SGB Update

Lubbock Christian Partners with New Balance and BSN Sports

Lubbock Christian University, located in Lubbock, TX, entered into a partnership and product supply agreement with New Balance through BSN Sports to be the official apparel and uniform provider for its athletics department.

Tennis Racquet Sales at Specialty Stores Slow to Start 2023

Unit sales of tennis racquets in specialty tennis stores dropped by 7 percent in the first quarter of 2023 compared to the same period a year ago, reported Sports Marketing Surveys USA (SMS). Despite this, the market remains strong compared to the pre-pandemic period.

Andrew Messick To Retire as CEO of The Ironman Group

Andrew Messick is retiring this year as president and CEO of The Ironman Group after 12 years with the company. Messick will remain a stakeholder and member of its Board of Directors following the recruitment and appointment of a new CEO.

Giant Loop Adventure Shop Opens in Bend

Hydration pack and apparel maker USWE Sports, based in Malmö, Sweden, is opening its first retail store in the U.S.—USWE Sports Giant Loop Adventure Shop. Giant Loop was acquired last year by USWE Sports, and the company’s warehouse is the U.S. headquarters for both brands.

Adams State University Extends Partners with Nike and BSN

Adams State University Athletics announced that it entered into a five-year partnership with Nike and BSN Sports. BSN Sports will be the official apparel and equipment provider while outfitting ASU student-athletes and coaches in Nike gear.

Report: Birkenstock Exploring IPO

L Catterton, a private equity firm backed by LVMH, is considering strategic options for Birkenstock, including an initial public offering, which could value the German sandal maker at more than $6 billion.