SGB Executive

Finish Line’s Profits Progress, Sales Retreat In Q4

While its sales recovery efforts took a step back, The Finish Line Inc. improved its underlying profitability in its fourth quarter ended March 3, thanks to inventory end expense controls. Results were in line with a forecast given three days ago when it surprisingly announced plans to merge with JD Sports, the U.K.-based footwear chain.

Sportsman’s Warehouse Hitting the Mark With Firearms Sales

Although Sportsman Warehouse Holdings Inc.’s fourth quarter’s net income was “impacted by an elevated promotional backdrop and a tax-reform-driven investment in our associates,” the company is poised to gain market share in firearms as its competitors scale back in that category, CEO Jon Barker told analysts Wednesday.

E-Commerce Bolsters Lululemon’s Q4 Earnings Surge

The Lululemon Athletica Inc. executives who handled the company’s first earnings call following last month’s resignation of CEO Laurent Potdevin didn’t focus on the leadership flux but instead on the chief drivers – e-commerce and site traffic conversion – that helped fuel a stellar fourth quarter.

Silver Lining in Continued Shift From Core to Casual Participation

Activity level trends saw a continued shift from core participation to casual participation across many sports last year, according SFIA’s 2017 Sports, Fitness and Leisure Activities Topline Report. On the surface, that is concerning, but there is a silver lining.

Oboz Looks To Secure Future With Kathmandu Partnership

In an interview with SGB Executive, John Connelly, president and founder of Oboz, said he expects the sale of the outdoor footwear brand to Kathmandu, the New Zealand-retailer, will support its international growth and provide a boost to its innovation and sustainability efforts.

JD Sports Looks To Take On Foot Locker In U.S. Market

In a shocker, JD Sports announced plans to enter the U.S. marketplace through the acquisition of the beleaguered sneaker chain Finish Line. Analysts said the merged retailer’s combined buying clout presents a new threat to Foot Locker.

Nike Eyes North American Comeback

Aided by a strong response to new launches such as Nike React and Airmax 270, continued momentum in online sales and early success in pushing for further differentiation at its retail partners, Nike Inc. said its North America business is poised to return to growth mode.

Outdoor, Footwear, Fashion & Retail Industries Vocalize Opposition to Tariffs

It’s not China that will be punished for stealing American intellectual property but instead U.S. companies and consumers that will feel the effects of President Trump’s move to impose $50 billion in retaliatory tariffs on Chinese imports. That was the message Thursday from numerous trade associations that represent industries whose products might be affected by Thursday’s decision to move forward with the new tariffs.

Dick’s Touts Growth Opportunities In Footwear And Apparel

Speaking last week at the Bank of America Merrill Lynch Consumer and Retail Technology Conference, Dick’s Sporting Goods’ officials elaborated on its exit from the fitness tracker category and challenges in firearms. But much of its presentation was spent discussing growth opportunities on the footwear and apparel side with brands including Nike, Adidas, Brooks and Patagonia as well as its numerous private labels.

Ibex’s New Owner Talks Up Merino Wool Brand’s Revival

On March 9, news arrived that Ibex, which ceased operations last November, had been sold to Flour Fund, a New York-based group led by David Hazan, a marketing expert. SGB Executive talked to Hazan about what’s next for Ibex.

Omnichannel Focus Fueling Duluth’s 2018 Ambitions

Bolstered by double-digit revenue growth in both the fourth quarter and fiscal year, Duluth Holdings Inc., parent of Duluth Trading Co., is doubling down on its omnichannel strategy of building its brick-and-mortar presence while also beefing up e-commerce capabilities.