SGB Update

Sneaker Prices Reach Highest Levels This Decade

Average sneaker prices in March 2023 rose to record levels in the U.S. by 12.3 percent since 2020 but followed closely by deepening retail discounts, according to the USA Sneaker Market Index compiled by Centric Pricing*.

Authentic Brands Group Signs Agreement To Acquire Quicksilver, Billabong, DC Parent

After months of speculation in the active lifestyle market about a pending deal in the beach/skate lifestyle space, Authentic Brands Group reported it signed an agreement to purchase Boardriders, the parent of Quiksilver, Billabong, Roxy, DC Shoes, RVCA, Element, VonZipper, and Honolua. On March 31, Authentic said it entered a period of exclusivity and made a binding offer to purchase Boardriders.

CSGA Names New President And CEO

The Canadian Sporting Goods Association (CSGA) hired Bryan Loucks as president and chief executive officer, timed with the Association having completed improvements to its operational platform to increase membership value.

Wahoo Fitness’ Debt Ratings Lowered By Moody’s

Moody’s Investors Service downgraded the debt ratings of Wahoo Fitness to reflect Wahoo’s missed debt service payment due 31 March 2023 and the expiration of the applicable grace period. S&P lowered Wahoo’s debt ratings earlier this month.

Allbirds To Open First Store In Connecticut

Allbirds reported it plans to open its first store in Greenwich, CN, this May. The 3,000-square-foot space at 340 Greenwich Avenue will “amplify” the Allbirds customer experience.

What The Fin Apparel Builds Out Executive Team

What The Fin Apparel, a lifestyle surf brand headquartered in Greenville, SC, hired Marcella Franseen as director of operations and Dalton Coker as chief of staff while announcing two promotions.

Amazon To Charge Fee For Returns Made At UPS

According to a published report in The Information, Amazon will charge a fee for customer returns made at UPS stores if return options at Whole Foods, Kohl’s or Amazon Fresh locations are closer or just as far as a UPS store return location. 

Revel Bikes Names New President And COO

Based in Carbondale, CO, Revel Bikes hired Ben Coates as president and chief operating officer. Coates brings over 15 years of experience in the cycling industry to Revel, having previously served as a director for both POC and Trek.