SGB Update Outdoor

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.

Survey: SMB Retailers Optimistic on In-Store Holiday Shopping

The 5th Annual State of Small Business Survey by Verizon Business revealed that 52 percent of small and medium-sized businesses and retailers are gearing up for an in-store holiday season, an increase of 13 points from 2023.

REI Sets Opening of First Kentucky Store

The store, located in the Paddock Shops in Louisville, KY, with a footprint of approximately 31,100 square feet, will open on November 8. It offers online pickup in-store and at curbside and employs 50 people.

Rural King Opens its First Store in Georgia

The store boasts a wide range of outdoor lifestyle and work brands, including Ariat, Browning, Carhartt, Columbia, Frogg Toggs, Henry Rifles, Huk Apparel, Keen Utility, Plano, Realtree, Remington, Under Armour, and Wolverine.