Archives: Press Releases

BOULDER, CO – August 30, 2024 – Outside Interactive, Inc., the world’s leading creator of outdoor content, services, events, and experiences, today announced the acquisition of MapMyFitness from Under Armour, Inc. MapMyFitness is a fitness tracking application that allows users to track their activities using built-in GPS on their mobile devices. The technology includes popular applications like MapMyRide, MapMyRun, and MapMyWalk.

This acquisition will enhance Outside’s technology platform and mapping capabilities by integrating connected fitness technology to complement its existing outdoor content, services, and utilities network. MapMyFitness’ 80+ million registered users will now have access to a broader community, personalized video and editorial content, event registration services, and a more comprehensive outdoor experience.  The acquisition will make Outside the world’s largest advertising network in the outdoor and active lifestyle industry and massively scale its first-party data strategy with over 100M+ registered users across the platform.

“As the original co-founder of MapMyFitness, I am excited about bringing the MapMy community into the Outside network to enhance the value of our platform for our users and paid members,” said Robin Thurston, Founder & CEO of Outside. “I believe that by continually adding high-value services to the Outside platform, consumers win, and ultimately, we achieve our mission of getting more people outside daily.”

The acquisition of MapMyFitness makes Outside one of the largest mapping and activity-tracking companies in the world, which now includes MapMyRun, MapMyRide, MapMyWalk, MapMyFitness, Gaia GPS, and Trailforks. With the integration, users will benefit from the recently announced social platform features like the Activity Feed, which includes single sign-on, a universal Outside profile, and enhanced community-building features that allow users to follow and interact with favorite authors, brands, and friends. Additionally, members of Outside+ will enjoy premium benefits from apps as they become integrated in the coming months.

The acquisition officially closed on August 30, 2024. The terms of the deal will not be disclosed publicly.

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Media Contact: 

 Austyn Dineen, austyn.dineen@backbone.media

About Outside

Outside Interactive, Inc. is the premier destination for outdoor inspiration, activation, and celebration. Each year, Outside reaches over 250+ million of the most active consumers in the world across its network of 25 media, services, and utilities, creating an experience for both longtime adventurers and those just getting started. Outside’s mission is to get everyone outdoors, experiencing healthy, connected, and fulfilling lives. Outside’s membership offering, Outside+, bundles best-in-class storytelling, videos, gear reviews, mapping apps, online courses, discounted event access, magazines, and more. Learn more at www.OutsideOnline.com.

 

 

 

Portland, OR – August 28,  2024  – Snow Peak, a Japanese camping brand with over 65 years of history, is pleased to announce the launch of its mobile app. The new app, now available for download on both iOS and Android devices, aims to seamlessly integrate the brand’s Loyalty Program into its customers’ shopping experience.

Snow Peak first launched its North American Loyalty Program in 2023. Members can earn points through purchases in-store and online, which can then be redeemed for a number of perks, credit, exclusive products, and more.

Key Features of the Snow Peak App:

• Product Exploration: Browse and shop the latest Snow Peak gear and apparel with ease.
• Event Updates: Stay informed about upcoming events, workshops, and product launches.
• Members Portal: Exchange loyalty points for member-exclusive products available only on the app.

“We are thrilled to announce the launch of Snow Peak’s new app, which at present is focused on our core services but we plan on expanding the platform to cover everything that Snow Peak offers from gear, apparel, and product services, to experiences such as our Campfield and restaurant,” said Noah Reis, chief operating officer of Snow Peak USA. “This app will not only provide our community with a seamless way to explore our range of products and stay informed about upcoming events, but it will also allow us to engage more deeply with both new and seasoned customers. At Snow Peak, we value the long-term relationships we’ve built with our users, and our new app is designed to enhance that connection.”

The Snow Peak app is now available for download on the App Store and Google Play. For more information, visit www.snowpeak.com.

