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SGB UK - April
Every time I come to write this, a blank white page simply stares back at me as I search, desperately, for the words to describe a month in my life at SGB towers. It’s not that I have nothing to say – quite the opposite – its more a question of “where do I start!”
The office has been buzzing for weeks now. I’ve been buried deep in News, from stories of achievement to the latest products and acquisitions, this is an industry that never stands still. Each and every brand in the trade is working tirelessly to up its game, enabling you, the retailer, to do the same.
When I stepped into this role in January, I made it my mission to run a monthly interview with a major brand: having kicked off with Skins in January, in February I talked to Nike and in March Puma.
This month, I am delighted to bring you in touch with Saucony, a running brand at the top of its game and constantly pushing the boundaries. Jonny Quint , the brand’s marketing manager held me captivated with his vision for the independent retailer. This is a brand that shuns the big boys in favour of the specialists. Some might call it a brave move in today’s climate. But is it brave, or merely informed? Saucony’s sales record is proof enough that there are enormous benefits to staying true to sport’s core values. Check out what Jonny’s got to say on page 10.
Good health is of course vital in sport. That’s why we now run a regular Sports Health feature where you can pop in for a check-up! This month we take a look at sport injury prevention. If you want to get on, you need to take care….turn to page 12 for more information.
Meanwhile, the evenings are getting lighter and the sun has been shining – summer is on its way! We’re determined this month to make sure people know that base layers are vital apparel in warmer climes. It’s a common misconception that we only need them in winter, turn to page 18 to find out why.
And don’t miss Jack’s Trade Talk on page 22. As ever, he brings us some great investigative journalism and even surprises himself, as he deconstructs the notion of ‘fashion’ and ‘function’.
A review of ispo china, the latest products on the market in Locker Room Secrets and ‘good old’ Arkwright regaling us with tales of life in the shop, rounds up this full and varied issue.
I hope, as ever, you enjoy it!
Becci
