SGB Update Outdoor

Ottolock Forms U.S. Distribution Partnership with BTI

The new U.S. distribution partnership with with Bicycle Technologies International comes as Ottolock recently added new products to its mobile security offering to pair with its original cinch lock.

Cox Enterprises Acquires Loop Tackle

Loop Tackle owns and manages Atlantic salmon rivers and invests in conservation, science and education. Cox Enterprises acquisition is expected to better position Loop Tackle, in business for over 40 years, to expand its offerings of sustainable products.

Pajar Canada Acquires Cougar Shoes

Cougar Shoes Co-owner and President Steve Sedlbauer said that the company has experienced financial struggles in recent years due to disruption caused by the pandemic and milder winters in key regions.

REI Co-op Plans Lower Volume of Store Openings for 2025

REI Co-op plans to open six locations in 2025, with three new stores in California, as well as Amherst, NY; Durango, CO; and Lynnwood, WA. The openings mark a moderation in new store growth from the 10 stores scheduled to open in 2024.

Under Armour Retains Oberalp for Swiss Distribution

Since becoming its Italian distributor, Under Armour’s sales in Italy have expanded from €8 million to €50 million ($54 mm). Over the last years, the South Tyrolean group has been growing Under Armour’s business in the wholesale channel.

Baffin Appoints Lead Designer

Austin Sedlbauer, most recently, was the lead designer at Cougar Shoes. He joins Baffin, a subsidiary of Canada Goose Holdings, effective immediately.

SFIA Elects Rawlings’ Mike Zlaket as Board Chairman

Zlaket is the CEO and member of the Board of Directors for Rawlings Sporting Goods. As chairman of the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) Board of Directors, his one-year term begins effective immediately.

Bass Pro to Open Location in Corpus Christi

The announcement came during a news conference led by local Bass Pro officials and Corpus Christi Mayor Paulette Guajardo. The opening is planned for 2025 and will be the retailer’s 21st in the state.

Carbitex Closes Funding Round for Next Growth Phase

The company closed on a new funding round to restructure the company for international expansion. Longtime investors, including Executive Chairman Michael Marks, infused most of the capital into the company.

Academy Sports to Open Location in Meridian, MS

The new store will open on November 11, in time to make the Holiday shopping season. The 55,000-square-foot space at the Meridian Crossroads shopping center will be the retailer’s ninth store in Mississippi.