Crocs stepped out of the discount bin by restructuring its inventory strategy. A year ago, the footwear maker struggled with bloated stock and slowing sales. Rather than slash prices, Crocs cut back on discounts, pulled products from shelves, and sold fewer shoes to wholesalers. The company bought back stale inventory of its Hey Dude brand and provided retailers financial support to move aging stock. Reducing sales of its namesake foam clogs cleared room for fresher designs like sandals. The moves caused short-term pain as sales fell for several quarters, but efforts are now paying off. The Crocs brand, including its namesake foam clogs, reported quarterly revenue of more than $1 billion for the first time for the period ended June 30. Executives project that Hey Dude's revenue will grow by year's end.

Meanwhile, the U.S.-Canada trade war escalated this week. President Trump said the U.S. would impose 50% tariffs on automobiles and parts from Canada starting in January. This follows new tariffs on about 5% of Canadian imports and retaliatory levies from Canada. A 50% levy could drive automakers to close Canadian factories, reshaping North American supply chains. The threat heightens the risk of all-out economic conflict and casts doubt over the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement.

In logistics news, Descartes Systems Group acquired freight brokerage platform Tai Software for $100 million.