Environement news :Greenpeace criticizes outdoor industry on use of toxic chemicals !

Greenpeace has once again attacked outdoor brands for using toxic or even carcinogenic substances in their products.

The German section of the non-governmental organization has just released a 44-page report in which it states that some manufacturers continue to use hazardous chemicals such as polyfluorinated compounds (PFCs) and the perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), which help ensure waterproofing and/or dirt-repellent properties. In cooperation with two independent laboratories, Greenpeace has identified significant levels of PFOA in products marketed by The North Face, Patagonia, Jack Wolfskin, Kaikkialla and Marmot, as well as hazardous components in products from other brands.

 The full report can be downloaded at:  http://www.greenpeace.de/fileadmin/gpd/user_upload/themen/chemie/gp_outdoor_report_2012_engl_fol_fin_neu_02_es.pdf

by SGI Europe through Ispo newsblog 

Business news :Delta Apparel's Q1 Profits Slide on Revenue Decline

Delta Apparel Reports Fiscal 2013 First Quarter Results

10/25/2012

 

Record first-quarter revenue puts Company on track to achieve full year goals

 GREENVILLE, S.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Delta Apparel, Inc. (NYSE MKT: DLA) today reported that it achieved record revenue for its fiscal 2013 first quarter ended September 30, 2012.

Net sales for the fiscal 2013 first quarter were $130.1 million, a 5.3 percent increase over 2012 first quarter sales of $123.5 million. Net income for the 2013 first quarter was $3.6 million, or $0.41 per diluted share, compared with $4.4 million, or $0.50 per diluted share, in the prior year quarter. Net income for the fiscal 2013 first quarter was affected by a one-time charge of $1.2 million related to the previously disclosed internal investigation completed by the Company's Audit Committee in September, which reduced first quarter earnings per share by $0.10. Excluding this one-time charge, net income would have been a first quarter record.

Delta’s first quarter performance was primarily driven by strong organic growth and improved margins in the basics segment as well as in the branded segment’s Art Gun business. The higher revenues were offset somewhat by lower average selling prices resulting from cotton price declines and product mix changes.
Basics Segment Review

Fiscal 2013 first-quarter net sales for Delta’s basics segment rose 26.6 percent to $66.5 million, compared with $52.6 million in the prior year period. The increase was led by the Company’s FunTees business, which enjoyed a 48 percent rise in unit volume and 41.5 percent net sales growth during the quarter. The Delta Catalog business experienced a 35 percent increase in unit volume and 20 percent net sales growth. The higher unit volumes leveraged against fixed manufacturing costs, coupled with lower cotton costs in inventory, enabled Delta to reduce pricing while maintaining acceptable margins in its basics segment. In addition, the market for undecorated t-shirts was stable during the first quarter, with overall market demand keeping pace with inventories.
 
Branded Segment Review
Branded segment sales for the fiscal 2013 first quarter were $63.5 million, versus $70.9 million for the comparable 2012 quarter. The shortfall primarily resulted from lower net sales in the Soffe, Junkfood and The Game businesses, which were only slightly offset by sales growth at Art Gun. Soffe’s revenue was down due to weak department store business with low replenishment orders, but Soffe did experience solid growth in the military and sporting goods channels. The decline in Junkfood sales was primarily driven by product mix changes and early shipping of fall merchandise. However, that business did see growth in its core Junk Food brand within the boutique, specialty chain and high-end department store channels and maintained strong margins during the quarter. Slower sales in collegiate products lead to The Game's revenue decline for the quarter, but solid growth in its Salt Life and motorsports lines is anticipated for the remainder of the year. Art Gun followed its strong showing over the past several quarters with a net sales increase of nearly 230 percent over last year’s first quarter.

Robert W. Humphreys, Delta Apparel’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said that Delta’s solid first quarter put the Company in position to meet its full year financial goals. “We are now on the downside of the cotton price spike that hampered business during the previous fiscal year and can currently offer more competitive pricing while simultaneously improving margins. The market share gains realized in our basics segment during the first quarter are encouraging and our expectation is to build on this large base as the year progresses. We anticipate revenue growth at Junkfood, The Game and Art Gun during the remainder of the year, offset to some degree by sales declines in Soffe branded product at department stores.

“While we believe Delta will achieve a tenth consecutive year of record revenue growth, we also expect continued margin improvement driven by lower materials and energy costs and increased manufacturing efficiencies. Excellent progress has been made in leveraging our creative talent and retail relationships across all of our operating units. We are currently evaluating several strategies to better leverage our Soffe brand assets to accelerate growth, and have recently added a strong business-to-business platform aimed at gaining market position in the sporting goods channel. Our continued focus on information technology initiatives are designed to streamline business operations and enhance service levels to our customers.

“In addition to improving our profitability during the quarter, we took action to improve the Company’s balance sheet. We reduced debt by nearly $12 million compared to fiscal year-end 2012 and improved our days sales outstanding and inventory turns from the prior year. During the quarter, we repurchased nearly 73 thousand shares of Delta common stock, which we believe currently is an effective use of funds, especially since the stock has been trading below what we believe is its intrinsic value.”

Mr. Humphreys concluded, “We consider our fiscal 2013 first quarter an important start to meet our goals for the year. While there is a lot yet to be accomplished, we believe we are well positioned for further revenue growth and improved earnings.”
Fiscal 2013 Guidance

The Company believes that the guidance previously provided for fiscal 2013, inclusive of the previously mentioned $1.2 million first quarter charge, can be achieved. Based on anticipated net sales growth and higher unit volume leveraging fixed costs, the Company expects to reach record revenues in the range of $500 to $510 million for fiscal 2013, or about a three percent increase over 2012. Net income is expected to be in a range of $1.65 to $1.80 per diluted share.

About Delta Apparel, Inc.
Delta Apparel, Inc., along with its operating subsidiaries, M. J. Soffe, LLC, Junkfood Clothing Company, To The Game, LLC and Art Gun, LLC, is an international design, marketing, manufacturing, and sourcing company that features a diverse portfolio of lifestyle branded activewear apparel and headwear, and produces high quality private label programs. The Company specializes in selling casual and athletic products across distribution tiers and in most store types, including specialty stores, boutiques, department stores, mid-tier and mass chains. From a niche distribution standpoint, the Company also has strong distribution at college bookstores and the U.S. military. The Company’s products are made available direct-to-consumer on its websites at www.soffe.com, www.junkfoodclothing.com, www.saltlife.com and www.deltaapparel.com. Additional products can be viewed at www.2thegame.com and www.thecottonexchange.com. The Company's operations are located throughout the United States, Honduras, El Salvador, and Mexico, and it employs approximately 7,200 people worldwide. Additional information about the Company is available at www.deltaapparelinc.com.
 
