Retail store News ( Flash ) : The Spanish Twinner joins STMI

Twinner Iberia, a Spanish buying group representing 231 stores, has decided to join Sport Trade Marketing International (STMI), the pan-European buying organization that was founded last year by an international Austrian-based sporting goods chain, Hervis, and a French-based counterpart, Go Sport.

Last June, the French retailers organized under the roof of Twinner already decided to join the club to improve their buying power and pricing.

The Spanish move follows the decision of Twinner International to invite national sections to become part of the new alliance. Last year, the members of Twinner Iberia had total sales of €230 million. Currently, STMI is represented in twelve European countries through some 1,400 points of sale.

by SGI Europe through Ispo Newsblog

Web news ( Flash) : Crackdown on websites selling fakes

European and U.S. customs authorities reported that they blocked 132 websites suspected of selling counterfeit goods yesterday, including fake Nike products.

It is the first time that European and U.S. authorities have teamed up in such a crackdown: On the European side, it involved Europol and customs offices in Britain, Belgium, Denmark, France and Romania.

The operation coincided with Cyber Monday, which was expected to generate online sales of about $1.5 billion among U.S. consumers alone, with large discounts offered by online stores.

 ( by SGI Europe trough Ispo newsblog )

Web and business news :Rossignol launches network app for skiers

Rossignol, the French ski company, has updated and broadened a free app enabling skiers to visualize their runs and to measure their performance: Ski Pursuit has already been used by 32,000 skiers since it was launched for iPhones earlier this year but Rossignol is certain that the numbers will surge as it is turning Ski Pursuit into a social network app with both iPhone and Android versions.

Directly linked to Facebook accounts, the new app will enable the users to share information on their ski runs and to compare their performance with others.

( by SGI Europe through Ispo newsblog )

Awards : Osprey’s Ultra-Lightweight Ozone 22 Earns Top Honors

Cortez, CO, Nov 29, 2012 -
Osprey Packs, Inc., a leader in creating top-quality, high-performance, innovative packs to comfortably and efficiently carry gear, is pleased to announce the Ozone 22 has been granted two awards – National Geographic Adventure’s 2012 Gear of the Year Award and the 2012 Men’s Journal Gear Lab Seal of Approval.
Released in August of 2012, the Osprey Ozone 22 immediately turned heads and set a new standard for ultra-lightweight, wheeled travel luggage by providing 46 liters of organized, usable space at only 4 pounds 7 ounces.
“In recent years, Osprey has spent a great deal of time focusing on how to make lighter, more efficient gear with high tenacity fabrics and minimal framework without compromising performance,” says Mike Pfotenhauer, Osprey founder, owner and director of design. “When we turned our eye to our wheeled luggage, we realized we could apply the same design parameters there, allowing travelers to go lighter or carry more cargo without exceeding weight restrictions.”
The Ozone series also includes 18 and 28-liter versions of the lightweight wheeled luggage. For increased efficiency, Osprey will launch accessories for the Ozone series in Spring 2013. These new styles including the Ozone Daypack and Courier, are equipped with Osprey’s innovative Handle-It™ system, which allows you to securely attach the bag to the luggage handle.
Like all Osprey products, the Ozone Series carries the Osprey All Mighty Guarantee, Osprey’s promise to repair any damage or defect in its product regardless of the date of purchase, completely free of charge.
 
Osprey Packs
Independent since 1974 and anchored by the design genius of company founder and owner, Mike Pfotenhauer, Osprey Packs has long set the standard for creating innovative, high quality gear carrying equipment.  The collection includes packs and bags designed to help adventurers enjoy their outdoor, biking and travel pursuits.

The location of company headquarters in Cortez, Colorado, near the rugged San Juan Mountains and on the edge of desert canyon country, provides a constant inspiration and a superb testing ground for Osprey products. Osprey also maintains a product development office in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, near the factories where they manufacture their products, ensuring face-to-face relationships and transparency with their suppliers. In 2010, Osprey opened a design office in Mill Valley, California, a hub of design talent and the birthplace of mountain biking. All three of these offices play a crucial role in creating Osprey gear that lasts a lifetime.

To celebrate its 35th anniversary in 2009, Osprey launched the All Mighty Guarantee, an enhancement of a lifetime warranty that was already one of the most robust in the industry. Free of charge, the company will repair any damage or defect in its product – whether it was purchased in 1974 or yesterday. Every Osprey product reflects the company’s commitment to protect the wild places its customers love to explore. For more information, visit www.ospreypacks.com.

New produtc :Suunto’s award-winning GPS watch poised for 2.0 upgrade

Ogden, UT – November 29^th, 2012— Today, Suunto unveiled the Ambit 2.0 upgrade, making the Ambit the only constantly-evolving, consumer-driven, GPS watch on the market. The 2.0 update will allow Suunto users to personalize the watch by downloading existing apps—innovative new features created by other users in the Suunto App Zone.

For example, there is an app that estimates expected finish time of a marathon, and a function that displays the real incline of the hill or mountain being climbed. If users can’t find the app they want, they can design their own. To view the full list of currently available apps, users can go to the Suunto App Zone on Movescount.com.   “We invite our consumers to give feedback on features they’d like to see in their watches and they often provide us with great ideas of additional features or functionalities,” says vice president and business director at Suunto USA, Nora Stowell. “We wanted to give an opportunity for them to continue developing the Ambit. The Suunto App Zone is a unique tool that will empower the outdoor community to create the features they want to see.”

In addition, the new 2.0 Suunto Ambit upgrade adds an interval timer and ANT+™ functionality, providing compatibility with ANT+ accessories from Suunto and other manufacturers.
The 2.0 upgrade follows the 1.8 upgrade released in September 2012, including on-screen route navigation and multiple location displays as well as the 1.5 update which added waypoint navigation. Empowering customers to develop features is a pioneering initiative in the sports watch industry, but it’s no surprise that it’s coming from Suunto, since for more than 75 years the Finnish-based company has been encouraging its users to push their own boundaries and conquer new territory.

Suunto was founded in 1936 by Tuomas Vohlonen, a Finnish orienteer and inventor of the liquid-filled field compass. Since then Suunto has been at the forefront of design and innovation for sports watches, dive computers and instruments used by adventure seekers all over the globe. From the top of the mountain to the bottom of the sea, Suunto physically and mentally equips outdoor adventurers to conquer new territory.

Suunto’s headquarters and manufacturing plant is in Vantaa, Finland. Employing more than 400 people worldwide, Suunto products are sold in over 100 countries. The company is a subsidiary of Amer Sports Corporation along with its sister brands Salomon, Arc’teryx, Atomic, Wilson, Precor, and Mavic.

http://www.suunto.com/us         www.movescount.com       https://twitter.com/SUUNTOUSA www.suuntousaathletes.blogspot.com                 Facebook

Contact: Hilary Hutcheson, PR Director / hilary@outsidemedia.com (503) 828-7074

New products : K2 Unveils All-New Collection of Innovative All-Mountain and Freeride Ski Boots

Seattle, Wash., Nov 29, 2012  (Winter 2013/14) – Since 1962, industry-leading ski manufacturer, K2 Skis, has been committed to developing high quality products to meet the diverse needs of all-mountain skiers. Building from the ground up and applying the brand’s legacy and dedication from over five decades of skiing experience, K2 Skis is proud to unveil a brand new ski boot collection, specifically designed for optimal all-mountain and freeride performance.