About Snow Peak        

Founded in Japan in 1958, Snow Peak is a camping brand serving customers in the USA for more than 20 years, with a mission to unite people and alleviate the stresses of modern life through time gathering outside. Its Japanese-designed, lifetime-guaranteed camping equipment serves as a catalyst for restorative experiences in nature. Focused on bringing people together, Snow Peak operates immersive retail locations in Portland and Brooklyn, as well as a Portland restaurant, Takibi, a PNW izakaya that brings to life the brand’s belief that time spent sharing food and drink by the fire is the best way to connect with one another. Snowpeak.com

 

CHAMONIX, France – August, 28, 2024 – With the introduction of its first high-performance trail-running shoe, Rossignol is taking another step forward in its diversification strategy. The new chapter is both a natural and decisive one for the storied brand from the French Alps boasting over a century of innovation and high-performance DNA. Since 1907, Rossignol’s heart has beat to the rhythm of the mountains making its extension into every season and facet of mountain sport and lifestyle a natural one.

Following the launch of recent spring summer collections including technical clothing, mountain bikes, and hiking footwear, Rossignol is announcing its first trail-running collection for 2025, spearheaded by the unveiling of its flagship trail run shoe, the Vezor. Perfectly complementing the brand’s multi-season, multi-activity offer, the new collection has been developed with the same expertise and technicity that’s made Rossignol the global reference in winter sports equipment for over a century.

Representing the culmination of three-years of R&D work and in-depth field testing, the Vezor has been thoughtfully designed with a perfect balance of precision, grip, and propulsive performance to carry committed trail runners across the most rugged and technical terrain. The lightweight, stable, and altogether fast shoe is ideal for medium-distance races, in both training and competition.

The Rossignol Vezor: a shoe designed for performance

For 117 years, performance has been part of Rossignol’s DNA. The French brand’s history has been marked by decades of competitive victories, technological innovations, and iconic products. These successes have been made possible due to the brand’s fine-tuned development process and recognized expertise in foot mechanics, on display in its workshop in Montebelluna, Italy.

All of the know-how of the Rossignol R&D department has been harnessed to create the brand’s new range of trail-running shoes. Design. Test. Repeat. Each step forward validated by feedback from an international team of field testers. Each component of the Vezor with a specific purpose. Every millimeter of rocker, heel height and drop, carefully thought out and studied. Rossignol’s new trail shoe collection consolidates and capitalizes on the very best of the brand’s long and storied expertise.

“What better setting than Chamonix, regarded as the trail capital of the world, could we imagine embarking on this new chapter in our history? At Rossignol, we’re mountain enthusiasts with a fascination for performance and pushing our limits. Our aim is to provide the best possible solutions for all aspects of mountain sport, and we are committed to developing technical solutions to make the mountains and wide-open spaces accessible to everyone, from enthusiastic amateurs to accomplished athletes. For these communities of mountain sports enthusiasts who explore the mountains from one season to the next whether skiing, biking, or running, we’ve naturally extended our spring-summer 2025 range to encompass the simplest and purest form of mountain sport: trail-running.” ~ Vincent Wauters, President/CEO of Rossignol Group.

“With the Vezor, we are offering a comfortable, precise shoe with effective and highly responsive cushioning, for long, fast-paced runs on technical trails. Its design is inspired by the morphological structure of the dragonfly’s wings, combining lightness, comfort and stability during rapid changes of direction. The fusion of our new, ultra-resilient nitrogen-injected foam and our Diapazon+ technology gives the Vezor the perfect balance of energy return and stability. Its ingeniously designed outsole incorporating Michelin’s OCX3 compound ensures impeccable grip on all types of terrain. Ideal for medium distances, the Vezor will be an ally of choice for committed trail runners, accompanying them in training sessions and high-intensity races. Its neon red color alludes to Rossignol’s heritage and performance-oriented DNA.” ~ Guilhem Boussaroque, Product Line Manager Trail Running

 

 

SALT LAKE CITY (Aug. 27, 2024) — Two groundbreaking, Utah-based ski industry manufacturers, DPS Skis and PHANTOM Glide, announce the appointment of Chico Bukovansky as global sales director. Bukovansky will oversee all sales and customer service operations for both brands, working closely with Pete Leazott and Doug Sheehy, sales managers for PHANTOM Glide brought onto the expanding sales team earlier this year.

