Volume 6 | No. 6 | November/December 2018
A PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL SPORTING GOODS ASSOCIATION
Innovation on Display with NSGA
Artificial Intelligence and the Impact on Retail A Look at the Online Sales Tax Collection Process
NSGA NOW®
November/December 2018 | 1
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
12 Conference Now
A Look at the Innovative Products Displayed at the 2018 NSGA Management Conference & Team Dealer Summit
Cover: Hilary Sloan, an account executive with RxBar, discusses her product at the 2018 Innovations Arena.
4 5 8 20 22 23
CEO Now
Innovation Fuels Our Industry
Operations Now
Understanding the Online Sales Tax Collection Process
Association Now
Apply for a Retailer/Dealer Scholarship to the 2019 NSGA Management Conference & Team Dealer Summit
Retail Now
The Effect of Artificial Intelligence on Retail
Industry Now
Thoughts About the Innovations Arena
Locker Room Now
ASB Acquires Three Team Dealers, Founder Sport Group Acquires Teamwork Athletic Apparel
Above: Marty Sarkees, center, of Hawk Tackle talks with Tozuda’s John Pettit and Jessica Garcia in the Innovations Arena at the 2018 NSGA Management Conference & Team Dealer Summit.
NSGA NOW®
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CEO NOW
During their home opener pregame, the Chicago Blackhawks honored Stan Mikita, one of the greatest players in hockey history, who died on August 7. Mikita was one of the sport’s class acts during an illustrious 22-year Hall of Fame career with the Blackhawks. I recently learned he was a big hockey innovator, even if it wasn’t one of his goals, from a skill and safety standpoint.
NSGA OFFICERS Chairman of the Board David Labbe
Kittery Trading Post, Kittery, ME
Treasurer/Chairman-Elect Cathy Pryor
Hibbett Sports, Birmingham, AL
Past Chairman Randy Nill
Nill Bros. Sporting Goods, Kansas City, KS
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Kevin Bezanson
Cleve’s Source for Sports, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
Pat Donnelley
Donnelley Sports, Twin Falls, ID
Rhett Johnson
Johnson-Lambe Co., Raleigh, NC
Greg Miller
Universal Athletic, Bozeman, MT
Jeff Miller
Scholastic Sports Sales, Ltd., Manlius, NY
John Oehler
Dunham’s Sports, Troy, MI
Jerry Williams
Schuylkill Valley Sports, Pottstown, PA
NSGA TEAM LEADERS Matt Carlson
President & CEO
Marty Maciaszek
Director, Team Dealer Division and HDA
Julie Pitts
Director, Business Development and Research
Larry Weindruch
Director, Public Affairs
Dan Wiersma
Chief Financial Officer
Getting checked into the boards during a practice resulted in Mikita’s hockey stick blade getting bent slightly. He liked the feel and action of some shots he tried with the altered stick. Mikita started heating up all of his blades to get a curve that is now commonplace on all stick blades. Having part of his ear torn off by a puck in a game in 1967 triggered Mikita to start wearing some rudimentary headgear. From there it became a helmet that he ultimately tinkered with and designed, which then evolved into the product worn by current hockey players. Today’s hockey sticks and helmets are vastly different from the ones Mikita used. But it’s all part of the innovation and evolution of products throughout our industry. NSGA plays a key role in supporting and encouraging evolution through the Innovations Arena at the annual Management Conference & Team Dealer Summit. The NSGA Innovations Arena was created to showcase new or innovative products, connecting inventors, entrepreneurs, and companies with a wide range of industry decision-makers who can help sell those products. This year, more than 30 exhibitors participated in the NSGA Innovations Arena. Most of those exhibitors also chose to receive additional exposures in this issue of NSGA NOW.® These are just small snapshots of what the products look like and are about. There is nothing quite like seeing a new product in person and talking about it with the people involved in its development. There is also tremendous value in taking advantage of the opportunity to get your product in front of a significant number of key people in a short period of time. From the Dealer and Retailer perspective, what a great opportunity to get in on the ground floor of a great product! Your engagement and interest make the NSGA Innovations Arena such an integral part of the 55th Annual Management Conference & 21st Annual Team Dealer Summit on May 19–21, 2019 in Braselton, Georgia. We hope you will join us and get a first-hand look at some of the hot new products out there. Our NSGA Team hopes you and your families have a happy and busy holiday season, sparking a great start to 2019! Best regards, Matt Carlson | President & CEO
NSGA STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP
NSGA NOW® (ISSN 1045-2087) is published bi-monthly for members of the National Sporting Goods Association, 1601 Feehanville Dr., Suite 300, Mount Prospect, IL 60056-6035; Phone: (847) 296-NSGA (6742); Fax: (847) 391-9827. Subscription price of $50 per year is included in membership fee. Non-member subscription information available from publisher. Periodical postage paid at Mount Prospect, IL 60056 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to NSGA NOW,® 1601 Feehanville Dr., Suite 300, Mount Prospect, IL 60056-6035. © by NSGA 2018. Printed in the USA.
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November/December 2018
OPERATIONS NOW
Navigating the Online Sales Tax Collection Process By Larry Weindruch, NSGA Director of Public Affairs
In the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in South Dakota v. Wayfair that eliminated the physical presence standard blocking states from requiring remote online sellers to collect sales tax, the question facing many sporting goods retailers and dealers who sell out of state on the Internet is “what’s next?” This ruling does not affect in-store transactions. The big question concerns members who sell on their websites to out-of-state customers and don’t yet collect sales tax. Not every state has a remote sales tax collection law on the books.