The new eight-SKU ski boot collection, developed to complement K2’s All-Mountain and Freeride ski lines, is subdivided into two collections: an All-Mountain line, specifically designed for men and women respectively, and a Freeride offering for men.

 

SpYne 130

All-Mountain Performance Boots:
K2 has taken a fine-tuned approach in its All-Mountain boots and optimized the natural forces of skiing with the new E3 (Energy Efficiency Engineering) Philosophy. The innovative system absorbs external energy from diverse terrain and snow conditions, while transmitting internal energy from the skier in the form of precise power and pressure. The E3 Philosophy is made possible by the synergy of three features:
•    Energy Interlock- A rivet-free technology that integrates the cuff and shell. Producing a smoother and more efficient load transfer, the Energy Interlock delivers a natural flex with dynamic performance.
•    PowerFuse SpYne- A rear co-injected “Y”-shaped design enhances the Energy Interlock by providing fore/aft flex efficiency and lateral stiffness, for sustained performance and responsiveness in all conditions.
•    K2 Fit Logix – Delivering performance, comfort, and a customized fit, Fit Logix includes the combination of a diverse last offering (97mm, 100mm, and 102mm), a navicular punch that is built into the mold to alleviate pressure during ankle flexion, and an advanced collection of INTUITION® liners that provide the perfect blend of comfort and performance, thanks to the precise interaction between foot, liner, and shell. The molded/lasted liners feature INTUITION® foam and a power collar, and Moldable Asymmetric Tongue for maximized power transfer and energy absorption.
The All-Mountain collection comprises six new boots: three men’s and three women’s-specific boots. Leading the first class men’s SpYne collection is the SpYne 130, which delivers a true 130 flex index and is offered in both a 97 and 100 mm last. The SpYne 130 is the flagship of the line, featuring the Energy Interlock and PowerFuse SpYne technologies, as well as a PowerCinch Strap and molded/lasted PrecisionFit INTUITION® liner for maximum power transfer and comfort.

Following the SpYne 130 are the SpYne 110 and 90 options, which offer softer flexes and correlating levels of features.

The SpYre 110, 100, and 80 make up the colorful female-specific All-Mountain collection, and feature the same innovative, all-mountain technologies as the men’s line but with a 15-percent lower cuff height, designed to accommodate a woman’s lower calf insert point, and a women’s-specific last.


 

Pinnacle 130

Freeride Boots:
Using the All-Mountain boot design as a platform, K2 backs up its dedication to meet the needs of the freeride market by offering freeride-specific boots. Until the new K2 Freeride ski boots, industry technology has tried to create boots to meet the immediate demands of the exponentially growing side and backcountry community. However, boot designers have either over-compensated for weight reduction and the walk feature’s range of motion, compromising the boots’ downhill performance. Or, they have focused heavily on downhill performance, resulting in a poor walk feature and increased weight.

K2’s new Freeride boots maximize uphill capabilities without compromising downhill performance, thanks to the revolutionary, patent-pending Synchro Interlock design. The easy-to-use and efficient system allows the user to synchronize the release of the inner wedge and Interlock for free-flexing walk performance that delivers impressive fore and aft range of motion. A synchronized lock of the system, engages the Interlock for ski mode, delivering true downhill all-mountain boot performance, maintaining 100% of the flex index.

K2’s Freeride boot collection includes the Pinnacle 130 and 110. Starting from the inside out, the PrecisionFit and LuxFit INTUITION® liners are enhanced with Tour Flex Notches for optimal liner mobility, range of motion, and fit while touring. Meanwhile, the Integrated Tech Fittings embedded into the shell provide dramatic durability and accommodation for all modern DIN- alpine and Tech binding systems, without having to change the outsoles.

For those earning their turns, there is no need to haul more than is necessary. These Freeride boots watch their weight with a simple three-buckle design and a lightweight, extra wide buckle/strap, dubbed the K2 PowerBuckle, for quick and secure adjustments in and out of walk mode.

K2’s new boots will debut in Denver this January at SIA 2013 and will be available at retail in Fall 2013.

MJ Carroll / Verde PR – K2 Skis / mj@verdepr.com / 970-259-3555

Business news :eVent fabrics Collaborates with Vegam to Supply Footwear Laminates to European Market

New Air Permeable, Waterproof Fabrics to Provide New Styles for Outdoor and Professional Customers

KANSAS CITY, MO.—November 2012—GE (NYSE: GE) announced today a collaboration with VEGAM—an Italian maker of laminates and fabrics—to bring air permeable and bi-component waterproof footwear fabrics using its award-winning eVent waterproof membranes to the European market.

This new collaboration will allow customer brands to use a wide range of VEGAM laminates combined with eVent fabrics technology to create unique footwear laminates for the European outdoor and professional markets.  VEGAM will make both 3-layer and 4-layer footwear laminates using both eVent waterproof and eVent protective membranes. GE’s technology is known for its high level of air permeability combined with 100 percent waterproofness, while VEGAM—based in Northern Italy—is known for technical, high-quality footwear laminates.

“We’ve been looking for a proven technology to pair with our fabrics, and eVent membranes are regarded as the best in the industry for their combination of air permeability and waterproofness,” said Nadir Santagiuliana, R&D Manager for Spac S.p.A. Division VEGAM. “By pairing our footwear laminates with eVent membranes, we can create unique new styles that brands and outdoor enthusiasts are looking for. If you’re looking for high performing products you can find them here.”
The collaboration is part of GE’s strategy for its eVent fabrics waterproof breathable product line, which gives customers the flexibility to pair proven GE membranes with a range of laminates and fabrics. New footwear styles are now available for brands to use.

“Collaborating with VEGAM gives us the ability to create both consumer and professional laminates that meet exacting customer demands,” said Chad Kelly, Global Product Manager for eVent fabrics. “Our proven eVent technology is the perfect addition to their wide range of technical, high-performing footwear laminates. I look forward to introducing new styles that the marketplace is clamoring for.”

About Spac S.p.A VEGAM Division
With more than 30 years of experience, and diverse lamination methods, we offer a wide range of solutions. Our goal is to meet our customers’ needs by developing high performance products. We’re always looking for the best technology and most innovative products. Technical fabrics, felts, foams are basic products we can combine with the eVent membranes for the future of outdoor activities in sport, safety, and professional applications. The possibilities are limitless. For more information, visit www.vegam.it.

About eVent membrane technology and fabrics
Since 1999, eVent fabrics have set the standard for truly air permeable and waterproof membranes in textiles. The technology used to create eVent membranes was invented in the 1990s to improve the pollutant-capturing performance of air filtration systems and give superior protection to industrial machinery such as gas turbines. eVent fabric membranes—with billions of pores per square inch—are now widely used for filtration, venting and as a waterproof breathable barrier for products used in the automotive, industrial, apparel and other markets.

eVent fabrics—found in outdoor, protective and military apparel and footwear—were the first waterproof performance fabrics on the market that “let the sweat out”* through direct venting technology. GE, through GE’s Air Filtration business based in Kansas City, Mo., manufactures both the eVent membranes and waterproof fabrics and collaborates with worldwide suppliers to offer a broad selection of textiles to manufacturers. For more information, visit http://www.ge-energy.com/eVentfabrics.

