ION SKIING
Congress breaks without ruling on ski area Visa extensions
Despite the hopes of many in the ski resort industry, the 110th Congress went on its month long August break on Friday without acting on the proposal to extend foreign work visas, which makes the odds of the extension taking place before the coming season slim. Numerous ski areas have stated the extensions are crucial to their success this winter … READ MORE
ION ACQUISITIONS
Steve & Barry’s examining $163 million offer
Steve & Barry’s, which recently filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, said it has received an offer of $163 million for some of its assets. The proposal, which is subject to court approval, will serve as the opening bid during an upcoming auction process. During the process, the proposal could be subject to higher and better offers … READ MORE
ION FINANCING
Bankruptcy court approves Mervyns $465 million financing
A U.S. bankruptcy court has approved Mervyns’ $465 million debtor-in-possession financing facility provided by Wachovia Capital Finance Corp., along with other motions. The retailer said it will use the DIP financing and cash generated from operations to pay vendors and cover operating costs as it restructures … READ MORE
ION BANKRUPTCY
Boscov’s files for bankruptcy protection
Following reports that some of its 49-store Pennsylvania-based department store’s vendors had ceased shipments, Boscov’s is filing for Chapter 11. According to Delaware court filings, the company and its affiliates had $538 million in assets and $479 million in liabilities. The company said it had secured an agreement in principle for $250 million in debtor-in-possession (DIP) financing from Bank of America … READ MORE
ION FOOTWEAR
Collective Brands closing Robeez shoe maker in Canada
And the changes keep coming at Collective Brands. The company said a unit of its Stride Rite Corp. subsidiary plans to shutter its remaining Canadian operations, a move that will eliminate some 300 jobs … READ MORE
ION CONSERVATION
Kohl’s earns EPA Energy Star Label at 50 stores
In a retail environment littered with gloom and doom, here’s some positive news from Kohl’s. The retailer has received the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Energy Star label for 50 of its stores. It is one of the largest group of non-supermarket retail buildings to earn the label in Energy Star history … READ MORE
ION BANKRUPTCY
Mervyn’s files for bankruptcy
The privately owned Mervyn’s chain is filing for Chapter 11 after the CIT Group halted its financing and some vendors ceased shipping orders to the 177-store retailer. In a statement, CEO John Goodman said. “Mervyns needs to reorganize its finances and operations due to the state of the economy and difficult operating environment for our industry … We are committed to serving our customers and maintaining regular operations as we undertake this reorganization.� The retailer expects a $465 million debtor-in-possession (DIP) facility from a group of lenders led by Wachovia Capital Finance Corp.. The company is working with the bankruptcy court for permission to keep paying employees and keep honoring customer returns and gift cards.
ION EXPANSION
Dick’s seeks $7.25 million from state for new site
Dick’s Sporting Goods has requested $7.25 million in state funding for roads and sewers and other public assistance to help finance its new world headquarters in Findlay Township at Pittsburgh International Airport … READ MORE
ION COUNTERFEITING
Brands face up to counterfeit challenge
Apparel brands including Levi’s and adidas are facing up to the growing number of counterfeit apparel items being manufactured in China – accounting for 22 percent of seizures by EU customs in 2007, second only to cigarettes in numbers of counterfeits detected … READ MORE
ION LABOR
Macy’s may take action against New York sweatshop
Trying hard to distance itself from a New York garment factory accused of labor law violations, Macy’s said that its goods were not produced in the sweatshop facility. The retailer also revealed it is mulling legal action against the owners of another factory in Long Island City, which was making apparently counterfeit goods with labels from a Macy’s private brand … READ MORE
ION YOUTH FITNESS
SGMA coordinates congressional testimony on youth fitness
Former Heisman Trophy winner and ex-NFL All Pro wide receiver Tim Brown lent a hand to the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association’s annual trek to Capitol Hill to deliver its message on the importance of teaching children about the benefits of good health and physical fitness … READ MORE
ION CONSUMERS
How long will consumer buying habits last?
There’s no debating that every economic downturn changes shoppers in some way. But this time, experts say the new behavior – fueled by higher gas and food prices, tightening credit and a slumping housing market – are the most dramatic and widespread that they have seen since the mid-1970s … READ MORE
ION FOOTWEAR
Shoe Pavilion files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy
The economy strikes again. Shoe Pavilion has become the latest retailer to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The off-price retailer and its wholly owned subsidiary, Shoe Pavilion Corp, have voluntarily filed for bankruptcy protection on July 15 … READ MORE
ION KIDS
Stride Rite Children’s Group launches new store concept
It’s all about the kids for the Stride Rite Children’s Group. The division is launching a new store format in New York City, Collections by Stride Rite, which will combine separate, dedicated shopping areas for kids seven to 10 years of age, with an environment for parents to shop for baby and toddler shoes. Stride Rite plans to roll out similar stores later this year in select high-fashion shopping locations … READ MORE
ION OUTDOORS
Bill introduced to cut outdoor apparel tariffs
New legislation that proposes to eliminate tariffs on imports of outdoor performance apparel into the United States, as well as funding research into sustainable manufacturing technology, was introduced this month. The Recreational Performance Outerwear Act of 2008 (HR 6483) is thought to be the first ever trade bill specifically for outdoor performance apparel manufacturers … READ MORE
ION CHINA
Wal-Mart signs collective labor contract
Employees of a Wal-Mart outlet in northeast China signed a collective contract with the world’s largest retailer, the first among Wal-Mart’s 100-odd stores across China. After some exhausting talks, the Wal-Mart outlet in Shenyang, capital of Liaoning Province, agreed on a proposal by its trade union to raise employees’ salary by an annual rate of 8 percent in 2008 and 2009 … READ MORE
ION TRADEMARKS
American Eagle wins injunction against Payless
When it comes to trademarks in this age of economic uncertainty, the courts mean business. A U.S. court issued a preliminary injunction against Payless ShoeSource after ruling its use of the American Eagle mark for footwear and bags infringes the trademark of youth apparel retailer American Eagle Outfitters … READ MORE
ION INTERNET
eBay must ban LVMH designer items
In a recent statement, the LVMH Group said the Paris Court of Appeal’s decision to confirm the charges against eBay of the Paris Commercial Court. The French Commercial Court had ordered eBay to pay LVMH for “negligence� and “illicit sales� over the sale of counterfeit goods on its online auction site. Through an injunction, the court also ordered eBay to cease selling perfumes and cosmetics bearing the Dior, Guerlain, Givenchy and Kenzo brand names, failing which eBay would incur penalty payments. The Commercial Court had also ruled that eBay should prevent its members from using those brand names.
