Archives: Press Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. (June 5, 2024) — Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR), Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, led an important hearing today on the renewal of the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), a vital trade preference program that facilitates duty-free imports of select goods from developing countries. Since its establishment in the mid-20th century, GSP has stood as a bipartisan and bicameral bastion of successful international trade collaboration. However, since the program’s expiration in 2020, GSP renewal has fallen victim to congressional inaction. It is the Outdoor Industry Association’s (OIA) hope that Senator Wyden’s and the Finance Committee’s leadership will create the needed momentum to pass GSP renewal into law. 

“The GSP program is a hallmark of America’s international trade policies, promoting American values abroad, as well as supporting U.S.-based companies and their workers. However, since the expiration of GSP in 2020, the outdoor industry has been burdened with $1.53 billion in additional tariffs, hindering innovation and job growth, and causing uncertain futures for businesses across the country,” Kent Ebersole, President of Outdoor Industry Association, said. “OIA applauds Chairman Wyden and the Senate Finance Committee for holding a hearing to address this critical issue. We urge Congress to swiftly renew GSP and look forward to working with policymakers to advance this vital trade program.”

Today’s hearing builds off GSP renewal’s successful passage out of the House Ways and Means Committee last month. OIA and its members would like to thank Senator’s Bennet (D-CO) and Cortez Masto (D-NV) for highlighting the impact of GSP on the Outdoor Industry, as well as Senator Young (R-IN) for raising the importance of lifting Competitive Needs Limitations (CNL) as part of renewal.  

The outdoor industry strongly encourages House and Senate leaders to work together to retroactively reauthorize this important trade program and keep the adventurous spirit of American entrepreneurs and innovators alive who have built some of our most iconic outdoor brands into a one trillion-dollar recreation economy.

About the Outdoor Industry Association

Based in Boulder, Colo., with offices in Washington, D.C., Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a catalyst for meaningful change. A member-based collective, OIA is a passionate group of business leaders, climate experts, policymakers, and outdoor enthusiasts committed to sustainable economic growth and climate positivity while protecting – and growing access to – the benefits of the outdoors for everyone. For more than 30 years, OIA has catalyzed a thriving outdoor industry by supporting the success of every member company across four critically aligned areas: market research, sustainability, government affairs, and inclusive participation. OIA delivers success for its members through education, events, and business services in the form of solutions and strategies, consultation, collaboration, and opportunities for collective action. For more information, visit outdoorindustry.org

 

Leawood, Kan. (June 5, 2024) – AMC Theatres^®(NYSE:AMC), the largest theatrical exhibitor in the United States and in the world; REI Co-op Studios, the outdoor specialty retailer’s in-house content division; and Mountainfilm, one of North America’s longest-running documentary film festivals, today announced an all-new content and marketing partnership that will bring a collection of festival-favorite short films to AMC locations across the country this fall.

Premiering on September 28-29, adventure lovers can enjoy Mountainfilm Adventure Shorts, presented by REI Co-op Studios, at 100 AMC locations throughout the United States. This special event includes a selection of curated short films, which appeared at the 46^th Mountainfilm Festival during Memorial Day weekend.

Mountainfilm is a festival of films, people, stories, and ideas that celebrate the indomitable spirit. The films will showcase Mountainfilm’s values of embracing adventure, preserving environments, connecting cultures, and celebrating courage. The filmmakers featured in the festival will be compensated by the conglomerate.

Mountainfilm Adventure Shorts, presented by REI Co-op Studios, is the first time these companies have come together. Many AMC theatres and REI retail locations operate in the same retail developments but serve unique customers. Teaming up delivers compelling adventure content on AMC’s big screens for moviegoers and allows all companies to reach new potential audiences.

“We’re excited about this opportunity to work with REI Co-op Studios and Mountainfilm to activate tens of millions of American adventure lovers with compelling content curated by Mountainfilm and appealing to the REI community,” said Elizabeth Frank, EVP, Worldwide Programming and Chief Content Officer, AMC Theatres. “Through this introduction of the Mountainfilm Adventure Shorts event, we see an excellent opportunity to broaden our moviegoing population. It’s another way that AMC is looking beyond traditional content models to bring moviegoers into its theatres.”

