Mastercard Economics Institute Forecasts Strongest Holiday Season in Four Years
The Institute expects U.S. retail sales, excluding automobiles and gas, to increase 5.5 percent year-over-year between November 1 and December 24, marking the strongest holiday growth since 2022. The gains reflect a solid economic backdrop but also reflects a boost from higher prices and inflation.
Stitch Fix, Inc. Reaches $1.35 Billion in Fiscal 2026; Issues Flattish Outlook for Year Ahead
Stitch Fix’s revenue outlook for fiscal year 2027 is said to reflect a more challenging consumer environment and a lower active client starting point, which it expects will temper revenue growth. Revnues are expected to be flattish year-over-year.
Fanatics Collectibles to Open Flagship Store in Paris
Fanatics Collectibles is opening a flagship location on Rue Saint-Lazare in Paris, its second after opening a debut flagship on London’s Regent Street.
Kontoor Brands Adds Two Board Members
Kontoor Brands Inc. appointed Jamie Caulfield, former PepsiCo, Inc. chief financial officer, and Michael Skipworth, president and CEO of Wingstop Inc., to its Board of Directors, effective immediately. Additionally, the company announced an increase in the size of the Board from seven to nine directors.
Phoenix Footwear Group to Shutter Operations
The parent of the Trotters and Softwalk women’s comfort footwear brands, is set to cease operations over the next 60 days. The company posted a loss of $4.1 million in 2025 as sales declined 28 percent.
Fishing Gear Specialist Rec-Com Outdoors Retains Mid-Atlantic Sales Rep
Rec-Com Outdoors, which owns several fishing brands, appointed Walker Driver as sales representative for the Mid-Atlantic region.
Golf Cart and Bag Maker Big Max Extends Sales Rep Coverage
Big Max USA appointed three sales reps to cover California, New England and Ohio in the U.S. as the Austria-based push cart and golf bag and manufacturer expands its U.S. retail presence and nationwide sales network.
OrderMyGear Parent Rebrands as Taivo, Expands Capabilities
Taivo said its long-term vision is to build a more connected software ecosystem for branded merchandise, where orders can move through a more unified experience.
Rhone Inks Lease for New 40,000 sf Office Space in Stamford, Connecticut
The performance-led lifestyle brand, founded locally in Fairfield County by brothers Nate Checketts and Ben Checketts in 2014, continues to expand its business centered on personal progress and Mental Fitness.
Winchester Awarded U.S. Army Second Source Contract for Small Caliber Rifle Ammo
The company said this latest award covering 5.56mm, 7.62mm, and .50 caliber ammunition signifies the ongoing, strategic partnership Winchester has as the Army’s Second Source.
NSSF General Counsel Lawrence Keane Named to Conservation and Access Council
The Hunting and Shooting Sports Conservation and Access Council will provide the U.S. Secretary of the Interior and the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture with advice regarding the establishment and implementation of existing and proposed policies and authorities with regard to wildlife and habitat conservation and will also examine ways to benefit wildlife resources.
Lanvin Group Names Humberto Leon Creative Director at St. John
Leon’s appointment is said to mark a new chapter for St. John, “building on the brand’s nearly 65-year heritage while bringing a fresh perspective to its signatures,” including knitwear, sportswear and jewelry.
Under Armour Opens New Hybrid Store Concept In Montana
Under Armour opened its first store in Montana in Bozeman. The store, called Bozeman Sports House, introduces a new store format that brings together full-price products and value options under one roof.
Birkenstock Opens Store in Malibu
Birkenstock Americas announced the opening of its new retail store in Malibu, CA, marking the 24th Birkenstock-owned retail location in the U.S.
Dick’s Proposed $1 Billion Senior Notes Offering Assigned ‘BBB’ Rating
S&P Global Ratings assigned a BBB issue-level rating to Dick’s Sporting Goods Inc.’s proposed $1 billion senior unsecured notes. The rating agency expects Dick’s will use the proceeds for general corporate purposes, including potential share repurchases, with any remaining funds retained as balance-sheet cash.
