Retail Voice: Are you a responsible retailer?
How to run a responsible company in today’s omni-channel market
Direct To Consumer
The direct to consumer (DTC) movement has become one of the central issues and hot button topics of the outdoor industry. Outdoor brands need to speak directly to their customers, but many companies have done so at the expense of the specialty outdoor brick-and-mortar retailers who have helped launch them, by violating their own MAP policies and enticing consumers to buy direct rather than visit their local shops.
SNEWS constantly covers this issue and highlights best practices that will allow brands to grow and brick-and-mortar outdoor shops to remain healthy and viable.
Our Outdoor Retailer Playbook and Outdoor Brand Playbook are two original series in which we deep dive into the direct-to-consumer issues that have become so central to our industry. In the Playbooks, we offer expert advice, case studies, tips, and best practices.
The Outdoor Brand Playbook, Part 4: Going above & beyond for retail partners
Customers still love brick-and-mortar retailers—so the smartest vendors make sure shoppers know where to get a premium touch-and-feel experience with their gear.
The Outdoor Brand Playbook, Part 2: Managing channel conflict
What was it Abraham Lincoln said about a house divided? When a vendor’s internal channels compete, everybody loses—but when they work as a team, businesses thrive.
Gear designed by you, for you: Could this be the next big thing?
A new in-store kiosk concept gives specialty retailers a new (and fun!) tool in the toolbox.
Updated: Ibex closing down?
After a rocky year, Vermont-based Ibex lays off close to half its staff today.
Can outdoor retailers and brands find the “Win/Win” solution?
Mike Massey, owner of Massey’s Outfitters and Locally, breaks down the rise of e-tailing, and lays out a roadmap to brick and mortar success.
“I’m selling my shop. Here’s why.”
Two and a half years after opening his unique, B-Corp certified mountain town shop, Travis Underwood, owner of Chopwood Mercantile, is considering getting out. With his big ideas on how to move the bar for specialty retail, was he too far ahead of his time? Here, he offers lessons learned and some ideas on how to revitalize retail.
Opinion | “Don’t be like Ibex”
Todd Frank, owner of The Trail Head in Missoula, Montana, breaks down his rough ride with Ibex and cautions other vendors to be careful courting direct customers.
10 takeaways from Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2017
A closer look at the activism, trends, and new gear that marked the trade show’s final visit to Salt Lake City.
Ibex jettisons wholesale business
The merino wool apparel brand shifts to direct to consumer sales model beginning spring 2018.