“Chico is an experienced outdoor industry professional and has the chops to step right into this position and help DPS and PHANTOM Glide continue to expand their sales reach, both in the U.S. and abroad,” says Mike Cannon, vice president of sales at DPS and PHANTOM Glide. “While market conditions have proven challenging over the last 12 months, we’re continuing to bring material, design, and manufacturing innovations to market and Chico is the perfect team member to lead the sales and customer service organization for both brands.”

Bukovansky most recently served as chief revenue officer at Slingshot Sports, the innovation leader in kiteboarding, wakeboarding, and wing foiling. Prior to Slingshot, Bukovansky was a longtime presence at Dakine, leading the brand’s global sales and go-to-market teams. His career began in a ski shop in Seattle, before moving to the brand side in a sales position with Nitro Snowboards in 1994. Bukovansky served on the board of directors for the Snowsports Industries of America from 2016–2018.

“Chico has a proven track record of helping to grow brands through his relationships in the ski and snowboard industry,” says Cannon. “He has a reputation of working with reps, global distributors, retailers, and online platforms to effectively execute go-to-market strategies, and we’re looking forward to sharing his passion for winter sports as an integral part of our leadership team.”

For DPS and PHANTOM Glide sales inquiries, Bukovansky can be reached at chico.bukovansky@dpsskis.com.

For information on DPS or PHANTOM Glide, the sales teams, or any of the brand’s products or initiatives, please contact account manager Ryan Silven at ryan.silven@rygr.us.

About DPS Skis: Located at the base of the Wasatch Mountains in Salt Lake City, Utah, DPS designs the world’s most advanced ski products by fusing space-age carbon technology with groundbreaking shapes. DPS is responsible for the world’s first and only pure pre-impregnated carbon fiber sandwich ski, the first 120mm-waisted powder pintail, the first rockered ski with sidecut, and PHANTOM, a paradigm-shifting permanent, one-time application base-coating that forever eliminates the need for waxing skis and snowboards. DPS products are sold on five continents and are the trusted brand of choice for serious skiers worldwide. www.dpsskis.com

About PHANTOM Glide:

Developed by a team of expert chemists and material science engineers, PHANTOM Glide’s patent-pending formula creates a hydrophobic environment that offers three undeniable benefits. First, unlike topical wax, PHANTOM Glide is only applied once and permanently alters the chemistry of ski and board bases to improve baseline glide for the life of the product. Second, PHANTOM Glide offers consistently fast on-snow gliding performance across a broad range of conditions and temperatures. Third, and most importantly, PHANTOM Glide is made up of non-reactive chemical functional groups that are both inert to the environment and safe to those applying it. For more on PHANTOM Glide visit dpsskis.com/phantom.

Media Contact: 

Ryan Silven

Ryan.silven@rygr.us

970-924-0704 ext. 2114

 

Greenville, S.C., (August 27, 2024) – Gran Fondo Hincapie is heading to five unique cycling destinations for its 2025 Gran Fondo event series. Cyclists can choose to ride the paved roads of Merced, Calif.; Chattanooga, Tenn.; Lehigh Valley, Penn.; Bentonville, Ark.; or Greenville, S.C. throughout the 2025 calendar year. Each event offers scenic routes mapped and tested by George Hincapie himself. Backed by 30 years of event experience, Gran Fondo Hincapie offers a cycling experience for every type of tinder with multiple distance options offered: a shorter Piccolo, a mid-length Medio, or a longer Gran ride.

“The Gran Fondo Hincapie series has always been about more than just the ride; it’s about bringing together a community of cyclists who share a passion for the sport and the camaraderie that comes with it,” said George Hincapie. “We designed our Gran Fondo to be challenging yet rewarding, offering stunning routes, excellent support, and a festive atmosphere that celebrates the love of cycling. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, we want every participant to feel a sense of accomplishment and be part of something special. We look forward to another year of great rides, strong community, and unforgettable memories.”