About GE
GE (NYSE: GE) works on things that matter. The best people and the best technologies taking on the toughest challenges. Finding solutions in energy, health and home, transportation and finance. Building, powering, moving and curing the world. Not just imagining. Doing. GE works. For more information, visit the company's website at www.ge.com.

About GE Power & Water
GE Power & Water provides customers with a broad array of power generation, energy delivery and water process technologies to solve their challenges locally. Power & Water works in all areas of the energy industry including renewable resources such as wind and solar; biogas and alternative fuels; and coal, oil, natural gas and nuclear energy. The business also develops advanced technologies to help solve the world’s most complex challenges related to water availability and quality. Numerous products are qualified under ecomagination, GE’s commitment to providing innovative solutions that maximize resources, drive efficiencies and help make the world work better. Power & Water’s seven business units include Aeroderivative Gas Turbines; Gas Engines; Nuclear Energy; Power Generation Services; Renewable Energy; Thermal Products and Water & Process Technologies. Headquartered in Schenectady, N.Y., Power & Water is GE’s largest industrial business. Follow GE Power & Water on Twitter @GE_PowerWater.

Cristian Massignani
Spac S.p.A. div. VEGAM  / + 39 0444 451701  / marketing@vegam.it   

Business and media news :Finish Line Partners with Sports Illustrated

The Finish Line, Inc. will exclusively offer the “Sports Illustrated Presents: Enduring Sportsmen” collectors issue free to customers who make a $75 purchase at all Finish Line stores starting Dec. 1, while supplies last. Also, customers who order online from December 15-20 will be able to utilize the in-store option on finishline.com to pick up their copy of “Enduring Sportsmen” at their local Finish Line store.

“We are thrilled to offer ‘Enduring Sportsmen’ exclusively at Finish Line and excited by our great partnership with Sports Illustrated that encompasses the entire Sportsman of the Year franchise”

“Enduring Sportsmen,” which has a retail value of $19.99, is a 68-page collectible edition of Sports Illustrated with seven in-depth profiles on luminaries from the sporting world. It comes in a customized keepsake gift box and is available exclusively to Finish Line customers. “Enduring Sportsmen” is being published in association with the Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year event which takes place December 5 in New York City and will be featured in the December 10 issue of Sports Illustrated.

“We are thrilled to offer ‘Enduring Sportsmen’ exclusively at Finish Line and excited by our great partnership with Sports Illustrated that encompasses the entire Sportsman of the Year franchise,” said Steven Schreibman, senior vice president, chief marketing officer for Finish Line. “It is an honor for us to celebrate the great athletes who have made this award so prestigious by their fine examples of sportsmanship. We look forward to seeing the next chapter of this great story written when the 2012 Sportsman of the Year is announced next week.”

“Enduring Sportsmen” features seven in-depth profiles on famous sporting figures who have previously been named Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year, including football’s Joe Montana, basketball’s Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, baseball’s Derek Jeter, hockey’s Wayne Gretzky, swimming’s Michael Phelps, tennis’s Arthur Ashe and soccer’s 1999 U.S. Women’s team. “Enduring Sportsmen” is written by some of Sports Illustrated’s most noted writers, including Kostya Kennedy, Gary Smith, Leigh Montville, Alan Shipnuck, Michael Bamberger, Kenny Moore, E.M. Swift and Tom Verducci.

( SportsOneSource Media )

Business news :PacSun Returns to Profit in Q3

Pacific Sunwear of California, Inc. reported net sales for the third quarter of fiscal 2012 ended Oct. 27 were $228.4 million versus net sales of $226.8 million a year ago. Same-store sales increased 1 percent during the period.

On a GAAP basis, the company reported income from continuing operations of $0.9 million, or $0.01 per diluted share, for the third quarter of fiscal 2012, compared to a loss from continuing operations of $14.0 million, or $(0.21) per diluted share, for the third quarter of fiscal 2011. Income from continuing operations for the company's third quarter of fiscal 2012 included a non-cash gain of $5.6 million, or $0.08 per diluted share, related to a derivative liability that resulted from the issuance of the Convertible Series B Preferred Stock (the "Series B Preferred") in connection with the term loan financing the company completed in December 2011.

On a non-GAAP basis, excluding store closure related charges of $1.7 million and the non-cash gain on derivative liability of $5.6 million, and using a normalized annual income tax rate of approximately 37 percent, the company would have incurred a loss from continuing operations for the third quarter of fiscal 2012 of $1.8 million, or $(0.03) per share, as compared to a loss from continuing operations of $7.1 million, or $(0.11) per share, for the same period a year ago.

"We continue to see evidence of our turnaround strategies taking hold with our third straight quarter of positive comparable store sales growth and a 260 basis point improvement in merchandise margins, on an adjusted basis," said Gary H. Schoenfeld, President and Chief Executive Officer. "After a slow start to the first few weeks of back-to-school, we performed well during the peak of the selling season which translated to our first positive sales comp in the third quarter since 2007 and a more than $10 million improvement in our pre-tax operating results."

Financial Outlook for Fourth Fiscal Quarter of 2012

The company's guidance range for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012 accounts for a 53rd fiscal week and contemplates a non-GAAP loss per share from continuing operations of between negative $0.09 and negative $0.17, compared to negative $0.20 in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011.

"With high single-digit comps on Black Friday, we finished the month of November at a 1 percent sales comp, similar to the third quarter," Schoenfeld said.

The forecasted fourth quarter non-GAAP loss from continuing operations per share guidance range is based on the following assumptions:

• Same-store sales of negative 1 percent to plus 3 percent;
• Revenue from $225 million to $235 million;
• Gross margin rate, including buying, distribution and occupancy, of 22 percent to 25 percent;
• SG&A expenses in the range of $63 million to $65 million;
• A normalized annual income tax rate of approximately 37 percent; and
• Ending the period with approximately 645 stores.
• The company's fourth fiscal quarter of 2012 guidance range excludes the quarterly impact of the change in the fair value of the derivative liability due to the inherently variable nature of this financial instrument.

Discontinued Operations
In accordance with applicable accounting literature and consistent with the company's financial statement presentation in its fiscal 2011 annual report, the company has reclassified the results of operations of its closed stores as discontinued operations for all periods presented, as applicable.

Derivative Liability
In fiscal 2011, as a result of the issuance of the Series B Preferred in connection with the company's $60 million senior secured term loan financing with an affiliate of Golden Gate Capital, the company recorded a derivative liability equal to approximately $15.0 million, which represents the fair value of the Series B Preferred upon issuance. In accordance with applicable U.S. GAAP, the company has marked this derivative liability to fair value through earnings and will continue to do so on a quarterly basis until the shares of Series B Preferred are either converted into shares of the company's common stock or until the conversion rights expire (December 2021). The company's fourth fiscal quarter of 2012 earnings guidance excludes the quarterly impact of the change in the fair value of the derivative liability due to the inherently variable nature of this financial instrument.

