SGB Update Footwear

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.

La Sportiva Acquires Majority Stake in Meet Italia

La Sportiva reported it acquired a majority stake in the Veneto-based company Meet Italia, a manufacturer that produces Made in Italy mountain footwear and with a strategic partner that has been in place for over twenty years.

Bob’s Stores To Open Three Locations

Bob’s Stores plans to open a “flagship” store in Norwalk, CT, that will also carry merchandise from sister retailer Eastern Mountain Sports within the next few months. It’s also planning two other Connecticut stores in Hamden and Southington.    

NRF Economist Sees Consumer Spending Growth Slowing

U.S. consumers are still buying more than last year, but spending growth has slowed as the economy settles down amid higher interest rates intended to reduce inflation, National Retail Federation Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz said Thursday.

Dillard’s Sees Decline in Q2 Profits as Comp Decline 3 Percent

Dillard’s, Inc.’s earnings declined 19.5 percent in the second quarter as same-store sales decreased 3 percent. Dillard’s CEO William T. Dillard, II, stated, “The cautious consumer we noted in the first quarter continued in the first few weeks of the second, leading to a sales decline of 3 percent.”

SportChek’s Sales Flattish in Second Quarter

Canadian Tire Corporation, Ltd. reported SportChek’s comparable sales were up 0.1 percent in the second quarter ended July 1. Team sports and lifestyle footwear grew, while athletic clothing and outerwear were down. Canadian Tire’s overall comps were up 0.1 percent.