SGB Update

Amazon Eliminates Dozens of In-House Brands

Amazon pruned a wide range of private brands to exit weaker performers. The move is timed with the retailer facing antitrust scrutiny involving the expansion of its in-house labels.

TruFit Athletic Clubs Opens Second TN Location

TruFit said it is solidifying its presence in the Tennessee fitness industry with the opening of a Madison, TN location and will introduce two additional locations—a third in Donelson and the fourth in Murfreesboro—this year.

Blain’s Farm & Fleet Names New President

Blain’s Farm & Fleet, a family-owned company for 68 years, promoted Mark Hasting to president, the first time a non-family member has held the position, in addition to his chief commerce and operating officer role. Jane Blain Gilbertson, the owner of Blain’s Farm & Fleet and Blain Supply, Inc., will remain CEO.

Madewell Names President

J.Crew Group appointed Adrienne Lazarus as president of its Madewell brand, effective next month. Most recently, Lazarus was the co-CEO of CUUP, a direct-to-consumer intimates brand newly acquired by FullBeauty Brands.

Foundation Outdoor Group Adds to Brand Portfolio with Two Acquisitions

The company has acquired Mud Hole Custom Tackle, Inc. and American Tackle Company International, Inc. The company said the move positions the company as the “industry’s largest supplier of fishing rod components, supplies, equipment, and rod building instruction.”

La Sportiva Acquires Majority Stake in Meet Italia

La Sportiva reported it acquired a majority stake in the Veneto-based company Meet Italia, a manufacturer that produces Made in Italy mountain footwear and with a strategic partner that has been in place for over twenty years.

Planet Fitness Upgrades Two Locations

Planet Fitness reported it renovated its Reisterstown in Maryland, which originally opened in November 2011, and Planet Fitness Columbia in Tennessee, which originally opened in April 2013.

Bob’s Stores To Open Three Locations

Bob’s Stores plans to open a “flagship” store in Norwalk, CT, that will also carry merchandise from sister retailer Eastern Mountain Sports within the next few months. It’s also planning two other Connecticut stores in Hamden and Southington.