ION CANADA
NRDC acquires Hudson’s Bay Co.
NRDC Equity Partners, the owner of Lord & Taylor, has acquired Canadian department store operator the Hudson’s Bay Co. for an undisclosed amount. The move centers on the fact that NRDC is consolidating its retail holdings – Lord & Taylor, Fortunoff, and Creative Design Studios – into one holding company to be called Hudson’s Bay Trading Company. The combined company will have sales of more than $8 billion a year. Hudson’s Bay, which was founded in 1670, is North America’s oldest continually operating company. It currently operates The Bay, Zellers and Home Outfitters, among other stores in Canada. NRDC plans to change the name of as many as 15 Bay stores to Lord & Taylor. NRDC CEO Richard Baker will invest $500 million in Hudson’s Bay. He has been on the company’s board since 2006.
ION PEOPLE
Sears nabs Craig M. Israel as president of apparel unit
Sears has a new leader to revive its long-ailing fashion business. The retailer named veteran department store executive Craig M. Israel as the newly created post of senior VP and president of its apparel unit. Israel will report to Bruce Johnson, interim CEO of Sears Holdings Corp., which also operates Kmart Holding Corp. Israel will be responsible for all women’s and men’s apparel and accessories, as well as the children’s and cosmetics divisions at the Sears chain.
ION FIREARMS
Gander Mountain goes pink, then blue
When Gander Mountain introduced its widely successfully pink firearms in 2007, there was admittedly some head turning. Well, the outdoors retailer is doing it again. This time, it is unveiling an exclusive blue laminate shotgun and rifle … READ MORE
ION DEPARTMENT STORES
Department stores lead sales declines among retailers
More bad news for retailers, as department stores posted disappointing June same-store sales results – the worst-performing sub-sector of retail. Analysts say the stores were hurt by slow mall traffic and consumers who are looking to cut their discretionary buys … READ MORE
ION TEENS
Sears launches social network to target teens and tweens
Just how serious is Sears about reaching today’s influential teen and tween market? How’s this? The retailer has partnered with some of the biggest names in youth interactive marketing to ensure that its new back to school message, “Don’t Just Go Back. Arrive,� resonates with and engages the demographic groups … READ MORE
ION BATMAN
Kmart official home of the Dark Knight
The Batman is coming to Kmart, as the retailer has become the official headquarters for the Dark Knight’s theatrical release. Kmart has partnered with Warner Bros. Consumer Products on a Batman boutique at the front of its stores with a collection of licensed products including toys, costumes, men’s and kid’s apparel, bedding and an exclusive Kmart The Dark Knight Gift Card. Kmart also will offer free movie tickets with the purchase of three bags of Reese’s Batman products and $5 off select Mattel toys with the purchase of five boxes of General Mills cereal and fruit snacks. The retailer also is planning a special advertising wrap to its circular and co-branded shopping bags.
ION CHINA
Wal-Mart to open store in Zhengzhou, China
Wal-Mart is opening a store in the Zhongyuan District in China. The 86-acre Wal-Mart shopping plaza will feature retail, catering, entertainment and leisure services. On completion, it will offer about 2,000 employment positions to local people and realize annual profits and taxes of about CNY30 million. The Zhongyuan store is the retailer’s third project in Zhengzhou. Its 27 Road store will open in the first half of 2009 and construction will start its University Road store in the second half this year.
ION HOLIDAYS
Woolworth names top toys for holidays
Is it really too early to think about the holiday selling season? Woolworth doesn’t think so. The influential annual Top 10 toy list from the U.K. retailer has always been viewed as one of the bellwethers for the holiday toy trade. This year, the retailer tabbed, in no particular order, these top 10 toys to watch: the Rubiks Cube; Star Wars Clone Wars Lego; Meebas; Ben 10 deluxe Omnitrix; High School Musical Sing Together Dolls; Bakugan Battle Arena; Leapfrog Tag, including books based on Go Diego Go, SpongeBob SquarePants and Kung Fu Panda; In The Night Garden Upsy Daisy In Her Bed; the Indiana Jones Whip; and Catcha Beast.
ION THE WEB
U.S. Web sites drawing traffic from abroad, but fewer ads
U.S. Web sites are waking up to a sobering reality: A huge share of their traffic now comes from overseas, but they are struggling to make money from it. Now, Internet companies big and small are scrambling their business models to try to cash in on foreign markets they have largely ignored. The internationalization of online traffic in the U.S. has accelerated at a pace that has surprised even some people in the Internet business. Many U.S. sites now draw more than half of their audiences from international visitors but generate only about 5 percent of their revenue from that traffic.