Bloomberg has compiled this listing of implementation dates and nexus thresholds of 26 states that have enacted economic nexus statutes: • Alabama (Oct. 1, 2018), $250,000 in-state sales • Connecticut (Dec. 1, 2018), 200 transactions and $250,000 in-state sales • Georgia (Jan. 1, 2019), 200 transactions and $250,000 in-state sales • Hawaii (July 1, 2018), 200 transactions or $100,000 in-state sales • Illinois (Oct. 1, 2018), 200 transactions or $100,000 in-state sales • Indiana (Oct. 1, 2018), 200 transactions or $100,000 in-state sales • Iowa (Jan. 1, 2019), 200 transactions or $100,000 in-state sales • Kentucky (Oct. 1, 2018), 200 transactions or $100,000 in-state sales • Louisiana (Jan. 1, 2019), 200 transactions or $100,000 in-state sales • Maine (Implementation date TBA), 200 transactions or $100,000 in-state sales • Massachusetts (Oct. 1, 2017), 100 transactions and $500,000 in-state sale • Michigan (Oct. 1, 2018), 200 transactions or $100,000 in-state sales • Minnesota (Oct. 1, 2018), 100 transactions or $100,000 in-state sales in at least 10 transactions • Mississippi (Dec. 1, 2017), $250,000 in-state sales • North Dakota (Oct. 1, 2018, or 60 days after a remote retailer meets the state’s threshold — whichever is later), 200 transactions or $100,000 in-state sales • Ohio (June 30, 2017), $500,000 in-state sales • Oklahoma (July 1, 2018), $10,000 in-state sales • Pennsylvania (April 1, 2018), $10,000 in-state sales • Rhode Island (Aug. 17, 2017), 200 transactions or $100,000 in-state sales • South Carolina (Nov. 1, 2018), $100,000 in-state sales • South Dakota (Nov. 1, 2018), 200 transactions or $100,000 in-state sales • Tennessee (currently on hold because of litigation), $500,000 in-state sales • Utah (Jan. 1, 2019), 200 transactions or $100,000 in-state sales • Vermont (July 1, 2018), 200 transactions or $100,000 in-state sales • Washington (Oct. 1, 2018), 200 transactions or $100,000 in-state sales • Wyoming (Oct. 1, 2018), 200 transactions or $100,000 in-state sales Five states (New Hampshire, Oregon, Montana, Alaska, Delaware) do not have state sales taxes and are not inclined to collect sales taxes for 45 states and the District of Columbia. They have said doing so would be an unfair burden on businesses in those states. Further complicating the matter is a bill introduced in the House of Representatives by Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner (R-WI). This bill, the Online Sales Simplicity and Small Business Relief Act of 2018 (H.R. 6814), would ban states from retroactively imposing sales tax collection duties on remote online sellers; require all states to push back economic nexus implementation dates to Jan. 1, 2019; and establish a small-seller exemption, meaning a remote seller with gross annual receipts below $10 million in the U.S. is not required to collect and remit sales tax. “For nearly a decade, NSGA has actively advocated for a federal legislative solution to the unfair advantage held by remote online sellers,” NSGA President & CEO Matt Carlson said. “We continue to advocate for the Remote Transactions Parity Act (H.R. 2193) in the House and Marketplace Fairness Act (S. 976) in the Senate, both of which would create a legislative standard that all states with a sales tax could follow. “We don’t feel that Rep. Sensenbrenner’s bill is the answer. States have not yet passed bills that include retroactive collection of sales taxes, and most have followed South Dakota’s Supreme Court-tested standard for economic nexus.” Another factor brought to NSGA’s attention puts focus on the team dealer business. There have been reports of schools that placed orders through their team dealer and received the orders drop-shipped directly from the manufacturer being charged sales tax despite the schools being tax exempt. NSGA is investigating the issue. NSGA NOW®
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OPERATIONS NOW
Software Providers Can Help with Collection Process To help retailers and dealers comply, there are seven software providers available to help with the collection of remote sales taxes, should a business trigger the substantial economic nexus in a state. In many cases, the software may be free to the online seller and take on the audit liability for the seller. The software works as a plug-in with the business’s existing inventory and shopping cart software. F or additional information, please visit www.streamlinedsalestax. org/index.php?page=CertifiedService-Providers
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Frequently Asked Questions About Online Sales Tax Collection The Streamlined Sales Tax Governing Board has compiled a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs). The answers contain links to additional information, including how to contact every state’s department of revenue or taxing authority. The Board oversees the Streamlined Sales and Use Tax Agreement, the purpose of which is to simplify and modernize sales and use tax administration to substantially reduce the burden of tax compliance. There are 24 states that have adopted the simplification measures in the Agreement (representing more than 31 percent of the population). More states are moving to adopt the simplification measure.
Q: What does the South Dakota v. Wayfair U.S. Supreme Court Decision mean? A: The United States Supreme Court ruled in South Dakota
Q: Don’t want to register through the SSTRS? A: You can register separately for each state by completing each state’s registration form.
v. Wayfair on June 21, 2018, that states can require sellers to collect and remit sales or use tax on sales delivered to locations within their state regardless of physical presence.
Q: Selling in a state that is not a Streamlined State? A: You will need to register by completing that state’s registration form.
Q: Who is a remote seller? A: A remote seller is generally a seller that does not have a
Q: Do you need help with your sales taxes? A: The Streamlined Sales Tax Governing Board has
physical presence in a state and does not have any other legal requirement to be registered, but who sells products or services for delivery into that state. You will need to check with each state to determine if you are required to register in that state.
contracts with Certified Service Providers (CSP) that can handle nearly all seller’s sales and use tax responsibilities. Any remote seller registered through the SSTRS may contract with a CSP. There is no charge for CSP services in the Streamlined States where the seller is a remote seller.
w ww.streamlinedsalestax.org/index.
php?page=Certified-Service-Providers
Q: When must a remote seller begin collecting and remitting sales tax? A: Registration requirements vary by state. Contact the
It is recommended that you contact the CSP to discuss their services prior to registering. If necessary, the CSP can register your business for you. If you register prior to contracting with the CSP, you will be responsible for filing returns until the CSP is ready to provide its services to your company. The CSP will provide the services necessary to:
state directly to determine your registration requirements. If you have a physical presence or other legal obligation to collect and remit sales tax for a state and are not already registered, you should register immediately.