Statements and other information in this press release that are not reported financial results or other historical information are forward-looking statements subject to the safe harbor created by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These are based on our expectations and are necessarily dependent upon assumptions, estimates and data that we believe are reasonable and accurate but may be incorrect, incomplete or imprecise. Forward-looking statements are also subject to a number of business risks and uncertainties, any of which could cause actual results to differ materially from those set forth in or implied by the forward-looking statements. The risks and uncertainties include, among others, the general U.S and international economic conditions; the ability to grow, achieve synergies and realize the expected profitability of recent acquisitions; the volatility and uncertainty of raw material, transportation and energy prices and the availability of these products and services; changes in consumer confidence, consumer spending, and demand for apparel products; the ability of our brands and products to meet consumer preferences within the prevailing retail environment; significant interruptions in our distribution network or information systems; the financial difficulties encountered by our customers and higher credit risk exposure; the competitive conditions in the apparel and textile industries; changes in environmental, tax, trade, employment and other laws and regulations; changes in the economic, political and social stability of our offshore locations; significant litigation in either domestic or international jurisdictions, the relative strength of the United States dollar as against other currencies; and other risks described from time to time in our reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Accordingly, any forward-looking statements do not purport to be predictions of future events or circumstances and may not be realized. Further, any forward-looking statements are made only as of the date of this press release and we do not undertake publicly to update or revise the forward-looking statements even if it becomes clear that any projected results will not be realized.

Business news : Fitness Watches and Eyewear the Future of 2017 $8 billion GPS Device Market

London, United Kingdom - 26 Oct 2012

​Despite the hype around the decline of PNDs and the rise of smartphone applications, there is a long-term future for dedicated GPS devices. Total GPS device revenues are forecast to grow from $6.5 billion in 2011 to over $8 billion in 2017. With the exception of PNDs, all device categories grew in 2011, including cycling computers, golf caddies, and recreational devices.

Senior analyst Patrick Connolly said, “With over 40 GPS watches available in 2012, this is the standout device category. Motorola, Epson, New Balance, Magellan, and Polar all entered the market, with a number of others lining up devices for 2013. We will also see increasing partnerships between device manufacturers and smartphone application developers, which is vital in extending reach and opening up new sales channels.”

“Looking to the future, the GPS-enabled eyewear market is expected to expand beyond skiing into winter sports and fitness, as well opening up new markets such as motorcycling, making it one of the strongest device revenue categories by 2017.”

Practice director Dominique Bonte added, “Looking at the competitive environment, Garmin is already showing that it can continue to grow despite significant declines in its PND business, but they are also face increasing competition from the likes of TomTom/Nike, Mitac, Pioneer, Suunto, Recon Instruments, and a host of sporting apparel and watch manufacturers.”

These findings are part of ABI Research’s GPS & GNSS Research Service which includes additional GPS device and IC Competitive Analyses, Vendor Matrices, Market Data, and Insights.

ABI Research provides in-depth analysis and quantitative forecasting of trends in global connectivity and other emerging technologies. From offices in North America, Europe and Asia, ABI Research’s worldwide team of experts advises thousands of decision makers through 70+ research and advisory services. Est. 1990.

For more information visit www.abiresearch.com , or call +1.516.624.2500 .

Business and organisation news : American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA)

Footwear production increased 7.9 percent in the United States in 2011 despite slightly lower domestic unit sales thanks to growing exports, according to the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA).

“With a 7.9 percent surge in domestic footwear manufacturing, 2011 was a very positive year for the U.S. footwear industry,” said AAFA President and CEO Kevin M. Burke. “2011 was also marked by an increase in retail sales and growth in employment at the manufacturing, wholesale, and retail levels. 2011 also represents a shift in sourcing as the industry began to diversify its supply chain away from China to other viable sourcing partners, including the United States.”

The estimates were included in ShoeStats 2012 report, a snapshot of the U.S. footwear industry market trends for 2011 AAFA released Oct. 25. ShoeStats 2012 examines business and trade information related to U.S. footwear consumption, production, employment, imports, and retail prices.

“Accounting for more than one million U.S. workers, the U.S. footwear industry is a powerful example of an industry that is able to create jobs and provide meaningful savings for American families because of international trade,” Burke said. “With more than 98 percent of the footwear sold in the United States being produced internationally, there is a distinct and positive correlation between trade and job creation in the U.S. footwear industry, even while seeing growth in domestic manufacturing.”

To continue supporting more than one million American jobs related directly to the U.S. footwear industry and the countless others supported by the industry, the U.S. government must continue to reduce barriers to trade, including the immediate congressional passage of the Affordable Footwear Act.  This common sense legislation would eliminate the hidden and regressive import taxes that only drive up the prices on low-cost and children’s shoes.  Its passage directly benefits hardworking American families and supports jobs here in the United States while continue to protect the remaining footwear manufacturers in the United States.

The Affordable Footwear Act (H.R. 2697 / S. 1069) was introduced on July 29, 2011, in the U.S. House of Representatives by Representative Lynn Jenkins (R-KS) and co-sponsored by Representatives Joe Crowley (D-NY), Kevin Brady (R-TX), and Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) and in the U.S. Senate by Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and co-sponsored by Senators Roy Blunt (R-MO), Pat Roberts (R-KS), and Patty Murray (D-WA) on May 25, 2011.  Learn more about the Affordable Footwear Act at www.endtheshoetax.org.

Key Facts from ShoeStats 2012:

• U.S. footwear consumption by volume for 2011 dropped 3.8 percent to more than 2.18 billion pairs of shoes.  While consumption dropped slightly over the significant gains made in 2010, the decrease in consumption does not represent a return to the recession-level consumption experienced in 2008 and 2009.
• While U.S. footwear consumption slightly declined in 2011, the value of sales grew by 4.8 percent to $66.1 billion at retail.  This growth reflects both the increase in price driven by higher supply chain costs, including increases in materials, labor, and transportation, as well as consumers returning to purchases of shoes at higher price-points coming out of the recession.
• 98.6 percent of footwear sold in the United States is made internationally, a 0.2 percent decline from 2010, which represents the first-ever decline in import penetration, or the amount of the U.S. footwear market supplied by imports.
• On average, every American, including every man, woman, and child in the United States spent $212 on more than seven pairs of shoes in 2011.
• Americans, on average, continue to spend an ever smaller percentage of their household income to buy more shoes.

ShoeStats is one of the many exclusive benefits offered for free to AAFA members.  Non-members may order ShoeStats 2012 for a nominal fee by contacting Darrell Sumpter at (703) 797-9050.  Complimentary reports are available to credentialed members of the media by contacting Scott Elmore at (703) 797-9056.

( SportsOneSource Media )

Business and retail news :Groupe Go Sport Reports Comps Rose 4.9 Percent in Third Quarter

French retailing giant Rallye reported sales at its Groupe Go Sport business, which operates one of the largest chains of sporting goods stores in France, reached €189.2 million ($237 mm). Same store sales rose 4.9 percent  in currency-neutral (c-n) terms.

In France, third quarter sales for the GO Sport banner were up 3.6 percent on a same-store basis, benefiting from a strong performance of both seasonal and non-seasonal goods. Another highlight was the launch of the GO Sport franchise in France, with two integrated stores converted into franchisees.

Sales at Courir, a chain of specialty running stores once again recorded solid growth at 8.3 percent on a same-store basis, following a 5.0 percent increase in the first half of the year.
 