ION FOOTWEAR
Collective Brands names new president, CEO of Payless
Collective Brands named Charming Shoppes’ LuAnn Via as president and CEO of its Payless ShoeSource. She will report to and succeed Matthew Rubel, chairman and CEO. Via will be responsible for all day-to-day operations, including merchandising, marketing and retail operations for the more than 4,500 store chain, which includes stores in the United States, Canada, Central America, the Caribbean and South America. She and her team also will be supported by shared Collective Brands corporate functions, including finance, information technology, human resources, store development, law and the global supply chain team, which includes the New York Design Center, a group of footwear and accessories designers that create the seasonal collections for Payless.
ION SKATING
Work on $2 million Venice Beach skate park set for fall
When you think of Venice Beach, what comes to mind? Muscle Beach. Art walls for graffiti artists to display their crafty designs. An internationally acclaimed boardwalk. You can now add to the list a beachfront skate park, which will join the group of distinctive attractions that are part of the Venice landscape … READ MORE
ION FASHION
Wal-Mart finds rappers Master P, Romeo a fashion fit
And Wal-Mart said, “Let there be rap.â€? That’s right, the mass merchant is partnering with Master P and his son, fellow hip-hop hit-maker Romeo, to relaunch the P. Miller Designs apparel line exclusively at Wal-Mart. The father-son duo’s brand of men’s apparel will be available at about 350 Wal-Mart stores starting in July and will include graphic T-shirts, fleece hoodies and fashion denims. The P. Miller line was last available at such retailers as Kohl’s and Mervyns … READ MORE
ION FOOTBALL
MNF offer on table in ESPN, NFL talks
If the NFL decides to extend ESPN’s “Monday Night Football� rights deal through 2018, it will be the league’s longest-ever TV contract. The current deal runs through 2013. While the NFL has not agreed to such a long-term deal, the talks underscore how the league may take a unique way to fix the NFL Network’s distribution problems … READ MORE
ION PITTSBURGH
National retailers continue expanding in Pittsburgh
Dick’s Sporting Goods isn’t the only retailer on the expansion trail. National retailers such as Burlington Coat Factory and Dots continue to expand in the Pittsburgh region, which just happens to be Dick’s hometown. The expansions counter the belief among some companies and developers that the Pittsburgh area is over-retailed. Burlington plans to open stores in Robinson and in Washington County by 2010.
ION PEOPLE
Michael Crooke leaves Hot Topic after a month
Hello, I must be going. Hot Topic President divisional president has left the company after just one month in the job. Crooke was appointed president of the company’s Hot Topic division in June. Hot Topic CEO Betsy McLaughlin will assume his responsibilities.
ION COUNTERFEITING
eBay fined for selling fake Louis Vuitton goods online
When they say you can bid for anything on eBay, they meant it. And that’s not always a good thing. A Paris court the Internet auctioneer to pay $63 million dollars in damages to Louis Vuitton for selling fake luxury goods online. The court also barred eBay from selling four perfume brands – Christian Dior, Kenzo, Givenchy and Guerlain – in the ruling intended to send a strong message about copyright protection … READ MORE
ION TENNIS
ATP suit could remake non-team sports
The ATP World Tour is set to square off against one of its tournaments in a Delaware courtroom. All that’s at stake is the future of men’s tennis and the governance of all non-team sports. Barring a settlement, the antitrust case could determine just how far a rules-making body can go in setting tournament schedules, compelling players to compete in certain events, establishing a ranking system and awarding sanctions … READ MORE
ION CONSUMERS
The changing face of today’s consumer
The marketing community, already dealing with a slumping economy and an increasingly consumer-controlled media marketplace, must confront another new reality: The face of the American consumer is changing dramatically … READ MORE
ION BASKETBALL
Is Cleveland losing LeBron?
LeBron James showed up in New York last week as part of a USA Basketball media function. There was nothing unusual about his appearance. What raised concerns was that he continues to flash that big LeBron smile at the city that is expected to make a big run at him in the free agency race of 2010 … READ MORE
ION BASEBALL
Despite economic woes, baseball product sales strong
Recession. What recession? The sale of baseball swing training products and other baseball gear for Little Leaguers continues to be strong even as the economy struggles. Just ask the folks at SwingCoaching.com. The site is seeing an increase in its recommended products as well as all the other products that are used by Little League baseball and softball players throughout the country. Products such as the Batters’ Edge, which is sold on the SwingCoaching site, are doing extremely well even as other industries are seeing decreases in sales … READ MORE
ION CONSUMERS
Consumer confidence dips to fifth-lowest level ever
Things are looking up for retailers, as an industry group says U.S. consumer confidence fell unexpectedly sharply in June – the fifth-lowest level ever recorded. The report said consumer expectations are at an all-time low. The Conference Board’s consumer confidence index fell to 50.4, down from 58.1 in May. The reading is far lower than economists expected.
ION RETAIL
JC Penney to cut costs by opening fewer stores
JC Penney Company believes less is better. Can you blame them? The retailer is reducing the number of new stores it plans to open in 2009 as part of efforts to cut annual expenditures by $350 million in a difficult retail environment … READ MORE
ION FOOTWEAR
The Walking Company unveils flagship stores in LA, Vegas and Jersey

The Walking Company opened three flagship locations – in the heart of Los Angeles’ upscale Century City district, The Forum Shops at Caesars in Las Vegas and The Mall at Short Hills in New Jersey. The flagship stores bring The Walking Company’s total store count to 200 … READ MORE
ION PEOPLE
VF names Karen Murray president of sportswear coalition

VF Corp. promoted Karen Murray to president of its sportswear coalition, effective immediately. The Sportswear coalition, based in New York City, includes the Nautica, Kipling (U.S.) and John Varvatos businesses. Murray will report to Eric Wiseman, president and CEO of VF. She replaces Denise Seegal, who left to pursue other interests.
