Apparel took a nosedive in the sporting goods channel over the past week based on the latest SportscanINFO numbers. I'm quite surprised, actually, given that the trend has been so strong in the 5 weeks prior.
This is not a 'sample issue' as the numbers also rolled over for footwear according to NPD (released late afternoon). The calendar lines up well - so no Easter issues, and weather does not appear to have been a major factor. The last biggie we looked for is a sample issue whereby a retailer (like Joe's, etc...) went bust and skewed the sample. But no dice on that front.
Bottom line? It was a lousy week. Period.