In Poland, same-store sales with constant exchange rates rose strongly at 8.5 percent in the third quarter of 2012. Similarly to France, the banner posted strong performance for the back-to-school period and sales of shoes recorded double-digit growth.

 

“Groupe GO Sport remains confident in its ability to maintain a strong commercial dynamic for both banners,” Rallye said in a press releasing announcing the results. “The effective start on July 20, 2012 of Loïc Le Borgne as General Manager for Groupe GO Sport initiates a new phase in group’s recovery, particularly by adopting a more customer-centered strategy and by reinforcing the partnership with brands.”

Goupe Go is controlled by Rallye Group, which operates the Casino convenience store chain and reported sales of $35 billion last year. Rallye guaranteed a $30 million capital raise for Groupe Go Sport in the second quarter. 

( SportsOneSource Media )

Business news :Jarden Outdoor Solutions Sales Slip 7 Percent in Third Quarter !

Third Quarter Cash Flow from Operations of over $75M Adjusted Diluted Earnings per Share Increased 14% in the Third Quarter

RYE, N.Y., Oct. 24, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Jarden Corporation (NYSE: JAH) today reported its financial results for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012.

For the three months ended September 30, 2012:

• Reported net sales were $1.71 billion compared to $1.78 billion, for the same period in 2011;
• Organic net sales declined 1.8% or $32 million;
• Gross margin increased 40 basis points to 29.4% compared to gross margin of 29.0%, for the same period in 2011;
• Adjusted gross margin increased 80 basis points to 30.0% compared to adjusted gross margin of 29.2%, for the same period in 2011;
• Diluted earnings per share declined 3% to $1.00 per diluted share compared to $1.03 per diluted share, for the same period in 2011; and
• Adjusted diluted earnings per share increased 14% to $1.35 per diluted share compared to $1.18 per diluted share, for the same period in 2011.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2012:

• Reported net sales were $4.88 billion compared to $4.94 billion, for the same period in 2011;
• Organic net sales grew 1.5% or $73 million;
• Gross margin increased 80 basis points to 29.1% compared to gross margin of 28.3%, for the same period in 2011;
• Adjusted gross margin increased 80 basis points to 29.3% compared to adjusted gross margin of 28.5%, for the same period in 2011;
• Diluted earnings per share increased approximately 19% to $2.45 per diluted share compared to $2.06 per diluted share, for the same period in 2011; and
• Adjusted diluted earnings per share increased approximately 18% to $2.91 per diluted share compared to $2.46 per diluted share, for the same period in 2011.

"In addition to the strong performance of the business so far this year, we acted opportunistically to strengthen our long-term capital position by completing a convertible note offering in September.  The strong demand for the offering and its successful execution allowed Jarden to take advantage of positive market conditions to strengthen our balance sheet and ensure that we have cash readily available to pay down more expensive debt, or to take advantage of value creating opportunities that may arise in the future," said Martin E. Franklin, Executive Chairman. "As we continue to invest in our targeted growth initiatives, a number of these plans revolve around growing international sales. While the tuck-in acquisitions we completed during the third quarter are not meaningful from a financial perspective, they provide strong international operating platforms to support long-term growth in these markets."

James E. Lillie, Chief Executive Officer commented, "I am pleased with our performance in both the quarter and year to date. Our diversified business model allowed us to deliver strong earnings and cash flow in the quarter. We achieved this performance despite the well known topline challenges we forecasted stemming from the warm winter of 2011-12. Notwithstanding the year over year weather related revenue impact, we are pleased that our strong gross margin performance also led to expanded segment earnings margins, and we remain on track to exceed last year's strong cash flow performance in 2012. We expect that the healthy momentum across each of our business segments should result in continued strength in fiscal 2013, with growth in line with our stated long-term objectives."

Please see the schedule accompanying this release for a reconciliation of non-GAAP segment earnings, adjusted net income, adjusted basic and diluted earnings per share, adjusted gross margins, adjusted interest expense and organic net sales growth to the comparable GAAP measures.

The Company will be hosting a conference call at 9:45 a.m. (EDT) tomorrow, October 25, 2012, to further discuss its third quarter results. To listen to the call by telephone, please dial 888-254-3595 (domestic) or 913-312-0686 (international) and provide passcode: 9240069. The call will be simultaneously webcast at www.jarden.com.  Supplemental information can be found in the For Investors section of the Company's website.  A replay of the call and webcast will be available for three weeks shortly after completion of the live call. To access the replay, call 888-203-1112 (domestic) or 719-457-0820 (international) and provide passcode: 9240069 or visit www.jarden.com.

Jarden Corporation is a leading provider of a diverse range of consumer products with a portfolio of over 100 trusted, quality brands sold globally.  Jarden operates in three primary business segments through a number of well recognized brands, including: Outdoor Solutions: Abu Garcia®, Aero®, Berkley®, Campingaz® and Coleman®, ExOfficio®, Fenwick®, Gulp!®, Invicta®, K2®, Marker®, Marmot®, Mitchell®, Penn®, Rawlings®, Shakespeare®, Stearns®, Stren®, Trilene®, Volkl® and Zoot®; Consumer Solutions: Bionaire®, Breville®, Crock-Pot®, FoodSaver®, Health o meter®, Holmes®, Mr. Coffee®, Oster®, Patton®, Rival®, Seal-a-Meal®, Sunbeam®, VillaWare® and White Mountain®; and Branded Consumables: Ball®, Bee®, Bernardin®, Bicycle®, Billy Boy®, Crawford®, Diamond®, Dicon®, Fiona®, First Alert®, First Essentials®, Hoyle®, Kerr®, Lehigh®, Lillo®, Loew Cornell®, Mapa®, NUK®, Pine Mountain®, Quickie®, Spontex® and Tigex®. Headquartered in Rye, N.Y., Jarden ranks #371 on the Fortune 500 and has over 23,000 employees worldwide. For in-depth information about Jarden, please visit www.jarden.com.

Note: This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the federal securities laws and is intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements regarding the Company's earnings per share and adjusted diluted earnings per share, expected or estimated revenue, segment earnings, cash flow from operations, and reorganization and other non-cash charges, the outlook for the Company's markets and the demand for its products,  consistent profitable growth, free cash flow, future revenues and gross, operating and EBITDA margin improvement requirement and expansion, organic net sales growth, bank leverage ratio, the success of new product introductions, growth in costs and expenses, the impact of commodities, currencies and transportation costs and the Company's  ability to manage its risk in these areas, repurchase of shares of common stock from time to time under the Company's stock repurchase program, our ability to raise new debt, and the impact of acquisitions, divestitures, restructurings, and other unusual items, including the Company's ability to integrate and obtain the anticipated results and synergies from its consummated acquisitions. These projections and statements are based on management's estimates and assumptions with respect to future events and financial performance and are believed to be reasonable, though are inherently uncertain and difficult to predict. Actual results could differ materially from those projected as a result of certain factors. A discussion of factors that could cause results to vary is included in the Company's periodic and other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Business and Retail news :Kaufhof reports stable sales and improved earnings

Kaufhof/ Sport-Arena Bonn

Galeria Kaufhof reports sales of €2.1 billion for the first nine months ended Sept 30, up slightly by 0.1 percent from the year-earlier period.

