SGB Update Sports & Fitness
iFit Inc. Enters Connected Pilates with Reform RX Acquisition
With this acquisition, iFit will integrate Pilates reformers into its lineup of products — offering customers a seamless way to diversify their fitness routines.
The Vitamin Shoppe Completes Sale to Private Equity Groups
As part of the transaction, Sharon Leite, who previously served as CEO of The Vitamin Shoppe from 2018 to 2023, has returned to lead the company as CEO.
Report: Pickleball Courts Top List of Amenities Campgrounds Added in 2024
Pickleball courts overtook Wi-Fi as the most added amenity in 2024. Properties were 29 percent more likely to add pickleball courts in 2024 than any other service, including swimming pools and hot tubs, dog parks, kayaks/canoes, and bicycles.
Burghardt Sporting Goods to Exit Fox Point Location
The Milwaukee-based team dealer and sports retailer said the decision will allow the company to focus on its “thriving” New Berlin location, a larger and more interactive space. Sixth-generation family member, Maggie Burghardt, daughter of owner Brian Burghardt, has joined the company as a sales and marketing associate.
Nike to Cut Jobs in Technology Division
The shake-up follows leadership changes and layoffs that CEO Elliott Hill implemented as part of his turnaround plan to profitability. Muge Dogan, formerly of Amazon.com, Inc., will remain as the company’s chief technology officer.
Five Iron Golf Franchise to Open in Miami
Owned and operated by Peter McCormick, Alex Zega, Matt Csillag, and David Zabinsky, the 29,500-square-foot venue is schedule to open at The Plaza Coral Gables, a mixed-use development in Miami, in Q1 2026.
Toca Football Raises $35 Million, Extends Partnership with MLS
The U.S.-based indoor soccer experience company that operates two primary businesses: Toca Soccer and Toca Social, raised an additional $35 million in funding, including $15 million in equity and $20 million in debt financing from J.P. Morgan Commercial Banking.
Bodybar Pilates Expands National Footprint with Eight New U.S. Studios in Q1
With a focus on high-demand markets for dynamic group fitness, Bodybar Pilates expanded its national footprint with eight new studios in the first quarter, bringing the total number of open locations to 54.
Nike’s Last Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer Heads to B&BW as CEO
Bath & Body Works has appointed Daniel Heaf as CEO. Most recently, he was Nike’s chief strategy and transformation officer since August 2023. Heaf left Nike in March 2025 after the company eliminated his position.
Xponential Founder and Former CEO Launches New Fitness Franchising Platform
Former Xponential Fitness Founder and CEO Anthony Geisler has launched an aptly-aimed new venture called Sequel Brands, described as a next-generation boutique fitness franchisor, has made its official debut, led by Geisler.
Crunch Fitness Franchisee Opens Florissant, Missouri Location
The new $5 million Crunch Florissant will be managed by the locally owned and operated Crunch Fitness franchisee, The Undefeated Tribe, and located in a former Gold’s Gym.
Report Defines Where U.S. Shein and Temu Shoppers are Spending More After Tariff Hit
To identify where consumers are spending their money, Consumer Edge analyzed shoppers who made at least two purchases at Temu or Shein in January or February 2025 but no purchases in March or April.
Pickleball Kingdom Franchise to Open in Arkansas
The indoor pickleball franchise, announced that its first club will open in Little Rock, AR, in November 2025. The facility will span approximately 30,000 square feet and feature 11 professional-grade indoor courts.
Recover Creates Joint Venture for Recycled Cotton Fiber Production in Central America
The initiative is expected to simplify compliance with the UFLPA for U.S. textile and apparel manufacturers, while addressing the increasing demand for near-shoring.
Foot Locker’s Debt Ratings Placed Under Review Following Dick’s SG’s Offer
Moody’s Ratings placed all Foot Locker, Inc.’s debt ratings on review with direction uncertain following the announcement that Dick’s Sporting Goods, Inc. has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Foot Locker for an enterprise value of approximately $2.5 billion.