“We believe adventure inspires adventure, and outdoor films are among the most evocative mediums to do just that. Our goal is to curate or create the best outdoor stories around and share them as widely as possible,” said Joe Crosby, Director of Brand and Content Marketing at REI. “This collaboration with Mountainfilm and AMC brings together a little of what we all do best, around the shared objective to inspire more people to get out and experience all or some of what the outdoors can offer.”

“Uniting on a project like this with these brands provides a great opportunity to reach new audiences with festival-favorite adventure short films. Mountainfilm celebrates the indomitable spirit and we look forward to elevating filmmakers while sharing these inspiring stories across the country,” said Sage Martin, Executive Director of Mountainfilm.

ABOUT AMC ENTERTAINMENT HOLDINGS, INC.

AMC is the largest movie exhibition company in the United States, the largest in Europe and the largest throughout the world with approximately 900 theatres and 10,000 screens across the globe. AMC has propelled innovation in the exhibition industry by: deploying its Signature power-

recliner seats; delivering enhanced food and beverage choices; generating greater guest engagement through its loyalty and subscription programs, website, and mobile apps; offering premium large format experiences and playing a wide variety of content including the latest Hollywood releases and independent programming. In addition, in 2023 AMC launched AMC Theatres Distribution with the highly successful releases of TAYLOR SWIFT | THE ERAS TOUR and RENAISSANCE: A FILM BY BEYONCÉ. AMC Theatres Distribution expects to release more concert films with the world’s leading musical artists in the years ahead. For more information, visit www.amctheatres.com.

ABOUT REI CO-OP STUDIOS

REI Co-op Studios develops, produces and invests in stories that challenge the historically narrow depiction of the outdoors so that all people can see themselves outside. Spanning film, podcast and editorial, these stories seek to humanize outdoor retailer REI Co-op’s broader commitments to climate action and racial equity, diversity and inclusion. REI Co-op Studios’ slate includes feature films THE DARK DIVIDE (David Cross, Debra Messing), Kyra Sedgwick- directed SPACE ODDITY (Kevin Bacon, Alexandra Shipp, Kyle Allen) and director Billy Luther’s FRYBREAD FACE AND ME, executive produced by Taika Waititi. Past projects include the award- winning short film trilogy THE TREES REMEMBER and podcasts HELLO, NATURE and CAMP MONSTERS.

ABOUT MOUNTAINFILM FESTIVAL

Mountainfilm is one of North America’s longest-running documentary film festivals, held annually over Memorial Day weekend in Telluride, Colorado. Mountainfilm is a thought- provoking weekend of film, art and ideas, that leaves audiences captivated and inspired to create a better world. The festival offers an immersive experience featuring a wide range of filmmakers, speakers, adventurers and activists in addition to screening cutting-edge, award-winning documentary films from around the world.

 

Media Contacts:

AMC Theatres:

Ryan Noonan Rnoonan@amctheatres.com

REI Co-op Studios Courtney Gearhart cgearha@rei.com

Steamboat Springs, Colorado (June 4, 2024) – Big Agnes, the Steamboat-Springs-based outdoor equipment brand, unveils its dedicated website catering exclusively to Europe’s vibrant community of active outdoor enthusiasts. This strategic move underscored the brand’s dedication to delivering top-tier camping and backpacking gear to an expanding global audience.

The launch of the Big Agnes European website notches another milestone in the company’s growth strategy. Building on last year’s Canadian website launch, the brand continues to open new avenues for engaging with international audiences. The European site is currently live for customers in Germany, Austria, Italy, Belgium, and Spain, with the Netherlands going live in early June. Similar to Big Agnes’ other sites, there is a dealer locator tool to support consumers and wholesale partners, showcasing local retailers where consumers can find Big Agnes products for all their outdoor needs.

“Over the past five years we’ve significantly grown our sales and brand awareness in international markets. This significant investment in the European market will support that growth and our longer-term brand strategies,” said Bill Gamber, Big Agnes co-founder and president. “Our number one priority is to continue our wholesale growth while staying committed to partner closely with our strong network of retailers and distributors in the EU.”

Big Agnes’ European website offers a seamless user experience, guaranteeing an enjoyable and convenient shopping journey for all visitors. Big Agnes is proud to offer German, Italian, Dutch, English, French and Spanish language support, ensuring customers can navigate and engage effortlessly with the site.

“We have been working hard to further support our international consumers with a direct-to-consumer website, making it easier to purchase products and locate dealers in Europe – while expanding the brand’s international footprint,” said Katie Hughes, Director of Marketing and eCommerce at Big Agnes. “Starting with this group of active, core-consumer markets is another step forward for the brand and we are eager to grow deeper and continue providing award winning gear and customer service to more of Europe soon.”

