SGB Footwear

JD Sports Names Global Managing Director

JD Sports promoted Michael Armstrong, formerly group buying director, to the newly created role of global managing director. Armstrong is expected to “further drive the group’s growth” and “meet its ambition to become the leading global sports-fashion powerhouse.”

China’s Economic Growth Accelerates With Consumption Boost

According to China’s National Bureau of Statistics, China’s economy grew 4.5 percent in the first quarter. The accelerated growth marked the fastest pace in a year and relieved Nike, Adidas, VF Corp., and several industry-leading vendors with heavy exposure in the world’s second-largest economy.

Yue Yuen Enters India In Move To Diversify Footwear Manufacturing

Yue Yuen reported diversifying its footwear manufacturing capabilities by entering India to access labor and as it looks for access to manufacturing outside of China. Yue Yuen is China’s largest athletic and outdoor footwear manufacturer, serving some of the more iconic brands in the U.S. and European markets.

Nike Becomes Presenting Sponsor Of MLB’s RBI Program

Nike, Inc. announced a partnership with Major League Baseball as the presenting sponsor of the Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI) Program, the MLB’s youth initiative to provide baseball and softball playing opportunities for kids living in areas that are underserved.