SGB Update

GNC’s Chief Merchant Joins Barnes & Noble

Barnes & Noble Inc. announced that Timothy Mantel has been named chief merchandising officer. Mantel previously held the role of chief merchandising officer for GNC Corporation.

Varsity Brands Name Finalists In 2018 School Spirit Awards

The Varsity Brands School Spirit Awards, presented by Drillstack, has named finalists for its 2018 School Spirit Awards. With over $100,000 in award money up for grabs, winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on May 12th at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, FL.

Remington Outdoor Prepares To Enter Bankruptcy

Remington Outdoor Company is planning to complete a debt restructuring in bankruptcy proceedings. The plan calls provides for the reduction of approximately $700 million of Remington’s consolidated outstanding indebtedness and the contribution of $145 million of new capital into Remington’s operating subsidiaries.

Puma Operating Profits More Than Double In Q4

Puma reported fourth-quarter earnings slightly more than doubled with the help of strong sales growth combined with an improved gross profit margin. Puma also said it expects currency-adjusted net sales will increase by approximately 10 percent in 2018.

Starboard Delivers Letter To Newell CEO And Board Of Directors

In a letter to the board of Newell, Starboard Value LP said it plans to nominate three former Jarden executives (Ian G.H. Ashken, Martin E. Franklin and James E. Lillie) and a former long-time Newell Director (Domenico De Sole) to its slate of director candidates to oversee a turnaround of the company.

L.L. Bean Drops Unlimited Returns Policy

L.L. Bean has ended its lifetime-returns policy due to rampant abuse in recent years. The retailer has initiated a new one-year limit on returns.

U.S. Soccer Elects Carlos Cordeiro President

U.S. Soccer’s membership elected Carlos Cordeiro as U.S. Soccer’s 32nd President during the National Council Meeting at the Federation’s Annual General Meeting (AGM).

Frank A. Dassler To Retire From Adidas

According to Adidas, Frank A. Dassler retired at the end of January.  The grandson of Puma founder Rudolf Dassler, was most recently head of the Adidas legal department and will remain closely associated with the sports equipment company in retirement.