
Nike Plows Ahead With Air Manufacturing Innovation Facility In Arizona
Nike announced Thursday it is investing $184 million in its U.S. innovation footprint by opening a new Nike Air Manufacturing Innovation (Air MI) facility in Goodyear, AZ. The facility was at the center of some controversy last week when Arizona rescinded a $1 million incentive for Nike to build the plant in the state after the footwear giant canceled the launch of its new limited edition USA-themed sneaker.
B&T Signs Davidson’s For Distribution
B&T USA has announced a partnership with Davidson’s, one of the largest firearms distributors in the United States.
Rapala/VMC Becomes Minority Investor In 13 Fishing
DQC International Corp., manufacturer of the 13 Fishing brand of rods and reels, has brought on fishing tackle behemoth Rapala VMC as minority investor to reach a growing global market.
SRAM’s Debt Ratings Upgraded By S&P
Standard & Poors upgraded the debt ratings of Chicago-based bicycle parts manufacturer SRAM LLC due to better operating performance and a commitment to reducing debt.

The Buckle’s Comps Climb In June
The Buckle Inc. announced that comparable store net sales increased 6.2 percent for the 5-week period ended July 6.
Sportsman’s Warehouse To Roll Out New Visa Credit Card
Sportsman’s Warehouse recently signed an agreement with Alliance Data to offer an exclusive Visa credit card to customers starting in October.
Altra To Sponsor U.S. Spartan Trail Series
Spartan, which recently expanded its fitness footprint with a trail running series, announced a partnership with Altra, naming the top running brand the “Presenting Partner of Spartan Trail” and “Official Shoe of Spartan Trail.”
The Conservation Alliance Announces 2019 Outstanding Partnership Awards
Osprey Packs, Keen Footwear, Northwest Rafting Co., and Peak Design are the winners of The Conservation Alliance Outstanding Partnership Awards for 2019.
5.11 Tactical To Sponsor Spartan
5.11 Tactical announced its partnership with Spartan, the largest obstacle race and endurance brand in the world. 5.11 is the Official Tactical Gear Partner of the 2019 Spartan Honor Series.
North Castle Partners Invests In CR Fitness
North Castle Partners announced its new strategic partnership with CR Fitness, a leading franchisee group in the Crunch Fitness network in the Southeastern United States.
Ecoxgear Hires Strategic Rep Agencies
Ecoxgear, a maker of waterproof Bluetooth speakers and accessories based in San Diego, appointed a number of rep agencies to support its U.S. expansion.
Retailers Still Stocking Up Ahead Of Possible Tariffs, But More Slowly
Imports at the nation’s major retail container ports will remain at high levels this summer but are expected to grow only modestly compared with last year’s rush to bring merchandise into the country ahead of scheduled tariff increases, according to the monthly Global Port Tracker report released by the National Retail Federation.

Yue Yuen’s Sales Climb 4 Percent In June
Yue Yuen Industrial Ltd. reported sales rose 4.2 percent in June to $810.5 million from $777.3 million a year ago.

OIA’s Amy Roberts To Join The North Face
Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) announced that Executive Director Amy Roberts will leave the organization at the end of September to join The North Face as senior director, communications & corporate social responsibility. The OIA Board will begin the search for a new executive director immediately.

Acushnet Acquires KJUS
Acushnet Holdings Corp., the parent of Titleist and Footjoy, announced the acquisition of KJUS, a premium global ski and golf sportswear company.