SGB Update Apparel

Raleigh’s Runologie Shutters

Runologie, the running store in Raleigh, NC, has closed its location after just over 10 years in operation. 

NRF Chief Economist to Transition to Senior Economic Advisor

The National Retail Federation announced that Jack Kleinhenz, NRF’s chief economist since 2010, is stepping down to serve in a new capacity as senior economic advisor. NRF Executive Director of Research Mark Mathews ill become NRF’s new chief economist while continuing to lead the research team.

Lululemon Opens First Store in Italy

Located at Vittorio Emanuele II 24/28, the store spans roughly 5,700 square feet across two floors and officially opens July 19. The store’s product line supports yoga, running, training, tennis, and golf.

June Retail Sales Top Expectations

Retail sales rose a better-than-expected 0.6 percent in June versus May, the Commerce Department reported, after two consecutive months of spending declines. June’s number topped the 0.2 percent gain economists projected in a FactSet poll. 

NRF’s Chief Economist Transitions to Senior Economic Advisor

The National Retail Federation announced on Thursday, July 17, that Jack Kleinhenz, NRF’s chief economist since 2010, is stepping down to serve in a new capacity as senior economic advisor. NRF Executive Director of Research Mark Mathews will become NRF’s new chief economist while continuing to lead the research team.

Nike’s Artificial Intelligence VP is Departing

Jason Loveland, Nike Inc’s VP of enterprise AI/ML engineering, is exiting his post as Nike confirmed layoffs in May at its technology division as part of a broader restructuring.

Saks Global Appoints CFO

Saks Global appointed Brandy Richardson, formerly at Tailored Brands and Neiman Marcus, as chief financial officer, effective August 18.

New Era to Open New York City Flagship

New Era is opening a flagship store this summer in New York City’s Soho district. The store will represent compamy’s only other flagship store, outside of its hometown of Buffalo, NY.

Next Level Apparel’s Debt Ratings Downgraded by Moody’s

Moody’s lowered the debt ratings of YS Garments LLC, doing business as Next Level Apparel due to refinance risk associated the Torrance, CA-based clothing company’s revolver due February 2026 and its term loan due August 2026.

Kohl’s Appoints JD Sports Exec as Chief Digital Officer

Arianne Parisi, most recently chief digital officer for JD Sports Fashion Plc, has been named the retailer’s chief digital officer. Starting on July 28, Parisi will join the company’s executive leadership team and report directly to Interim CEO Michael Bender.