In the third quarter alone revenues for the German department store chain, which also runs 13 Sportarena stores and a fistful of specialty outdoor shops, improved significantly and rose by 1.8 percent to €0.7 billion. In the first nine months, earnings before interest and taxes (Ebit) improved from a loss of €40 million to -€24 million. In the third quarter, the loss decreased from -€9 to -€2 million. Some of the progress was due to Kaufhof’s strategic decision to phase out consumer electronics to the benefit of higher-margin product categories such as footwear, apparel and accessories.

by SGI Europe on Oct 30, 2012 through Ispo Newsblog

Business and retail news :Decathlon eyeing more growth in China !

The distributor of Decathlon sportswear (Oxylane group) in China wants to triple its presence there by 2015 through growth in second- or third-tier cities. That is the story being reported by the China Daily English-language newspaper, quoting Bertrand Tison, vice president of Decathlon China.

The company would build 150 stores over the next three years. "Around a third of our China sales come from first-tier city stores, but in the future, smaller cities will be the drivers of our growth," explains Bertrand Tison, whose objective is to move China from fourth to third place in the company's largest markets within five years. Currently France, Spain and Italy hold the top three positions.

The Oxylane group has not yet commented on this information but firmly denied reports published by the newspaper Challenges last April announcing the opening of 880 Decathlon stores in China by 2017. Industry insider Knut Jaeger says that Decathlon's Chinese market share among sportswear chains is at 20%. Jaeger is a specialist in sportswear for the Asian market and co-founder of the Friedrichshafen Outdoor trade show and its Chinese satellite Asia Outdoor.

In Oxylane’s publication of results for fiscal year 2011 in April, it announced the completion of 62 store openings in 2011, seven of which were in China where the brand had a total of 39 stores on December 31, 2011. The group’s annual sales totaled EUR 6.5 billion for the same year.

By SarahAhssen through uk.Fashionmag.com

Business people : Puma and PPR appoints new Chief for Tretorn

Markus Wonko New CEO Tretorn

Press release :Herzogenaurach/Paris, October 26, 2012 -

PUMA SE and PPR SA announced the appointment of Markus Wonko (40) as CEO of the Tretorn Group with effect from 1 st January 2013.

Tretorn based at Helsingborg in Sweden, Markus Wonko will be responsible for developing Tretorn brand. Its mission will be to maximize the potential of Tretorn brand as International Outdoor developing its activity through increased investment in product development, design and sales abroad.

Markus Wonko bring to his new position its solid international experience and know-how in the field of sports equipment. Tretorn he joined after 11 years in various positions within the adidas Group, most recently within the management team in Asia-Pacific Reebok Hong Kong. Previously, he was responsible for the activity of Adidas sport-lifestyle in Asia after having been to the Scandinavian market, where he managed the business development and process integrated marketing.

Markus Wonko studied international marketing and economics at the University of Lund in Sweden. He German and Swedish mother Language.

Brand leading outdoor, Tretorn creates products performance and leisure: rubber boots, footwear, outerwear, riding boots and tennis balls. founded by Henry Dunker in Helsingborg in 1891 in Sweden, Tretorn has a rich brand heritage.

Tretorn belongs to PUMA, which is part of PPR.

Press Contact - PUMA Kerstin Neuber: +49 81 9132 2984 - kerstin.neuber @ puma.com
Press Contact - RRP: Hélène Saint-Raymond: + 33 1 45 64 61 20 - hsaint-raymond@ppr.com

New product project : Audi E-bike, The bike of the future is technology and green !

Need (too) pedaling to protect the environment with the bike Audi e-bike. This little gem of technology combines comfort and performance to deliver a whole new cycling experience: connected as some of the cars that make us dream today!

 A masterpiece of embedded electronic assistance 

Originality of the e-bike: its solid structure but lightweight (1.6 kg) carbon fiber engine clean and contains a powerful 2.3 kW which is recharged by pedaling only 2:30. And if the machine can easily reach 80km / h, it is his support system board electronic which makes the bike more sophisticated in the world.Touch screen to control the five driving modes available is chassis-mounted bike. It also provides information on speed, distance and quality of the land. That should convince the most experienced cyclists.The device also embeds a function gyroscope, ie it is possible to control the balance and speed of the bike with the movement of his body. Simply lean forward to accelerate and backward to slow down. Height of high tech, it is possible, thanks to its wireless function, control all these settings from their smartphone. 

For when that prototype in trade? 

For the moment, the Audi e-bike is a prototype, so testing phase. Its many options rather intending it to a sport and acrobatic, which requires the control of specific parameters. The great interest of cycling lies in the possibility of complex figures, assisted by the onboard computer. No price has yet been announced.German car brand Audi is committed to environmental protection since the late 1990s. The development of this bike on the sidelines of the production of hybrid cars (as well as the implementation of environmentally friendly plants and reprocessing of waste), part of this policy that is "green".Still, for the public, especially when he feels himself both "geek" and "green" in the image of this machine, the only question: when the commercial launch of the e-bike, that we can all try it!

( French source Orange, by Jacqmart Pia )

Business news : Sports Direct Sales Surge in August and September

Sports Direct International said sales rose 18.0 percent in the nine weeks ended Sept. 30, to £402.7 million ($645.8 mm).
 
The nine-weeks results were provided as part of an update on current trading in advance of its half year ended Oct. 28.

Gross profit was up 21.7 percent to £167.4 million (167.4 mm).

Sports Retail sales for the same period increased 16.8 percent to £344.7 million, and Sports Retail gross profit increased 20.5 percent to £142.8 million.

Premium Lifestyle sales in the period increased 43.0 percent to £18.3 million (2012: £12.8m) with gross profit increasing 18.8 percent to £7.6 million (2012: £6.4m).

Brands division revenue increased 18.9 percent to £39.7 million (2012: £33.4m) with gross profit increasing 33.9 percent to £17.0 million (2012: £12.7m). This includes Firetrap wholesale sales of £7.8 million (2012: Nil) and gross profit of £3.3 million (2012: Nil).

"The Group has continued to deliver strong growth through the second quarter, especially within the UK Sports Retail division where sales and margins benefited from the London Olympics and an excellent 'back to school' period," said Dave Forsey, chief executive of Sports Direct International plc.

"Since the end of September trading has remained equally strong and the Board is therefore confident of reaching the full year targeted "super stretch" underlying EBITDA of £270m (before the charge for the bonus share schemes)."

The company will announce its Interim Results for the 26 weeks ending Oct. 28 on Dec. 13.

( SportsOneSource Media )

Business and retail news : Skechers Sales Rise 4 Percent in Third Quarter

Led by strength in its domestic wholesale division, company-owned retail stores and international distributor business, Skechers USA, Inc. reported sales improved 4.2 percent in the third quarter, to $429.4 million, compared to $412.2 million in the third quarter of 2011. Earnings climbed 32.5 percent to $11.0 million, or 22 cents a share, from $8.3 million, or 17 cents, a year ago.