( SportsOneSource Media )

Business news :Teva to Ramp Up Marketing in Digital Push

Teva plans to hike its marketing spending by 40 percent over the next three years as part of a bigger push into digital marketing to expand its global reach. Joel Heath, president, Teva Brand, revealed those plans to SportsOneSource following an article in The Denver Post that reported that Teva was withdrawing as title sponsor of the Vail Valley Foundation's Winter Mountain Games.

As reported, Eddie Bauer announced that it was taking over title sponsorship of at least the Winter Mountain Games.

Heath confirmed that Teva has ended its sponsorship of both the summer and winter games. Heath said Teva still sees “great value in the Mountain Games” while also noting that as the founder of the games before taking over at Teva, he “personally and professionally” has long invested in and appreciated the event.

But he said that after 11 years, Teva “needed to make a change.” The major reason was a planned aggressive shift in marketing to support emerging digital adverting platforms that can provide a greater global reach for the brand.

“We will continue to be athlete-driven as we have always been in our marketing but the marketing environment has really changed since we created the Outdoor Games," Heath said. "Digital communities exist that are like regular events and it just gives us more global reach that we can do.”

He also said that studies show that Teva has comparatively strong brand awareness, reducing the need to market around such a regional event. At the same time, the brand is largely known as a sandal brand and needed to do a better job getting the word out on its extensive footwear collections. The focus in the near term will be on its TevaSphere outdoors cross-trainer collection as well as the brand’s upcoming 30th anniversary.

He finally stressed that the shift represents an “incremental investment and refocus and not a reduction in expenditures” as implied in some coverage of its decision to end its sponsorship. Indeed, he noted that with the 40 percent increased marketing spend over the next three years, the brand will “close to double” its advertising spend versus a few years ago. Added Heath, “We're excited about what’s ahead of us.”

( SportsOneSource Media )

Business news : Gildan's Q4 Profits Nearly Double

Gildan Activewear Inc. announced record financial results for the fourth quarter of its 2012 fiscal year, and initiated earnings guidance for fiscal 2013 which continues the positive trends from the fourth quarter and reflects a projected strong recovery in annual net earnings compared to fiscal 2012. The company also announced that it has been successful in securing new Gildan branded programs with national retail customers. The Company announced a 20 percent increase in the amount of its quarterly dividend.

Fourth Quarter Results

Gildan today reported net earnings of U.S. $89.0 million or U.S. $0.73 per share on a diluted basis for its fourth fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2012, compared with net earnings of U.S. $48.5 million or U.S. $0.40 per share in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011. Results for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012 include restructuring and acquisition-related costs amounting to U.S. $5.9 million after-tax, primarily related to the write-down of real estate assets held for divestiture since the closure of U.S. sock manufacturing operations, as well as severance costs resulting from the integration of acquisitions. Before the restructuring and acquisition-related costs, adjusted net earnings for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012 were U.S. $94.9 million or U.S. $0.78 per share, up 82.5 percent and 81.4 percent respectively compared to U.S. $52.0 million or U.S. $0.43 per share in the fourth quarter of last year. The Company had previously projected adjusted net earnings of close to U.S. $0.80 per share for the fourth quarter, when it reported its third quarter results on August 2, 2012. Adjusted net earnings for the fourth quarter include an after-tax charge of U.S. $0.02 per share related to a product labelling issue disclosed on October 16, 2012. This charge had not been anticipated in the Company''s prior guidance for the fourth quarter.

The growth in the Company''s net earnings in the fourth quarter compared to last year was due to the benefit of significantly lower cotton costs, higher Printwear unit sales volumes, more favourable product-mix and higher selling prices for Branded Apparel, and the initial accretion from the acquisition of Anvil Holdings Inc. (Anvil). These positive factors were partially offset by lower net selling prices for Printwear, primarily reflecting the selling price reductions implemented in the first quarter of fiscal 2012, unfavourable Printwear product-mix, higher electricity, labour and other manufacturing input costs, the above-mentioned charge relating to the labelling issue, and higher income taxes due to the improved profitability of Branded Apparel.

Net sales in the fourth quarter amounted to U.S. $561.7 million, up 16.6 percent from U.S. $481.6 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011, and in line with the Company''s previous guidance of approximately U.S. $560 million. Sales for the Printwear segment amounted to U.S. $376.8 million, up 7.5 percent from U.S. $350.5 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011, and sales for the Branded Apparel segment were U.S. $184.8 million, up 41 percent from U.S. $131.1 million from the fourth quarter of last year.

The increase in sales in the Printwear segment compared to the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011 was due to higher unit sales volumes, as a result of continuing organic growth in the U.S. market, the impact of the Anvil acquisition, and continuing penetration in the Company''s target international markets. The impact on Printwear net sales revenues of higher unit sales volumes was partially offset by lower net selling prices, unfavourable product-mix, and higher seasonal inventory destocking in the U.S. distributor channel compared to the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011. The Company believes that distributor inventories of Gildan® brand products at the end of the fourth quarter were in good balance to service screenprinter demand.

The 41 percent growth in sales for the Branded Apparel segment was due primarily to the impact of the acquisition of Anvil, together with more favourable product-mix and higher net selling prices. Excluding Anvil, sales revenues for Branded Apparel in the fourth quarter were up approximately 18 percent compared to the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011.

Consolidated gross margins in the fourth quarter were 28.5 percent compared to 20.6 percent last year. The significant increase in gross margins was due to the impact of lower-cost cotton and more favourable product-mix and higher selling prices for Branded Apparel, partially offset by lower selling prices and unfavourable product-mix for Printwear, together with higher manufacturing input costs.

Selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses in the fourth quarter were U.S. $64.1 million, or 11.4 percent of net sales, compared with U.S. $53.4 million, or 11.1 percent of net sales, in the fourth quarter of last year. Excluding the impact of the acquisition of Anvil, SG&A expenses in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012 were approximately U.S. $58.0 million, up approximately 8.6 percent from fiscal 2011 due largely to increased marketing and advertising expenses and higher legal and professional fees.

In the fourth quarter, the Printwear segment reported operating income of U.S. $100.7 million, compared with U.S. $68.4 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011. The more favourable results for the Printwear segment were primarily due to the impact of lower cotton costs, higher unit sales volumes, and the accretive impact of the Anvil acquisition, partially offset by lower selling prices and unfavourable product-mix. The Branded Apparel segment reported quarterly operating income of U.S. $15.1 million, compared with an operating loss of U.S. $5.7 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011. The improved results for Branded Apparel were due to lower cotton costs, more favourable product-mix, higher selling prices and the accretive impact of the Anvil acquisition, partially offset by the charge for the labelling issue.

Full Year Sales and Earnings

Net sales revenues for fiscal 2012 amounted to U.S. $1,948.3 million, up 12.9 percent from U.S. $1,725.7 million in fiscal 2011 and in line with the Company''s most recent guidance of approximately U.S. $1.95 billion provided on August 2, 2012. The increase in net sales versus fiscal 2011 was due to the acquisitions of Gold Toe Moretz Holdings Corp. (Gold Toe) and Anvil, as well as higher Printwear unit sales volumes, and higher selling prices and more favourable product-mix for Branded Apparel, partially offset by lower Printwear selling prices.