Gran Fondo Hincapie and the City of Bentonville are working together to grow Bentonville into a road cycling destination to complement the region’s existing gravel and mountain biking reputation. Hincapie events focus on the overall experience. They are multi-day cycling celebrations with scenic rides, live music, and a family festival with free fun, food, and drinks. Thousands of cycling pros, celebrities, weekend warriors, and first-time riders have participated in Hincapie Gran Fondo events, hosted by American professional road cyclist and Olympian, George, and the family.

2025 Gran Fondo Hincapie Event Dates:

• March 15: Merced, Calif. (Registration open)
• May 3: Chattanooga, Tenn. (Registration open)
• May 31: Lehigh Valley, Penn. (Registration open)
• Bentonville, Ark. – date coming soon
• 18: Greenville, S.C.

Registration is still open for the Hincapie’s first annual event in Bentonville, Ark., this Sept. 6 – 8. Join George, along with Junior Men 15-16 Time Trial National Champion, Enzo Hincapie, former American professional road cyclist, Bobby Julich, and the Wedu team for a weekend of riding, good food, entertainment, and more. The weekend is packed full of activities, with George and Enzo leading Shake Out rides on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings before the event weekend from the Meteor Café. Riders can fuel up on Friday with an evening under the stars sampling culinary creations from the country’s top chefs at Thaden School. On Saturday night there will be an After Party catered by Chef Biju Thomas at the Red Barn at the Momentary.

The final event on the 2024 calendar is Hincapie-Greenville, which will take place Oct. 18-19, where the Gran Fondo Hincapie events all started in 2012. Registration is still open for this event.

To learn more about Gran Fondo Hincapie or register for an event, please visit https://hincapie.com/ or follow along on social media on Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube.

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About Hincapie

Cycling is our life. It’s what we know, and it’s who we are. But we are not a bike company. We’re a people-who-ride-bikes company. We are cyclists, and we are makers. We are master craftsmen of custom-made, high-performance cycling apparel. Our team is our family. Not only do we design our cycling apparel, but we also make it in our family-run factory. We also create and run upscale cycling events. We have a restaurant and hotel that hosts visiting cyclists from all over the world. We manage a spring series of races. Cycling inspires everything we do, and every day we work even harder to improve the sport, make it more accessible to others and build a strong community for future cyclists. Join us on our journey.

About George Hincapie

George Hincapie is a retired professional road cyclist who was one of the most accomplished American cyclists of his generation. Over his 19-year career, he competed in 17 Tours de France, the most of any American cyclist, participated in five Olympic Games and excelled in the Spring Classics, including winning Gent-Wevelgem in 2001 and securing multiple top-10 finishes in Paris-Roubaix. Since retiring from professional cycling in 2012, Hincapie has remained active in the sport as a co-founder of Hincapie Sportswear, which specializes in cycling apparel, and launching a professional cycling team. He is also the co-owner of Hotel Domestique, a luxury cycling destination in South Carolina, and hosts the Gran Fondo Hincapie series with his family.

 

 

 

 

BOULDER, Colo. (Aug. 22, 2024) – deuter, a global leader in backpacks and outdoor gear, announces the hire of Michael Duffy as national sales manager, along with a pair of key promotions. Scott Park has transitioned from sales leadership to a new role as product line manager, and Amy Parulis has been promoted to marketing and communications manager.

“Building on a period of transformative growth for deuter globally and in the U.S., we have made important investments in our business, including our operations partnership with NRI 3PL and the move to our new, 9,000-square-foot office space in Boulder,” says Jonathan Degenhardt, managing director of Schwan-STABILO Outdoor USA, parent company to deuter. “We’re continuing to build a deep roster of experienced industry pros and the trio of Michael, Scott and Amy offers hard-earned expertise across the three important pillars of sales and service, product, and marketing.”

deuter welcomed Duffy as national sales manager on July 10. He brings over two decades of experience in the outdoor industry, having held key sales positions at Kokatat and Klean Kanteen, where he most recently served as vice president, global sales and customer experience.

