WHP Global, the parent of the Italian footwear and sportswear brand Lotto, has struck a distribution deal with Dick’s Sporting Goods for its soccer and tennis products. Key Lotto merchandise was launched in select Dick’s doors on July 22. Lotto, which celebrates its 50^th anniversary this year, will have performance cleats and tennis footwear as well as lifestyle footwear and apparel available at Dick’s, its U.S. anchor retail partner. Lotto also announced the addition of U.S. Women's National Team player Sofia Huerta (pictured above) as a brand ambassador.

ASICS North America announced the appointment of Michael Dougherty as its new VP of U.S. Sales. Dougherty, who has over 15 years of global footwear industry experience, most recently served as a full-time consultant and contractor. Prior to that, he held positions of increasing responsibility over a twelve-year period with Clarks and New Balance. Dougherty will be based at ASICS’ North American Headquarters in Boston, MA.

Carbitex, which makes flexible carbon fiber composites used in run, bike, snow, and performance sport footwear, travel products, and accessories – announced that company founder, Junus Khan, is returning to the role of president at Carbitex and Patrick Sinner has been named VP of brand product development. Additionally, the Kennewick, WA-based company is making a strategic shift in manufacturing operations, outsourcing operations to Asia, close to brand manufacturing centers for increased efficiency, reduced lead times, and local support. Carbitex’s US lab will dedicate its resources to engineering and innovation, bringing new technologies to market and providing enhanced development support to brand partners.

Zamberlan USA announced the hiring of industry veteran Chris Rischke as Director of Operations. Rischke, who got his start in the industry as the Director of Operations at Oboz Footwear, most recently served as VP of Operations and Wholesale at Erem. Rischke  joins Zamberlan following the appointment of Bob Whip as Zamberlan USA’s new General Manager last month.

The Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) and Running USA struck a strategic partnership last week that should benefit members of both organizations. The two trade groups will offer their members reciprocal discounts on reports and collaborate on upcoming new research.

Christy Sports has launched a new online resale marketplace called Yard Sale. The outdoor specialty retailer based in Lakewood, CO says the catalyst for the project is to create a more sustainable product life cycle model that prolongs the use of equipment by allowing consumers an opportunity to purchase used, high-quality gear at discount prices. Yard Sale will initially feature used adult ski and snowboard rental equipment. In the future, the marketplace is expected to allow customers and Christy employees to sell their own used equipment on the site (yardsale.christysports.com) as well.