SGB Update Outdoor

Helen of Troy Completes Acquisition Of Osprey Packs

Helen of Troy Limited announced the successful completion of its previously announced acquisition of Osprey Packs, Inc, for $414.7 million in cash, which includes the impact of a $5.3 million favorable customary closing net working capital adjustment.

Amazon To Sponsor Thrive Outside Community Initiative

Outdoor Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Outdoor Industry Association (OIA), announced a new sponsorship by Amazon to fund the expansion of its Thrive Outside Community Initiative. Amazon joins L.L. Bean, Patagonia, REI, Thule, VF Corporation, Winnebago Industries, Wolverine Worldwide, and Yeti as a partner in the initiative.

Lazydays Holdings Announces Leadership Transition

Lazydays Holdings Inc., which specializes in sales and service of recreational vehicles, RV rentals, parts and accessories, announced that William P. Murnane is stepping down as chairman and CEO.

Wearable Technology Named Top Fitness Trend For 2022

With more people turning to their smartwatch or fitness tracker to monitor exercise and sleep quality, it’s not surprising that 4,500 health and fitness pros surveyed by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) identified wearable tech as the new top trend in fitness for 2022. Rounding out the top-five were home exercise gyms, outdoor activities, strength training with free weights and exercise for weight loss.

REI Expands Technology Leadership Team

REI Co-op announced it has expanded its technology leadership team with two new vice presidents. Analyn Nouri was hired as vice president of platform engineering and the retailer promoted 15-year employee Todd Wilson to vice president of product engineering.

Climashield Sold To PE Firm

Crown Capital Investments (CCI), an Atlanta-based private equity investment firm, has acquired Climashield to its manufacturing portfolio of companies.

Selfridges Sold To Thai-Austrian Alliance

British luxury department store chain Selfridges is being sold to a Thai retailer and an Austrian property firm. The deal for the majority of Selfridges Group is worth around £4bn ($5.4bn).

Mastercard: U.S. Holiday Sales Grew 8.5 percent

According to Mastercard SpendingPulse, holiday retail sales, excluding automotive, increased 8.5 percent year-over-year this holiday season, running from November 1 through December 24. Notably, online sales grew 11.0 percent compared to the same period last year, its preliminary insights show.

Escalade Appoints CEO And President

The Board of Directors of Escalade Inc. announced the appointment of Walter P. Glazer, Jr. as CEO and president effective January 1, 2022. Glazer has been serving as interim CEO and president.