“Joining deuter is an exciting opportunity,” says Duffy. “The brand’s commitment to quality and sustainability aligns with my values. I’m eager to contribute to deuter’s growth and strengthen our presence in the outdoor specialty market.”

Park, Parulis make moves

In a strategic move to strengthen collaboration between U.S. and German headquarters, Scott Park, a 14-year deuter veteran, has been appointed product line manager. Park’s deep product knowledge,

gained from his long career with the brand, his previous roles as a specialty buyer, and his use as an end- consumer, makes him ideal for driving product innovation for the U.S. market.

“I’m excited to work closely with our product management team in Germany to ensure our innovation pipeline continues delivering packs, bags and accessories that are suited to our market in the U.S.,” says Park.

Additionally, Amy Parulis has been promoted to marketing and communications manager. With 14 years of experience in the outdoor industry and three years with deuter, Parulis has been crucial in driving the brand’s marketing efforts.

“I’ve always been a fan of deuter products,” says Parulis. “I’m excited to share my love for the brand and continue to elevate our message of comfort, quality, and adventure to a wider audience.”

About deuter: From backpacking to mountain biking, alpinism, and travel, to child-carrying and family adventures, deuter crafts highly functional, comfortable, and environmentally friendly packs for everyone and everywhere. With over 120+ years of experience, deuter has played a vital role in shaping the culture of mountain adventure since its 1898 founding in Germany. deuter inspires every new generation to get outside and experience mountain adventures the way they want to. www.deuter.com

Contact:

 

Andrea Green

Senior PR Account Manager andrea.green@rygr.us 970.236.1668 ext. 2196

QUEEN CREEK, Ariz. and CARRBORO, N.C. (Aug. 22, 2024) —  Fleet Feet, the largest franchisor of run specialty stores, announces the opening of its newest location in Queen Creek, Ariz. The new store is the first location for owners and operators Tom and Nikki DeBole and is located an hour southeast of Phoenix at 20062 South Ellsworth Road, Suite 107, Queen Creek, Ariz. 85142.

Queen Creek is one of the fastest-growing towns in the U.S. Both avid runners, the DeBoles are local to the area and have a background in entrepreneurship. The couple was introduced to Fleet Feet when Nikki DeBole gave her husband a Fleet Feet gift card for Christmas in 2018. After his experience visiting the store and speaking with staff, Tom DeBole knew he wanted to be part of the Fleet Feet community.

“We believe Fleet Feet brings people together,” said Tom DeBole. “Building relationships and being active participants in the communities where we live has been a major reason for our success in previous endeavors. We’re excited to apply that same philosophy to this new journey with Fleet Feet.”

Complementing the new Fleet Feet venture, Tom DeBole owns a national lacrosse tournament business and has a background in triathlon. Nikki DeBole, who grew up in the area, is also a small business owner and has considerable retail experience. The couple, who have five boys, are committed to helping others lead an active lifestyle.

“Tom and Nikki are embedded in the Queen Creek community and have extensive experience fostering inclusive environments by inspiring others with their can-do attitudes,” said John Moloznik, vice president of business development at Fleet Feet. “Tom’s track record of creating rewarding opportunities for those around him paired with Nikki’s comprehensive local knowledge makes them the perfect team to expand our brand presence in Arizona.”

The new Fleet Feet location will offer a diverse selection of premium footwear and curated apparel from leading brands such as lululemon, Brooks and rabbit, as well as training plans for various race distances.

Fleet Feet Queen Creek will operate with the brand’s exclusive outfitting experience, fit id®, which includes pressure plates and 3D foot scanning technology that allows the brand to accurately assess the size and shape of customers’ feet and how each foot moves through the gait cycle. This personalized, expert-led approach ensures proper fitting footwear and accessories for each customer.

For more than 48 years, Fleet Feet owners, operating partners, and employees have created welcoming environments that allow runners, walkers, and fitness enthusiasts of all abilities to conquer their goals at every level, on every surface, at every distance with personalized solutions, knowledge, and empowerment. Fleet Feet’s nationwide network of community-based retail stores are a place of inspiration, showing people how Running Changes Everything®.

