Summer Trends Show Shifting Lifestyles, New Priorities

As families struggle with the rising cost of gasoline, the increased cost and inconvenience of summer travel and the much-publicized scare from the effects of BPA in some consumer products, there have also been big benefits this summer for categories and

Famous Footwear Sees Bright Spot in Athletics in Q2

Although Famous Footwear continues to see encouraging trends in athletics, soft consumer spending led to a decline in store traffic and increased promotional activity as the retail chain showed a 2.9% Q2 comp decline. Earnings came in well below those of

GSI Commerce Inks 15-year Contract with Dick’s

GSI Commerce Inc. and Dick's Sporting Goods have signed a new 15-year contract. Consistent with DKS' goal of having a seamless multi-channel operation, under the new agreement, the retailer will buy and own the sporting goods inventory sold onli

Versatility a Key Trend at ORSM

At the recently concluded Outdoor Retailer Summer Market show, the words “hybrid,” “crossover” and “versatile” have become a mantra for most exhibitors. As is the case in any troubled economy, people are making an effort to do more with less, and at ORSM

Jart Skateboards Opens U.S. Office

Jart Skateboards, hailing from the Basque region of Spain, has opened offices in Los Angeles, CA, as part of its entry into the U.S. The office will be used as a call and shipping center. Jart, which produces OEM decks for skateboard companies while selli

GSI Commerce Inks 15-year Contract with Dick’s

GSI Commerce Inc. and Dick's Sporting Goods Inc. have signed a new 15-year contract, extending their successful relationship. Consistent with Dick’s Sporting Goods’ goal to have a seamless multichannel operation, under the new agreement, Dick’s Sport

REI to Open Store in Tucson

Recreational Equipment, Inc. said it will open a new store at the Tucson Mall in the spring of 2009. The store will be the co-op's third in Arizona…

NFL Wins Anti-trust Suit Against American Needle

The National Football League has won a licensing suit against America Needle for a past deal to make Reebok International, Ltd. its exclusive headwear licensee. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 7th circuit affirmed a summary judgment ruling that the NFL

Pipeline Forms Licensing Agreement with Mikshag

PIPELINE International announced a new licensing agreement with Mikshag, Inc. to create an extensive line of apparel, swimwear and outerwear for young men and juniors. Mikshag will design, produce, and distribute PIPELINE branded product through sporting

Stride-Rite Reacquires PRO-Keds

Amidst its attempts to incorporate modern themes into some of its classic shoe styles, The Stride Rite Corp. has reacquired the rights to the PRO-Keds brand…

Bay Harbour to Acquire Steve and Barry’s

Bay Harbour Management LC plans to purchase out of bankruptcy the assets of Steve & Barry's for $168 million. The New York-based investment firm plans to keep open about 150 of the chain's 276 stores, according to the Bay Harbour managing princi

Eastern Mountain Sports Launches Website

Eastern Mountain Sports announced the launch of mntnLIFE.com, an outdoor community website where consumers can access free trail data, share tips about their favorite destinations, and plan same-day trips. Content for the website is driven by professional