Net earnings were U.S. $148.5 million or U.S. $1.22 per share in fiscal 2012, compared to net earnings of U.S. $234.2 million or U.S. $1.91 per share in fiscal 2011. Adjusted net earnings before restructuring and acquisition-related costs amounted to U.S. $157.3 million or U.S. $1.29 per share, compared to adjusted net earnings of U.S. $246.9 million or U.S. $2.02 per share in fiscal 2011, and were in line with the Company''s most recent guidance of approximately U.S. $1.30 per share. The decline in adjusted EPS in fiscal 2012 compared to last year was primarily due to the significant increase in cotton costs in the first half of the fiscal year, lower Printwear selling prices and higher income taxes. These factors were partially offset by higher Printwear unit sales volumes, the accretive impact of the acquisitions of Gold Toe and Anvil and higher selling prices and favourable product-mix for Branded Apparel.

Cash Flow and Financial Position

The Company generated free cash flow of U.S. $158.9 million in the fourth quarter, due to the strong operating earnings and lower seasonal accounts receivable. Free cash flow for the full fiscal year amounted to U.S. $145.0 million, after financing capital expenditures of U.S. $76.8 million, and was utilized to fund the acquisition of Anvil, the Company''s quarterly dividend payment and to reduce bank indebtedness. Capital expenditures for fiscal 2012 were slightly below the Company''s previous projection of approximately U.S. $90 million, due to the later timing of certain expenditures which will now be incurred in fiscal 2013. Free cash flow for fiscal 2012 exceeded the Company''s previous estimate of free cash flow in excess of U.S. $100 million provided on August 2, 2012, primarily as a result of lower than anticipated working capital requirements and capital expenditures. The Company ended the fiscal year with bank indebtedness of U.S. $181.0 million and cash and cash equivalents of U.S. $70.4 million.

New Branded Apparel Programs

The Company announced that it has been successful in securing important new branded programs for fiscal 2013 with national retail customers, as well as with regional retail chains, which will provide significant exposure and visibility for the Gildan® brand. These new programs include underwear, socks and activewear and are largely expected to begin shipment in the second half of fiscal 2013. The Company is continuing to pursue other branded programs including further development of the Gildan® brand and the Gold Toe® portfolio of brands. In addition, the Company is continuing to pursue opportunities to continue to grow its sales of Under Armour® and New Balance® branded programs. In order to maximize the opportunity provided by the new branded programs, the Company is making a significant investment in advertising in support of its Gildan® and Gold Toe® brands in fiscal 2013.

Yarn-Spinning Integration Strategy

During the first quarter of fiscal 2013, the Company completed the acquisition of the remaining 50 percent of CanAm Yarns LLC (CanAm), its 50 percent-owned yarn-spinning joint venture. Gildan is currently planning to modernize and expand the two CanAm yarn-spinning facilities and is also planning a new yarn-spinning facility in the U.S.

The strategic rationale for the Company''s investment in vertically-integrated yarn-spinning is to support its projected sales growth and to continue to pursue its business model of investing in global low-cost manufacturing technology and in product technology which will provide consistent superior product quality. The Company is investing in ring-spun yarn technology which will provide enhanced quality features as well as qualify for duty-free access to U.S. markets under CAFTA-DR, which requires the use of U.S. yarn or yarn spun in other CAFTA-DR member countries. Ring-spun products will be utilized as part of the Company''s branded product offering in Branded Apparel.

Fiscal 2013 Guidance

The Company is initiating its guidance for fiscal 2013 with projected adjusted EPS of U.S. $2.60-$2.70, on projected net sales revenues of approximately U.S. $2.1 billion. Net sales for Printwear are projected to be approximately U.S. $1.4 billion and net sales for Branded Apparel are projected to be approximately U.S. $0.7 billion.

The projected increase in adjusted EPS in fiscal 2013 is based on the assumptions of significantly lower cotton costs, compared with an average of U.S. $1.33 per pound in fiscal 2012, higher unit sales volumes and more favourable product-mix in Printwear and Branded Apparel, increased manufacturing efficiencies, and further accretion from the acquisitions of Gold Toe and Anvil. These positive factors are assumed to be partially offset by lower selling prices and increased promotional discounting, inflation in labour, energy and other manufacturing cost inputs, a projected increase in SG&A expenses to approximately 13 percent of sales and a higher consolidated effective tax rate of approximately 4 percent. The projected increase in SG&A expenses is mainly due to an approximate U.S. $15 million increase in advertising expenses in support of the Gildan® and Gold Toe® brands in fiscal 2013 and higher variable compensation expenses.

The ramp-up of Rio Nance V has been largely completed and Rio Nance I is projected to begin to come back on stream in the third quarter of fiscal 2013.

The Company is projecting adjusted EPS of U.S. $0.28-$0.31 in the first quarter of fiscal 2013, on projected net sales revenues in excess of U.S. $400 million, compared to a net loss of U.S. $0.38 per share in the first quarter of fiscal 2012. The projected growth in EPS in the first quarter compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2012 is based on the assumptions of significantly lower cotton costs, the non-recurrence of the special distributor inventory devaluation discount in the first quarter of fiscal 2012, higher unit sales volumes, more favourable product-mix in Branded Apparel, manufacturing efficiencies and the accretive impact of the Anvil acquisition. These positive factors are assumed to be partially offset by higher SG&A expenses and lower selling prices.

Fiscal 2013 Cash Flow
The Company is currently projecting free cash flow in excess of U.S. $200 million in fiscal 2013. Capital expenditures are projected to be approximately U.S. $200 million, including a total of approximately U.S. $85 million for yarn-spinning investments. The balance of the fiscal 2013 capital expenditure program is primarily for expansion of textile capacity in Honduras, including the carry over of expenditures from fiscal 2012 for Rio Nance V and the refurbishment of Rio Nance I, as well as for expansion of distribution capacity, including the construction of a new distribution centre in Honduras and continued investments in biomass projects. The Company will continue to seek selective acquisition opportunities which complement its organic growth strategies.

Increase in Quarterly Dividend

Due to the Company''s strong cash flows and balance-sheet, the Board of Directors has approved a 20 percent increase in the amount of the current quarterly dividend and has declared a cash dividend of U.S. $0.09 per share, payable on January 7, 2013 to shareholders of record on December 13, 2012. This dividend is an "eligible dividend" for the purposes of the Income Tax Act (Canada) and any other applicable provincial legislation pertaining to eligible dividends.

Disclosure of Outstanding Share Data

As of October 31, 2012, there were 121,605,705 common shares issued and outstanding along with 1,238,036 stock options and 871,514 dilutive restricted share units (Treasury RSUs) outstanding. Each stock option entitles the holder to purchase one common share at the end of the vesting period at a pre-determined option price. Each Treasury RSU entitles the holder to receive one common share from treasury at the end of the vesting period, without any monetary consideration being paid to the Company. However, the vesting of at least 50 percent of each Treasury RSU grant is contingent on the achievement of performance conditions that are primarily based on the Company''s average return on assets performance for the period as compared to the S&P/TSX Capped Consumer Discretionary Index, excluding income trusts, or as determined by the Board of Directors.

( SportsOneSource Media  )

Business people : Boardworks Surf COO Rief Retires

Boardworks Surf said Bob Rief had stepped down as chief operating officer after four and a half years in the post to retire. Company owner Mike Fox will be taking over all COO responsibilities.