ION CHINA
Retail Forward: China to become second-largest global retail market by 2012�
China is it. With double-digit retail sales growth expected over the next five years, China is becoming a retail wonderland. The growth is expected to push the size of the retail market in China to more than $1.4 trillion by 2012, surpassing Japan to become the second-largest retail market in the world behind the United States, according to Retail Forward … READ MORE
ION TRADE SHOWS
Licensing International Expo says farewell to New York, heads to Vegas
After 28 years in New York, Licensing International Expo bid a fond farewell to the Jacob Javits Convention Center, June 12, turning its focus to expanding business opportunities in Las Vegas in 2009 … READ MORE
ION FOOTWEAR
Affordable Footwear Act moves forward
Legislation to eliminate import tariffs on about 60 percent of all shoes sold in the United States has reached another landmark on its way to final passage. The Affordable Footwear Act (HR 3934/ S 2372) has now garnered support from one-third of the members of the US House of Representatives according to the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) … READ MORE
ION WALL STREET
Shoe Pavilion gets Nasdaq notice over stock price
Shoe Pavilion has received a written notice from The Nasdaq Stock Market saying the bid price of its common stock has closed below the Nasdaq minimum bid price listing requirement of $1.00 per share for 30 consecutive business days. Last week, Nasdaq indicated that the company was therefore failing to comply with the minimum bid price requirement for continued listing, and has until December 16 to regain compliance … READ MORE
ION FOOTWEAR
Robert Dennis to become Genesco CEO
Robert J Dennis will take over as CEO of Genesco, effective August 1. Current Genesco chairman and CEO Hal N Pennington will continue as executive chairman. Dennis was named president and COO of Genesco in October 2006, after a year as executive VP and COO. He previously served as CEO of Hat World since 2001 before Genesco’s acquisition it in 2004, and was named a senior VP of Genesco.
ION TEENS
Sears making strong play for fashionable teen market
What in the wide, wide world of teens is Sears doing? First, the retailer decided to stock Skechers, a favorable footwear line among teens. Then came the personalized avatar, the virtual identity Sears shoppers could accessorize online. Now, the retailer is teaming with MTV to produce a back-to-school movie while adding a line of street clothes and accessories designed by hip-hop artist LL Cool J … READ MORE
ION LAW
Wal-Mart faces adidas lawsuit
Wal-Mart has been hit by a lawsuit from adidas, which claims the retailer copied some of its products. The manufacturer filed a motion with a court in Oregon claiming that Wal-Mart copied models of adidas footwear. The suit claims the retailer used a striped logo similar to the one associated with adidas products, although Wal-Mart’s products displayed two or four stripes compared to adidas’ trademark three stripes. Adidas recently won a lawsuit against a U.S. sports-shoe manufacturer for the same reason, winning $305m from an Oregon court in damages and interest.
ION OUTDOORS
OIA: Industry posts positive sales for April
Here’s some positive news from the outdoors world. According to the Outdoor Industry Association Outdoor Topline Report, April 2008 was a positive month for the outdoor industry, as sales grew 6 percent in dollars against April 2007 … READ MORE
ION FOOTWEAR
Pacific Sunwear to add shoes back into the mix
After closing its footwear retail concept and eliminating most shoes from its stores, Pacific Sunwear of America Inc. will reintroduce a limited shoe selection in some stores in time for the back-to-school season. Like most retailers, Pacific Sunwear has struggled amid a difficult retail environment, and in May said its fiscal first-quarter loss widened on lower sales and a charge related to the closure of a distribution facility … READ MORE
ION RETAIL
May retail sales rise much more than expected
Total sales at U.S. retailers rose a full percentage point in May as many consumers had more spending cash in their wallets from government rebate checks, a report on Thursday showed. The Commerce Department reported an increase last month that was twice as much as expected by Wall Street economists polled before the report … READ MORE
ION WOMEN
Survey says: 8% of U.S. women are recession-proof shoppers
The results of a new survey being released June 12 reveal that women are still fashionably shopping in today’s drooping economic climate and spending a lot of money. The online survey was commissioned by Elle magazine. It was conducted in fall 2007 based on a composite scale of price sensitivity and annual expenditures … READ MORE
ION MARKETING
J.C. Penney moving Web marketing to top of priority list
J.C. Penney is making its Web marketing strategy work – in a big way. The retailer has made big strides in integrating its 1,100 stores, catalog and Web site, JCP.com. And, with the Web growing more quickly than its other channels, promoting it and reaching consumers online and through their mobile phones is a top marketing priority … READ MORE
ION BASEBALL
Batters Up: Play Ball changes name following record year 

Play Ball USA, the non-profit organization for promoting participation in youth recreational ball programs, is going by a new name these days – Batters Up USA. The name change comes on the heels of a record year in the organization’s goal to support the start-up of new recreational ball programs. At the end of 2007 (the group’s second year of operations), it supported the creation of 16 new programs involving about 4,000 kids … READ MORE
ION PERSONNEL
Sporting goods industry vet Rollen Joins Schutt Sports as CFO
Schutt Sports named Rollen Jones as the company’s CFO. Based out of the company’s Litchfield facility, he will oversee the company’s accounting, finance, treasury and human resources operations. The move continues the company’s focus on sporting goods experience in the re-structuring of its senior management team over the past six months. Jones spent nearly two years at Pony International, a worldwide footwear company. Before that Jones served as VP/GM of the European operation of TaylorMade Golf Company.