If you would like to connect with Big Agnes, the team will be in Munich, Germany, June 3-5, at the OutDoor by ISPO tradeshow connecting with European retailers and organizations. To experience the new website and explore its extensive collection of outdoor gear, please visit https://eu.bigagnes.com/.

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About Big Agnes: Named for a peak in the nearby Mt. Zirkel Wilderness, Big Agnes®, Inc. is located in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, and celebrated its 20th Anniversary in 2021. The company produces award-winning sleeping bags, pads, tents, insulated apparel, camp furniture and backpacks. For more information, visit www.bigagnes.com or call 1-877-554-8975.

For more information, contact:

Max Krapff, Backbone Media

Max.Krapff@backbone.media

 

Founded in the rugged and expansive Coast Mountains of British Columbia by local climbers in 1989, Arc’teryx Summer of Climb is a return to and celebration of our climbing roots, furthering our commitment to drive access, support education and invite people into the community.

The global brand campaign spans owned media, out-of-home, digital and paid social, and is supported by over 100 community events, two ground-breaking Arc’teryx Gym Residencies, three Arc’teryx Academies and the Summer of Climb film Series, featuring nine film projects that celebrate uncommon journeys.

We know rock climbing has a positive impact on mental health and indoor climbing has helped introduce more people

to the sport than ever before, but we need to do more. While female participation in climbing is increasing, there is a significant lack of diversity within the sport, financial barriers continue to be a common constraint to participation, and these constraints are significantly higher amongst BIPOC communities.

As a brand founded by climbers, we are committed to advancing the sport and people’s access to it by opening the doors to the mountains for everyone through events, grants, and community engagement.

Arc’teryx Gym Residencies 

Launching this summer, Arc’teryx is creating spaces for people to gather, build friendships, push higher, and express themselves, through long-term gym partnerships.

From the Bouldering Project Brooklyn to Les Prises de la Bastille Paris and beyond, we are inviting everyone to experience the magic of climbing. The gym residencies will include:

• Arc’teryx Access Membership pricing in Brooklyn, designed to help reduce financial barriers.
• Free-entry sessions and events for new climbers in Paris.
• Monthly community events, including free climb and rental nights.
• Discounted workshops, classes, and talks with Arc’teryx Athletes.
• Film screenings and more.

Community Events 

Over 100 climb events will take place globally this summer aimed to increase education and access around the sport of climbing; including, All Rise Festival in New York, Los Angeles and London, Queer Ascent in Truckee, and Boston Climb Competition presented by Jackalope.

Arc’teryx Climb and Alpine Academies will also return this year in Chamonix, France, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh, British Columbia, and Yangshuo, China, bringing together world-class athletes, top-certified guides, and a range of climbing clinics for all levels.  

Summer of Climb Film Series 

The Summer of Climb film series includes a release of nine climbing films, with 75% centering female, LGBTQ2SIA+ or BIPOC Athletes.

Each film project aims to take you around the world as athlete’s dispatch projects from Vegas to Spain, climb high on Longs Peak (Neniisoteyou’u), keep it real in Fontainebleau, and journey ground up on El Cap (Southern Sierra Miwuk Territory).

Community Impact 

Arc’teryx is partnering with four community-led organizations, including All Rise, Balancing Acts, Flash Foxy and Brown Girls Climb, to create change and help people around the world find the mountains.

Earlier this year, the No Wasted Days Community Grant opened to local, grassroots individuals and organizations actively working to increase access for people who have traditionally been excluded from the outdoors.

Today, over 70% of funds have been invested in organizations that are led by folx who self-identify as Black, Indigenous and People of Colour, and this focus will continue for the 2024 Grant Program.

 

STOCKHOLM (June 4, 2024) –  Houdini Sportswear, a pioneer in progressive outdoor apparel, is announcing release of its 2024 impact report based on the Planetary Boundaries Framework, a comprehensive report providing in-depth analysis of its environmental impact and future initiatives towards operations within planetary boundaries, for both Houdini and the global apparel industry. As the first company to attempt a corporate planetary boundary assessment, this edition follows Houdini’s 2018 report developed with scientists at the Stockholm Resilience Center/Albaeco. Houdini asks the global business community to take urgent decisive action.