Income from operations was $20.3 million, compared to $2.2 million in the third quarter of 2011.

"During the third quarter, sales improved in our domestic wholesale division, company-owned retail stores and international distributor businesses as a result of growth in many of our men's, women's and kids’ lines, including strong sales in our expanding Performance division. Also, our company-owned Skechers domestic concept stores achieved low double-digit positive comp store sales for the entire quarter, a positive market indicator for the acceptance of our new product offerings," began David Weinberg, chief operating officer and chief financial officer.

"The only revenue channel which did not increase during the third quarter was our international subsidiary division, which was adversely affected by a combination of the very challenging economic retail environment in Europe and the Euro exchange rate, as well as declining toning sales in comparison to the prior year period. However, we are now seeing an overall positive trend within our largest international subsidiaries."

Weinberg continued: “It is also important to note that currency translations reduced our net income by $1.4 million during the quarter, which reduced our after-tax diluted earnings per share by approximately $0.02. Also of note, we increased our total sales between the second and third quarters by 12 percent while general and administrative expenses remained relatively flat. We believe we will continue to further leverage our infrastructure positively in 2013.”

Gross profit for the third quarter of 2012 was $187.8 million, compared to $175.2 million in the third quarter of 2011. Gross margin was 43.7 percent for the third quarter of 2012, compared to 42.5 percent in the third quarter of 2011. Gross profit for the first nine months of 2012 was $514.9 million, or 44.2 percent of net sales, compared to $511.1 million, or 38.6 percent of net sales, in the first nine months of 2011.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2012, net sales were $1.165 billion compared to net sales of $1.323 billion in the first nine months of 2011. Net earnings for the first nine months of 2012 were $5.6 million, compared to net loss of $9.8 million in the first nine months of 2011. Net income per diluted share in the first nine months of 2012 was $0.11 per share on 49.8 million diluted shares outstanding, compared to a net loss of $0.20 per share on 48.3 million diluted shares outstanding for the same period last year.

Robert Greenberg, Skechers chief executive officer, commented: "The third quarter marked yet another first for Skechers with elite marathon runner, Meb, competing successfully in Skechers GOrun footwear during the 2012 London Olympics. Running with the best athletes in the world, Meb was the first American to finish and came in fourth place. We are extremely proud of his Olympic achievement and our recent awards from respected publications, including 'Editor’s Choice' from Runner’s World (UK) for Skechers GObionic. Our success in the quarter was in part the result of the continued growing acceptance of our expanding Performance footwear by the running community and consumers alike, as well as many new product developments and fresh styles within our lifestyle collections, including the successful introduction of Relaxed Fit Footwear for men and the growth of BOBS from Skechers. Through BOBS we have now donated more than two million pairs of shoes to children in need thanks to the ‘buy a pair, give a pair’ charitable program. In the quarter, we supported our performance, kids’ and lifestyle brands with advertising, including a new Mr. Quiggly commercial for Skechers GOrun Ride. We also released Twinkle Toes: The Movie on DVD in our Skechers stores and at key retailers. We are continuing to support our brands through the Fall and Holiday seasons, including the launch of a new men’s campaign starring Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban earlier this month, baseball icon Tommy Lasorda next week, and football legend Joe Montana next month. We also extended our agreement with Dancing with the Stars host Brooke Burke, who will be appearing in several new print and television campaigns starting in Spring 2013. We are energized by the enthusiasm for our product in our Skechers retail stores, with our domestic retail partners and in many countries around the world. We are building on this momentum with a continued focus on delivering fresh innovative styles and are looking forward to a strong holiday season and growth in 2013."

Weinberg added: “We are pleased with our continued improvements in financial performance and the positive response to our new products. Based on our key indicators and early sell through rates, we have confidence that all operating divisions – domestic wholesale, international and retail – will be up low to mid double digits in the fourth quarter. The combination of our recent growth, the coming Holiday season, and the reaction to our new product divisions, gives us confidence that Skechers is experiencing a resurgence on a global basis and we are on target to continue to grow profitably in 2013.”

( SportsOneSource Media )

Business news :Rocky Brands Sees Modest Q3 Revenue Gain

Rocky Brands, Inc. reported net income in the third quarter nudged ahead to $5.4 million, or 72 cents a share, from $5.2 million, or 70 cents, a year ago. Sales gained 2.1 percent to $72.5 million from $71.0 million a year ago.

David Sharp, president and chief executive officer, commented, “We are pleased that several of our more recently launched footwear initiatives once again delivered strong results. Double digit percentage gains in our western, commercial military and lifestyle categories, which include our new Durango City line of more fashion forward boots, fueled a 9% increase in footwear sales for the third quarter. As apparel sales to one of our customers continue to decline and growth projections for the overall work and hunting footwear markets remain modest, we are encouraged by our ability to successfully develop new growth vehicles for the future. We are also pleased with our continued progress towards improving our balance sheet. With funded debt down 30% from a year ago, the Company is now better positioned to capitalize on the long-term growth opportunities that lie ahead.”

Third Quarter Review
Wholesale sales for the third quarter increased 4.5% to $62.9 million compared to $60.2 million for the same period in 2011. The increase in wholesale sales was driven by a 9% increase in footwear sales, which was offset by a decline in apparel sales. Retail sales for the third quarter were $9.6 million compared to $10.3 million last year. There were no military segment sales for the third quarter compared to $0.4 million in the third quarter of 2011.

Gross margin in the third quarter of 2012 was $26.2 million, or 36.1% of sales compared to $25.6 million, or 36.0% for the same period last year.

Selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses increased 1.2% to $18.2 million or 25.2% of net sales, for the third quarter of 2012 compared to $18.0 million, or 25.4% of net sales a year ago. The $0.2 million increase is primarily due to higher advertising expenses partially offset by a decrease in compensation expense.

Income from operations was $7.9 million, or 10.9% of net sales, compared to $7.6 million, or 10.7% of net sales, in the prior year period.

Interest expense decreased to $0.2 million for the third quarter of 2012 versus $0.3 million due to lower borrowings versus the same period a year ago.

The Company’s funded debt decreased 30.3% or $18.2 million to $41.9 million at September 30, 2012 versus $60.1 million at September 30, 2011.

Inventory at September 30, 2012 decreased 7.4% or $5.9 million to $73.0 million compared with $78.9 million on the September 30, 2011.
Conference Call Information

Rocky Brands makes footwear under Rocky, Georgia Boot, Durango and Lehigh as well as the licensed brands Michelin and Mossy Oak.

