North America became the U.K.-based retailer's most significant geography in the fiscal first half ended Aug. 3, as the addition of Hibbett and 12% organic growth sent revenues here up 16% to £1,753.8 million ($2,220.0 mm) from £1,514.1 million.

The debt-laden North Face and Vans parent has completed the sale of Supreme to EssilorLuxottica for $1.5 billion in an all-cash transaction, with net proceeds heading to reduce its long-term obligations that totaled $3.8 billion at the close of the June quarter.

The Kathmandu, Rip Curl, and Oboz parent appointed 19-year Nike executive Brent Scrimshaw to succeed Michael Daly, who is resigning from the top job after leading KMD Brands through a difficult period coming out of the pandemic.

The Compass Diversified-owned brand appointed Chris Gallo as SVP of product strategy and Andrea Paulson as SVP of innovation and technology, as PrimaLoft aims its new strategic vision focused on product innovation while reducing environmental impact.

CCM Hockey, which was put on the block last April by Birch Hill Equity Partners, sees PE firm Altor Equity Partners acquire a majority stake in the brand as the company aims to accelerate growth in both current and new segments, products, and markets.

The Chicago-based venture capital firm, which created the subsidiary United Pickleball Paddles, is collaborating with Muev to launch a new direct-to-consumer pickleball apparel brand with plans to enter the wholesale channel next year.

NSSF-adjusted NICS FBI background checks increased for the third straight month, growing 1.3% in Sep. to 1,156,223 from 1,141,847.