SGB Update Outdoor
Grassroots Sees a Mostly Positive Outlook at Connect; Inventory Still a Worry
Grassroots Outdoor Alliance (GOA) reported that specialty retail has had a strong year-to-date for 2023 as more than half of Grassroots retailers met or exceeded 2022 growth.
KOA Reports Double-Digit Registration Growth for Fourth of July
The 2023 Fourth of July holiday results across Kampgrounds of America, Inc.’s (KOA) campgrounds showed an increase in registration revenue of more than 12 percent over the prior year’s record results.
Suunto is Latest Brand to Drop Prices on Key Models
In a move to make its products more affordable to consumers, Suunto dropped prices on various watch models, effective July 10. Discounts are being offered up to 33 percent on key products.
Bote Opens Flagship in Austin, TX
Bote opened its latest retail store in Austin, TX. The new 3,400-square-foot space showcases the brand’s line of paddleboards, kayaks, docks, floats, and accessories and includes a communal space for events and paddle demos.
Academy Sports + Outdoors Appoints New CFO in Role Transition
Academy Sports + Outdoors Inc. promoted Carl Ford to executive vice president and chief financial officer, effective July 12. He succeeds Michael Mullican who recently transitioned to president.
Rad Power Bikes To Shutter European Operations
Seattle-based Rad Power Bikes reported it will close its EU operations in 2023 to refocus on the North American market. The company has been selling its bikes in Europe since 2018.
Study: June Mall Index Finds Mall Visits on the Rise Again in the U.S.
After four straight months of year-over-year visit declines, indoor malls, open-air lifestyle centers and outlet malls saw YoY visits rebound significantly in June 2023.
3T Adds New Sales Rep for Australia
Italian gravel and road bike brand 3T hired industry veteran Julian Green as a sales rep covering Australia. Green is responsible for building and supporting the company’s dealer network, driving sales and expanding its regional market presence.
Dick’s SG Tops Active Lifestyle Chains on 2023 NRF Top 100 Retailers List
Dick’s Sporting Goods, once again, is the largest U.S. retailer with prominent active lifestyle offerings on the National Retail Federation’s annual list of the Top 100 Retailers. Among active lifestyle chains, Dick’s was followed in the top five by Bass Pro, Camping World, Academy Sports, and Foot Locker.
Camping World Opens Jayco Exclusive Dealership in Oklahoma
Camping World Holdings, Inc. opened another manufacturer-exclusive location in Jayco, Oklahoma City, OK.
Bluebird Backcountry Ski Area Shutters Operations After Three-Year Run
Bluebird Backcountry, which describes itself as a “human-powered ski area,” has apparently run out of human power and is permanently closing.
Vista Outdoor Names President for Simms Fishing Products
Vista Outdoor, Inc. named Jordan Judd as president of Simms Fishing Products, effective August 1. He joins Simms from Salomon North America, where he was president and general manager since early 2020.
U.S. Ski Mountaineering Association Names Executive Director
The U.S. Ski Mountaineering Association (USSMA or USA Skimo) named Anthony Armstrong to the newly-created executive director position, responsible for leading the association and as it prepares for the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Arc’Teryx Opens First Store in Sydney
Arc’teryx opened its first store in Sydney, Australia, at the Westfield Bondi Junction shopping center.
June UK Indoor Retail Foot Traffic Down as Weather Pushes Shoppers Outside
The British Retail Consortium reported that June retail foot traffic (footfall) was down versus the comp period last year as the hot weather meant that people opted to enjoy the outdoors rather than spend time shopping inside.
