SGB Update Outdoor
Recall: Vivi E-Bikes Lithium-ion Batteries Sold with Vivi E-Bikes
About 24,000 36-volt lithium-ion batteries used with Vivi E-bikes are being recalled because the batteries can overheat, posing fire and burn hazards. Vivi is aware of 14 reports of incidents of batteries overheating, including three reports of fires.
NRF’s Chief Economist Transitions to Senior Economic Advisor
The National Retail Federation announced on Thursday, July 17, that Jack Kleinhenz, NRF’s chief economist since 2010, is stepping down to serve in a new capacity as senior economic advisor. NRF Executive Director of Research Mark Mathews will become NRF’s new chief economist while continuing to lead the research team.
Canyon Appoints U.S. General Manager
Ben Coates was most recently the president and COO of Revel Bikes. As U.S. General Manager, Coates is expected to accelerate the rollout of the MyCanyon bike customization program.
Yamaha Marine’s Torqeedo Appoints Director of Sales
Mary Jo Reinhart will lead OEM and retail sales across North America for Torqueedo, overseeing key distributor relationships and core business operations for its low-voltage product line. Reinhart began her career at the company in 2011 as a customer service rep.
Turner’s Outdoorsman Appoints President
Rob Zubak brings 35 years of experience to the role. Most recently, he was the company’s chief operating officer. The hunting, Shooting and fishing retailer operates 38 stores across California and Arizona.
Rygr Taps Saks, Backbone and TNF Veteran as Company President
Hlidek replaces Brian Holcombe, who co-founded Rygr in 2016 and assumed the role of president in 2023. The company said Holcombe’s nine-year tenure helped shape the agency’s “strong foundation, culture and client portfolio.”
Winnebago Industries to Undergo Additional Iowa Layoffs
Winnebago Industries will lay off an additional 121 employees at its Iowa facilities in Charles City and Waverly. The RV manufacturer plans to consolidate those operations into its Forest City and Lake Mills facilities.
Survey: Potential Tariffs and Inflation Jump-Started BTS Shopping
“Consumers are being mindful of the potential impacts of tariffs and inflation on back-to-school items, and have turned to early shopping, discount stores and summer sales for savings on school essentials.” — Katherine Cullen, VP of Industry and Consumer Insights, National Retail Federation
Baja Llama Expands Indie Sales Representation Across U.S.
The apparel company has added independent reps in the Midwest, New England, South Central, Southeast, the Rockies, and Puerto Rico and the Caribbean.
Play it Again Parent Sees Modest Earnings Growth In Q2
Net income for the quarter reached $10.6 million, or $2.89 per share, compared to net income of $10.43 million, or $2.85, in the year-ago period. For the six months, net income was $20.6 million, or $5.60, compared to net income of $19.25 million, or $5.26, for the same period last year.
Journeys Parent Genesco, Inc. Signs Deal to License Wrangler Brand for Footwear
The agreement covers men’s, women’s and kids footwear, with the first collection expected to launch in fall 2026. The partnership aims to expand Wrangler’s presence in the footwear market while adding to Genesco’s portfolio of licensed brands.
EXEC: L.L.Bean CEO Stephen Smith Sets 2026 Transition Plan for Departure
Stephen Smith, the president and CEO of L.L.Bean, will leave the company in the spring of 2026, capping a decade of leadership at the iconic Maine-based outdoor brand. The L.L.Bean Board of Directors, led by Chairman Shawn Gorman, has initiated a search for his successor.
Cotopaxi Continues Senior Team Shuffle as Julie Menard Named VP of Sales
Menard was previously at Teva, a Deckers Brands brand, for over 14 years. Previously, she held sales roles at Earth Footwear and Rockport, following her start as a men’s shoe buyer at Nordstrom.
Berghaus Appoints VP of Brand Marketing
Adam Field will lead the global marketing team, reporting to Charlie Pym, the company’s senior global vice president. He starts in his new role at Berghaus in July.
Wiley X Expands U.S. Sales Coverage with New Rep Group Partnerships
Brandywine River Reps, Inc., Odle Sales and Praelia Group offer deep regional expertise and strong relationships that will help better serve Wilex X dealers and reach new audiences in the outdoor, tactical and law enforcement spaces.”
