The sporting goods industry staggered in the third quarter, with four of five sectors posting earnings declines, sales growth at a lackluster 4% against 7% last year and ROI falling to 7.7% from 9.4%. Total sales were $43,703.1 million up from $42,020.2 million last year, but income declined 15% to $3,355.0 million from $3,942.5 million with only the Diversified sector posting an increase, while in Q3 last year, all sectors tallied both revenue and earnings gains. Q3 is an important quarter for most categories, with wholesale apparel driven by higher-ticket outerwear, and everyone selling in for the Holiday season. Retail ... Log in to view full article.