SGB Executive

Hydro Flask Growth Boosts Helen Of Troy’s Q1

Established and raised in the Western U.S., Hydro Flask has successfully migrated eastward and even to Europe, an expansion that has helped drive parent company Helen of Troy Ltd.’s solid growth in housewares.

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.

Softness In Firearms Sales Reflects Typical ‘Ebb And Flow’

Firearms sales are down halfway through the year, presenting another challenge for an industry that has dealt with bad publicity in the form of mass shootings, public protests and well-known retailers altering or stopping their gun sales.

Active-Lifestyle Stocks Bounce Back In First Half 

With the nine-year bull market facing some choppiness this year due to a number of macro challenges, many stocks in the athletic-lifestyle space stood out for their outsized performances. Big gainers included Canada Goose, Under Armour, Lululemon, Deckers Outdoor and Crox.

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.