SGB Update Sports & Fitness
CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor Sees February Y/Y Retail Sales Growing But Moderating
The Sporting Goods, Hobby, Music & Book Stores segment increased 3.6 percent year-over-year, up from 2.8 percent y/y growth in January. Clothing, Footwear and Accessories Stores were up 3.8 percent in February, half the trend in January.
Big Peach Running Sets to Open New Gainesville, Georgia Store
Alex and Stephanie (Fe) Rodriguez previously opened Big Peach stores in Dawsonville and Cumming, Georgia, respectively, and will now own and operate the Gainesville, GA.
Lacrosse Unlimited Expands Nationwide Footprint
The newly added stores in Illinois, Georgia, Colorado, and Florida represent the emergence of the sport in these markets and Lacrosse Unlimited’s support to grow the sport in each demographic.
TruGolf Links Signs Franchise Development Deal
As Regional Developer for TruGolf Links, Knoxville, TN native John Young will lead a statewide expansion of the company’s indoor golf concept, starting with the first flagship location in Knoxville.
Crunch Fitness is Coming to Pensacola, Florida
The 40,000-square-foot fitness facility, will open its doors in Fall 2025, operated by Crunch Fitness franchisee Fitness Ventures LLC,
Head NA Names Bardsley as Next CEO; Kempin Sets July Retirement
The company has named Jeff Bardsley as the next president and CEO of Head North America. The current VP of Racquet Sports marketing for North America, will replace longtime CEO Kevin Kempin, who will retire July 1 after 32 years with the company.
Academy Appoints EVP & Chief Information Officer
Sumit Anand joined Academy this month and reports directly to CEO Steve Lawrence. Anand oversees enterprise technology operations, including cybersecurity, IT infrastructure and operations, and IT shared services, supporting the company’s corporate, distribution center and retail initiatives.
PickleRage Accelerates Growth with Nine New Franchise Agreements
With this latest round of franchise agreements, the company is debuting in North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, and Texas, further expanding its national presence.
Target Lays Out Strategic Plans to Drive $15 Billion+ in Sales Growth by 2030
This week, the retailer outlined for the financial community how ongoing investments will accelerate its strategy and drive billions of dollars of profitable sales growth across its multi-channel business by 2030.
The Arizona Hideaway Collection Brings Four Iconic Golf Properties Under One Brand
Under The Allred family, who have rejuvenated destination properties for nearly five decades, including Telluride, the properties include The Hermosa Inn, Tubac Golf Resort & Spa, Rancho Mañana Golf Club, and Sedona Golf Resort.
Vaura Pilates Inks Master Franchise Partnership for Southeast Asia and Middle East
The company continues its global expansion with a new Master Franchise Partner, Luxe Fit Pilates, for Southeast Asia and the Middle East. With studios in Tanglin and Joo Chiat (Singapore), this new partnership will bring Vaura’s wellness philosophy to new urban centers within the regions.
MyFitnessPal Appoints Chief Revenue Officer, Advertising
Industry veteran Amit Patel brings over 25 years of experience in business strategy, digital media and advertising to the global nutrition and tracking app
Rip Curl and Oboz Parent KMD Names Former Nike Europe CEO as New Group CEO
Brent Scrimshaw transitioned from a non-executive role on the company’s Board to assume the role of Group CEO and managing director on March 24. Outgoing Group CEO Michael Daly will step down as director of KMD Brands on March 25 and complete a transition period with Scrimshaw until April 4.
Ross Stores Reports Q4 Sales and Earnings at Top End of Forecast
Ross sales trends began softening later in January and into February. The company believes a combination of unseasonable weather and heightened volatility in the macroeconomic and geopolitical environments has negatively impacted customer traffic.
Nordstrom Beats Q4 Sales and Earnings Estimates; CFO Heading to Starbucks
In the fourth quarter, active, women’s and men’s apparel reportedly had the strongest growth versus fourth quarter 2023. For fiscal 2024, active, women’s and men’s apparel, kids, and shoes were said to be the strongest categories.