( SportsOneSource Media )

Busines news :Harley-Davidson Reports Third-Quarter and Nine-Month Results

MILWAUKEE, WI – October 25, 2012 –Harley-Davidson, Inc. (NYSE: HOG) reported earnings per share of $0.59 for the third quarter of 2012, in line with Company expectations. Earnings were lower than the year-ago period due to a previously announced plan for lower third-quarter motorcycle shipments during the launch of an ERP production system at the Company’s largest assembly plant. For the full year 2012, Harley-Davidson continues to forecast a five-to seven-percent increase in motorcycle shipments compared to 2011.
Third-quarter income from continuing operations was $134.0 million on consolidated revenue of $1.25 billion, compared to income from continuing operations of $183.6 million, or $0.78 per share, on consolidated revenue of $1.40 billion in the year-ago quarter.
Through nine months, Harley-Davidson income from continuing operations increased 12.1 percent year-over-year to $553.3 million, or $2.40 per share, on consolidated revenue of $4.41 billion, compared to income from continuing operations of $493.4 million, or $2.09 per share, on consolidated revenue of $4.13 billion in the year-ago period.
“The third quarter marked a pivotal milestone in Harley-Davidson’s transformation. With the launch of the ERP production system at York, a major piece of our restructuring work is behind us. We are now focused on optimizing the system and look forward to the start of seasonal surge production early next year,” said Keith Wandell, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer.
“From our market leadership in U.S. outreach segments to our global expansion to the effective launch of ERP at York, we continued to see the evidence of the successful execution of our strategic plan,” said Wandell. “We believe Harley-Davidson is on track to deliver growth through our strategy, with investments in new markets, new products, and improved manufacturing and retail capabilities. Our entire team of employees, dealers and suppliers has done a great job of delivering on the many changes throughout the business that are important to Harley-Davidson’s long-term success.”

Retail Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Sales
Through nine months, retail sales of new Harley-Davidson motorcycles grew 6.0 percent overall, 6.2 percent in the U.S. and 5.4 percent internationally compared to the year-ago period. In the third quarter, retail sales of new Harley-Davidson motorcycles decreased 1.3 percent worldwide compared to the prior-year period, with unit sales down 5.2 percent in the U.S. and up 7.6 percent in international markets.
“We believe our U.S. dealers’ third-quarter new motorcycle sales were adversely affected by a limited availability of new motorcycles in July, August and early September resulting from the ERP implementation at York combined with the move of Harley-Davidson’s annual new model launch to late August from late July. As U.S. dealer inventory returned to more appropriate levels and the new 2013 motorcycles became more available, retail sales responded positively and gained momentum as we exited the quarter,” Wandell said.
“Harley-Davidson had a lot of exciting news for customers in the third quarter, with the launch of the 110^th Anniversary year and Anniversary Edition motorcycles, and the rollout of our exciting full line of 2013 bikes. While we see great untapped opportunity at retail, we continue to temper our expectations in light of continued softness in the global economy,” said Wandell.
On a worldwide basis, dealers sold 61,053 new Harley-Davidson motorcycles in the third quarter of 2012 compared to 61,838 motorcycles sold in the year-ago period.  Dealers sold 40,402 new Harley-Davidson motorcycles in the U.S. compared to sales of 42,640 units in last year’s third quarter. In international markets, dealers sold 20,651 new Harley-Davidson motorcycles during the third quarter compared to sales of 19,198 units in the year-ago period.  During the quarter, retail unit sales increased 32.3 percent in the Latin America region, 9.8 percent in the Asia Pacific region and 1.8 percent in the EMEA region and decreased 4.7 percent in North America (U.S. and Canada) compared to last year’s third quarter.
Through nine months, dealers sold 206,444 new Harley-Davidson motorcycles worldwide, with retail unit sales up 47.5 percent in the Latin America region, 14.1 percent in the Asia Pacific region and 6.0 percent in North America and down 2.9 percent in the EMEA region compared to the year-ago period.
Industry-wide U.S. heavyweight new motorcycle (651cc-plus) retail unit sales increased 3.8 percent through nine months of 2012 compared to the prior-year period.
Third-quarter and nine-month data are listed in the accompanying tables.

Harley-Davidson Motorcycles and Related Products Segment Results
Third-Quarter Results: Third-quarter operating income from motorcycles and related products was $144.8 million, a 19.9 percent decrease compared to operating income of $180.7 million in the year-ago period.
Revenue from motorcycles during the third quarter of 2012 of $774.0 million was down 16.1 percent compared to the year-ago period. The Company shipped 52,793 motorcycles to dealers and distributors worldwide during the quarter, down 14.5 percent and in line with prior guidance, compared to shipments of 61,745 motorcycles in the third quarter of 2011.
Revenue from motorcycle parts and accessories totaled $233.7 million during the quarter, down 0.8 percent, and revenue from general merchandise, which includes MotorClothes® apparel and accessories, was $75.6 million, up 9.1 percent compared to the year-ago period.
Gross margin was 34.7 percent in the third quarter of 2012, compared to 33.7 percent in the third quarter of 2011. Third-quarter operating margin from motorcycles and related products was 13.3 percent, compared to operating margin of 14.7 percent in last year’s third quarter.
Nine-Month Results: Through the first nine months of 2012 the Company shipped 200,558 motorcycles to dealers and distributors, a 10.0 percent increase compared to the year-ago period. Through nine months, revenue from motorcycles grew 8.4 percent to $2.99 billion, revenue from parts and accessories grew 6.6 percent to $698.4 million and revenue from general merchandise grew 10.0 percent to $225.4 million, compared to the year-ago period. Gross margin through nine months was 35.6 percent and operating margin was 16.8 percent, compared to 34.0 percent and 14.5 percent respectively through nine months last year.

Financial Services Segment Results
Operating income from financial services was $72.4 million in the third quarter of 2012, compared to operating income of $62.0 million in last year’s third quarter. Through nine months, operating income from financial services was $221.7 million, compared to operating income of $212.0 million in the year-ago period. Results for the third quarter and the first nine months of 2012 reflect continued improvement in credit performance year over year and lower interest expense. During the same periods in 2011, financial services results benefited from the release of significant credit loss reserves.

Guidance
Harley-Davidson continues to expect to ship 245,000 to 250,000 motorcycles to dealers and distributors worldwide in 2012, a five-to seven-percent increase from 2011. In the fourth quarter of 2012, the Company expects to ship 44,500 to 49,500 motorcycles, a two-to twelve-percent decrease from the year-ago period. This is consistent with the Company’s previously announced plans for lower shipments in the fourth quarter of 2012 related to the implementation of surge production at York in the first half of 2013. The Company believes surge production provides the flexibility to produce more motorcycles in the first half of 2013, closer to customer demand during the prime selling season. The Company continues to expect full-year 2012 gross margin of 34.75 percent to 35.75 percent.  The Company also continues to expect capital expenditures of between $190 million and $210 million in 2012.

Restructuring Update
In the third quarter of 2012, the Company incurred restructuring charges of $9.2 million. The Company now expects to incur full-year 2012 restructuring costs of $35 million to $45 million, a reduction of $5 million from the range previously provided. Upon the anticipated completion of restructuring in 2013, Harley-Davidson continues to expect restructuring activities initiated since 2009 to result in one-time overall costs of $490 million to $510 million through 2013. The Company continues to expect cumulative savings of $275 million to $295 million in 2012 from restructuring activities initiated since 2009, rising to cumulative annual ongoing savings of $315 million to $335 million beginning in 2014.