Q: I already collect and remit sales tax. Should I continue? A: Yes. If you are already registered and collect and remit
sales tax or remit sales tax through a third party, such as a marketplace facilitator, you should continue to do so.
Q: I want to start collecting and remitting now. What should I do? A: Selling in multiple Streamlined States? You can register to collect and remit sales tax in all 24 Streamlined member states by completing one simple online application through the Streamlined Sales Tax Registration System (SSTRS). There is no fee to register using the SSTRS.
www.sstregister.org
• Register a seller in all Streamlined member states
• Set up and integrate the CSP’s software with the seller’s system
• Identify which products and services are taxable
• Determine the appropriate sales or use tax rate and calculate the tax due at the time of the sale
• Prepare and file the required sales and use tax returns for each of the Streamlined States
• Remit the tax to each of the Streamlined States
• Resolve any notices or audits by any of the Streamlined State T o learn more about the CSP program, see the FAQs related to Certified Service Providers at www.streamlinedsalestax.org.
Each state will send you information related to its sales and use taxes and you will be responsible for filing returns with each Streamlined State.
Q: I have a question for a specific state, what should I do? A: If you have questions related to a specific state’s laws and
Q: Only need to register in a few states? A: You may register separately for each state by completing
w ww.streamlinedsalestax.org/index.php?page=StateWebsites
each state’s registration form.
w ww.streamlinedsalestax.org/index.php?page=
State-Websites
Source: Streamlined Sales Tax Governing Board, Inc.
requirements, please contact that state directly.
For more information, please contact NSGA Director of Public Affairs Larry Weindruch, lweindruch@nsga.org, or call (847) 296-NSGA (6742), ext. 1290. NSGA NOW®
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ASSOCIATION NOW 1.
Learn More about Our Industry at the 2019 NSGA Conference & Summit 2.
Waived Registration and Hotel Expenses A scholarship is a great way for retailers and team dealers to attend NSGA’s 55th Annual Management Conference & 21st Annual Team Dealer Summit on May 19–21, 2019 in Braselton, Georgia. The scholarship includes the registration fee and three nights’ accommodations at the Château Élan Winery & Resort. The number of scholarships is limited and preference is given to the earliest applicants. Applications will be accepted through January 11, 2019.
Who should apply for a scholarship? 3.
Business owners, CEOs, Presidents and Leadership Staff The NSGA Conference & Summit is a leadership event. Come network with your industry peers! Emerging leaders in your organization A staff development opportunity to learn about the industry outside of your business. Operations and Retail Managers Hear from industry experts about improving your retail experience and engaging customers.
4.
Buyers and Merchandise Managers Check out new products and meet face-to-face in Speed Networking appointments with manufacturers.
For more information contact Brian Van Acker, NSGA Business Development Manager, at bvanacker@nsga.org or (847) 296-6742, ext. 1170.
FROM THE 2018 CONFERENCE & SUMMIT
5.
1. R hett Johnson of Johnson-Lambe, Co., (left) and Pat Donnelley of Donnelley Sports share a laugh before one of the education sessions. 2. T odd Nicholson speaks to retailers about the challenge of competing with Amazon. 3. F rom left, Brad Hause of Sports Distributors of Canada, Julie Hause and Karen Bezanson at the Sunday evening welcome reception.
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4. A ttendees listen to Dr. John Duffy discuss working with teenage and young employees. 5. S tahls’ Josh Ellsworth, left, and John Loucks, right, give an interactive session on decorating techniques to team dealers.
NSGA Retailer/Team Dealer Scholarship Application 55th Annual NSGA Management Conference & 21st Annual Team Dealer Summit May 19–21, 2019 | Château Élan Winery & Resort | Braselton, Georgia
HOW IT WORKS
A scholarship includes the conference registration fee for the 2019 Conference & Summit plus three nights’ accommodations (Sunday, Monday & Tuesday) at Château Élan in Braselton, Georgia. Registration includes conference materials, daily breakfasts, networking breaks, luncheons, Sunday and Monday receptions and the Tuesday evening industry dinner. A limited number of scholarships will be available. Applications will be accepted until January 11, 2019. Only retailers and team dealers are eligible. NSGA will work with industry vendors to support the program and award scholarships. P reference will be given to: • First-time attendees or individuals who have not attended the Conference & Summit in the last five years • The earliest applications received APPLICANT NAME
APPLICANT TITLE
COMPANY NAME
STREET ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP
PHONE NUMBER
FAX NUMBER
EMAIL DATE
Please list the top ten vendors you do business with by sales volume:
1. 6.
2. 7.
3. 8.
4. 9.
5. 10.
Will your spouse/guest be attending (there is a $245 fee):
Yes
No
If awarded, NSGA will reserve your room at Château Élan in Braselton, Georgia. Please indicate all nights you plan to stay: Sunday, May 19, 2019 Monday, May 20, 2019 Tuesday, May 21, 2019 If you would like to extend your stay, it is your cost and responsibility to contact Château Élan for those additional days.
NEXT PAGE
NSGA NOW®
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ASSOCIATION NOW
NSGA Retailer/Team Dealer Scholarship Application (continued) 55th Annual NSGA Management Conference & 21st Annual Team Dealer Summit May 19–21, 2019 | Château Élan Winery & Resort | Braselton, Georgia
BY SUBMITTING THIS FORM, APPLICANT AGREES TO THE FOLLOWING: 1) If selected for a scholarship and unable to attend, applicant must cancel his/her registration with NSGA by March 15, 2019. If applicant does not cancel his/her registration or does not attend the Conference & Summit, applicant will be deemed ineligible for future scholarship consideration. 2) If selected for a scholarship, applicant must attend and complete all scheduled appointments at the Speed Networking sessions. Failure to complete all scheduled appointments will automatically deem applicant ineligible for future scholarship consideration. 3) If selected, applicant may not choose a substitute attendee should he/she be unable to attend. All scholarships are awarded through NSGA.
