U.S. Consumer Confidence Drops for Third Consecutive Month
The Conference Board said its consumer confidence index fell to 102.6 in October from an upwardly revised 104.3 in September. Economists polled by Reuters had forecast the index slipping to 100.0 from the previously reported 103.0
EXEC: Fenix Outdoor Had a Great Q3 – Then September Arrived
The parent company of the Fjällräven, Royal Robbins, Hanwag and Tierra brands said Q3 started well, with “nice growth” in its Retail businesses; the Brands and Wholesale businesses had recovered and direct orders increased in the period. Then September’s heat hit.
Former Academy Sports CEO Joins Guitar Center as Chairman
Guitar Center Holdings, Inc. appointed Ken Hicks, executive chairman of Academy Sports and Outdoors and former CEO, as Board Chair. Guitar Center also named Gabriel Dalporto its new CEO and rehired Tim Martin as CFO.
Canadian Tire Exploring Alternatives for Financial Services Business
Canadian Tire Corp. said it bought back Scotiabank’s 20 percent stake in its financial services arm in a cash transaction valued at C$895 million ($647.14 mm) and is reviewing alternatives for its financial services arm. The moves were made in part to better support its loyalty program.
The Conservation Alliance Appoints Interim Executive Director
The Conservation Alliance appointed active outdoor industry veteran Joe Craig as interim executive director. He previously served on the Conservation Board of Directors from 2015 to 2022.
Newport Vessels Appoints New Head of Product Development
Newport Vessels, a clean electric technology brand in the boating and angling industry, hired Jason Kardas as head of product development. Kardas had previously worked for Hobie for over 23 years.
Acme Tackle Expands Portfolio with Moonshine Lures Acquisition
Acme Tackle Company, made by Hard and Soft Fishing and the makers of Acme, Kalin’s, Beaver Dam, Reef Runner, Uncle Josh, Atom and Bead, acquired Moonshine Lures, LLC of Perkins, MI.
Walmart Celebrates “Re-Grand Opening” of 117 Remodeled U.S. Stores
The re-grand opening project represents over a half a billion dollars in capital investments in local communities across 30 states.
Rugged Road Retains Outtech Sales Services
Rugged Road, makers of coolers and related accessories based in Aurora, OH, hired Outtech Sales Services to represent the brand nationwide.
Report: Decathlon Explores Sales of Minority Stake in China Business
Decathlon SA is working with advisors to explore the sale of a minority stake in its China business, sources told Bloomberg. The report indicated that the French retailer seeks a strategic partner to drive regional expansion.
Garmin Distributor for India Expands Category Representation
Under the new agreement, Amit India will add Garmin fitness, outdoor recreation and consumer automotive products to its existing lineup of Garmin marine products that it began distributing in 2017.
EXEC: Thule’s Profits Bounce Back in Third Quarter
Thule Group reported a strong recovery in earnings in the third quarter as sales rose 8.0 percent. Sales in the North American region decreased 15 percent on a currency-neutral basis.
EXEC: Columbia Sportswear Sees Rocky Road Ahead for Wholesale Business
The company is forecasting a low-double-digit percent decline in wholesale net sales in first half 2024. The company added that it expects the wholesale net sales decline will be partially offset by continued growth in the global DTC businesses.
Mystery Ranch Promotes Fleming to Marketing Director
Mystery Ranch promoted Michelle Fleming to marketing director. She has worked for the company since earlly 2021. Most recently, Fleming wasa the senior product marketing manager after two years as product marketing manager.
Newell Outdoor & Recreation Segment Declines Another 20 Percent in Q3
The parent company of Marmot, Ex Officio, Stearns, Bubba, Coleman, and Contigo. The Outdoor segment’s 20.1 percent sales decrease in the third quarter was the fifth consecutive quarter with a segment sales decline in excess of 20 percent.
