SGB Executive Footwear
Does 2026 World Cup Present “Open Goal” For Adidas?
In a 26-page report, analysts at Macquarie Research said the 2026 World Cup, which is taking place in North America, represents a major opportunity for Adidas to increase the company’s lead in the sport of global football (soccer) and could significantly help narrow the company’s wide gap in U.S. market share against Nike.
Deutsche Bank Sees Momentum At Vans, Bounce Back For North Face
Deutsche Bank Research initiated coverage of VF Corp. with a “Buy” rating in part because the firm sees Vans continuing to benefit from healthy streetwear trends in the years ahead while The North Face appears ready to re-accelerate growth.
Jefferies Downgrades Genesco To Hold
Jefferies lowered its rating on Genesco Inc. to “hold” from “buy” due to expectations that Journeys’ sales will moderate in part due to expectations that Vans’ recently-robust gains will also show some moderation. The investment firm also cited risks around a Lids’ sale and the stock’s run up so far this year.
Adidas Files Objection To Rockport Bankruptcy Sale
Adidas and its subsidiary Reebok International LTD—the former parents of The Rockport Group LLC—have filed an objection to the forthcoming bankruptcy sale of Rockport due to outstanding debts stemming from the companies’ own sale of Rockport three years ago.
Retail Reports Roundup
Studies arrived last week showing Nike and Patagonia ranking high for their reputations, Lululemon earning accolades for the company’s work environment, Amazon’s Prime Day driving BTS selling earlier, rising expectations for same-day delivery for holiday, retail-tech challenges for smaller retailers and more.
SGB Exec Q&A: Locally’s Founder And President Mike Massey
In an interview with SGB, Mike Massey, Locally’s founder who is also the owner of Massey’s Outfitters in New Orleans, discussed the rapid expansion and evolution of Locally since its launch in 2014, as well as the fast-changing dynamics of online and offline retailing.
‘Battle Has Begun’: Global Trade War Now Underway
Trade associations called Friday the first official day of the trade war between the U.S. and China, as $34 billion in tariffs on Chinese goods kicked in overnight. The U.S. is expected to add tariffs on an additional $16 billion of Chinese goods at a later date.
Aisle Talk Week Of July 2
Top headlines from the active lifestyle industry you may have missed this week, including Pentland Group’s solid year driven by a record performance from JD Sports Fashion PLC.
Mizuno, Fleet Feet Again Team Up For Project Zero
For the second straight year, Mizuno USA Inc. and run specialty franchise Fleet Feet have teamed up on a running shoe collaboration whose goal is to raise funds for breast cancer research. Project Zero enters the company’s second year with hopes of beating last year’s contribution total.
June M&A Roundup: Megaresorts Expand Their Empires
Summer is an odd time to discuss what’s happening at North American ski areas—especially with record high temps now sweeping the U.S.—but the escalating “arms race” between megaresort operators Vail Resorts Inc. and Alterra Mountain Co. was among the hottest M&A developments in June.
Retail Report Roundup – July 1
Studies arrived last week showing Nike ranked highest among active lifestyle brands, but lost ground on Brand Finance’s annual ranking of the most valuable American brands. Studies also rated the digital expertise of department stores, the relevance of social activism for brands with teens, robust urban population growth and apparel’s expansion online.
Nike’s Shares Pop On U.S. Recovery
Shares of Nike Inc. shot up $8.00, or 11.2 percent, to $79.70 to surpass an all-time high as the sports leader saw growth for the first time in four quarters in the U.S. The gains were boosted by the success of several break-through product launches and the payback of investments in direct-to-consumer and digital engagement.
Nike CEO Mark Parker On Company’s Digital Progress
Nike Inc.’s impressive fourth quarter saw balanced growth across regions and divisions, but the company’s digital gains were especially notable. A jump in digital sales was the result of an increased emphasis on platforms and not just products, according to CEO Mark Parker.
Aisle Talk Week Of June 25
Top headlines from the active lifestyle industry you may have missed this week, including Adidas announcing a potential data security incident.
Does The Online Tax Ruling Even The Playing Field?
Many brick-and-mortar retailers hailed the Supreme Court’s ruling late last week that finally gave states the authority to require online retailers to collect sales tax. But interviews with a number of independent specialty retailers show many in the industry still face uphill battles competing with online selling.