ION RETAIL
Goody’s Family Clothing files for bankruptcy protection
Goody’s Family Clothing has become the latest victim of the nation’s spiraling economy. The moderately priced retailer, which operates primarily in the Southeast, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The retailer will close its Arkansas distribution center and 103 stores, most of which are located in states where it has 30 or more stores each, including Georgia, North Carolina, Alabama and Tennessee. There is no word on how many of the 12,000 employees will lose their jobs. The company filed a voluntary petition for reorganization under Chapter 11 in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware, where the company is registered.
ION RETAIL THEFT
NRF survey reveals retailers’ growing theft problems
Retailers are battling an increase of organized retail crime, according to a report by the National Retail Federation (NRF). According to the the 2008 Organized Retail Crime report, some 68 percent of retailers have identified or recovered stolen merchandise and/or gift cards from a fence location in 2008, up from 61 percent in 2007 … READ MORE
ION FITNESS
SGMA says more people are turning to fitness

With the obesity rate still hovering around the danger zone, more Americans are taking a stance. According to the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association’s (SGMA) Sports & Fitness Participation Report (2008), fitness exercises such as strength, conditioning and aerobic activities are inspiring the masses to get fit … READ MORE
ION EXPANSION
Slower sales not slowing Dick’s down
While sales at Dick’s Sporting Goods stores may have weakened for now, the retailer views these tough times as an opportunity to boost market share. In fact, Dick’s is on track to be operating 800 stores within seven to eight years … READ MORE
ION RETAIL
Reports says sporting goods sales to be flat in 2008
Maybe “flat� is okay in what is shaping up to be the toughest economic period in a long time. According to the National Sporting Goods Association (NSGA), flat is what retail sales of sporting goods – footwear, clothing and equipment – are expected to be flat in 2008. For 2008, sporting goods sales are forecast to reach $53.4 billion … READ MORE
ION PERSONNEL
Long-time Penney executive VP retiring
John W. Irvin is retiring from J.C. Penney Co. after leading its online and catalog business through the retailer’s difficult turnaround and into a $1.5 billion business. Irvin joined Penney in 2001 from Spiegel, where he was president and CEO. The retailer said Irvin’s position, executive VP and president of JCPenney Direct, will not be filled. Penney has been consolidating merchandise, marketing and other functions for the catalog and Web site with its department store teams.
ION TEENS
Patagonia’s Crooke Hot Topic bound
Former Patagonia and Pearl Izumi CEO Michael Crooke is taking charge of Hot Topic. Crooke will oversee all elements of the teen retailer’s brand, including music, merchandising, planning and allocation, marketing, store design and visual, store operations and hottopic.com. He will report to company CEO Betsy McLaughlin. Jerry Cook will assume the title of COO and maintain his current responsibilities to oversee all operational support functions for Hot Topic.
ION ECONOMY
Sporting goods retailers hurting, but brands still No. 1
What in the wide, wide world of sporting goods is going on out there? That seems to be the big question across all industry segments these days. There is one thing for sure: According to a new report from the Mercanti Group, the U.S. sporting goods retail industry is on the brink of major changes, with widespread consolidation and private-label brands reshaping the $110 billion industry … READ MORE
ION FOOTWEAR
Are the Olympics all about the shoes?
The Olympics. Are the winners defined by medals or sneakers? Depends on whom you ask, really? For Nike and adidas, the Beijing games are a brawl for dominance of the sneaker world. Beijing is the doorway into a vast new market … READ MORE
ION GOLF
Dick’s cites golf industry for tough first quarter
The weak golf business was the culprit of the weak first quarter reported by Dick’s Sporting Goods – a quarter that saw a 4.3 percent decline. The retailer admitted that it is beginning to feel the effects of an economic slowdown and lowered its earnings forecast for the full year … READ MORE
ION FOOTWEAR
Athletic footwear pulls in $17.4 billion in 2007
There’s a first for everything. And when it comes to athletic footwear, this is a big one, considering how sales of sneakers were once strong and the fact that we’re in an economic slowdown. Retail sales of athletic footwear have surpassed the $17 billion, reaching $17.4 billion, an increase of 2.7 percent versus 2006, when sales were $16.9 billion … READ MORE
ION SCUBA DIVING
Sport Chalet looking to ramp up scuba sales
Snorkeling is back. Sport Chalet has entered into a joint training and operations agreement with Ocean Enterprises, a San Diego-based specialty dive center. Sport Chalet and Ocean Enterprises will work together on employee and dive instructor training and certification as well as joint merchandising and marketing initiatives … READ MORE
ION CYCLING
Cycling participation rebounds in 2007
Cycling is back, baby! After falling 13 percent in 2006, participation took a modest jump in 2007. According the National Sporting Goods Association (NSGA), overall participation was up 5 percent – from 35.6 million riders in 2006 to 37.4 million riders in 2007 … READ MORE
ION RETAILING
Big retailers scaling back expansion plans, closing stores
When it comes to the nation’s slumping economy, there seems to be few surprises. Take retail expansion. After a decade of seemingly breakneck expansion, large retail chains are slamming on the brakes – hard … READ MORE
ION CHICAGO
‘Shopping recession’ hit Chicago, area retail in ‘07
If you think shopping on Michigan Avenue is all the rage – think again. A recent report shows that retail sales in the greater Chicago area ground to nearly a halt in 2007, increasing a mere 1.09 percent to $106.9 billion. This was not only the slowest pace since 2003, but also a dramatic slowdown from the 6.5 percent growth rate in 2006 … READ MORE
ION MARKETING
Brown Shoe looks to bolster marketing for Famous Footwear
In these days of tightened discretionary income, it’s all about the marketing. That’s why the Brown Shoe Company is bolstering its marketing efforts with two key moves in the Famous Footwear chain … READ MORE
ION TENNIS
Tennis tops in participation growth in 2007
No Agassi. No worries. His legacy – along with a feverish revival of the sport – continues to drive participation in the sport. At least that’s the story. According to the National Sporting Goods Association (NSGA), among sports and recreation activities with 10 million or more participants, tennis experienced the highest growth rate in 2007 … READ MORE
ION BASEBALL
Dick’s Sponsors Little League
Dick’s Sporting Goods has been named the Official Sporting Goods Retailer of Little League Baseball and Softball. This sponsorship enables the retailer to work directly with leagues and coaches in a number of ways, including discount coupons for all Little League teams, equipment donations and a variety of in-store events, such as player registrations and instructional clinics.