4) Attendee badges must be worn at all times in Event areas. Applicant agrees not to share, transfer, sell or trade his/ her badge. Should applicant violate this policy, NSGA may cancel applicant’s registration and retain any payments. 5) If selected for a scholarship, applicant will make him/ herself available in the NSGA Innovations Arena for an interview about his/her conference experience. Use of video for future promotions and marketing will be at the sole discretion of NSGA. 6) By attending the event, applicant grants NSGA the right to record, film, photograph or capture his/her likeness in any media and to distribute, broadcast, use or otherwise disseminate, in perpetuity, such media without any further approval from or any payment.
Qualification for the NSGA scholarship program is determined solely by NSGA and may be revoked at any time. By completing registration, applicant agrees to these Terms & Conditions.
SIGNATURE DATE
SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION ONE OF FOUR WAYS
Mail to National Sporting Goods Association, 1601 Feehanville Drive, Suite 300, Mt. Prospect, IL 60056
Fax to (847) 391-9827
Email to bvanacker@nsga.org
Apply online at www.nsga.org/conferencescholarship
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NSGA NOW®
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November/December 2018 | 11
CONFERENCE NOW
Inside Innovation The NSGA Innovations Arena is the place to see new and innovative products in the sporting goods industry during the annual NSGA Management Conference & Team Dealer Summit. Here is a look at some of the products displayed at the 2018 Innovations Arena in Bonita Springs, Florida.
Jeff Miller, left, of Scholastic Sports Sales, talks with Taylor Wilson of WarDog Lacrosse during the 2018 Innovations Arena.
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2UNDR Swing Shift Boxer Brief Amfit Precise AT Insoles With 2UNDR, you can feel it right away, pure heavenly softness. The Swing Amfit’s Precise AT fits low, m Shift caresses the skin with the finest beechwood perfect fibre in compliment our signature to their modal fabric. Additionally, the material resists shrinkage, fading and pilling. tgarlock@amfit.com The smoothness of the fabric rejects hard water deposits, so it remains soft www.insole.com through repeated wash cycles. Perfection in your pants. 484-903-3179 www.2undr.com
2UNDR Swing Shift Boxer Brief
Amfit Precise AT Insoles
With 2UNDR, you can feel it right away, pure heavenly softness. The Swing Shift caresses the skin with the finest beechwood fibre in our signature modal fabric. Additionally, the material resists shrinkage, fading and pilling. The smoothness of the fabric rejects hard water deposits, so it remains soft through repeated wash cycles. Perfection in your pants.
Amfit’s Precise AT fits low, medium & high arch heights and is the perfect compliment to their custom program! tgarlock@amfit.com | www.insole.com
(484) 903-3179 | www.2undr.com
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Holloway 3D Regulate Lightweight Pullover
New from Holloway, the 3D Regulate Lightweight Pullover is a poly/spandex knit, with a tonal heathered, brushed waffle textured back for controlled warmth and wicking. Adult sizing is available in 9 colors and quarter-zip styling, while ladies is available in 11 colors and crossover hoodie style. (800) 237-6695 www.augustasportswear.com
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Holloway 3D Regulate Lightweight Pullover New from Holloway, the 3D Regulate Lightweight Pullover is a Caterpy Laces are theback world’s poly/spandex knit, with a tonal heathered, brushedCaterpy waffleLaces textured elastic bump technology for controlled warmth and wicking. Adult sizing is available in 9 colors to ho eyelets. Caterpy Laces strives t and quarter zip styling, while ladies is available in 11 colors and crossover issues range from inconsistenc hoodie style. of adaptivity for different foot 800-237-6695 laces. Great for athletes, kids, www.AugustaSportswear.com sales@caterpylaces.com
Caterpy Laces
www.caterpylaces.com
Caterpy Laces are the world’s top selling no-tie shoelaces. They use elastic bump technology to hold customized tension throughout all eyelets. Caterpy Laces strives to solve all shoelace issues. These issues range from inconsistency of tension throughout the shoe, lack of adaptivity for different foot shapes and inconvenience of tying laces. Great for athletes, kids, elderly, medical and special needs. sales@caterpylaces.com www.caterpylaces.com
NSGA NOW®
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CONFERENCE NOW
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Cliff Keen Beast Backpack CSX X200 15-20 mmHg Com Cliff Keen Presents The Beast! Finally, a backpack thatCSX works as Compression Socks are hard as you do. Carry all of your essentials for school, individuals practice, the decisive edg meets and tournaments! Customize with your team’s recovery. graphics. Built The with the gre Beast Backpack from Cliff Keen does it all! gradually up the leg, they w 734-975-8800 x136 superficial veins in the lowe www.cliffkeen.com bwimsatt@csxsport.com www.csxsport.com
Cliff Keen Beast Backpack Cliff Keen presents The Beast! Finally, a backpack that works as hard as you do. Carry all of your essentials for school, practice, meets and tournaments! Customize with your team’s graphics. The Beast Backpack from Cliff Keen does it all! (734) 975-8800 x136 | www.cliffkeen.com
CSX X200 15–20 mmHg Compression Sport Socks CSX Compression Socks are designed to give athletes and active individuals the decisive edge in performance, injury reduction and recovery. Built with the greatest support at the ankle that reduces gradually up the leg, they work to reduce the diameter of the superficial veins in the lower leg and thus help improve blood flow. bwimsatt@csxsport.com www.csxsport.com
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GearHalo Deodorizer Pods Hawk Tackle Stops the stink! Ideal for skates, shoes, work boots, gloves Hawk Tackleand is a head smart tac shoulder style tackling techniqu hockey bags. A non-toxic dry solution that deodorizes, removes for easy moisture and leaves your gear smelling fresh. Easystraps to use and carry. lasts There is sp and target pads for teaching use a season. Used by the Pros! Made with high density foam an konidasp@gearhalo.com 864-986-1790 www.gearhalo.com www.hawktackleinc.com
GearHalo Deodorizer Pods
Hawk Tackle
Stops the stink! Ideal for skates, shoes, work boots, gloves and hockey bags. A non-toxic dry solution that deodorizes, removes moisture and leaves your gear smelling fresh. Easy to use and lasts a season. Used by the Pros!
