US, Pelican International Earn MC Sports Vendor Awards

MC Sports recognized Pelican International, the maker of kayaks, as its Hardlines’ Vendor of the Year and Marla Fredrich with Escalade Sports as the Hardlines’ Representative of the Year. The Softlines’ Vendor of the Year was awarded to Under Armour and the Softlines’ Vendor Rep of the Year was awarded to Bruce Wagner.

The rewards were announced earlier this month. The award is given out to recognize one hardgoods’ vendor and vendor representative and one softgoods’ vendor and vendor representative that have distinguished themselves from their peers and made significant contribution to MC’s performance over the past year.

“Both Pelican International and Marla Fredrich with Escalade Sports were instrumental to the Hardlines Division’s performance in 2013,” noted Scott Schuette, hardlines divisional merchandise manager for MC Sports. “It’s a tremendous benefit when both manufacturers and representatives are committed to your success beyond the initial sell-in. We are thankful for vendors like Pelican International and representatives like Ms. Fredrich who care about our success and demonstrate true partnership throughout the year.”

“An important focus for MC Sports in 2013 was improving our turn and ROI strategies,” noted Mark Lundvick, Softlines Divisional Merchandise Manager for MC Sports. “Both Under Armour and Bruce Wagner were instrumental in driving significant improvements in our business metrics. Both Under Armour’s and Mr. Wagner’s partnership throughout the life cycle of their products drove sales, improved ROI, and set the benchmark for others to follow.”

“We are grateful for all our vendor and rep partners,” stated Dan Winchester, chief operations officer for MC Sports. “We can’t be successful without their expertise and support and are fortunate to have vendors like Pelican and Under Armour, and reps like Ms Fredrich and Mr. Wagner who go the extra distance to insure we maximize our potential.”

Headquartered in Grand Rapids, MI, MC Sports operates 75 stores in seven states throughout the Midwest.

About MC sports

Founded in 1946, MC Sports started with one store in Grand Rapids Michigan. The original name, Michigan Clothiers, reflected the wide range of products offered to its customers. From men’s clothing to military surplus, the original store was a favorite shopping destination for local residents. Refining its business strategy in 1962, the company changed its name to MC Sporting Goods and focused entirely on quality sports equipment, footwear, and apparel.

Since that time, MC Sports has taken its retail concept to markets throughout the Midwest. In 1987, MC Sports accelerated its expansion through the acquisition of Morrie Mages’ Sports, a three-store chain located in the Chicago area. A year later, Browns Sporting Goods was acquired adding 19 stores to its portfolio.

By the end of 2012, MC Sports will operate 74 stores in seven states throughout the Midwest. Future growth is continually being mapped out with a strong emphasis on locations throughout the Midwest.

What sets MC Sports apart from other retailers is its commitment to quality sports gear and its support of the communities where it does business.

Every MC Sports store gives back to their community through team sponsorships, fund raising programs, team and group discounts, and a long-standing commitment to the Children’s Miracle Network.

As one of the few remaining privately held sporting goods chains, MC Sports is truly a unique retailer. Built on a foundation of Service, Family, Convenience, Community, and Integrity, you can be sure that MC Sports will continue to offer quality, top-name sports gear at competitive prices




By press release