RECALL: Field & Stream Safety Ropes

About 63,000 Field & Stream safety ropes are being recalled by Dick’s Sporting Goods. According to a release from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, the ropes can fail when used in freezing conditions, posing fall and injury hazards.

Hunter Boots CEO Exits Amid Strategic Review

Hunter Boots announced that CEO Vincent Wauters will step down “by mutual agreement” at the end of July to pursue new opportunities. His exit comes as Hunter begins a strategic review. Wauters joined Hunter in 2016 from Arc’teryx, where he was president.

Safilo’s Debt Rating Downgraded

Moody’s Investors Service lowered its debt rating on the Italian eyeglass manufacturer Safilo S.p.A. due to the prolonged lockdown measures in most European and American countries and its impact on sales, distribution and manufacturing.

Christy Sports Donates $165,000 For COVID-19 Relief

Christy Sports LLC, one of the largest ski retailers in the U.S., announced over $165,000 in donations for COVID-19 Relief. The company focused on contributions in Colorado, Utah, Washington, and New Mexico to support communities where they operate.

Merrell Appoints Chief Marketing Officer

Merrell, a division of Wolverine World Wide, Inc., announced the appointment of Janice Tennant to the position of chief marketing officer, reporting directly to Merrell’s global brand president, Chris Hufnagel. She was formerly chief marketing officer for Cat Footwear.

Vail Resorts CEO To Donate $11.7 Million

Vail Resorts, Inc. announced that Chairman and CEO Rob Katz has exercised stock appreciation rights (SARs), that were set to expire in 2021, and will be making a charitable donation of 100 percent of the proceeds received. Katz plans to make immediate grants to support COVID-19 efforts, racial justice reform and programs for urban youth.

Backcountry Announces Executive Leadership Changes

Backcountry, the online outdoor retailer, named Melanie Cox, formerly interim CEO at rue21, as its chief executive officer. Jonathan Nielsen, Backcountry’s CEO since March 2016, is departing. Additionally, Sarah Crockett, formerly at Burton, has been appointed chief marketing officer.

Jack Wolfskin’s CEO To Exit

Melody Harris-Jensbach, CEO of Jack Wolfskin, will depart. In a statement, the outerwear brand’s parent, Callaway Golf said an agreement had been reached more than a year ago that Harris-Jensbach would leave as soon as Jack Wolfskin’s integration into the Callaway Group was completed.

Gearlab Adds Canadian Sales Rep

Gearlab Outdoors has added new sales representation in Canada, expanding their global footprint in the paddle and watersports markets. Stepping into the Canadian sales role is Michael Gilbert who is the founder of B.C. Kayak Centre and life-long kayaking instructor and enthusiast.

Wigwam Mills Reopens Factory With New Generation At The Helm

Wigwam Mills Inc. has reopened its factory as Wisconsin’s stay-at-home restrictions have been eased by Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers. In addition, the Wigwam Board of Directors announced that leadership of the 115-year old brand has shifted to the fourth-generation siblings Chris Chesebro and Margaret Newhard.

Sportsman’s Warehouse Q1 Revenues Soar 41.8 Percent

Sportsman’s Warehouse Holdings Inc.’s revenues jumped 41.8 percent in the first quarter due to surging demand for firearms and ammunition. Said Jon Barker, CEO, in a statement, “We introduced many new customers to the Sportsman’s Warehouse brand during the first quarter and we believe this bodes well for our long-term growth.”