SGB Update Outdoor

REI Increases Investment In Run Category

REI is piloting new store layouts and deepening staff training to support its running departments as part of a bigger investment in the running category.

March Retail Sales Grew Despite Higher Inflation

Retail sales grew in March even as inflation edged higher, the National Retail Federation said. The U.S. Census Bureau said overall retail sales in March were up 0.5 percent seasonally adjusted from February and up 6.9 percent year over year.

Hammerhead Promotes Vice President Of Product

Hammerhead, the Karoo 2 cycling computer maker, promoted Jessica Braun to vice president of product. In her new role, she will lead its software and hardware teams.

TALO Announces New Executive Director

The Board of Directors of TALO Distributors, Inc. announced it hired Kane Cannedy as executive director of TALO. Cannedy was, most recently, vice president of purchasing at Davidson’s.

Thule Opens Second North American Brand Store

Thule officially opened its first Canadian brand store in West Vancouver, BC. Thule Store Vancouver is the second North American brand store opened by Thule in the last six months, with Thule Store Denver opening in June 2021.

Norma Precision Ammo Relocates To Georgia

Governor Brian P. Kemp announced that Norma Precision Ammunition, a subsidiary of the leading European ammunition manufacturer RUAG Ammotec, has established its U.S. headquarters, manufacturing site, and warehousing and distribution operations in Chatham County.

Hibbett Expands, Amends Credit Line

According to a regulatory filing, Hibbett, Inc. modified its unsecured credit agreement with Regions Bank that expires July 9, 2026, to expand the limit to $125 million from $100 million. All covenants remain unchanged.

Walmart Names PayPal’s Finance Chief As CFO

Walmart, Inc. appointed John Rainey, former head of finance at PayPal, as CFO, effective June 6. He replaces Brett Biggs, who announced his exit from the retailer last year.

REI’s Sales Surge 36 Percent In 2021

REI Co-op released its 2021 financials and annual impact report, ending the year with $3.7 billion in sales, an increase of 36 percent compared to 2020.

Firearms Industry Economic Impact Rises 269 Percent Since 2008

The total economic impact of the firearm and ammunition industry in the United States increased from $19.1 billion in 2008 to $70.52 billion in 2021, a 269 percent increase, while the total number of full-time equivalent jobs rose from approximately 166,000 to over 375,819, a 126 percent increase in that period, according to a report released by the NSSF.

T&C Surf Names New President

Craig Sugihara, founder and owner of T&C Surf Designs, appointed his son Ryan Sugihara president.