Report: More Consumers Plan Camping Trip for Labor Day Weekend
The Kampgrounds of America, Inc. (KOA) Monthly Research Report, August 2023 Edition, finds that more campers intend to camp over Labor Day than compared to 2022, with roughly three-fourths of campers have already made plans for the holiday weekend.
EXEC: Walmart’s Robust Q2 Delivers Upbeat Signal for Retail’s Recovery
Walmart, Inc. lifted its outlook for the year after reporting second-quarter results that handily topped guidance due to strength in the grocery but also a better-than-expected performance in general merchandise. The strong results were a relief for the retail sector following sluggish sales reports from Target and Home Depot although Walmart’s CEO Doug McMillon told analysts household budgets remain under pressure.
U.S. Jobless Claims Fall As Economy Chugs Along
In the week ending August 12, the advance figure for seasonally-adjusted initial claims declined 11,000 to 239,000 from the previous week’s revised level. The previous week’s level was revised up by 2,000 from 248,000 to 250,000.
Costco Wholesale Corporation Elects New Board Director
Costco Wholesale Corp. elected Helena Buonanno Foulkes to its Board of Directors. Most recently, Foulkes was CEO of Hudson’s Bay Company.
Report: July Retail Sales Grew 3.2 Percent Year-Over-Year
The U.S. Census Bureau reported that overall retail sales in July were up 0.7 percent from June and up 3.2 percent year-over-year. That was double the increases seen in June.
EXEC: Analysts Offer Mixed Feedback on July Retail Sales Increase
Retail sales reversed their downward trend in July as Amazon Prime Day and major promotions prompted increased shopping while wage increases gave consumers more money to spend, but an increase in the July inflation numbers and a year-ago July decline could also be at the core of the increase, according to analysts.
Iron Valley Supply Hires New Merchandiser
Iron Valley Supply has hired Jacob Ring to serve as merchandiser. Most recently, he worked for Davidson’s as an account manager.
Walther Arms Appoints Director of Communications and Channel Marketing
Cody Osborn returned to Walther Arms as director of communications and channel marketing. The company said his appointment marked an exciting chapter for the company as it strengthens its marketing and communication efforts.
Blain’s Farm & Fleet Names New President
Blain’s Farm & Fleet, a family-owned company for 68 years, promoted Mark Hasting to president, the first time a non-family member has held the position, in addition to his chief commerce and operating officer role. Jane Blain Gilbertson, the owner of Blain’s Farm & Fleet and Blain Supply, Inc., will remain CEO.
Foundation Outdoor Group Adds to Brand Portfolio with Two Acquisitions
The company has acquired Mud Hole Custom Tackle, Inc. and American Tackle Company International, Inc. The company said the move positions the company as the “industry’s largest supplier of fishing rod components, supplies, equipment, and rod building instruction.”
Yue Yuen Sees Footwear Manufacturing Decline Accelerate in July
The Manufacturing business tallied a 23.9 percent decrease in July and a 20.0 percent decrease for the seven-month year-to-date period, an acceleration of the decrease posted in the first half reported through June.
Yue Yuen Footwear Manufacturing Sees Pairs Shipped Fall Nearly 24 Percent in First Half
First half revenue attributed to footwear manufacturing activity, including athletic/outdoor shoes, casual shoes and sports sandals, decreased by 18.1 percent to $2.38 billion, compared with the corresponding period of last year.
EXEC: Leatherman Tool Group’s CEO Talks 40 Years of Multi-Purpose Innovation
Ben Rivera joined Leatherman Tool Group after college graduation in 1983. He was appointed CEO in 2018. Rivera talked with SGB Executive about the company’s expansion across the multi-tool category, the reasons for its longevity and building a corporate culture of innovation.
Iron Valley Supply Promotes Wells to Senior Merchandiser/Business Analyst
Cary Wells joined Iron Valley Supply as a merchandiser in May 2022, where he played a key role in building its brand offerings and expanding and maintaining current lines.
Dead Air Silencers Names Accessory Product Manager
Dead Air Silencers named Chris Wiggins as the accessory product manager. He brings to the position 12 years of firearms industry experience.
