordic skiing star Sophie Caldwell will join Salomon for the 2018-2020 seasons after a successful year in which she finished third in the overall sprint rankings and earned a victory on next year’s World Championships track.

Aisle Talk Week Of June 25

Top headlines from the active lifestyle industry you may have missed this week, including Adidas announcing a potential data security incident.

Dorel Sports Sells Sugoi And Sombrio To Louis Garneau Sports

Dorel Industries Inc. announced that the company’s Dorel Sports segment has sold the Sugoi and Sombrio brands to Louis Garneau Sports Inc., divesting the company’s performance apparel line of business to focus on the company’s core strategic businesses of bikes, parts and accessories and electric ride-ons.

Does The Online Tax Ruling Even The Playing Field?

Many brick-and-mortar retailers hailed the Supreme Court’s ruling late last week that finally gave states the authority to require online retailers to collect sales tax. But interviews with a number of independent specialty retailers show many in the industry still face uphill battles competing with online selling.

Clarus Finalizes New $150 Million Revolving Credit Facility

Clarus Corporation, the parent of Black Diamond, Sierra and Pieps, has signed a new $75 million credit facility agreement, plus an uncommitted accordion feature providing for an additional $75 million, for a total of up to $150 million with J.P. Morgan Chase Bank.

Camping World Announces Launch Of Gander RV Sales

Camping World Holdings Inc. announced plans to dramatically increase RV sales locations over the next 15 months through the launch of Gander RV Sales, new store openings and continued acquisitions. With 50 Gander Outdoors opened so far this year, 40 Gander RV Sales branded locations are projected to open by spring 2019.