Smartwool opened its first Canadian retail location in the mountain town of Banff, Alberta.
Category: Footwear

SFIA Topline Report: Casual Participation Up, Core Participation Down
Americans continue to engage in a wide range of physical activities but with less regularity than in previous years, according to the 2018 SFIA Topline Participation Report, released today. Casual participation is growing, while core participation is declining, according to the report.

JD Sports Looks To Take On Foot Locker In U.S. Market
In a shocker, JD Sports announced plans to enter the U.S. marketplace through the acquisition of the beleaguered sneaker chain Finish Line. Analysts said the merged retailer’s combined buying clout presents a new threat to Foot Locker.

Nike Again Ranks As Most Valuable Apparel Brand
Nike again led Brand Finance’s annual listing of the world’s most valuable apparel brands, although it lost some value since last year. Rounding out the top ten were H&M, Zara, Adidas, Hermes, Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Gucci, Uniqlo and Rolex.
The Conservation Alliance Contributes $800,000 In Grants To 21 Organizations
The Conservation Alliance sent grants totaling $800,000 to 21 organizations working to protect wild places throughout North America.
Gander Outdoors Prepares For Grand Opening In Greenfield, IN
The 45,000-square-foot store will be one of three Gander Outdoor retail locations in Indiana.
Nike Acquires Data Analytics Leader Zodiac
Nike Inc. announced it has acquired Zodiac Inc., a leading consumer data analytics firm based in New York City and Philadelphia, as it accelerates its Consumer Direct Offense strategy to serve consumers faster and more personally at scale.
VF Corp. Receives National Award From The U.S. Association Of Former Members Of Congress
The Corporate Statesmanship Award recognizes outstanding corporate leadership and citizenship, including companies that exemplify service and commitment to improving the lives of others.
3N2 Signs Philadelphia Phillies’ Aaron Nola
Philadelphia Phillies’ pitcher Aaron Nola signed an endorsement deal with baseball apparel and footwear company 3N2.
Yue Yuen’s 2017 Earnings Dip
Yue Yuen Industrial (Holdings) Limited reported earnings in the year were slightly down despite a 7.6 percent gain in sales.
Finish Line Sees Q4 EPS At Top End Of Guidance
The Finish Line Inc. pre-announced fourth quarter results that showed earnings coming in ahead of guidance while same-store sales arrived below guidance.

JD Sports Agrees To Acquire The Finish Line
The Finish Line, Inc. announced that it has entered into a merger agreement providing for JD Sports Fashion Plc (JD.L) to acquire 100 percent of the issued and outstanding Finish Line shares at a price of $13.50 per share in cash representing an aggregate deal value of approximately $558 million.

Aisle Talk, Week of March 19
Top headlines from the active lifestyle industry you may have missed this week.

Nike Eyes North American Comeback
Aided by a strong response to new launches such as Nike React and Airmax 270, continued momentum in online sales and early success in pushing for further differentiation at its retail partners, Nike Inc. said its North America business is poised to return to growth mode.
Brooks Announces Sponsorship Of Two Special Olympics Athletes
Brooks Running Company announced the sponsorship of two Special Olympics athletes, Andy Bryant and Colleen Bryant.