Hawk Tackle is a head smart tackling dummy for coaching the shoulder style tackling technique. It is a patented design with straps for easy carry. There is space for placement of the lead foot and target pads for teaching use of the near shoulder on the hip. Made with high density foam and durable all-weather covering.
konidasp@gearhalo.com www.gearhalo.com
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(864) 986-1790 | www.hawktackleinc.com
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Cybercrosse Technogoal
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Cybercrosse Technogoal Flip Towel Technogoal is a folding electronic target frame for sports goals Wipe that off sweat while o measures shooting accuracy with video game-like feedback. be used for nearly any g Rugged, portable, and easily attached to a conventional goal, don’t have to carry it, y Technogoal transmits your score to a smartphone app over WiFi. ground! Sweatband/To Accumulated analytic data is useful to coaches and may be shared has a magnetic release/ on social media. Lacrosse and hockey versions available soon. Handles sweat everywh 315-323-1176 239-272-4643 www.cybercrosse.com
www.fliptowel.net
Flip Towel
Technogoal is a folding electronic target frame for sports goals that measures shooting accuracy with video game-like feedback. Rugged, portable, and easily attached to a conventional goal, Technogoal transmits your score to a smartphone app over WiFi. Accumulated analytic data is useful to coaches and may be shared on social media. Lacrosse and hockey versions available soon.
Wipe off sweat while on-the-go! The Flip Towel is so versatile it can be used for nearly any gravity defying activity you can think of. You don’t have to carry it, you can’t lose it, you can’t drop it on the dirty ground! Sweatband/Towel combination attaches to your wrist and has a magnetic release/return design to allow for quick and easy use. Handles sweat everywhere — face, head, neck, etc.
(315) 323-1176 | www.cybercrosse.com
(239) 272-4643 | www.fliptowel.net
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Incrediwear Knee Sleeve Hype Crew Socks Knee pain holding you back from liv Hype Socks are 100% customizable performance socks with has got you covered! Our products unlimited logo design capability. There are no setup fees andflow, a 1-2 increase blood which helps re week turnaround time. There is a 24 pair minimum order any relieve pain, with and accelerate recover size combination. recovering from an injury, or even s 24/7 to provide unmatched relief! boston@hypesocks.com twilson@incrediwear.com www.hypesocks.com www.incrediwear.com
Hype Crew Socks
Incrediwear Knee Sleeve
Hype Socks are 100% customizable performance socks with unlimited logo design capability. There are no setup fees and a 1–2 week turnaround time. There is a 24-pair minimum order with any size combination.
Knee pain holding you back from living your active life? Incrediwear has got you covered! Our products are scientifically proven to increase blood flow, which helps reduce inflammation & swelling, relieve pain, and accelerate recovery! Whether you are exercising, recovering from an injury, or even sleeping, Incrediwear can be worn 24/7 to provide unmatched relief!
boston@hypesocks.com www.hypesocks.com
twilson@incrediwear.com www.incrediwear.com
NSGA NOW®
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CONFERENCE NOW
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Koverz 6-pack Carrier Mueller The One Premium An Whether you are bringing some of your favorite beverages to a The only ankle brace you will gathering with family and friends or transporting bottles back from Anatomically shaped with per the grocery store, Koverz Neoprene 6-Pack Carriersprofile. will protect Figure 8 grip coated st your precious cargo and keep the bottles/cans coolezuntil you on ez off.reach B3 technology ma your destination! Perfect for picnics, tailgating or the beach. comfort. 360 degree elastic fo andy@ladyedison.com tim.jahnke@muellersportsme www.koverz.com www.muellersportsmed.com
Koverz 6-pack Carrier Whether you are bringing some of your favorite beverages to a gathering with family and friends or transporting bottles back from the grocery store, Koverz Neoprene 6-Pack Carriers will protect your precious cargo and keep the bottles/cans cool until you reach your destination! Perfect for picnics, tailgating or the beach. andy@ladyedison.com | www.koverz.com
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The only ankle brace you will ever need! Our best just got better! Anatomically shaped with perforated tongue for extreme low profile. Figure 8 grip coated straps and integrated speed lacing for easy-on, easy-off. B3 technology material for additional support and comfort. 360 degree elastic forefoot band. tim.jahnke@muellersportsmed.com www.muellersportsmed.com
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Rehband UD Runner’s Knee/ITBS Tights RockTape Edge RockTape is kinesiolog The first targeted compression tights for runner's knee andEdge IT band edge with the world's best symptoms with a medical classification. Runner’s knee or iliotibial RockSauce Fire pain relief. F band syndrome (ITBS) occurs when the tendon, also known as the combined IT band, which runs from the hip and attaches to the knee, with moisture m that just won't quit. becomes overloaded, resulting in pain. Sam@RockTape.com info@rehband.com www.rocktape.com www.rehband.com
Rehband UD Runner’s Knee/ ITBS Tights The first targeted compression tights for runner’s knee and IT band symptoms with a medical classification. Runner’s knee, or iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS), occurs when the tendon, also known as the IT band, which runs from the hip and attaches to the knee, becomes overloaded, resulting in pain. info@rehband.com | www.rehband.com
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Mueller The One Premium Ankle Brace
November/December 2018
RockTape Edge RockTape Edge is kinesiology tape perfected. Get the performance edge with the world’s best kinesiology tape combined with RockSauce Fire pain relief. Features our strongest adhesive combined with moisture management technology for pain relief that just won’t quit. sam@rocktape.com | www.rocktape.com
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MyHOUSE Heathered Box Stripe Quarter Zip and Jogger Set Our Heathered Box Stripe Quarter Zip and Jogger are the perfect RAD Roller Designed with the human warm-ups for game day. With its extremely soft and breathable box stripe fabric and relaxed fit, you will never want to take them off! called the “Everywhere M You also have the ability to sublimate the quarter zip and jogger between the shoulder bla recovery from head to toe panels with patterns, team colors and logo. relieves muscle tension, in tpane@myhousesportsgear.com www.myhousesportsgear.com through self myofascial re