The Planetary Boundaries Framework is a science-based framework developed by Stockholm Resilience Center’s scientists evaluating the state of the planet and its nine critical and interconnected boundaries, with the first assessment taking place in 2009. The 2023 assessment reported an alarming six out of nine boundaries were breached; among them climate, biodiversity and chemical pollution, including micro plastics and hazardous chemicals like PFAS.

Houdini CEO Eva Karlsson said, “The 2023 findings are alarming. The world is moving in the wrong direction in eight out of nine boundaries. My conclusion is the business sector is not doing enough. We need to collectively move from incremental to transformative change and act with urgency. It’s both our obligation and a great opportunity to reimagine business as a positive force for people and planet.”

Houdini’s own 2024 impact report based on the Planetary Boundaries Framework reveals comparative results from the previous assessment and its future plans, including Houdini’s Open Source philosophy, providing guidance for industry peers. Specific findings include:

• A long-term perspective: Houdini’s trail map towards 2066 provides tangible goals, for instance, reaching a circular ecosystem by 2030.
• Philosophical and science-based frameworks in tandem: Combining a belief-system with a science-based framework, bringing the rational and the human to work towards critical transition.
• Holistic view on impact: Addressing impacts of volumes produced and lifestyles inspired and enabled, in addition to impact from product design and production, to radically reduce negative impacts.
• Transitioning to circular products and material flows: Moving from linear to circular, as it has clear positive effects on all nine boundaries.
• Designing a relational business model: A relational way of doing business and interacting with stakeholders, as opposed to transactional, that allows for stronger partnerships, business opportunities and resilience.

Houdini’s sustainability commitment is driven by the belief that true progress requires a deep, universal understanding of the relationship between humans and the natural world. The Planetary Boundaries Assessment serves as a critical tool in this journey, ensuring that every step taken is informed by robust scientific data.

Houdini Sportswear is available worldwide in outdoor specialty stores and online www.houdinisportswear.com.

To read the report: https://houdinisportswear.com/en-us/sustainability/planetary-boundaries-assessment

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U.S. Media Contact:

Chris Goddard, CGPR

chris@cgprpublicrelations.com

781-640-8387

houdinisportswear.com

Instagram

 

 

 

[Seattle, WA, June 3, 2024]— Nikwax, the international leader in technical cleaners and waterproofing products for outdoor gear and apparel, has developed a high-powered deodorizing cleaner and conditioner to help extend the useful life of wetsuits and neoprene items. Offered in a 1-liter bottle, Wetsuit Refresh is now available in the US and Canada.

Wetsuits are an investment piece, so caring for them is important to ensure they last as long as possible. Nikwax Wetsuit Refresh deodorizes and removes the build-up of salt, chlorine, body oils, urine, and other grime from wetsuits and neoprene items. In addition to contributing to odor build-up, all these contaminants have the potential to degrade the neoprene, causing it to wear out more quickly. By removing these contaminants, eliminating odors, and keeping neoprene soft and supple, Nikwax Wetsuit Refresh extends the lifetime of treated items.

“Nikwax has always been focused on extending the life of all types of outdoor gear,” said Nikwax Global CEO, Brian Davidson. “When we heard that an estimated 8,380 tons of wetsuits wind up in the landfill each year, we knew we needed to create a solution to help surfing, scuba, and watersports participants keep their wetsuits and neoprene items going for as long as possible. With Wetsuit Refresh and the rest of the Refresh line, we are also pleased to have more product options for our retailers for the warm weather months.”

Wetsuit Refresh:

• Cleans effectively, removes contaminants, and eliminates odors.
• Conditions, keeping the material soft and supple.
• Extends the life of wetsuits and neoprene items.
• Is not harmful to aquatic life.
• Contains no PFAS, biocides, enzymes, or biological agents.
• Recommended for neoprene and Yulex®.

About Nikwax

Founded in 1977, Nikwax is the trusted global leader in environmentally safe cleaning and waterproofing solutions that extend the performance life of outdoor clothing, footwear, and equipment. The brand also supplies top-performing PFAS-free hydrophobic down and DWR applications for outdoor brands. Nikwax’s 47-year commitment to clean chemistry means never using PFAS or aerosols, and not testing on animals. Its product line is water-based and non-persistent, and all product bottles and lids are made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic that can also be recycled. Nikwax has carbon balanced all 47 years of its operations and became an employee-owned trust in 2022. For media inquiries and more information, please contact Kate Ketschek at Revolution House Media, kate@revolutionhousemedia.com.