"We are sad to see him leave but wish him all the best moving forward.  He will remain as a consultant to the business as needed from time to time and a brand ambassador for BW." said Fox.  "I look at this as an exciting opportunity for me to get more immersed in my company and be more hands on. I am passionate about standup paddle boarding and surfing and look forward to seeing Boardworks  continue to excel and evolve in this fast growing industry."

Born and raised in Hawaii, Fox’s life has been centered around the ocean, an accomplished canoe paddler, paddle boarder, surfer, bodysurfer and swimmer.  Mike began his work career at age 15 as a City and County Lifeguard in Honolulu and went on to establish a successful modular building company for 20 years. He sold this business in 2007 and purchased Boardworks in 2009. Fox splits his time between  Southern California, Park City Utah, and Hawaii.

Based in Encinitas, California, Boardworks represents some of the best shapers in the world and brings their premier SUP and surfboard models to the global water community, manufactured with Boardworks proprietary construction technologies. Boardworks SUP brands include Infinity, Paddle Surf Hawaii, Rusty, Badfish Standup Paddle, Morrelli and Melvin, Ohana, as well as the Boardworks house brand of innovative and award winning SUP and surfboard models.  Surf brands Include Aipa, Dewey Weber, Von Sol, Hynson, Bruce Jones, Kane Garden, Hanson and Eaton.

( SportsOneSource Media )

Web news : Backcountry.com makes outdoor-focused innovation accessible through Treeline

PARK CITY, Utah – Backcountry.com started in a garage when two ski bums had a hunch that selling avalanche beacons online might just work.  That was 15 years ago. Passion and an entrepreneurial spirit still motivate the outdoor retailer, and both are the inspiration for Backcountry’s new online specialty showcase: Treeline.

Treeline, presented by Backcountry.com, is an online retail showcase for artists, craftsmen, and up-and-coming brands whose products evolve the outdoor lifestyle. Backcountry.com curates a new, fresh, and focused shopping experience each week, featuring the work or wares of one brand or artist at a time. Each experience tells a compelling behind-the-scenes story through words, interviews, and photography.

“Treeline is an experiment for us, one that comes straight from the heart of Backcountry.com, from our roots,” said Jill Layfield, CEO of Backcoutry.com. “We are a specialty retailer deeply invested in the future of specialty retail. New brands and product innovation are fundamental to the specialty retail experience. With Treeline, we honor outdoor-focused entrepreneurs and provide a showcase for innovation and creativity.”

Backcountry.com Treeline is essentially a content-rich marketplace for the brands it features. It currently has a separate shopping cart from Backcountry.com. When people purchase through Treeline, they are connected to the featured company for all processing and fulfillment.

Treeline launches with the spotlight on Pladra — a San Francisco-based company that makes premium flannel shirts that are both field- and town-ready. The following week’s focus will be on Rock Monkey Art and the mountain-inspired paintings of Backcountry.com-sponsored athlete Renan Ozturk. Next up will be the story of Utah-based Grassroots Powdersurfing and the company’s hand-made bindingless powder boards. Each new shopping experience will be unique, different, and inspiring.

“Through Treeline, Backcountry.com gives us unbelievable exposure,” said Jeff Ladra, co-founder and designer at Pladra, “and they do it in a way that allows us to share our story. We’re a new brand, and for us, telling that story is important. ”

Treeline is live now at www.backcountrytreeline.com.

Keith Cozzens /  Verde PR  & Consulting / keith@verdepr.com / (970) 259-3555 x2

Trade Shows : Indonesia invites for Inabicycle 2013

Indonesia's leading bicycle trade Inabicycle 2013 will turn on in conjunction with the exhibitions Inasport and Inagolf . The fair will open its doors in Jakarta Convention Center 23rd to 26 May 2013. Organizer of this exhibition held for the third time, the Indonesian Ministry of Youth and Sports in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism ...

That the emerging country Indonesia is becoming increasingly interesting not only as a producer of bicycles, but also as a market - it has the RadMarkt previously reported in detail. Who wants to jump on this time with premium products extremely rapidly evolving market is to make a presentation right on this small but well-growing exhibition.  

Indonesia, with its population of over 240 million not only one of the largest markets in Southeast Asia, after China and India but also the fastest growing.
 
More info to 3rd Inabicycle under www.inasport-expo.com or through the Organization Secretariat (Nica Anggraeni, Tel +62-21-7892938, e-mail ms.monicaanggraeni @ g-mail.com).

( German source Jo Beckendorff through radmarkt.de )

Organiztions news : OECD Foresees Slow Growth to Continue in 2013

The global economy is expected to make a hesitant and uneven recovery over the coming two years, according to a forecast published Tuesday by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

The OECD's latest Economic Outlook concludes that decisive policy action is needed to ensure that stalemate over fiscal policy in the United States and continuing euro area instability do not plunge the world back into recession. The OECD is a think tank devoted to promoting economic development among its 34-nation member nations, which include most of the countries of Europe and North America.

“The world economy is far from being out of the woods,” OECD Secretary-General Angel Gurría said during the Economic Outlook launch in Paris. “The US ‘fiscal cliff’, if it materializes, could tip an already weak economy into recession, while failure to solve the euro area crisis could lead to a major financial shock and global downturn. Governments must act decisively, using all the tools at their disposal to turn confidence around and boost growth and jobs, in the United States, in Europe, and elsewhere,” Mr Gurría said.

GDP growth across the OECD is projected to match this year’s 1.4 percent in 2013, before gathering momentum to 2.3 percent for 2014, according to the Outlook.

In the United States, provided the “fiscal cliff” is avoided, GDP growth is projected at 2 percent in 2013 before rising to 2.8 percent in 2014. In Japan, GDP is expected to expand by 0.7 percent in 2013 and 0.8 percent in 2014. The euro area will remain in recession until early 2013, leading to a mild contraction in GDP of 0.1 percent next year, before growth picks up to 1.3 percent in 2014.

OECD GDP Forecast by country

	FRA	DEU	JPN	GBR	USA	EURO	OECD	CHN
2012	0.2	0.9	1.6	-0.1	2.2	-0.4	1.4	7.5
2013	0.3	0.6	0.7	0.9	2.0	-0.1	1.4	8.5
2014	1.3	1.9	0.8	1.6	2.8	1.3	2.3	8.9

After softer-than-expected activity during 2012, growth has begun picking up in the emerging-market economies, with increasingly supportive monetary and fiscal policies offsetting the drag exerted by weak external demand. China is expected to grow at 8.5 percent in 2013 and 8.9 percent in 2014, while GDP is also expected to gather steam in the coming years in Brazil, India, Indonesia, Russia and South Africa.

Labour markets remain weak, with around 50 million jobless people in the OECD area, the Outlook said. Unemployment is set to remain high, or even rise further, in many countries unless structural measures are used to boost near-term employment growth.

The euro area crisis remains a serious threat to the world economy, despite recent measures that have dampened near-term pressures. Adjustment of deep-rooted imbalances across the euro area has begun, but much more is needed to ensure long-term sustainability, including structural reform in both deficit and surplus countries.