MyHOUSE Heathered Box Stripe Quarter Zip and Jogger Set Our Heathered Box Stripe Quarter Zip and Jogger are the perfect warm-ups for game day. With its extremely soft and breathable box-stripe fabric and relaxed fit, you will never want to take them off! You also have the ability to sublimate the quarter zip and jogger panels with patterns, team colors and logo. tpane@myhousesportsgear.com www.myhousesportsgear.com
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866-247-3241 www.radroller.com
RAD Roller
Designed with the human body in mind, the RAD Roller is aptly called the “Everywhere Mobility Tool.” Created to fit perfectly between the shoulder blades, but ideal for point release work and recovery from head to toe. This highly versatile and portable tool relieves muscle tension, increases mobility and aids in recovery through self myofascial release. (866) 247-3241 | www.radroller.com
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Stahls’ Cad-Cut® Silicone D Scenturion® Performance fabrics require Treat the gear and protect the athlete®. Scenturion kills bacteria, dye migration. Confidently fungus and viruses on contact and reactivates while gear is worn. Dye-Block™. Get the dye-bl The treatment lasts for weeks and is safe for all ages. or the need to burn screen The More You Sweat, The More It Works® temperature, has a matte f dave@patriottechusa.com look and feel to athletic app www.patriottechusa.com john.loucks@stahls.com
Scenturion
®
Treat the gear and protect the athlete. Scenturion kills bacteria, fungus and viruses on contact and reactivates while gear is worn. The treatment lasts for weeks and is safe for all ages. The More You Sweat, The More It Works® ®
dave@patriottechusa.com www.patriottechusa.com
Stahls’ Cad-Cut Silicone Dye-Block™ ®
www.stahls.com
Performance fabrics require special care when heat is applied to avoid dye migration. Confidently decorate sublimated apparel with Silicone Dye-Block.™ Get the dye-blocking power of silicone without messy ink or the need to burn screens. This stretchy vinyl applies at a low temperature, has a matte finish, and adds a high-end, dimensional look and feel to athletic apparel and more. john.loucks@stahls.com | www.stahls.com
NSGA NOW®
November/December 2018 | 17
CONFERENCE NOW
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Pro-Grip Swax Lax Lacrosse Training Ball
Pro-Grip Swax Lax Lacrosse Training Ball Tozuda Head Impact Sen The Swax Lax Pro-Grip is the same size and weight as a regulation Tozuda head impact sens lacrosse ball, but now it feels even more like one with a tacky activity. With a simple at material and grippy texture. Advanced players can practiceconcussion with awareness is pinpoint accuracy and intermediates can expect more consistency in coaches and teams alike their stick work. Low bounce and minimal roll, plus gentle on any routine, Tozuda sens hardwood floors, make it great for indoor training. without breaking their fo info@swaxlax.com 201-781-1995 www.swaxlax.com www.Tozuda.com
Tozuda Head Impact Sensors
The Swax Lax Pro-Grip is the same size and weight as a regulation lacrosse ball, but now it feels even more like one with a tacky material and grippy texture. Advanced players can practice with pinpoint accuracy and intermediates can expect more consistency in their stick work. Low bounce and minimal roll, plus gentle on hardwood floors, make it great for indoor training.
Tozuda head impact sensors are ideal for use in any helmeted activity. With a simple attachment process and clear activation, concussion awareness is made easy and affordable for athletes, coaches and teams alike. Easily fitting onto any headgear and into any routine, Tozuda sensors help users make safety a priority without breaking their focus or the bank. (201) 781-1995 | www.tozuda.com
info@swaxlax.com | www.swaxlax.com
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Wicked Rags SockJockTM
WarDog Lacrosse Wicked Rags designed the first ever one to hitthe the hockey market. WarDog Lacrosse has constructed a sock built undergarment to withstand eliminates the need for separate compr demanding nature of the sport. We offer a specialized fit one wicked hockey socksproduct and tape with to uphold the performance of MLL athletes and the sport compression andof moisture wicking mate the greatest freedom for maximum mov Lacrosse. The SockJockTM is simple to wash and r contactus@wardoglacrosse.com sort to save on laundry time. Getting dre 734-385-6060 www.wardoglacrosse.com www.wicked-rags.com
WarDog Lacrosse
Wicked Rags SockJock™
WarDog Lacrosse has constructed a sock built to withstand the demanding nature of the sport. We offer a specialized product fit to uphold the performance of Major League Lacrosse athletes and the sport of lacrosse.
Wicked Rags designed the first ever one-piece, performance-driven undergarment to hit the hockey market. The patented SockJock™ eliminates the need for separate compression pants, jock support, hockey socks and tape with one wicked pair of pants! Made of active compression and moisture-wicking material, the SockJock™ allows the greatest freedom for maximum movement, agility and comfort. The SockJock™ is simple to wash and requires nothing to separate or sort to save on laundry time. Getting dressed has never been easier!
contactus@wardoglacrosse.com www.wardoglacrosse.com
(734) 385-6060 | www.wicked-rags.com
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November/December 2018
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Volumental 3D Scanning
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VukGripz Bat Grips Volumental 3D Scanning VukGripz Bat Grips rank 1st Use Volumental's 3D foot scanning solution for retail to attract Resistance! We are the only customers with an interactive in-store experience and personalized VukGripz are the only grips footwear recommendations for the perfect fit. Over 1,000 stores allows athletes to wrap our worldwide use the solution to increase conversions and decrease We have seen awesome suc returns with machine learning and real-time data. grips are available for lacros sales@volumental.com 330-265-5991 www.volumental.com www.vukgripz.com
VukGripz Bat Grips
Use Volumental’s 3D foot scanning solution for retail to attract customers with an interactive in-store experience and personalized footwear recommendations for the perfect fit. Over 1,000 stores worldwide use the solution to increase conversions and decrease returns with machine learning and real-time data.
