Retail roundup: Uggs for men, Gap, Father’s Day

--Ugg Australia, a division of Goleta, Calif.-based Deckers Outdoor Corp., opened its first flagship men’s store in New York on Wednesday.

The 800-foot-square store is dedicated to outerwear, accessories and footwear for males, including the iconic leather boots that Ugg is known for. It’s part of a growing trend of retailers opening shops dedicated to their male clientele. Last year, Hermes opened its first guy-only store in New York and Coach opened its first men’s boutique.

“Ugg for men has grown into a stand-alone line that deserves its own storefront,” Connie Rishwain, president of Ugg Australia, said in a statement. “Men requested their own dedicated space and we’re excited to give them just that.”

--Ariat International, a maker of luxury equestrian gear based in Union City, Calif., will be sold to the company’s management along with members of the Fisher family, who founded Gap Inc., according to Reuters.

The sale price was not disclosed but estimated to be in the neighborhood of $350 million to $400 million, a knowledgeable source told Reuters. Current owners include private equity firms Brentwood Associates and LNK Partners.

Ariat was founded in the early 20th century to produce comfortable riding boots and later branched into horse-related apparel and accessories.

--Dads are getting closer to moms.

According to a National Retail Federation survey, families will spend an average $117.14 this Father’s Day, about $35 less than the average amount shelled out for Mother’s Day. That’s a smaller gap than the $40 difference in 2007, the survey said.

About $2.3 billion will be spent on outings such as basketball or hockey games for Dad, while another $1.7 million will be dropped on apparel, electronics and other physical gifts.

“It should come as no surprise that dads are considerably more laid back when it comes to their special day, opting most times to simply spend quality time with loved ones at a restaurant or at home in the backyard,” said Pam Goodfellow, consumer insights director for BIGinsight, which conducted the survey. “But this Father’s Day it’s evident that consumers want to thank dad for the support and undivided attention he provides throughout the year.”

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