Sporting goods retailers spring back with gains.(Brief Article)(Statistical Data Included)

NATIONWIDE DSN REPORT -- Sporting goods retailers that have endured several years of turbulent market conditions are reporting improved results and sounding a cautiously optimistic tone as they look toward the back half of the year.

Many of the publicly-held sporting goods chains and footwear retailers reported healthy second quarter sales and earnings along with same store sales increases. Similarly, several privately-held companies contend their sales are strong, and store expansion is being pursued.

Much of the improvement has to do with changing market conditions. Excessive inventories that were allowed to build up have been cleared out, so rational pricing has returned for many operators along with the improved profits margins that come from a less promotional environment.

Against this backdrop however, each …