VukGripz Bat Grips rank 1st in Performance Benefits and Slip Resistance! VukGripz are the only grips that have edge-to-edge adhesive that allows athletes to wrap our grips edge-to-edge or with an overlap. VukGripz are reusable! Our grips are available for lacrosse, hockey, golf, tennis and field hockey!
sales@volumental.com www.volumental.com
(330) 265-5991 | www.vukgripz.com
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Zorbitz Pop Charger
Zorbitz Pop Charger Emergency Chargers, Pre-charged with AAA batteries!!! Never worry again when your phone is in the red. Just remove your case, insert a Pop Charger and your phone is ready for use. Perfect for all sporting events, camping, traveling, staying connected, taking that photo, and so much more. Never be stranded without a working phone. Now your kids will always be able to call after practice. A must have product for everyone. 323-571-4944 www.zorbitz.net
Emergency Chargers, Pre-charged with AAA batteries! Never worry again when your phone is in the red. Just remove your case, insert a Pop Charger and your phone is ready for use. Perfect for all sporting events, camping, traveling, staying connected, and so much more. Never be stranded without a working phone. Now your kids will always be able to call after practice. A must-have product for everyone. (323) 571-4944 | www.zorbitz.net
Want to See Your Product Here? Exhibit in the 2019 NSGA Innovations Arena!
The 2019 Innovations Arena will be held during the 55th Annual Management Conference & 21st Annual Team Dealer Summit on May 19–21 in Braselton, Georgia. For more information contact innovationsarena@nsga.org.
NSGA NOW®
November/December 2018 | 19
RETAIL NOW
Artificial Intelligence Changing the Face of Retail By Marty Maciaszek, NSGA Team Dealer Director
Will we soon see the day where consumers can go into their favorite sporting goods store, grab a bat, ball and some apparel and then leave without waiting in a checkout line?
Right now that would be considered shoplifting in almost every retail store someone entered. However, the use of artificial intelligence is starting to turn the futuristic concept of no-wait shopping into a reality. Amazon currently has six Amazon Go stores in the United States where shoppers can walk in, take grocery items from milk and bread to ready-to-eat meals, walk right out and receive a charge to their Amazon account a short time later. The British supermarket chain Sainsbury started a similar initiative this summer. Amazon Go opened its first location to the public in Seattle in January and now has two more locations in its home city. There are also two Amazon Go stores open in Chicago and another in San Francisco. A report by Bloomberg’s Spencer Soper said Amazon plans to open 3,000 Amazon Go stores by 2021 — primarily in big cities where people are in a rush for something to eat or drink. The Amazon Go stores use technology similar to self-driving cars. All a shopper needs is an Amazon account with the free Amazon Go app on an iPhone or Android phone. Shoppers scan the app as they enter the store. There are ceiling cameras and sensors on shelves to help determine what shoppers are planning to purchase. The store technology has the capability of recognizing and not charging shoppers decide they don’t want an item and put it back on the shelf.
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November/December 2018
Once shoppers have what they want, rather than check out, they just walk out of the store. The Amazon Go stores have staff present to help with any problems, to restock shelves and to prepare meals. Sainsbury’s has started “scan, pay and go” where customers can use their smartphones to scan items on an app and pay for it through Apple Pay. Sainsbury’s SmartShop technology has been available at nearly 70 Sainsbury’s branches in the United Kingdom for customers to scan their selections in store, but they still needed to stop at a checkout counter to pay before leaving. “Technology and changing customer habits have transformed the way people buy their groceries,” said Clodagh Moriarty, Sainsbury’s chief digital officer, in a story in the London-based Inquirer. “Our teams are constantly working hard to bring new convenient shopping experiences to customers and we’re delighted to be the first grocery retailer in the UK to offer customers the ability to shop checkout-free. “The latest version of SmartShop, with its new payment feature, will make it super quick for customers to get in and out of the store for those that want to scan, pay and go.”
Sainsbury’s still offers traditional self-serve and manned checkout counters at the branch that also features the “scan, pay and go” technology. And in late October, Walmart-owned Sam’s Club CEO Jamie Iannone announced in a blog post the opening of Sam’s Club Now in Dallas. The Scan & Go app Walmart launched two years ago will be what all members use to shop at the new Sam’s Club Now. “There won’t be another club like it,” Iannone said in the post. “It will be a mobile-first shopping experience powered by the new Sam’s Club Now app. At its core, Sam’s Club Now will be a technology lab that doubles as a live, retail club. It’s where we will incubate, test and refine technologies to help define the future of retail.
“And here’s what we already know — the future of retail is as much about people as it is about technology.”
CONFERENCE INDUSTRY NOW NOW
Talking About the NSGA Innovations Arena MANUFACTURERS Marty Sarkees, President — Hawk Tackle NSGA did a great job of putting me directly in touch with companies interested in my product. The networking, contacts, and from there, sales, were all benefits. NSGA did an excellent job of putting me in touch with wholesale buyers of my product. From there I was able to build relationships with those buyers. The combination of being put in direct contact with buyers and then the collaborative atmosphere to build relationships were most valuable. Not just with buyers, but also with fellow innovators.
John Reglein The Graphic Edge We’re always looking for a new product that we can market and being able to see them in one area is a great way to find them. I always look forward to seeing what’s new out there.
Dave Smallwood — Scenturion The Innovations Arena is another great part of the NSGA Management Conference & Team Dealer Summit as it gives us access to decision-makers at key retailers and team dealers. We got the chance to have an open discussion, where we introduced Scenturion,® explain what makes it unique and why it will be a great addition to what they offer their customers. The Innovations Arena has directly led us to opening key new customers.