More needs to be done to tackle negative links in the euro area between public finances, bank solvency and risks that any country may have to leave the euro. In the long run, this requires a fully-fledged banking union with fiscal backstops. Recapitalization of banks should be undertaken where necessary.

The Outlook suggests a possible positive scenario could arise if decisive policy actions are taken to improve business and consumer confidence, and to boost growth and jobs worldwide. The rapid and broad implementation of structural reforms, not least in labor and product markets, is key to this scenario.

( Source OECD and SportsOneSource Media )

Awards and environment news :BioLite™ Earns Top Honors from Popular Science Best of What’s New Awards

Brooklyn, NY, Nov 27, 2012 -
BioLite LLC, an innovator in energy solutions, is pleased to announce the BioLite CampStove™ has been named Grand Award Winner in the Recreation category of Popular Science Magazine’s annual Best of What’s New Awards.

Each year, the editors of Popular Science review thousands of products in search of the top 100 tech innovations of the year; breakthrough products and technologies that represent a significant leap in their categories.  The Best of What’s New winners are featured in the December issue of Popular Science – the magazine’s most widely read issue. The Best of What’s New awards are presented in 11 categories: Automotive, Aviation & Space, Computing Engineering, Gadgets, Green Tech, Home Entertainments, Security, Home Tech, Health and Recreation.

“For 25 years, Popular Science has honored the innovations that surprise and amaze us − those that make a positive impact on our world today and challenge our view of whatʼs possible in the future.” said Jacob Ward, Editor-in-Chief of Popular Science. “The Best of Whatʼs New Award is the magazineʼs top honor, and the 100 winners − chosen from among thousands of entrants − each a revolution in its field.”

"Popular Science plays an important role in the conversation of how technology can create impact on daily life,” says BioLite co-founder Jonathan Cedar. “We're honored to be recognized by the Popular Science editorial team with this award and excited to reach such an engaged readership."

The BioLite CampStove is a compact wood-burning cookstove that uses thermoelectic technology to convert heat into electricity. Relying on found biomass such as twigs or pinecones, the CampStove provides an ultra-efficient fire while allowing users to charge small devices via a USB-port.

In addition to the CampStove, BioLite has developed the HomeStove™, slated for large scale pilot testing in India, Ghana, and Western Kenya. The HomeStove shares the CampStove’s core technology to generate electricity while nearly eliminating black carbon emissions, reducing smoke by 95% and utilizing 50% less wood then a traditional, smoky open fire. This is a major technological breakthrough impacting both energy and health when you consider the fact that 3 billion people worldwide cook on open fires, 1.3 billion of these people lack access to electricity, and 2 million die annually from indoor air pollution.


About BioLite
BioLite develops and manufactures advanced energy products that make cooking with wood as clean, safe, and easy as modern fuels while also providing electricity to charge small devices like cell phones and LED lights off-grid. Headquartered in Brooklyn, NY, the company was founded in 2009 by Jonathan Cedar and Alec Drummond. BioLite is the recipient of numerous awards including the 2011 St. Andrews Prize for the Environment and the 2010 Sustainable Brands Innovation Open. Discover more about BioLite at biolitestove.com, facebook.com/biolitestove and twitter.com/biolitestove.

Julie Atherton / JAM Media Collective / julie@jamcollective.net / 415-839-7546

New product :Waterproof Neptune Sound Processor from Advanced Bionics Surf and Sail Friendly with Warranty for Use in Oceans, Lakes and Rivers

VALENCIA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Advanced Bionics (AB), the global leader in cochlear implant technology and a company of the Sonova Group, announced today that Neptune™, the world’s first and only swimmable, waterproof sound processor, has passed rigorous internal testing and is now warranted for use in oceans, lakes and rivers. The award-winning Neptune processor has already been designated for use in pools, baths and showers. Neptune comes compatible with the AquaMic, the industry’s only waterproof headpiece and microphone, which passed the same rigorous testing. All Neptune processors and AquaMic headpieces qualify for this warranted use. Further fulfilling AB’s commitment to delivering the best in quality and durability, AB cochlear implant recipients can now enjoy the opportunity to hear in every water environment.

Recipients using other products on the market remove their processor when they swim or bathe, which means they miss out on important safety instructions and opportunities for language development because they are not hearing during those times. Parents of pediatric recipients using Neptune processors will appreciate the bonding and learning that comes with hearing during bath time, as well as the safety of hearing in pools, oceans, rivers and lakes.

“It’s important to understand the difference between water resistant and waterproof. With our fully submergible technology, recipients can swim under water giving them access to hearing during far more lifestyle activities than products that can only be splashed,” said Hansjuerg Emch, Group Vice President of the Sonova Medical Division within which AB resides. “We are proud to be the only company in the world to offer a truly waterproof sound processor for cochlear implant recipients. It’s incredibly rewarding when our recipients tell us how it changed their lives to hear the waves while surfing or a lifeguard’s whistle while swimming.”

Developed for all weather, terrain, ages and lifestyles, Neptune allows for hearing during robust water and sports activities thanks to its unique waterproof design. Now with the ability to use the Neptune processor in all water environments, recipients can enjoy the peace of mind from hearing while taking part in a wide variety of additional activities beyond swimming and bathing, such as boating, waterskiing, jet-skiing, rafting, fishing, parasailing, wind gliding, surfing and snorkeling.

“I have been going whitewater rafting with friends for the past five years. I always had to sit directly behind someone and follow them to know how to paddle. This year, I wore one of my Neptune processors and was able to hear the river guide yell out the commands myself!” said AB recipient Steven Hecht. “Not only did I get splashed while going through the class four rapids, I jumped out of the boat into the rapids with my Neptune processor on the entire time. It really made a huge difference to be able to hear while rafting!”

Advanced Bionics was able to develop this industry innovation without compromising hearing performance. Neptune is fully compatible with the most advanced hearing technology, including ClearVoice™*, HiRes Fidelity 120™* and AutoSound™, which are also available from AB.* These sophisticated sound processing strategies are designed to deliver the best hearing performance in real-world environments where recipients would otherwise struggle, such as busy offices, loud playgrounds, music recitals and crowded restaurants.

For more information about Neptune, contact a local Advanced Bionics representative or visit AdvancedBionics.com.

About Advanced Bionics
Advanced Bionics is a global leader in developing the most advanced cochlear implant systems in the world. Founded in 1993 and a subsidiary of the Sonova Group since 2009, AB develops cutting-edge cochlear implant technology that allows recipients to hear their best.
AB offers the most sophisticated cochlear implant system on the market, the HiResolution^™ Bionic Ear System, with five times more sound resolution than its competitors, designed to help recipients hear in noisy settings and enjoy the full dimensions of music.
With sales in over 50 countries and a proven track record for developing high-performing, state-of-the-art products, AB’s talented group of technologists and professionals from all over the world are driven to succeed, work with integrity and stay firmly committed to quality.
To learn more about AB and its innovative cochlear implant technology, please visit AdvancedBionics.com.
*Not approved for pediatric patients in the United States.


Contacts

Advanced Bionics, LLC /Cheryl Garma / 661.362.1400 / MediaInquiries@AdvancedBionics.com

Business news :University of Washington severs contract with Adidas over labor issues

The University of Washington severed its contract with Adidas after the company allegedly failed to pay workers in Indonesia $1.8 million in severance.

