Buyers and merchandise managers from the top 150 mass-market retailers have bestowed on Wilson Sporting Goods Co. a 2005 SPARC Award. Based on a recent poll of leading retail executives by DSN Retailing Today, the accolade recognizes Wilson for its service, innovation, and overall programs in the mass-market retailing industry.

“Wilson has tremendous respect for its retail partners,” says Chris Considine, president of Wilson Team Sports. “We have one commitment to athletes and retailers alike-to give people the equipment and support they need to dominate.”

Buyers and merchandisers voted on key performance criteria including self-sell packaging, new product innovation, on-time delivery, advertising support and quality control. Celebrating its 28th year, the annual SPARC Awards are the only industry-wide, vendor-recognition program in mass-market retailing. They symbolize the highest honor paid to a supplier serving the industry.

This year’s SPARC Awards will be presented October 11, 2005 in Chicago at the Retail Industry Leaders Association’s Annual Leaders Exchange.