Academy Sports + Outdoors began as a military surplus store, not a tire shop, and grew into a sporting goods powerhouse after purchasing Southern Surplus Sales in 1973. You’ll find their 280+ locations across 18 states as of 2024, with plans to continue expanding in the coming years.
They offer quality sporting goods through both brick-and-mortar stores and e-commerce, generating $6.4 billion in revenue by FY2022. Their KKR acquisition in 2011 and SEC Network sponsorship underscore their journey from Texas roots to national prominence.
From Tire Shop to Sporting Goods Giant: The Academy Story
When Arthur Gochman purchased Southern Surplus Sales, a military surplus store in Austin, in 1973, few could have predicted the retail transformation he would spark. Renaming it Academy Corp, Gochman shifted the focus from surplus goods to sporting and outdoor merchandise, launching what would become a major player across the southern U.S.
You’ll find Academy’s expansion story impressive—from its humble Texas beginnings to a robust footprint across the Southeast and Midwest. The company’s dedication to value pricing and a wide product selection attracted customers looking for affordable, quality gear.
Just as Dell Technologies chose Round Rock as a strategic base, Academy has kept its Texas headquarters while scaling nationally.
Strategic Expansion Across the United States
Academy’s rise from a Texas-based chain to a national retailer didn’t happen overnight. As of 2024, Academy Sports + Outdoors operates in over 280 locations across 18 states, with ongoing plans to grow in the South, Midwest, and beyond.
From the opening of its 50th store in Temple, Texas, in 2000, Academy has steadily increased its presence throughout underserved markets in the Sun Belt.
Three major distribution centers—located in Texas, Georgia, and Tennessee—support the expanding store network efficiently.
Their omnichannel model blends physical retail with a growing online shopping platform, helping customers access sporting goods regardless of location.
Similar to the Midland-Odessa region’s boomtown growth, Academy’s success is driven by infrastructure investments and market opportunity.
Product Offerings and Retail Experience
While many chains cater either to sports fans or outdoor lovers, Academy Sports + Outdoors excels in both. You’ll find gear for camping, fishing, hunting, team sports, leisure, and fitness under one roof.
Whether it’s plus-size apparel, hoodies, kayaks, or specialty hunting decoys, Academy has something for everyone. Their in-store pickup, curbside service, and user-friendly website enhance the customer experience.
You’ll spot a mix of name brands and exclusive private labels such as Magellan Outdoors, BCG, and O’Rageous. For home fitness buffs, Academy offers full workout solutions, from dumbbells to power racks. Frequent clearance deals ensure shoppers get top value.
They also stock swimwear and pool gear ideal for outings to places like Schlitterbahn New Braunfels or Epic Waters in Grand Prairie.
The KKR Acquisition and Financial Growth
In 2011, private equity firm Kohlberg Kravis Roberts (KKR) acquired Academy, launching a new era of strategic growth. The investment helped shift Academy from a regional retailer to a national contender.
Under KKR’s leadership, Academy achieved major milestones:
- Revenue reached $6.4 billion by FY2022
- The 2020 IPO raised $203 million, boosting expansion plans
- Distribution center upgrades improved supply chain efficiency
- A hybrid retail model broadened national market reach
KKR’s financial support and operational insight allowed Academy to scale effectively while holding onto its Texas identity and customer-first culture.
Sports Partnerships and SEC Network Sponsorship
Building on its rising profile, Academy Sports + Outdoors signed a landmark sponsorship deal with the ESPN-SEC Network and Southeastern Conference in 2023, becoming the Official Sporting Goods Retailer of the SEC.
You’ll now see Academy featured as the presenting sponsor of SEC Now and participating in on-site activations at championship events. The brand’s visibility has grown as it engages college sports fans across the region.
This partnership helps Academy connect with core customers while injecting energy and personality into the brand. Meanwhile, ESPN and the SEC benefit from the association with a trusted retail partner committed to athletic communities.
Distribution Centers and Operational Excellence
Behind Academy’s success is a well-oiled distribution network supporting stores in 18 states. Three key distribution hubs serve as the backbone of their operations:
- Katy, Texas – Home to the 1.8 million sq. ft. headquarters and main warehouse
- Jeffersonville, Georgia – Extends coverage across the Southeast
- Cookeville, Tennessee – Supports expansion in the Midwest
Advanced automation technology and supply chain coordination ensure prompt, reliable fulfillment. This infrastructure has been critical in maintaining stock availability, supporting e-commerce, and reducing delivery times.
Academy’s logistics strategy continues to support national growth, making the shopping experience fast, efficient, and accessible, no matter how customers choose to shop.
