E-COMMERCE & DTC
+++ Klarna has surpassed one million merchant partners globally – up 47% year over year – driven by expanding payment integrations and strong growth in high-frequency categories such as leisure, sports, and wellness
+++ Klarna also announced that its Klarna Card has reached 5 million active users globally, driven by demand for flexible, debit-based payments with optional installment features and rewards without traditional credit card debt +++
EXECUTIVE CHANGES
+++ Brooks has reshuffled its leadership team with several C-suite promotions, including appointing Mike Billish as SVP and GM of the Americas, expanding Melanie Allen’s role as CMO, and elevating Carson Caprara to Chief Product Officer, as the company reported 16% revenue growth +++
FINANCIAL REPORTING
+++ S&P Global has upgraded GSM Outdoors’ outlook to stable from negative while affirming its B credit rating, citing revenue growth, improved margins driven by subscription sales, stronger cash flow and expectations of continued performance and acquisitions
+++ Alibaba reported declining profits as aggressive retail promotions failed to deliver expected sales growth, highlighting ongoing pressure on its core e-commerce business +++
PRODUCT & MARKETING
+++ Superfeet has launched Run Pacer, a $44.99 performance insole using advanced SuperRev foam to deliver cushioning and energy return at a more accessible price point for a growing new generation of runners +++
RETAIL & DISTRIBUTION
+++ Cotopaxi has opened a new retail store in Jackson Hole’s Town Square, expanding its global presence to over 20 locations and citing the area’s outdoor culture and alignment with the brand’s mission as key factors
+++ Hamburg-based wholesaler TTP will distribute British outdoor changing robe brand Dryrobe B2B across the DACH region
+++ Santini Cycling will start direct distribution in Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg as part of its global expansion +++
TRADE SHOWS & EVENTS
+++ Marathon Tours & Travel has announced the launch of the first Amazon Marathon, a new endurance running event taking place on Sept. 9, 2026 in Puerto Maldonado, on the edge of the Peruvian Amazon rainforest +++
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