SGB Update Sports & Fitness

Kmart Launches Risewear Footwear Brand

Kmart launched the first of seven slam dunk contests it will hold in store parking lots this summer to launch the Risewear athleisure footwear brand.

Nike Looks to Lead on Race Relations

Nike’s Chairman and CEO Mark Parker sent a letter last Thursday to the company’s 32,000 employees understating Nike’s commitment to “racial justice” following the heightened tensions in black communities and the police. He also said Nike will hold meetings at Beaverton headquarters and in its NY, Chicago and LA offices to explore race issues.

ICSC Survey: BTS Sales Expected to Climb

The International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC)’s annual back-to-school survey shows 78 percent of BTS shoppers expect to spend more this year, a significant increase compared with those who planned to do the same in 2015.

Retail Sales Climb in June

Retail sales (excluding automobiles, gasoline stations and restaurants) continued to grow in June and were up 5.1 percent year-over-year, the National Retail Federation said today. Retail sales rose 0.8 percent unadjusted over May, according to NRF’s calculations.

Finish Line Sets New Stock Buyback Plan

Finish Line authorized a new five million share repurchase plan. The new plan will commence upon completion of the current plan which has approximately 600,000 shares remaining.

Nike Adds Apparel, Accessories to MEAC Deal

Nike has entered into a multi-year agreement to become the official apparel, accessory and equipment brand of the the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference until 2020.