Income Tax Rate
Through nine months, the Company’s effective tax rate was 35.3 percent compared to 30.4 percent in the year-ago period. The 2011 effective tax rate was favorably impacted by a settlement of an IRS audit as well as a change in the Wisconsin income tax law associated with certain net operating losses.  The Company continues to expect its full-year 2012 effective tax rate from continuing operations will be approximately 35.5 percent.

Cash Flow
Cash and marketable securities totaled $1.93 billion at the end of the third quarter, compared to $1.61 billion at the end of last year’s third quarter. During the first nine months of 2012, Harley-Davidson generated $712.5 million of cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations, compared to $901.6 million in the year-ago period. On a discretionary basis, the Company repurchased 1.9 million shares of Harley-Davidson, Inc. common stock during the third quarter of 2012 at a cost of $84.9 million. At the end of the quarter, there were approximately 225 million shares of Harley-Davidson common stock outstanding and 15.3 million shares remaining on board-approved share repurchase authorizations.

Company Background
Harley-Davidson, Inc. is the parent company of Harley-Davidson Motor Company and Harley-Davidson Financial Services. Harley-Davidson Motor Company produces heavyweight custom, cruiser and touring motorcycles and offers a complete line of Harley-Davidson motorcycle parts, accessories, riding gear and apparel, and general merchandise. Harley-Davidson Financial Services provides wholesale and retail financing, insurance, extended service and other protection plans and credit card programs to Harley-Davidson dealers and riders in the U.S., Canada and other select international markets. For more information, visit Harley-Davidson’s Web site at www.harley-davidson.com.

Conference Call and Webcast Presentation
Harley-Davidson will discuss third-quarter results on a Webcast at 8:00 a.m. CT today. The Webcast presentation will be posted prior to the call and can be accessed at http://investor.harley-davidson.com/. Click “Events and Presentations” under “Resources.” The audio portion of today’s call will also be posted at harley-davidson.com beginning approximately two hours after the conclusion of the call for one year. The audio may also be accessed until Nov. 6, 2012 by calling 404-537-3406 or 855-859-2056 in the US, pin number 32462414#.

Forward-Looking Statements
The Company intends that certain matters discussed in this release are “forward-looking statements” intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can generally be identified as such because the context of the statement will include words such as the Company “believes,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “plans,” or “estimates” or words of similar meaning. Similarly, statements that describe future plans, objectives, outlooks, targets, guidance or goals are also forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated as of the date of this release. Certain of such risks and uncertainties are described below. Shareholders, potential investors, and other readers are urged to consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements and cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements included in this release are only made as of the date of this release, and the Company disclaims any obligation to publicly update such forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.
The Company’s ability to meet the targets and expectations noted depends upon, among other factors, the Company’s ability to (i) execute its business strategy, (ii) effectively execute the Company’s restructuring plans within expected costs and timing, (iii) adjust to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices,  (iv) manage through inconsistent economic conditions, including changing capital, credit and retail markets, (v) implement and manage enterprise-wide information technology solutions, including solutions at its manufacturing facilities, and secure data contained in those systems, (vi) anticipate the level of consumer confidence in the economy, (vii) continue to realize production efficiencies at its production facilities and manage operating costs including materials, labor and overhead, (viii) manage production capacity and production changes, (ix) manage changes and prepare for requirements in legislative and regulatory environments for its products, services and operations, (x) successfully implement with our labor unions the agreements that we have executed with them that we believe will provide flexibility and cost-effectiveness to accomplish restructuring goals and long-term competitiveness, (xi) manage risks that arise through expanding international operations and sales, (xii) manage supply chain issues, including any unexpected interruptions or price increases caused by raw material shortages or natural disasters, (xiii) provide products, services and experiences that are successful in the marketplace, (xiv) develop and implement sales and marketing plans that retain existing retail customers and attract new retail customers in an increasingly competitive marketplace, (xv) manage the risks that our independent dealers may have difficulty obtaining capital and managing through changing economic conditions and consumer demand, (xvi) continue to have access to reliable sources of capital funding and adjust to fluctuations in the cost of capital, (xvii) manage the credit quality, the loan servicing and collection activities, and the recovery rates of HDFS’ loan portfolio, (xviii) sell all of its motorcycles and related products and services to its independent dealers, (xix) continue to develop the capabilities of its distributor and dealer network, (xx) adjust to healthcare inflation and reform, pension reform and tax changes, (xxi) retain and attract talented employees, and (xxii) detect any issues with our motorcycles or manufacturing processes to avoid delays in new model launches, recall campaigns, increased warranty costs or litigation.
In addition, the Company could experience delays or disruptions in its operations as a result of work stoppages, strikes, natural causes, terrorism or other factors. Other factors are described in risk factors that the Company has disclosed in documents previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
The Company’s ability to sell its motorcycles and related products and services and to meet its financial expectations also depends on the ability of the Company’s independent dealers to sell its motorcycles and related products and services to retail customers. The Company depends on the capability and financial capacity of its independent dealers and distributors to develop and implement effective retail sales plans to create demand for the motorcycles and related products and services they purchase from the Company. In addition, the Company’s independent dealers and distributors may experience difficulties in operating their businesses and selling Harley-Davidson motorcycles and related products and services as a result of weather, economic conditions or other factors.

Source Harley-Davidson, Inc. through Motor Sports Newswire

New product : Oakley Introduces Airwave™ Goggle with Heads-Up Display

FOOTHILL RANCH, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oakley, Inc. today announced a revolutionary new snow goggle called Airwave™ which will be available on Oct. 31. It combines the company’s best goggle technologies with a heads-up display developed by Recon Instruments, integrating GPS, Bluetooth^®, and more with a host of onboard sensors to bring new possibility to the alpine experience. And for the first time, Oakley’s performance optics will be available in select Apple^® stores and Apple.com.

“Our icon defines the leading edge of performance innovation, and the new Airwave goggle brings alpine sports into the future with a stunning array of capabilities,” said Oakley CEO Colin Baden. “It utilizes cutting-edge electronics to give skiers and riders instant access to a world of information. Airwave represents the power and possibility of technology, and it comes with world-class optical performance, comfort and protection engineered over decades of Oakley innovation.”
With Airwave, alpine sports enthusiasts can access a full range of information transmitted directly to the eye. Snowboarders and skiers can view jump analytics, pinpoint their location on a resort map alongside navigational information, and even locate and track others in their group.* Additional sensor information includes distance traveled, altitude, speed and vertical descent data. Pairing with a smartphone allows immediate viewing of incoming calls and text messages, and music playlists on a Bluetooth-enabled device can be easily accessed and controlled by the glove-friendly wireless remote that can be strapped to the user’s body or goggle depending on their preference.**
Integrated within the goggle, the heads-up display uses innovative prism technology to display information perceived by the wearer to be the size of a 14-inch screen that is five feet away, so refocusing the eye is not necessary.