ION OUTDOORS
REI named ‘Employer of the Year’
Recreational Equipment Inc. was named the “Employer of the Year� at the 2008 World Retail Congress. The award celebrates retailers that demonstrate policies and initiatives that make their company a truly popular place to work. REI was recognized for its commitment to employee engagement and the cooperative business model, which also attributes to a positive in-store experience for members and customers … READ MORE
ION FOOTWEAR
Footstar to eliminate 130 jobs
Footstar Inc., which operates the footwear departments in Kmart stores, is eliminating 130 jobs, resulting in $4.6 million of charges for severance. In a regulatory filing, Footstar said it still expects to wind down its business at the end of 2008 when its exclusive license to operate the Kmart footwear departments expires. The retailer said it had 3,948 employees as of Dec. 29, 2007, including 3,617 who worked in licensed footwear departments in 1,388 Kmart stores and 859 Rite Aid Corp stores.
ION RETAIL
$8.25 million tax deal approved for Dick’s building
Findlay, Pa., officials have approved a $8.25 million tax deal to help Dick’s Sporting Goods build its new corporate headquarters. The approval means that half of the taxes on Dick’s office campus to be diverted for 10 years to help pay off infrastructure improvements needed to develop the 116-acre site, according to a story in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette … READ MORE
ION CONSUMERS
Consumer confidence drops in April on inflation, jobs
Soaring gas prices and weaker job prospects made Americans gloomier about the economy in April, sending a widely watched measure of consumer sentiment to a five-year low, a private research group … READ MORE
ION FITNESS
Mixed martial arts gear punching up sporting goods sales
Mixed martial arts are adding some punch to sporting goods sales, even in a wobbling economy.

 Sales of MMA-related gear rose 12 percent in 2007, as more people began using mixed martial arts (also known as “ultimate fighting�) in their workout routines, according to the Sporting Goods Manufacturers’ Association … READ MORE
ION PERSONNEL
Hibbett Sports makes three VP appointments
Hibbett Sports has bolstered its management team with three VP appointments. David Benck has been named VP and general counsel, Jeff Gray was promoted to VP of real estate and Michael McAbee was named VP of merchandise planning.
ION CONSUMERS
U.S. sentiment worse than anticipated
U.S. consumer confidence fell more than forecast in April to a 26-year low as record fuel prices and rising unemployment threatened to reduce spending. The Reuters/University of Michigan sentiment index decreased to 62.6, from 69.5 the previous month. The measure was down from a preliminary estimate of 63.2 issued on April 11 … READ MORE
ION KIDS
JC Penney launches target youth market
JC Penney has unveiled a series of brand launches and merchandising initiatives targeted at the teen and young adult fashion markets. The retailer is to launch Decree, a new private label brand aimed at female teens and young adults, this back-to-school season. Designed, developed and sourced in-house, Decree will be premium denim-driven, with items starting at US$18 for a tank top … READ MORE
ION WOMEN
Kmart making push for women’s apparel
With all signs pointing to Edward Lampert’s investment in Kmart, the retailer could be making a push for more women’s apparel. According to a story in Women’s Wear Daily, Lampert has come under increasing fire for his apparent lack of a strategy for the discount chain and its sister retailer Sears, which combined to form Sears Holdings Corp. … READ MORE
ION RELOCATION
Brown Shoe to relocate 270 jobs in St Louis move
Brown Shoe Company plans to relocate up to 270 staff. The moves comes as the company closes its office in Wisconsin and moves operations to its St Louis base. The company said the switch of its Madison operations to St Louis would create a “more connected footwear companyâ€? … READ MORE
ION RETAIL
EMS sets plans for three more stores
Eastern Mountain Sports will open three new stores this spring, including locations in Moorestown, N.J. (May 2); Dulles, Va., (a new market on June 20); and North Conway, N.H. (June 27). Each store will include expanded apparel and gear offerings and a revitalized store format designed to appeal to younger consumers featuring a hub to share experiences, to swap stories and to plan trips. EMS will open four other such stores later this year … READ MORE
ION PERSONNEL
JC Penney names two new general merchandise managers
JC Penney has added two new GMMs for men’s and children’s divisions. Steven Lawrence has been named executive VP and GMM of the men’s division, while Clark McNaught is senior VP and GMM of the children’s division … READ MORE
ION OUTDOORS
Outdoor Industry Foundation changes name
The Outdoor Industry Foundation has changed its name to The Outdoor Foundation. As part of a repositioning effort, the foundation will maintain its support for Teens Outside as it evaluates additional programs to ensure that the organization is supporting the most effective ways to increase youth participation in outdoor activities … READ MORE
ION FOOTWEAR
Federation supports shoemakers
The Federation of the European Sporting Goods Industry does not want the European Commission to remove Viet Nam’s shoemakers, from a program that helps developing countries export to the bloc … READ MORE
ION SALES
Sport Chalet expects to report loss
Sport Chalet expects to report a loss in its fourth quarter, with sales declining due to the consumer spending slowdown. The company said it now expects to report a loss between 20 and 25 cents per share in the quarter. In the fourth quarter of 2007, the company reported a profit of 6 cents per share … READ MORE
ION FIREARMS
Remington to close Gardner, Mass., plant
In another sign of the economic times, Remington Arms Company is closing its Gardner, Mass., plant by the end of this year. The firearms manufacturer said about 200 workers would be affected. Remington said some would move to other positions. Those who lose their jobs will be offered severance and outplacement and referral services. Remington officials said that while it was a difficult decision, it believes the consolidation will allow it to be more competitive in an increasingly demanding global marketplace.
