SGB Update Apparel

Umbro To Sponsor Soccer Shots
Umbro has signed a multi-year deal to be the official apparel partner for Soccer Shots, an international franchise program that provides children ages two through eight with an age-appropriate soccer and character development experience.
Kathmandu Announces North American Sales Teams
Kathmandu, the New Zealand travel and adventure brand, announced new sales representation in the Pacific Northwest, Rockies, and Southwest by The Alta Group, Urban Outdoors, and Pacific Crest Trading accordingly.
Tariff Hike Postponed
On Sunday, President Donald Trump delayed the March 1 deadline to increase tariffs on Chinese goods, citing “substantial progress” during a week of trade talks in Washington, D.C. between U.S. and Chinese officials.
QuintSoul Hires West Coast Sales Manager
Quintsoul, the swimwear brand, has appointed Maria Barnes as west coast sales manager.

MLB Players Association Releases Statement Supporting New Era Workers
The MLB Players Association (MLBPA) issued a statement on Thursday in support of workers at the soon-to-be-closed New Era plant in Derby, NY. New Era earlier this month reached an agreement with plant workers on comprehensive severance benefits ahead of the plant’s scheduled closure in March.
Fitch Downgrades Newell Brands To Junk Status
Fitch Ratings downgraded Newell Brands Inc.’s long-term issuer default rating to BB-plus from BBB-minus, lowering it to speculative-grade, or “junk” status, from investment grade.
Arc’teryx’s Sales Grew 11 percent In 2018
Amer Sports issued its annual report review for 2018 that showed Arc’teryx’s sales grew 11 percent last year to drive growth across Softgoods, a strategic growth priority for the company.
Under Armour CEO’s Relationship With MSNBC Anchor Draws Scrutiny
The Wall Street Journal reported that Kevin Plank, Under Armour’s CEO, has been scrutinized by his board of directors for his personal relationship with MSNBC anchor Stephanie Ruhle and its impact on the company.
Lids Sports Group Acquisition Secures Financing
PNC Bank, N.A. announced the closing of a $140 million senior secured credit facility to support Maryland-based Ames Watson, LLC’s acquisition of Lids Sports Group (LSG). PNC Bank, N.A., served as administrative agent.
Under Armour Extends Partnership With Virginia Military Institute
Virginia Military Institute has extended its athletics apparel and footwear partnership with Under Armour. The agreement, which runs through 2022 with a two-year renewal option, continues the partnership that began in 2014.
Asics Appoints Director Of Run Specialty Sales
Asics North America appointed Kevin McHale as its new director of run specialty sales. In this role, McHale will manage the run specialty business. Asics also said it is unveiling a newly created Technical Representatives Program to provide rep coverage across the country.
Report: U.S. And China Trade Talks Making Significant Progress
The U.S. and China have made the most significant progress to date in their trade talks, outlining commitments in areas such as intellectual property rights, services, currency and agriculture barriers to trade, Reuters reported.
Point 3 Secures Investment From Baron Davis
Baron Davis, the former NBA star, recently made an investment in Point 3 Basketball, the specialist in basketball uniforms and socks, and has become its creative director.
Gildan Activewear’s Profits Jump In Q4
Gildan Activewear reported adjusted earnings rose 31.5 percent in the fourth quarter. Revenues jumped 13.6 percent, led by a 22.3 percent increase in activewear sales.
PVH To Acquire Australian Partner
PVH Corp. has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Gazal Corporation Limited, its long term partner in Australia.