DSW’s Q2 Earnings Blow Past Estimates

DSW Inc. significantly raised its guidance for the year after reporting second-quarter results that came in well above Wall Street’s targets. Chief executive officer, Roger Rawlins stated, “We are thrilled to report record sales and earnings results this quarter as our merchandise strategy and marketing investment fueled strong customer engagement, traffic and transaction activity, resulting in a 10 percent comp.”

Bruce Fendell Memorial Scholarship Supports Two Scholars

The Two Ten Footwear Foundation, the national charitable foundation of America’s footwear industry, said the Bruce Fendell Memorial Scholarship will be supporting two new scholars, Mariah Dorn and Michelle Verastegui, in their educational pursuits.

REI To Hold Instagram Contest Around HBO’s Camping Series

REI Co-op partnered with HBO to launch a nationwide Instagram contest, #CampingHBOContest, to celebrate the release of HBO’s new, original comedy series Camping, starring Jennifer Garner. Advance screening parties at will be held at three REI flagship stores across the country.

Moosejaw Brings Premium Outdoor To Walmart.com

In an interview with SGB Executive, Eoin Comerford, general manager of Outdoor, Walmart U.S. e-commerce and CEO of Moosejaw, said Wal-Mart’s “whole strategy” in acquiring several specialty e-tailers was to bring a “wider assortment” to the Walmart.com platform. A curated website distinct from the Moosejaw.com website was eventually seen as the best path for both businesses.

SIMA Appoints New Board President And Vice President

Kelly Gibson is stepping down as CEO of Rip Curl position to pursue new opportunities and is therefore also stepping down as SIMA president. SIMA’s board of directors appointed Shannan North of Billabong to fill the vacated president position. 

Stage Stores Widens Q2 Loss

Stage Stores Inc. reported that for the second quarter, comparable sales decreased 0.2 percent. Loss before income tax was $16.8 million compared to a loss before income tax of $9.6 million in the second quarter 2017, driven by investments in the growth of the off-price business, additional supply chain costs, and increased promotional markdowns.

Ross Stores Lifts Store-Growth Targets

Ross Stores reported net earnings in the second quarter rose 22.7 percent as same-store sales grew 5 precent.  The off-pricer also increased its long-term store growth potential.

The Buckle’s Earnings Climb

The Buckle Inc. reported net income improved 36.5 percent to $15.7 million, or 32 cents per share, compared with $11.5 million, or 24 cents, for the second quarter of fiscal 2017.

Sneaker Week 2018 Hosted First-Ever Consumer Summit

Organizers of Sneaker Week 2018, which will take place August 26 – September 1, announced the first-ever Consumer Summit, wherein executives of major footwear brands and organizations will have an open dialog with sneaker “super-consumers” to help shape the future of the brands going forward.