Images of the Fleet Feet Queen Creek are available here.

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About Fleet Feet

Founded in 1976, Fleet Feet is the largest franchisor of locally owned and operated run specialty stores. With more than 275 Fleet Feet stores in 40 states and a national headquarters in Carrboro, N.C., Fleet Feet is committed to providing runners, walkers and fitness enthusiasts with outfitting expertise, robust training programs, community support and rewards. Fleet Feet believes that RUNNING CHANGES EVERYTHING® and has been recognized in Fast Company’s Brands That Matter, the Inc. 5000 list of America’s Fastest-Growing Companies and Inc.’s Best in Business, Newsweek’s list of America’s Best Retailers and PRWeek’s Purpose Awards. Stay inspired, motivated and connected at Fleet Feet.

 

 

FERNDALE, Wash. (Aug. 21, 2024) — Superfeet, the global leader in performance insoles, proudly announces its recognition as one of Inc.’s Best Workplaces for 2024. The accolade

highlights the brand’s commitment to creating an empowering and inclusive workplace culture.

This prestigious award, shared by notable brands like Patagonia and Salesforce, involves a rigorous selection process, including comprehensive employee surveys and evaluations of workplace practices. This recognition underscores the brand’s dedication its own employees.

“We believe that when our team members thrive, our business thrives,” says Trip Randall, CEO of Superfeet. “Being named a Best Workplace by Inc. is a tremendous honor. It reflects our commitment to creating a dynamic environment where every employee feels valued, empowered and inspired. Prioritizing culture as a business strategy is essential to the continued success of Superfeet. It not only benefits our existing team — it helps us attract top talent in the future.”

This commitment to culture is evident in the results of the Inc. Best Workplaces employee survey. An impressive 98% of Superfeet employees agree they can depend on their teammates, fostering a strong sense of partnership and collaboration. The survey also highlights a culture of open communication and clear direction, with 97% of employees indicating they understand how their job contributes to the company’s success. Respect is a cornerstone value, with 97% reporting they feel treated with respect by colleagues. Looking towards the future, a remarkable 96% of employees believe the company is positioned for success, reflecting the confidence and shared vision instilled by the Superfeet leadership team. Ultimately, this foundation of trust, respect, and accountability empowers Superfeet employees to deliver exceptional results while enjoying a high level of workplace satisfaction.

Superfeet team members are empowered to participate in cross-departmental committees, engaging all-company meetings and annual strategic planning that involves employees at every level. The brand also champions social responsibility, granting each employee $1,000 annually to donate to a non-profit organization of their choice and incentivizing community volunteer time.

Additionally, Superfeet prioritizes flexible work arrangements, from remote employees to state- of-the-art facilities, ensuring every team member has the resources and space to excel.

For more information, contact Andrea Green, andrea.green@rygr.us.

ABOUT SUPERFEET WORLDWIDE, LLC: Born from the sports medicine division of Northwest Podiatric Labs more than four decades ago, Superfeet is a supporting force for athletes worldwide, creating ground-breaking insoles designed to perform in the most strenuous situations. Superfeet trim-to-fit insoles and 3D-printed personalized insoles feature legendary Superfeet® shape and deliver a customized footwear experience, essential to achieving elite level performance. Committed to shaping a strong foundation for a healthy future, Superfeet donates 1% of sales and countless volunteer hours to community initiatives. For more, visit superfeet.com.

Contact:

Andrea Green

Senior PR Account Manager andrea.green@rygr.us

CARRBORO, N.C. (August 21, 2024) — Fleet Feet, the largest franchisor of run specialty stores, today announced three new executive hires as the company enters a period of growth.

