SGB Update Apparel
Sierra to Open Store in Lynnwood, Washington
The outdoor-oriented banner owned by TJ Maxx and Marshall’s owner TJX is opening a store in Lynnwood, Washington, marking its fifth store in the state. The 22,000-square-foot store location is scheduled to open on May 9 next to a Big 5 Sporting Goods.
Australia’s White Room International Acquires The Critical Slide Society
White Room International, an Australian-based action sports company, has acquired Australian surf lifestyle brand The Critical Slide Society. White Room International also hired Ryan Warner, formerly at Knockaround Sunglasses and Rusty, as national sales manager, Americas.
Dick’s Sporting Goods to Close Store in Southwest Pennsylvania
Dick’s Sporting Goods plans to close its store at Beaver Valley Mall in Monaca, Pennsyvania, according to local reports. The store has been open since 2007.
Target to Open Six Stores in May
Target announced plans to open six new stores in Arizona, Missouri, New Jersey, and North Carolina this May, as part of its plan to open over 30 stores nationwide this year.
Collegiate Licensing Company Parent Acquired by TPG Private Equity Firm
Private equity firm TPG reached an agreement to acquire Learfield, the college sports multimedia rights agency and parent of Collegiate Licensing Company (CLC), reportedly for about $2 billion.
Study: Wide Majority of Americans Planning to Follow World Cup
A new study conducted by Performance Research, in partnership with Full Circle Research, found that 75 percent of Americans plan to follow the upcoming men’s FIFA World Cup in some capacity in 2026, with interest highest among younger, urban fans and families.
Clarks Launches Third-Party Brands on Online Marketplace
Clarks launched its first onilne marketplace, called “Brands now at Clarks,” featuring more than 100 third-party brands, including Adidas, Nike, Under Armour, and Mountain Warehouse.
Lululemon Sets E-Commerce Launch and Store Expansion Plan in Mexico
Lululemon Athletica, Inc. has launched an e-commerce channel in Mexico to complement the company’s plans to accelerate store openings in the country. Plans call for opening eight stores, bringing its store count in Mexico to over 30 by the close of 2026.
PGA Tour Superstore to Open in St. Petersburg, Florida
PGA Tour Superstore said the location will serve Pinellas and Hillsborough Counties, which have more than 40 courses, including popular public courses such as Mangrove Bay, Twin Brooks and Cypress Links.
Nike’s Debt Rating Outlook Reduced on Slow Turnaround
S&P Global Ratings lowered its debt ratings outlook on Nike Inc. due to the “longer than expected” turnaround and continued tariff pressures. S&P said, “While we expect tariff pressures to abate in the coming year, profitability will likely continue to erode for at least two more quarters.”
Asics Joins a Plethora of Active Lifestyle Brands on Boston’s Newbury Street
The athletic footwear and lifestyle brand is joining over a dozen other active lifestyle brands and retailer’s on Boston’s iconic Newbury Street, which is akin to landing on London’s High Street. The move comes in advance of Boston Marathon weekend.
Walmart Plans 650 U.S. Remodels In 2026, Adding 20 New Stores
The remodels will feature wider aisles, updated displays, expanded assortments, and new digital touchpoints. The stores will also feature refreshed interiors and exteriors, modern signage, and improved parking and landscaping.
New Balance Promotes Tracy Knauer to SVP, North America
Knauer most recently served as VP of North America marketing, e-commerce and consumer analytics. Knauer has been with New Balance for over 20 years in roles spanning across marketing, product, sales and DTC operations.
Argyle Haus of Apparel Appoints VP of Operations
Argyle Haus of Apparel, a full-service cut-and-sew manufacturer based in Los Angeles, CA, hired Sheila Martinez as VP of Operations.
Patagonia Appoints Director of Marketing and Impact for EMEA
Patagonia appointed Amanda Calder-Mclaren, formerly at The North Face, as its new senior director of marketing and impact for Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) to bring together Patagonia’s marketing and impact work.
