9Round Kickboxing Fitness Names President

Drew Stauffacher was promoted from VP of Operations to president. He has worked for the franchise brand for 13 years. Shannon Hudson, founder and CEO of Striking Brands, the parent company, will shift his focus to overseeing the management of the company’s brand portfolio.

Reebok Appoints New Head of Basketball

Reebok has named Jide Osifeso, founder of the contemporary menswear label Hymne, as its new head of basketball. Reebok re-entered the basketball category following its acquisition by Authentic Brands Group in 2022.

EXEC: Analysts Offer Take on Skechers USA Going Private in $9.4 Billion Deal

Amid significant uncertainty in the marketplace caused by the President’s trade war, Skechers USA agreed to be acquired by private equity firm 3G Capital for $9.4 billion in a move that will end its 26-year run in the public markets. The sale announcement follows a decision by Skechers not to offer full-year guidance in April due to trade uncertainties with shoe companies highly exposed to President Trump’s tariffs.
 

Escalade’s Q1 Sales Slide 3 Percent

Escalade, Inc. reported improved earnings climbed 44.4 percent with a boost from improved gross margins. Sales were down 3.2 percent, although growth was achieved in archery, outdoor games, darting, and safety categories.

SGB Media Relaunches SGB Sports & Fitness Update Newsletter

The publishing company, which has focused on the active lifestyle market since 2003, is now delivering a weekly SGB Sports & Fitness Update email newsletter each Friday afternoon, except for holidays, to provide a focused view and weekly wrap of the top stories of the week for sports and fitness industry professionals heading into the weekend.