Amy Diebler joins Fleet Feet’s Store Support Team as chief financial officer. In her role, Diebler will oversee all finance functions and strategic planning across Fleet Feet’s franchise, corporate and ecommerce businesses. Prior to joining Fleet Feet, Diebler was the CFO of Verdesian Life Sciences where she played a key role in business optimization and implementation of new business processes. Prior to Verdesian, Diebler served in various senior finance leadership roles at Chiesi USA, Inc. with oversight over functions including supply chain, procurement, IT, investor relations and contracting. She also spent 10 years as an advisor with Ernst & Young. Diebler will report to Fleet Feet President and CEO Joey Pointer.

“Amy has extensive financial and operational expertise leading large teams in high-growth businesses and understands how to operate efficiently at scale,” said Pointer. “Her passion for people development and process improvement will be invaluable as we continue to invest in enhancing our infrastructure, ultimately allowing us to support our franchisees as we expand into new markets.”

Mary-Chelsea Banister joins as vice president of supply chain transformation. In this newly created role, Banister will oversee Fleet Feet’s corporate purchasing and merchandising team led by Catherine Moloznik, as well as the business operations team. Her primary focus will be optimizing Fleet Feet’s operations while ensuring seamless cross-departmental collaboration. Banister previously held omnichannel operations roles at Free Fly Apparel and Carter’s. She will also report to Pointer.

“With a deep background in supply chain management and a proven ability to drive transformative change, Mary-Chelsea brings invaluable expertise to Fleet Feet,” said Pointer. “I’m confident her innovative perspective will enhance our strategic direction moving forward.”

Additionally, Kevin Staudt joins as vice president of business operations. In this newly created role, Staudt will lead Fleet Feet’s distribution center and transportation management operations, including system and process improvement. Prior to this role, Staudt was the vice president of finance at Quality Restaurant Group. He also spent 14 years at Fleet Feet Chicago – one of the brand’s largest franchise businesses – in various capacities culminating in leading their finance functions and both their brick-and-mortar and ecommerce fulfillment center operations. Staudt will report to Banister.

“It’s been a strong first half of the year for the company, with notable sales achievements in both our brick-and-mortar and online stores,” Pointer added. “During this period, we’ve managed to navigate through obstacles and still see record sales days and months. While we still have challenges ahead, we’re on pace for a successful year. Amy, Mary-Chelsea and Kevin are welcome additions to our leadership team as we work to maintain and build on our momentum.”

Diebler, Banister and Staudt’s appointments follow Fleet Feet’s announcement earlier this year of executive hires in IT and purchasing, and leadership expansions and promotions across business development, human resources and marketing.

Fleet Feet’s growth rapidly accelerated with the acquisitions of JackRabbit in December 2021 and Marathon Sports in July 2022. JackRabbit stores have folded into the Fleet Feet brand while Marathon Sports remains an independently operated subsidiary. Since 2023, Fleet Feet has opened 24 new stores, including 20 franchise locations. Together, Fleet Feet and Marathon Sports support more than five million customers across 300 locally owned and operated stores.

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About Fleet Feet

Founded in 1976, Fleet Feet is the largest franchisor of locally owned and operated run specialty stores. With more than 275 Fleet Feet stores in 40 states and a national headquarters in Carrboro, N.C., Fleet Feet is committed to providing runners, walkers and fitness enthusiasts with outfitting expertise, robust training programs, community support and rewards. Fleet Feet believes that RUNNING CHANGES EVERYTHING® and has been recognized in Fast Company’s Brands That Matter, the Inc. 5000 list of America’s Fastest-Growing Companies and Inc.’s Best in Business, Newsweek’s list of America’s Best Retailers and PRWeek’s Purpose Awards. Stay inspired, motivated and connected at Fleet Feet.

Fleet Feet Appoints Three New Executives to Store Support Team

[Forest City, Iowa, August 20, 2024] – Winnebago, the flagship brand of outdoor lifestyle product manufacturer Winnebago Industries (NYSE: WGO),  is thrilled to announce the launch of its latest campaign, “Home Is Where You Take It” under their current brand platform Go Where You Feel. Winnebago has long enabled adventure-seekers to seek a life off the beaten path. With their latest campaign, Winnebago sets itself apart by positioning their Backcountry Series as the optimal solution for the growing crowd of people seeking to put down—and pick up—their roots at a moment’s notice. Its recreational vehicles (RVs) offer a clean, quality and functionally-focused fit and finish, making it possible to find home off the road and off the grid, elevating the experience for today’s rugged nomads.

