
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.
June Retail Jobs Increase But Trade War Could Turn Confidence
Retail industry employment in June increased by 50,200 jobs unadjusted over the same time last year despite a seasonally adjusted drop from May of 25,800, the National Retail Federation said Friday. The numbers exclude automobile dealers, gasoline stations and restaurants. Overall, U.S. businesses added 213,000 jobs over May, the Labor Department said.
Judge Sides With L.L.Bean In Return Policy Challenge
A federal judge has rejected an Illinois customer’s lawsuit challenging L.L.Bean’s new policy that put limits on its famous lifetime guarantee.
Puma Reorganizes Global Communications
Corporate communications, brand and product PR as well as employer branding will be brought together and headed up by Kerstin Neuber in her new position as senior head of communications, a newly created role.

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.

Adidas Confirmed App To Shut Down
Three years after its launch, Adidas’ Confirmed App will be phased out. The sneaker reservation process will be incorporated into the official Adidas app.
Smartwool Announces New European Sales Agency
Smartwool on Thursday announced the company’s new European sales agency, Elements, based in Benelux. The partnership is effective immediately. The new agency will help establish the brand’s position within the Benelux outdoor industry, while also helping the brand build a community of engaged consumers.
ABG Completes Acquisition Of Nine West And Bandolino
Authentic Brands Group LLC (ABG) completed the acquisition of Nine West and Bandolino from Nine West Holdings Inc. Through this purchase, ABG increases the company’s footwear and accessories business to over $2 billion in global retail sales.
ISA TanTec To Set Up Second Tannery In Vietnam
ISA TanTec is setting up a second tannery in Vietnam following increased leather demand from the company’s customers.
Canadian Tire Completes Private Placement Offering
Canadian Tire Corporation Limited has closed a private placement offering of C$650 million (U.S.$495 mm) aggregate principal amount of unsecured medium term notes.

Rockport To Seek Approval Of Sale To Charlesbank
The Rockport Group LLC, which filed for bankruptcy on May 14, announced that, after completing a court-approved marketing process, the company intends to complete the previously announced asset purchase agreement with CB Marathon Opco LLC, an affiliate of Charlesbank Capital Partners.
Gander Outdoors Prepares for Grand Opening In Jackson, TN
The 65,000-square-foot location is the only planned facility in the state.
Boot Barn Acquires Two-Store Boot Chain In Tulsa
Boot Barn Holdings Inc. acquired certain assets of Drysdales Inc., a retailer with two stores in Tulsa, OK.