Ross Stores Announces Departure Of President And COO

Ross Stores Inc. announced that Michael O’Sullivan, the company’s president and chief operating officer since 2009, has resigned from the company and its Board of Directors effective immediately to accept a position with another company.

Under Armour Earns Upgrade On Improved Profit Outlook

Citigroup on Wednesday upgraded Under Armour on signs that its focus on profits is taking root and will pay off. The upgrade came a day after B. Riley reiterated its “Sell” rating on the stock as that firm’s annual brand survey found Under Armour losing ground to competitors.

James Gatto Settles Damages Claims

James Gatto, the former Adidas executive, agreed to pay $342,438 in restitution to Kansas, Louisville and N.C. State after being convicted on felony charges of wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud last October.

Bullish Report On Outdoor Apparel Sector

A new study from Stifel finds outdoor apparel consumers generally rate apparel and footwear brands in the outdoor category with high regard and place particular importance on versatility, comfort and style. The top four brands identified as primary outdoor apparel brands in an accompanying survey were Nike, Columbia, The North Face and Under Armour.

REI Sees Record 2018 Financial Results

REI reported sales reached a record $2.78 billion in 2018, growing 6 percent year-over-year. More than 1 million new members were added during the year, bringing the co-op’s total membership to more than 18 million. REI also announced a major expansion of its rentals and used gear program and launched a new national campaign promoting the outdoors.

Vans And Lululemon Gaining Ground With Teens

Piper Jaffray’s 37th semi-annual Taking Stock With Teens survey finds athletic brands overall remaining strong. Lululemon and Vans both achieved new survey highs. Among favorite footwear brands, Vans was the closest any brand has been to Nike in years.