SGB Update Sports & Fitness

Stack Athletics Acquires Vulcan Pickleball

Chaifetz Group, owners of Major League Pickleball’s St. Louis Shock franchise and a broad portfolio of other organizations in the sport, also participated in the deal and will hold an interest in the merged companies and a seat on the newly created Board of Directors.

Yue Yuen Appoints Board Member

Yue Yuen appointed Chou Wei-Te, executive assistant vice president at its retail arm, Pou Chen, to its board as an executive director. He replaces Chan Lu Min, who is retiring.

VF Appoints New Chief Accounting Officer

Michael Phillips succeeds Bryan McNeill, who is retiring after 30 years with the company. Phillips has served as the VP Enterprise Financial Reporting controller of the company since September 2022.

Nike’s Design and Innovation Chief John Hoke to Retire in the Fall

John Hoke, Nike’s chief innovation officer, is retiring after serving in the role since 2023. He first worked at Nike on stores and fixtures before getting into footwear. An architect by training, he is credited with designing a NikeTown store and buildings on the Nike campus.

BRP President and CEO to Retire at Fiscal Year-End

José Boisjoli has informed the Board of Directors of his intention to retire by the end of the fiscal year, at which time he will also step down from his role as chair of the Board. He will continue to lead the company until a successor is named.

Crunch Fitness Franchisee Adds Four New Midwest Crunch Gyms

Primetime Fitness announced a significant expansion across Ohio and Michigan with the acquisition and development of four new gyms. The company, founded in 2016, operates 23 gyms across Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, and Tennessee.

Crunch Franchisee to Open 85th Crunch Fitness in Georgia

“We’re excited to expand our footprint to 14 clubs in the Atlanta area with this gym location in Gainesville, GA,” said Tony Scrimale, CEO of CR Fitness Holdings. “This 3.0 location takes everything our members love about Crunch to the next level, with premium amenities, the latest equipment, and a fun, welcoming atmosphere that caters to everyone.”

Life Time Life Opens Phase One of Indiana Athletic Club

The member facility offers nine indoor pickleball courts, six indoor tennis courts, a viewing area with lounge seating, and a pro shop. The second and final phase of the 135,000-square-foot space is on target to open in summer 2026.

Walmart Restructures; Cuts Roughly 1,500 Corporate Jobs

The retailer is streamlining its global tech and Walmart U.S. operations, affecting approximately 1,500 employees. The U.S. retail cuts are mainly in the end-to-end operations teams and the Walmart Connect marketing organization.