 

 

 

CARRBORO, N.C. (June 3, 2024) — Fleet Feet, the largest franchisor of locally owned and operated run specialty stores, announces the return of the eighth annual The Big Run this June.

Leading up to and through June 5, more than 120 stores will participate in The Big Run, Fleet Feet’s nationwide event that unites local communities in celebration of Global Running Day. Stores across the country will host 5K races or fun runs that will be open to runners and walkers of all abilities, offering participants a chance to get outdoors and connect with their local running community.

“Fleet Feet believes that running has the power to impact lives for the better, which makes Global Running Day the perfect time to celebrate running together,” said Tiffany Lee, senior director of performance marketing and partnerships for Fleet Feet. “This year’s The Big Run is about what makes running fun. We’re so excited to see each of our stores bring this to life within their communities to celebrate such an amazing moment together.”

At each event, participants will have the chance to receive prizes and swag from The Big Run’s sponsors and event partners. Additionally, Michelob ULTRA, The Big Run’s Presenting Sponsor, is partnering with Fleet Feet to host a sweepstakes for three lucky 21+ winners to receive entries into the Bank of America Chicago Marathon and the TCS New York City Marathon. Race results from participating stores will feed into a national leaderboard hosted on www.fleetfeet.com.

Earlier this year, Fleet Feet partnered with Brooks to offer in-person and virtual training programs for The Big Run to ensure runners could be supported and on track to hit their race day goals. Currex and Feetures also supported the training program with weekly in-store engagement.

For 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, and at every distance with personalized solutions, knowledge and empowerment.

To register for The Big Run in your community and enter the sweepstakes, visit the big run.fleet feet.com.

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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 270 locations 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 List, Inc.’s Best in Business List and PRWeek’s Purpose Awards. Stay inspired, motivated and connected at Fleet Feet.

 

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (June 3, 2024) — Heath Riles BBQ has emerged as the reigning champion of flavor at the prestigious 2024 Memphis in May Rib Championship. In a sizzling display of culinary prowess, Heath Riles BBQ secured the coveted title, showcasing their dedication to the art of barbecue and their commitment to excellence, winning for the second time in the last 3 years.

The Memphis in May World Championship BBQ Contest, widely regarded as one of the most esteemed barbecue competitions in the nation, drew top pitmasters from across the US and 4 other countries to showcase their skills and vie for glory. Amidst fierce competition and tantalizing aromas, Heath Riles BBQ distinguished themselves with their unparalleled expertise, elevating the art of barbecue to new heights.

“We are thrilled and honored to be recognized as the World Champion of the Memphis in May Rib Category,” said Heath “Ribman” Riles, founder and pitmaster of Heath Riles BBQ. “This victory is a testament to the hard work and passion of our team, as well as the unwavering support of our loyal customers. We pour our hearts into every rack of ribs, and it’s incredibly gratifying to see our dedication rewarded on such a prestigious stage.”

Heath Riles BBQ’s winning entry captivated judges and spectators alike with its succulent texture, tantalizing aroma, and perfectly balanced flavors. Renowned for their meticulous attention to detail and commitment to using only the finest ingredients, Heath Riles BBQ has earned a reputation as a trailblazer in the world of barbecue, consistently setting the standard for excellence.

As champions of the 2022 & 2024 Memphis in May Rib Championship, Heath Riles BBQ continues to solidify their position as a powerhouse in the barbecue community, inspiring enthusiasts and aficionados alike to savor the unrivaled experience of authentic, mouthwatering barbecue.

For more information about Heath Riles BBQ and their award-winning offerings, visit www.heathrilesbbq.com.

About Heath Riles BBQ

Heath Riles BBQ is a renowned barbecue company founded by 75-time Grand Champion Pitmaster Heath Riles. With a passion for authentic barbecue and a commitment to quality, Heath Riles BBQ has garnered widespread acclaim for their championship-winning rubs, sauces, glazes, and seasonings. From competition circuit triumphs to backyard barbecue bliss, Heath Riles BBQ is dedicated to delivering an unforgettable barbecue experience. Grill with confidence, Season like a pro.

Media Contact: Jacob Duke, Social Media Manager, Heath Riles BBQ, (662) 804-7279, jacob@heathrilesbbq.com