SGB Update Apparel

Mizuno’s Profits Slide In Half

Mizuno Corp. operating profits declined 9.5 percent in the first half ended September 30 as a slight improvement in gross margins couldn’t offset the drag from a 5.3 percent in sales. The Americas region returned to profitability.

Report: Adidas North America Hears Calls For Diversity

Employees at Adidas’ North American headquarters in Portland, OR are openly expressing frustration about the lack of opportunities for minorities, particularly African-Americans, at the firm, according to an article from Footwear News.

Mark Plaatjes Opens In Motion Running In Boulder, Colorado

Renowned physical therapist and co-founder of Boulder Running Company Mark Plaatjes announced the opening of In Motion Running, a new locally owned running specialty store that will integrate running shoes, apparel and accessories with a full-service physical therapy practice.

Iconix Stung By Sears Bankruptcy

Iconix Brand Group lowered its guidance for the year after taking a charge for the bankruptcy of Sears. Three of Iconix’s brands, Bongo,  Joe Boxer and Cannon, had direct-to-consumer agreements with Sears Holdings, the parent of Sears and Kmart.

Vineyard Vines Partners With The New England Patriots

Paying homage to their New England roots and love of football, Vineyard Vines will serve as the Official Style of the New England Patriots and their iconic home stadium, Gillette Stadium, with exclusive products available for purchase during the 2018 and 2019 seasons.

Sears To Close Another 40 Stores

Sears Holdings, which filed for bankruptcy last month, said Thursday that 11 Kmart locations and 29 Sears stores will close their doors in February 2019. The retailer is already in the process of closing about 188 stores.

Cheerleading Injuries On The Decline

USA Cheer shared news of a recently published medical research study demonstrating how cheerleading rules can effectively maximize the safety of its participating athletes.

Direct Alpine Seeking Brand Ambassadors

Direct Alpine, the technical outdoor brand based in the Czech Republic, is currently enlisting athlete ambassadors to represent the brand in the United States, in return for free gear and commissions for each sale made.

United By Blue Announces Series A Financing

United By Blue, the outdoor brand known for sustainable products that support ocean and waterway conservation, has raised a Series A financing round. The round was led by Emil Capital Partners with participation from CircleUp, Golda Darty, Connected VC, Patient Capital Collaborative, amongst others.

REI To Invest $1 Million In Thrive Outside Program

REI Co-op is investing $1 million in the Outdoor Foundation, the charitable arm of Outdoor Industry Association, to support the Thrive Outside program, designed to help young people’s social, emotional and academic development through the outdoors. REI joins VF Corp., Patagonia and Thule, which all made significant multi-year pledges during Outdoor Retailer Summer Market in July.