ION INTERNATIONAL
Retailers expect emerging markets to explode in next five years
Retailers are looking to the world’s emerging markets to drive the success of their businesses in the future, according to new research by CB Richard Ellis. The report – The Global Emerging Markets Survey (GEMS) – revealed that 40 percent of retailers expect emerging markets to provide their main source of growth over the next five years, while only a quarter expect to see growth concentrated in their home market … READ MORE
ION ENVIRONMENT
Eco-friendly products going mainstream
Earth Day 2008, April 22, marks a paradigm shift in the social consciousness of America as mainstream retail makes it easier for consumers to live a greener lifestyle. According to a story in the Dallas Morning News, merchandise that appeals to the environmentally conscious no longer requires a trip to a specialty store but is as close as the neighborhood shopping center … READ MORE
ION MERCHANDISING
Sport Chalet names new chief merchandising officer

Sport Chalet named Tom Tennyson to the newly created position of executive VP-chief merchandising officer. Tennyson will be responsible for all merchandising and marketing initiatives as well as in-store merchandise presentation for Sport Chalet. He will report directly to Craig Levra, chairman and CEO. Most recently, he served as senior VP and GMM at Mervyns Department Stores, where he was involved with merchandising and marketing as well as logistics and systems.
ION PEOPLE
Target tabs new executive VP
Target named Kathee Tesija as executive VP of merchandising, effective May 1. Tesija has served as senior VP of merchandising for the baby, beauty, commodities, electronics, entertainment, health and wellness, pharmacy, sporting goods and toys divisions.
ION FISHING
Dick’s turns attention to recruiting new fishermen
Is there anything that Dick’s Sporting Goods cannot do these days? The retailer has partnered with the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation (RBFF) to bring thousands of new people into the sport, which has struggled a bit of late … READ MORE
ION OUTDOORS
OIA supporting National Landscape Conversation System
In a letter delivered to Congress, the Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) and American Hiking Society are providing unified support of the Bureau of Land Management’s National Landscape Conservation System (NLCS). The U.S. House of Representatives is preparing to vote on a bill that will grant permanent congressional recognition to NLCS … READ MORE
ION WOMEN
Karen Durkin named CEO of Women’s Sports Foundation
The Women’s Sports Foundation named Karen Durkin as CEO. Durkin joins the Foundation from the National Hockey League (NHL), where she served as executive VP of communications and brand strategy. Durkin is the foundation’s fourth CEO, succeeding Dr. Donna Lopiano, who resigned after a 15-year tenure … READ MORE
ION COLORADO
REI to open eighth Colorado store
Recreational Equipment Inc. plans to open a new store in Westminster, Colo. at The Orchard Town Center in the spring of 2009. The 27,000-square-foot, one-story store will include a camping gear rental department, a bike shop and space for community and non-profit classes, presentations and events. REI will hire approximately 60 employees at hiring clinics that will occur approximately two months prior to opening the store, the eighth location in the state … READ MORE
ION CONSUMERS
Nation’s Best Sports, GE Money to offer consumer finance program
In what may be a trend in the sporting goods industry, Nation’s Best Sports and GE Money have signed a multi-year agreement to provide the GE Money Sport Finance program through more than 1,000 retail locations throughout the United States and Canada. The consumer credit program enables sports and fitness enthusiasts to take advantage of advanced sales notifications and exclusive discounts. The financing program also provides a fast, easy application process, online account management, flexible financing options and promotional credit terms.
ION ADVERTISING
March Madness a marketing slam dunk
Sure, the Super Bowl gets all the juice when it comes to sports advertising. According to recent comScore survey, one out of four people indicated they watch the Super Bowl more for the commercials than the game. But there’s a new player in town – the NCAA Tournament …
ION CONSUMERS
Survey: U.S. consumer confidence worst quarter since 1993
Americans’ consumer confidence slipped in the last week of March, bringing its average for the first quarter near a 15-year low, according to the ABC News/Washington Post Consumer Comfort Index. In a quarter-to-quarter comparison, the news outlets said confidence averaged -31 in the first quarter, compared with -2 in the year-ago quarter. It has not been in such a bad shape since the fourth quarter of 1993, when it reached -33. Positive views on the buying climate fell three percentage points to 26 percent and views on the national economy fell 1 percent to 19 percent.
ION CHINA
Inflation weighs on global retail outlook
According to a TSN Retail Forward report, China continues to hold the top spot as the best retail market opportunities around the world. Russia and India were also cited. The report – Global Retail Outlook – also revealed that South Africa displaced Spain among the remaining top 10 countries, which primarily are relatively low-risk, developed retail markets: the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada and Japan. The trends and forecasts underlying the list suggest that inflation pressures threatening to persist at higher levels than in recent years are bogging down the retail spending pace in many countries.
