Burton is moving its European Analog and Gravis offices from the snowy peaks of Innsbruck to the beaches of Southwest France to expand their focus on skate and surf.

Last April, TransWorld Business published its first annual State Of Surf Hardgoods Report. After polling more than 100 leading retailers and 50 top shapers, we presented the results. This year we’ve done it again, except better. We polled more retailers and manufacturers, asked more targeted questions, and got more accurate results. In addition, we’re now able to draw comparative conclusions based on last year’s data.

On September 26, Firewire Surfboards announced to its retail partners that it will no longer be including fins with its boards. The company says this move will enable it to offer a lower MSRP to its customers as well as a better margin for retailers. This decision is sure to spark discussion as it's a departure from the traditional way that boards are sold. Stay tuned to Transworld Business as this story unfolds for interviews with Firewire CEO Mark Price and key players from the surf accessory/ fin market.

Transworld Business recently embarked on a shop tour in Central Florida, and it went so well that we're planning on doing them all over the country. That being said, this is the first installment of the Transworld Shop Stop: Central Florida. We've got a ton of additional updates that we will be posting here over the next few days. So make sure to check back later for videos, interviews, virtual shop tours, and much more. For now, enjoy this photo gallery.

"Although our earnings for the second quarter were in line with our expectations, our results continue to reflect the impact of a weakening economy on the retail sector. With the possibility of an even tougher environment ahead, we plan to maintain strong operating discipline while weathering these economic headwinds in order to position our business for success when the environment improves." —Sally Frame Kasaks, Chief Executive Officer.

"We continue to make positive strides in our ongoing efforts to give our customers a unique specialty retail experience, while controlling costs and effectively managing inventories during this very difficult operating environment. Due to this focus, we exceeded our earnings projection for the first six months of this year. We have opened 39 stores this year and continue to make the investments necessary to build the Zumiez chain to our goal of 800 stores." —Rick Brooks, President and CEO

Ocean & Earth recently opened a new office in Costa Mesa, California. To break the place in they decided to invite a ton of friends, family, and industry folks to come over for a good, old-fashioned mustache bash. Complete with mandatory fake mustaches, mexican food, and margaritas. Plus, the Japanese Motors took the stage and put on a show for a captive crowd. Here are a few photos from the party.