Association of Fitness Industry
Retailers and Manufacturers
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Home » Press Releases » Sears Becomes 1st Major Retailer to Join AFIRM
News Release Sears Becomes 1st Major Retailer to Join AFIRMStrive, Boa Off-Set Also Commit
SILVER SPRING, MD – July 26, 2010 – AFIRM announced today that retailing giant Sears has become the first retailer to join the association. Sears is the nation’s largest retailer of fitness equipment, and the exclusive retailer of NordicTrack equipment in the US. Sears membership signifies AFIRM’s commitment to be relevant to industry retailers. Sears stores and online businesses handle the full spectrum of consumer-based fitness equipment including treadmills, ellipticals, stationary bikes, strength machines, free weights, rowers, steppers, home gyms, yoga, Pilates, and accessories for each group. “We look forward to playing an active role on issues critical to the success of the Fitness Industry, and to find new ways to support consumers on their path to fitness and wellness” said Hugo Malan, president of the Fitness & Sporting Goods division of Sears Holdings. Sears Holdings is the 2010 ENERGY STAR® Retail Partner of the Year. Key proprietary brands include Kenmore, Craftsman and DieHard, and a broad apparel offering, including such well-known labels as Lands' End, Jaclyn Smith and Joe Boxer. Sears is the nation's largest provider of home services, with more than 12 million service calls made annually. “We are tremendously excited about Sears’s membership,” said AFIRM Executive Director Chuck Leve. “The fitness industry is made up of numerous segments and AFIRM must be relevant to them all. Our public policy and market research activities are key areas where we see Sears playing a significant role.” Sears Holdings is committed to improving the lives of its customers by providing quality services, products and solutions that earn their trust and build lifetime relationships. “Sears mission and AFIRM’s are aligned,” said Leve. Both organizations want to see industry growth, and greater health of society through more physical activity and fighting youth obesity,”
Boa Off-Set, Strive Also Become AFIRM Members “We’re a relatively new company, seeking to connect with leaders in the industry,” said Boa Off-Set’s CEO Chris Roney. “We believe that AFIRM and its benefits can help us build our business.” Through understanding of the nervous system, the neuro-facial system, hand strength, and functional training Boa Off-Set products were developed working with the best strength coaches and doctors in the country. Boa Off-Set bars can be found in many major universities and professional sports teams, including the Chicago Blackhawks, University of Kansas, University of Illinois, and University of North Carolina. Also joining AFIRM is Strive Enterprises, the world-class manufacturer and distributer of both adult and youth fitness equipment, featuring its patented Smart Strength™ technology. “We are pleased with AFIRM’s roster of benefits for manufacturers,” said John Salvitti, President and CEO of Strive. “But we’re also very impressed with AFIRM’s commitment to fighting youth obesity through its support of PEP and PHIT. These are issues that directly affect the bottom line of all fitness manufacturers.” Also included in the Strive membership will be their Fit Interactive division, featuring 3 Kick, HeavyBall, and JumpQ “games for life.”For further information on AFIRM, please contact:
Chuck Leve, Executive Director
847-480-1818 x5599 (office) www.afirmfitness.org About AFIRM The Association of Fitness Industry Retailers & Manufacturers (AFIRM) is dedicated to developing benefits, products, and services specifically for fitness industry manufacturers and retailers. AFIRM will address fitness industry issues, help raise revenue and reduce expenses on behalf of its members, lobby Congress for pro-fitness legislation, and develop appropriate research. AFIRM will disseminate information through educational events, publish a bi-weekly newsletter for its constituents, and develop money-saving programs for its members. For more information, please visit www.afirmfitness.org. About SGMA The Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association (SGMA), the #1 source for sport and fitness research, is the leading global trade association of manufacturers, retailers, and marketers in the sports products industry. SGMA helps lead the sports and fitness industries by fostering participation through research, thought leadership, product promotion, and public policy. More information about SGMA membership and SGMA's National Health Through Fitness Day can be found at www.SGMA.com. # # # |
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