ION COUNTERFEIT
NYPD seizes $4.5M of phony merchandise
Police have confiscated 50,000 pairs of knockoff Nike sneakers and as many as 40,000 counterfeit handbags from a Queens, N.Y., warehouse. The phony goods, likely from China, have a street value of $4.5 million. Along with the sneakers and bags, authorities found 5,000 pieces of apparel bearing fake labels for popular brands. The New York Police Department say it will take as many as eight tractor-trailers to haul away the goods. The NYPD calls the raid one of the biggest in the city’s recent history.
ION FINANCE
Play It Again, GE Money to offer consumer finance program
Play It Again Sports consumers will be able to take advantage of sales notifications and exclusive discounts thanks to a private label credit program managed by GE Money’s sales finance unit. The financing program also provides an application process, online account management, flexible financing options and promotional credit terms. Accountholders can also select from five different card designs based on their area of interest.
ION OREGON
Dick’s among business lending support to Eugene ’08
Dick’s Sporting Goods and Nike are among 55 companies helping fund the 2008 U.S. Olympic Track & Field Trials in Eugene, Ore. Trials organizers have raised and spent $8 million on Hayward Field improvements. Separately, the meet and festival will cost $9.5 million to $10 million to run. Ticket sales are expected to bring in $3.75 million; state and local governments have pledged $950,000; and organizers are hoping to raise the remaining $5 million from donations and partnerships. Donors have pledged about $3.5 million so far, so organizers are still working to raise $1.5 million to $2 million.
ION OUTDOORS
REI members re-elect three to board
Recreational Equipment Inc. (REI) elected several new board members during is 2008 annual membership meeting. Cooperative members voted to return incumbents Jesse King, managing director, Fulcrum Advisors; Cheryl Scott, COO, The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation; and Michael Smith, CEO, Bag, Borrow or Seal, to three-year terms. The REI board of directors also selected its officers for 2007. Anne Farrell, former president and CEO of the Seattle Foundation, was-elected as chair. Ivar Chhina was elected vice chair.
ION RETAIL
Kmart still trying to get it right
Kmart has launched two major initiatives to spark sales in its health care and apparel businesses. The moves followed closely on the heels of dismal 2007 results for the discounter and for its sister chain, Sears, according to Mass Market Retailers. Kmart’s pharmacy has launched the American Fare Dollar program, which gives the chain’s pharmacy customers a choice of 10 private label over-the-counter medications for just $1 every time they make a prescription purchase. The program was launched in Florida earlier this month and will be rolled out nationwide in April.
ION SHOWS
SGMA BRINGING SPRING Market Management in-house
Effective immediately, the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association (SGMA) will assume the day-to-day responsibilities of its trade show by bringing management of the SGMA Spring Market in-house.…READ MORE
ION LICENSING
DICK’S STACK: Private label brands becoming more recognizable
Dick’s Sporting Goods Chairman Ed Stack told an analyst last week that so-called “private brands” are more recognizable than “private label brandsâ€?…READ MORE
ION FOOTWEAR
COLLECTIVE BRANDS taking shape
As president and CEO of Collective Brands, a footwear giant formed last week with Payless ShoeSource’s $800 million acquisition of Stride Rite Corp., Matt Rubel will head a company that some say points to the future of how casual shoes will be distributed worldwide…READ MORE
ION EL PASO
ACADEMY SPORTS STORES to open this fall
Academy Sports and Outdoors has delayed opening two El Paso stores by about six weeks, but they’ll still be open in plenty of time for the winter holidays. …READ MORE
ION FOOTWEAR
FLEET FEET CHICAGO names Scheuerlein president of retail
Paul Scheuerlein has been named president of retail for Fleet Feet Sports’ Chicago franchisee.…READ MORE
ION OUTDOORS
CABELA’S ADDS Indiana to expansion plans
Cabela’s will open its first store in (Hammond) Indiana in October. The 185,000-square-foot store, the retailer’s 23rd, will be one of the state’s biggest attractions, as the retailer expects up to four million people to visit the store annually. The store will add some 400 jobs to the Hammond area…READ MORE
ION HOLIDAY
RETAILERS TAKE cautious view as holidays loom
U.S. retailers are still sweating through the back-to-school shopping season, but an early chill has already crept into their prospects for the all-important holiday season…READ MORE
ION PEOPLE
JCPENNEY NAMES divisional VP / associate director, investor relations
J. C. Penney named Phillip Sanchez as divisional VP, associate director of Investor Relations, effective Sept. 1, 2007. He will report to Robert Johnson, vice president, director of Investor Relations…READ MORE
ION ADVERTISING
AD AGENCY DEVITO/Verdi teams with Sports Authority
Determined to add some muscle to its marketing efforts, Sports Authority has named the New York advertising agency DeVito/Verdi to handle its multi-million dollar advertising and marketing account…READ MORE
ION Q2
GANDER MOUNTAIN REPORTS Q2 losses; revenue up 19%
Gander Mountain reported a second-quarter loss of $9.66 million, or 48 cents a share, compared with a loss of $7.56 million, or 53 cents a share, a year earlier, when there were fewer shares outstanding…READ MORE
ION Q2
DICK’S SPORTING GOODS Q2 profit raises, raises ’07 earnings view
Dick’s Sporting Goods posted a better-than-expected quarterly profit despite a difficult retail environment, helped by its acquisition of Golf Galaxy, and raised its 2007 earnings outlook…READ MORE
ION Q2
HIBBETT SPORTS REPORT Q2 profit increase
Hibbett Sports reported that second quarter profit climbed 16 percent, but missed Wall Street’s estimates by a penny on softer-than-expected sales…READ MORE
ION FANTASY
ADD FANTASY FOOTBALL to list of top online time-wasters
Here’s a story that was just too interesting not to include. For employers, the upcoming online NFL fantasy football season could create something of a gridiron quandary, according to a story in Computerworld magazine…READ MORE
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