Bruce Bohan Fish Hawk Sporting Goods One of the meaningful connections we have made is Scenturion odor spray. We have also made them with Markwort’s and Stahls.’ The interaction with the vendors is a benefit to the Innovations Arena. It allows me as an independent store to meet vendors and see products.
Mark Schwarb — Stahls The additional exposure in the Innovations Arena provided Stahls’ with a higher volume of meaningful connections with both NSGA members and other exhibitors. The ability to have one-on-one discussions without time constraints and the freedom to discuss our newest generation of products is a benefit.
Kyle Burns, North American Business Development Manager — Rehband Participating in the Innovations Arena was excellent. We were able to meet with the leadership from several potential customers that we would not have been able to meet otherwise. We were also able to connect with similar companies to share best practices. The NSGA staff was extremely attentive to our needs and helping form meaningful relationships for all involved.
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TEAM DEALERS
November/December 2018
Mike Gonsiewski Kampus Klothes We purchased the pop chargers from Zorbitz since we liked the idea and the concept. We continue to work with the SummerSkates guys and are hoping this will take off eventually as more of an add-on sale. The main benefit is to see what is new or up-and-coming in the industry. Even though some items may not apply to us, I still find it interesting and informative to keep up on the latest trends.
LOCKER ROOM NOW
ASB Sports Announces Three Acquisitions Trivest Partners’ affiliate, Athletic Supply/Barcelona Sporting Goods, has partnered with Williams’ Sporting Goods, Cardinal’s Sports Center and Team Sports, Inc. The key executives of each partner company are joining Athletic Supply’s management team and will retain meaningful ownership in the combined business. Williams Sporting Goods, founded in 1945 and headquartered in Paris, Texas, is a provider of apparel and sports equipment to schools, Little Leagues, and other sports organizations in Northeast Texas and Southeastern Oklahoma. Cardinal’s Sports Center, based in Lubbock, Texas, is a 70-plus-year-old supplier of athletic equipment and apparel and maintains a state-of-the-art screen printing and embroidery operation. Team Sports, Inc., headquartered in Toledo, Ohio, provides athletic apparel, uniforms, equipment, and footwear to the Ohio, Michigan, Kentucky, and Indiana markets. Athletic Supply will continue to partner with Sports, Inc., the largest team and outdoor buying group in the country.
Founder Sport Group Acquires Teamwork Athletic Apparel Founder Sport Group has acquired Teamwork Athletic Apparel, an on-demand apparel manufacturing company serving team uniform dealers and decorators with a variety of stock, sublimated and licensed apparel. Teamwork has pioneered the development of proprietary, patented technologies that enable the design, production and delivery of customized, sublimated garments at industry-leading turnaround times. The acquisition of Teamwork adds a fourth highly regarded producer of custom apparel for teams, players, families and fans to the growing portfolio of Founder Sport Group, which also includes Badger Sport, Alleson Athletic and Garb Athletics. Teamwork is the third acquisition completed by Founder Sport Group in less than a year. The company acquired Alleson Athletic and Garb Athletics in the fourth quarter of 2017.
Massachusetts to Follow NFHS Rules in Football, Volleyball and Baseball in 2019–20 The Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) Board of Directors voted to adopt NFHS rules for football, boys and girls volleyball, and baseball for the 2019–20 school year. The approval followed a recommendation by the MIAA Tournament Management Committee to use NFHS rules in all eligible sports and eliminate inconsistencies.
FTC Cracks Down on Patriot Puck Over “Made in America” Claims The Federal Trade Commission cracked down on Patriot Puck over deceptive American-made claims. Hockey pucks advertised on the Patriot Puck website and in other areas online had claims which included “100 percent made in the USA,” but its products were wholly imported from China. Under terms of consent orders with New-York based Patriot Puck and its owner, it is prohibited from making misleading or deceptive statements and needs to meet certain criteria to use “Made in the USA” claims.
Schutt Closing Pennsylvania Helmet Reconditioning Plant Schutt announced it will end equipment reconditioning at its facility in Easton, Pennsylvania. The work, which includes approximately 240,000 football helmets annually, will be moved to facilities in Mexico, Jacksonville, Florida and Salem and Litchfield, Illinois.
SG Helmets Purchased by New Mexico Ownership Group Indianapolis-based SG Helmets has been purchased by a New Mexico ownership group and plans to move to San Diego. SG Helmets was created in 2011 by former race car drivers Bill Simpson and Chip Ganassi with the intent of using auto racing helmet technology to make lighter and safer football helmets.
Carleen Gray Named CEO of GroupeSTAHL North America Carleen Gray is the new Chief Executive Officer of Michiganbased GroupeSTAHL North America. Gray has been with the manufacturer of garment decoration materials and equipment for more than 20 years and was its executive vice president sales and marketing and chief marketing officer. She succeeds Chris Lawson, who left STAHLS’ earlier this year.
High School Sports Participation Increases for 29th Consecutive Year The overall number of participants in high school sports increased for the 29th consecutive year in 2017–18 to nearly 8 million, according to the annual survey from the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS). The No. 1 participatory sport continues to be 11-player football at just more than 1 million, although it dropped for the second straight year. The largest gains were competitive spirit for girls and boys soccer.
NSGA NOW®
November/December 2018 | 23
55TH ANNUAL
Management Conference & 21ST ANNUAL
Team Dealer Summit It’s Where the Sporting Goods Industry Connects. Retailers/Team Dealers and Manufacturers: • Meet face-to-face during Speed Networking • Discuss industry issues and trends • Experience new products in the NSGA Innovations Arena
nsga.org/2019conference SERVING THE SPORTING GOODS INDUSTRY SINCE 1929
May 19–21, 2019
DON'T MISS THIS
Château Élan Winery & Resort | Braselton, Georgia 24 | NSGA NOW ®
November/December 2018