SGB Executive

New research by Accenture suggests that the pandemic has intensified interest in “conscious consumption” — defined as those who seriously consider the environmental and societal impacts of their shopping choices. Sixty-nine percent of consumers believe brands should do more to make it easier to consume more consciously.

Brevard, NC’s SylvanSport, a manufacturer of camping trailers and affiliated gear, helped pioneer the “RVing meets adventure camping” category, a niche that has boomed during the pandemic. SGB Executive spoke with its CEO and founder, Tom Dempsey for his thoughts behind the RV sales boom and what lies ahead for the brand.

The Top National stories and the Latest headlines across the Active Lifestyle Market for the week of April 19, 2021 covered in the SGB Updates and delivered to your inbox every business day.

Skechers USA’s first-quarter earnings topped Wall Street’s target on robust international gains, driven by China. Domestic wholesale sales were down slightly due to logistics challenges but Skechers’ officials said demand for its comfort footwear remains strong. They also expect to gain market share as Nike streamlines its wholesale account base.

Active Brands’ recent hiring of former Nike executive Christophe Merkel ushers in a new era for the Norwegian, multi-brand, outdoor company. SGB Executive caught up with Merkel for his take on the company’s future plans, making the jump from Nike, Active Brands sustainability initiatives, and upcoming product initiatives.

SGB Executive collected the latest consumer research into Generation Z, including insights into their online loyalty, gaming habits, environmental concerns, and online and offline shopping behavior.

Nike’s shares are trading lower on Tuesday after Citigroup reduced its rating and price target amid growing consumer boycotts in China.

McKinsey & Co.’s “Future of Wellness” survey found that 79 percent of worldwide consumers said they believe that wellness is important, and 42 percent consider it a top priority. In fact, consumers in every market showed a substantial increase in the prioritization of wellness over the past two to three years.

Shares of Peloton Interactive were down about 9 percent in mid-day trading Monday after the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in an unusual move warned people to stop using the company’s Tread+ “immediately” if they have children or pets in the home, citing 39 incidents including one death.  Peloton called the warning “inaccurate and misleading” but some analysts felt the heightened safety concerns could slow subscriber growth.

At the JP Morgan Retail Round-Up, Academy Sports’ officials said strong sales momentum continues for many pandemic-boosted categories but they also spent time elaborating on the chain’s efforts to strengthen partnerships with Nike, The North Face, Adidas and other key brands.

The Top National stories and the Latest headlines across the Active Lifestyle Market for the week of April 12, 2021 covered in the SGB Updates and delivered to your inbox every business day.

REI Co-op logged a net loss of $34.5 million in 2020 and sales on a Proforma basis were down 8 percent. However, the retailer was able to exceed its pandemic-adjusted targets and finish the year in a strong financial position, said Kelley Hall, REI SVP and CFO, in an interview with SGB Executive. Sales have also seen a resurgence since the initial pandemic-driven store closures and momentum has continued into 2021.

JD Sports Fashion, Britain’s biggest sportswear retailer, predicted profits would rebound more strongly than expected in 2021 as stores reopen after lockdown and its aggressive expansion in the U.S. shows early signs of paying off.

Studies continue to predict the pandemic will likely change behaviors in the years ahead, including an expected greater focus on physical and mental health. A notable weight gain was seen by most Americans as well as continued stress also points to opportunities for brands supporting active lifestyles.

SGB Executive spoke with G-form CEO Glen “Gava” Giovanucci for more on its foray from outdoor sports into the armed forces.