Airwave is compatible with both Apple^® and Android^® operating systems. Low Energy Bluetooth connectivity allows the goggle to interface with the wearer’s smartphone, heart rate monitor and more. The Oakley Airwave App, which will be available at http://www.oakley.com/airwave, offers wide-ranging capabilities to reinvent the alpine sport experience and will be upgraded frequently for even more features.
All these attributes are in addition to Oakley goggle innovations including Switchlock™ Technology that makes the process of lens changing quick and hassle-free, allowing the wearer to take advantage of the company’s wide array of premium performance lens tints that optimize vision for environmental conditions. The heads-up display is designed for an unobtrusive view, and semi-flush lens geometry ensures wide peripheral vision. F3 anti-fog technology is paired with a dual-vented lens design to help keep vision clear. Oakley Plutonite® lens material filters out 100% of all UV, and Iridium^® lens coatings balance light transmission.
Designed for a comfortable fit on medium to large faces, the chassis is made of durable yet lightweight O Matter® that stays comfortably flexible. Oakley’s O-Flow Arch technology reduces nasal pressure to maximize airflow for free breathing. Attachment points for the interchangeable strap design, the rigid O Matter outriggers maintain a balanced fit – with or without a helmet – while all-day comfort is ensured by a moisture-wicking triple layer of fleece foam at the area of facial contact.
“Oakley is dedicated beyond reason to exceed the limits of possibility, and Airwave will let winter sports enthusiasts do the same with technology that offers the ultimate in performance, convenience and capability,” Baden concluded.
A unisex design, the Oakley Airwave goggle will initially be available in two SKUs. The first has Gun Metal/Black coloration and is matched with a Black Iridium^® lens engineered for improved contrast in moderate to bright sunshine. The second features a White frame embellished with Factory Text graphics, and its Fire Iridium^® lens provides enhanced comfort in bright sun. Both lenses improve visual contrast and boost depth perception. Accessory lenses are available in a range of performance tints.
Oakley Airwave will be available for purchase at Oakley Stores and Oakley.com; Apple.com and Apple Stores in North America, Europe and Japan; SunglassHut.com; ReconInstruments.com; and select retail locations including a range of resort destinations starting on Wednesday, Oct. 31.
Visit Oakley.com to learn about the new Airwave alpine goggle and discover more about the company’s performance and lifestyle innovations.

About Oakley, Inc.
Established in 1975 and headquartered in Southern California, Oakley is one of the leading sports brands in the world. The holder of more than 600 patents, Oakley is continually seeking problems, solving them with inventions and wrapping those inventions in art. This philosophy has made Oakley one of the most iconic and inimitable brands on the market, with innovations that world-class athletes around the globe depend on to compete at the highest level possible. Oakley is famed for its insuperable lens technologies such as High Definition Optics® (HDO®) which is incorporated into all Oakley sun and prescription eyewear, and all premium Oakley goggles. Oakley has extended its leadership position as the world’s leading sports eyewear brand into apparel, footwear and accessories collections. Laser focused on the consumer, Oakley has both men’s and women’s product lines that target Sports Performance, Active and Lifestyle consumers. Oakley is a subsidiary of Luxottica Group. Additional information is available at http://www.oakley.com.
* Group members must also have either the Oakley Airwave goggle or Oakley Airwave app on their smartphone to activate buddy tracking.
** Available now on the Android® operating system, and on the iPhone® in December 2012.
Android is a registered trademark of Google, Inc. iPhone and Apple are registered trademarks of Apple, Inc. Bluetooth is a registered trademark of Bluetooth Sig, Inc.


Contacts

Oakley Inc.
Cheri Quigley, (949) 672-6985
CQuigley@oakley.com

Business news :Canada Goose Hails Ruling in Swedish Counterfeiting Case !

Canada Goose hailed a recent decision from the District Court of Stockholm in one of the most significant counterfeit cases in Sweden, which found five individuals jointly and severally guilty of felony fraud, trademark infringement and customs offenses. The Court sentenced two of the defendants to serve time in prison and also awarded Canada Goose damages for a total judgment of 701,000 SEK ($572,808).

The defendants - five Swedish nationals - who used a number of aliases and false Swedish business name, operated the business from Thailand and sold thousands of counterfeit Canada Goose jackets alongside other luxury goods, between 2009 and 2012 in Sweden. Purchased in Thailand and repackaged in Sweden, the fake goods were found to be of poor quality in fabric and detailing, and used raccoon dog fur instead of coyote around the jacket hoods. Despite a blatant disregard for the law and confidence that he would not be caught, the main culprit was arrested in Bangkok in May 2012 and extradited to Sweden to be tried.

In its judgment, the District Court of Stockholm indicated that counterfeiting is a significant problem - estimating that 10 per cent of all goods in the European Union are counterfeit - and that the practice has a harmful impact on the economy, including causing unemployment.

"This is a clear victory in protecting intellectual property and consumers, and it sends a strong message that counterfeiters will not be tolerated," said Kevin Spreekmeester, VP Global Marketing, Canada Goose Inc., and Co-Chair of the Canadian Intellectual Property Council (CIPC). "Not only do these fake products impact our business and our brand reputation, but more importantly, they put consumers at risk for potential health issues."

Previous analysis of imitation Canada Goose jackets have shown that they include feather mulch and other fillers which are often coated in bacteria, fungus, mildew and even feces. As well, because the jackets don't use real down or fur which provide the necessary warmth and protection from the elements in extreme cold climates, the threat of frostbite or freezing to death becomes a reality.

To educate and protect consumers, Canada Goose has made significant investments in the fight against counterfeit goods:

• Every Canada Goose jacket and accessory includes a hologram in its seam as proof of authenticity
• On the Canada Goose website, consumers can enter the URL of any website they believe may be selling counterfeit merchandise, to verify whether or not it is an Authorized Retailer
• Canada Goose continuously works with law enforcement agencies, border protection services and financial institutions and has hired third-party online brand protection agencies to stop the sales of counterfeit products

( SportsOneSource Media )

Business news :Nike Partners with LLamasoft for Sustainable Supply Chain Innovation

Nike Inc. has entered a strategic partnership with LLamasoft, Inc., to co-develop supply chain solutions that offer both logistics and environmental benefits. Nike has been a customer of Michigan-based LLamasoft for two years. Today's announcement of a formal commercial relationship, in addition to a minority investment from NIKE, signals the intent to leverage the strengths of both companies to co-develop new solutions for international supply chain efficiency.

"Innovation and sustainability are core to Nike Inc.'s operations and this new partnership with LLamasoft represents unique opportunities in both of these areas," says Hans Van Alebeek, Nike's Vice President of Global Operations & Technology. "Through working with LLamasoft as a customer, we recognized the potential to collaborate on innovative supply chain solutions that offer real time logistics benefits and the potential to positively impact our efforts around carbon reduction."

Supply chain design is a vital business process for companies with a global footprint, as organizations work to balance factors including cost, service and environmental impact in an unpredictable global marketplace. By leveraging the LLamasoft software platform, Nike expects to drive efficiencies through its supply chain and significantly reduce the associated carbon footprint.

Donald Hicks, CEO of LLamasoft, said the relationship with Nike will enable the company to accelerate the development of new technology. "This partnership allows us to build on our work with Nike faster and more collaboratively than ever before. We admire Nike's leadership and we're excited to work together to define new levels of performance in global supply chain design."