Students at the university have long protested against Adidas and its contractors, which they allege failed to comply with Indonesian law when the P.T. Kizone company did not pay severance compensation to workers in a factory it closed.

Adidas has countered that the factory was unethically closed and abandoned by its owner, not Adidas, months after the factory ceased accepting orders from Adidas.

The UW Advisory Committee on Trademarks and Licensing, which includes students, faculty and staff, reviewed the university's apparel contract with Adidas over the past year and recommended that UW's president Michael K. Young discontinue the school's business relationship with the company, claiming that Adidas' actions in Indonesia violate the school's code of conduct.

In a letter earlier this month to the UW Advisory Committee on Trademarks and Licensing, Young wrote, "After further review of this matter, I fully agree with the committee's conclusion that, by taking the position that it had no responsibility for severance payments to its supplier's former workers, Adidas falls short of the University's expectations for its licensees. Although I applaud the charitable action  taken by Adidas to address some of the humanitarian needs of the unemployed workers, the company has not, in spite of our repeated efforts, fundamentally altered its position as to the unpaid severance due to the workers. Whatever technical or legal arguments Adidas may rely on to support its position in this case, the bottom line is that its handling of the situation does not meet our expectations for the humane and ethical treatment of workers who produce UW licensed products."

In a statement Nov. 27, Adidas expressed disappointment with the UW's decision to stop doing business with them.

"Since the closure of the P.T. Kizone factory, we have continued to provide clarifying information to the university and other business partners on the issue and our actions," the statement read.  "Importantly, we are confident we are adhering to and, in fact, exceeding both the spirit and the letter of the codes of conduct our university partners require."

Adidas will have 60 days to sell any remaining UW inventory.

Cornell University and Oberlin College had also previously decided to cut ties with Adidas.

( SportsOneSource Media )

For more infos or topics about Adidas group or brands of the group use the search tool at the right top of the page . 

Trades shows :Interbike to Provide Limited Access to Bike Retailers’ Best Customers

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Interbike, the largest bicycle industry trade show in North America, today announced the launch of a new initiative to allow select consumers into the 2013 event for the 1^st time in the show’s history. The new program’s primary intent is to showcase the industry to some of its most loyal enthusiast customers. Interbike’s goal is to help drive retail activity specifically through dealers that attend the show and to increase the value equation for exhibiting companies. The limited-access initiative, called Interbike by Invitation, will allow registered retailers to invite their best and most loyal customers to attend. These special invitees will be treated as special guests of that shop and will be afforded preferential treatment at the show. Interbike will not be adding a day for this initiative, and instead will be extending Friday’s hours and allowing access to both consumers and retailers on Friday, September 20, 2013. The show will now be extended to 6:00 pm on Friday instead of the previous 4:00 pm.

“The mystique of Interbike from a consumer perspective has been, and still is, very strong,” said Pat Hus, Managing Director for Interbike. “We believe we’ve found the proper way to include the consumer, by showcasing the industry through retailers who attend Interbike. Interbike by Invitation is not designed to open the flood gates to consumers seeking stickers and SWAG – but rather as an opportunity for retailers to invite their best consumers with the goal of leaving the show with the invitee feeling closer to both the retailer and the brands they love. If we’re successful with the model we’ve outlined we will have created a bonding exercise for retailers and suppliers like our industry has never seen before. Ultimately it will be measurable as demand for 2014 product is driven into the retailers.”

Retailers that register for Interbike will be allotted a limited number of consumer access invitations based on their geography. Consumers invited by retailers will be able to register on the Interbike website beginning in April, 2013. There will be a $50 entry fee for all invitees, which will include special access and a host of other benefits planned for the event.

There will be no sales transactions allowed on the show floor as part of this addition to Friday. In fact, Interbike will be increasing security significantly throughout the show floor and will be adding controls that will not allow customers to exit the show carrying any product. “This is a big deal and we have to mandate the no transaction policy in order for this to be a success,” said Hus. “Our intent is to create consumer demand for new products and generate retail activity in stores after the event. In this scenario everybody wins.”

Interbike by Invitation was also created as a means of strengthening the bond between retailer and customer Kevin O’Connor, owner of Gear West Bike & Triathlon in Long Lake, MN applauds the program.

"Interbike should have implemented a consumer initiative years ago,” he said. “It’s a natural next step as a way that Interbike can allow the end consumer to join the retailer as part of the process, and is the proper way to launch the program, in my opinion.”

A How-To Guide for retailers and exhibitors is planned for early Spring distribution. Interbike will be creating a guide that will include turn-key ideas and suggested tools to maximize the effectiveness of the process.

Exhibitors will have the opportunity to show off their latest wares to a passionate cycling audience who crave the latest and greatest in bicycle technology and fashion. Aside from vetting the program with many dealers over the course of the last 6 months, and gaining support from the NBDA, the Interbike team consulted and secured universal support with more than 100 of its top exhibitors on the initiative as well.

“SRAM is very excited about the addition of a consumer component for Interbike,” said David Zimberoff, Global Marketing Director at SRAM. “We'll be developing consumer specific promotions to welcome and engage them that does not compete with any retailer activity. We'll be focused on pushing consumers to retail so it should be a win-win for everyone.”
More information on Interbike by Invitation can be found at www.interbike.com.

About Interbike
The Interbike International Bicycle Expo and OutDoor Demo are the bicycle industry's leading business-to-business events bringing together top manufacturers, retailers, industry advocates and media to conduct the business of cycling. Interbike is a business unit of Nielsen Expositions [a division of The Nielsen Company (Nielsen: NYSE: NIEL)], the parent company of the Outdoor Retailer (OR) and Health+Fitness Business expos. Nielsen Expositions is a full-service trade show company that creates market events and produces high quality expos and educational conferences. Interbike (www.interbike.com) gathers more than 1,200 cycling-related brands and more than 25,000 total attendees annually.

Interbike will begin at OutDoor Demo from September 16-17, 2013, in Boulder City, NV, followed by the Interbike Expo from September 18-20, 2013, at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, NV.


Contacts
For Interbike Justin Gottlieb / Communications and PR Director /949-226-5754
justin.gottlieb@nielsen.com

Business news : Nike Reorganizes Surf Business

According the Orange County Business Journal Nike Surfwear Shifts to Hurley .

Nike Inc. has plans to put all of its surfwear operations under its Costa Mesa-based Hurley International LLC unit.

A Nike spokesman confirmed the decision Tuesday morning, but declined to provide additional details. The Beaverton, Ore.-based company had offered a mix of surfwear with its main athletic lines under its famous “swoosh” brand, and aimed to build awareness through sponsorship of various surf competitions.

Hurley maintained its own identity in the Nike lineup.

The shift of all surfwear business to the Hurley label is expected to be completed by the end of the year, according to a report from ESPN.

The news follows Nike’s decision earlier this year not to renew its title sponsorship of the annual U.S. Open of Surfing in Huntington Beach.

Hurley and Converse Inc. of Andover, Mass.—also a unit of Nike—both pulled their secondary sponsorships from the multi-day event produced by New York-based IMG Worldwide.

Nike acquired Hurley in 2002.

( by Kari Hamanaka OCBJ )

For more infos or topics about Nike use the search engine at the right top of the page !