USTA Launches USTA Connect
The U.S. Tennis Association (USTA) launched USTA Connect, an initiative to connect key members of the U.S. tennis industry to increase industry collaboration and provide insights and services.
Boot Barn’s COO To Retire
Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. reported that Gregory Hackman, executive vice president and chief operating officer, plans to retire in June. He will continue in his position until then and transition his responsibilities to other company executives.
Topgolf Callaway Brands Reports New Hires And Promotions
Topgolf Callaway Brands Corp., following its recent Q4 and FY 2022 earnings report, announced several executive promotions and new hires, reflecting “the increased scope and scale of responsibilities for these leaders to support the company’s long-term growth.”

Authentic Brands Group Makes Binding Offer To Acquire Boardriders
Authentic Brands Group reported it entered a period of exclusivity and made a binding offer to purchase Boardriders, the parent of Quiksilver, Billabong, Roxy, DC Shoes, RVCA, Element, VonZipper, and Honolua. Boardrider is owned and managed by Oaktree Capital Management, L.P. Terms were not disclosed.

Nike Faces Shareholder Proposal On Worker Conditions
In a shareholder proposal released Thursday, activist shareholder platform Tulipshare requested a report from Nike on whether its policies effectively address its stated equity goals and human rights commitments.
The Athlete’s Foot Hires Lead Merchandiser And Buyer
The Athlete’s Foot hired Beth Greenfield as its lead merchandiser and buyer. Greenfield has over 25 years of experience in retail, buying and merchandising, including having worked with Champion, Puma, Foot Locker, and Citi Trends.

Under Armour Names Steph Curry President of Curry Brand in Extended Partnership
Under Armour Inc. has extended and expanded its partnership with Golden State Warriors point guard and four-time NBA Champion Stephen Curry in a deal that extends beyond his retirement. As part of the new terms, Curry becomes president of the Curry Brand.
Allen Edmonds To Open Boston Store On Newbury Street
Allen Edmonds is opening a storefront in Boston on March 30 after three decades on Newbury Street. The Port Washington Studio, with re-craft and custom services, is located at 141A Newbury Street.
Gabriel Brothers Opens Largest Company DC In Ohio
Gabriel Brothers, Inc. announced the grand opening of its largest distribution center in Springfield, OH, with over 870,000 square feet.

Wolverine Rolling Sweaty Betty Into International Group; CEO to Depart
Wolverine World Wide, Inc. reported it intends to improve operating performance, fuel global growth and enable future investments into Sweaty Betty, the women’s activewear brand it acquired in August 2021.

NRF Forecasts Mid-Single-Digit Retail Sales Growth In 2023
The National Retail Federation issued its annual forecast today, anticipating that retail sales will grow between 4 percent and 6 percent in 2023. In total, NRF projects that retail sales will reach between $5.13 trillion and $5.23 trillion in 2023.
Dick’s SG To Open Store In Minnesota’s Rosedale Center
Dick’s Sporting Goods is opening an 80,000-square-foot store at Minnesota’s Rosedale Center. Poag Development Group, overseeing the construction of the store, formerly occupied by a Herberger, reported the news in a press release.
Adidas Retracts Opposition To BLM Trademark Application
Adidas AG, on Wednesday, reversed course 48 hours after asking the U.S. Trademark Office to reject a Black Lives Matter application for a trademark featuring three parallel stripes, according to Reuters.
Goldtoe Socks Launches Sock Recycling Program
Goldtoe Socks is rolling out a free sock recycling program in partnership with TerraCycle. The program will offer consumers an easy way to recycle used socks from any brand to manufacture new socks.

Macy’s To Transition Chairman And CEO Role
Macy’s, Inc. Chairman and CEO Jeff Gennette plans to retire in February 2024 after serving the company for 40 years.