Kunal Mehta, Vice President of Strategy, Business Development, and Marketing, expresses the brand’s excitement about the new campaign, “The campaign is a reflection of the backcountry story. I am excited about what the story tells. We’re launching ‘Home Is Where You Take It’ at a time when more people are embracing the nomadic lifestyle. Our models are designed to meet the demands of today’s adventurers, ensuring they have the tools and comfort needed to explore the world.”

“Home is Where You Take It” marks a significant step for Winnebago, as it markets to the outdoor and overland consumer segments. This new evolution is the first step towards bringing the Go Where You Feel mentality to a new segment of consumers. The campaign spotlights the Ekko, Revel, and Solis Pocket, three of Winnebago’s Backcountry Series vehicles, meticulously designed for today’s explorer. 

Winnebago’s highlighted models are equipped to make a home out of anywhere, despite tough terrain, challenging conditions, and miles of open road. The Ekko, Revel, and Solis Pocket are designed with specific consumers in mind, each featuring unique attributes tailored to enhance the outdoor experience so you can truly go where you feel.

• Ekko: Efficient like a camper van, spacious like a Class C. This all-wheel drive option has the capability to tackle nearly every terrain. Packed with power, ample water and a dream gear garage, the EKKO promises your adventures are properly fueled.
• Revel: Built on the all-wheel drive Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, the Revel is the ultimate adventure-ready off-road van. Boasting significant ground clearance, rugged tires and off-road lighting, this adventure van ensures you can get out there and light up the trail along the way. Paired with a meticulously designed modern interior that offers comfort and functionality, rest assured you have an epic place to crash after a full day of adventuring.
• Solis Pocket: Versatility is key with the Solis Pocket. This van favorite is comfortable in the backcountry or buzzing city streets with it’s compact size making it perfect for solo travelers, couples or even small families. With an efficient and functional layout and features like the multi-functional dinette, indoor/outdoor galley, wet bath or available pop-top sleeping, this compact camper van takes advantage of every inch of its 17′ footprint.

Instead of a vehicle-first campaign touting the features and technology of the vans, Winnebago focused on the adventurer. Opting to use real people who live the van life as talent to embody their real consumer. These influencers and 4×4 enthusiasts came from all walks of life, many with preconceived notions about the brand, and came away with a new appreciation for the Backcountry Series in their pursuit of going where they feel.  Winnebago recognized the importance of providing vehicles that are not only durable, versatile, and reliable, but also exceptionally comfortable. The Ekko, Revel, and Solis Pocket represent a significant departure from the traditional image of Winnebago, often associated with large, luxurious motorhomes. These new models are compact, rugged, and built for off-road exploration, showcasing Winnebago’s commitment to innovation and adapting to the evolving needs of the market.

Combined with its new focus on audience-first messaging, Winnebago is doubling down that home isn’t a fixed place; it isn’t just four walls, sometimes, it’s four wheels. The campaign can be viewed at Winnebago.com/winnebago-backcountry-series and Winnebago will be at Overland Expo – Mtn West in Colorado, where the brand will highlight its fleet of Backcountry vehicles. 

About Winnebago:
Winnebago brand RVs have been a part of the American outdoor experience since pioneering the category in 1958. Winnebago offers legendary innovation, quality, and service across a full spectrum of towable travel trailers and motorhomes ranging from camper vans to luxury Class A diesel pushers. For more information, visit www.winnebago.com. Winnebago is a wholly owned subsidiary of Winnebago Industries (NYSE:WGO), a manufacturer of premium leisure travel and outdoor recreation products under the five brands: Winnebago, Grand Design, Chris-Craft, Newmar and Barletta. For access to Winnebago Industries’ investor relations material or to add your name to an automatic email list for Company news releases, visit https://winnebago.gcs-web.com/