Topo's outlet store in Castle Rock pictured in August 2026. (BusinessDen file photo)

Published: August 20, 2026

Topo Designs, the popular Denver outdoor retailer, was headed to receivership Wednesday until an eleventh-hour appearance by its founder’s lawyer derailed a court hearing and the receivership.

“Mr. Hansen, the founder of this great company, has not been heard,” said Michael Song, who joined the hearing remotely an hour after it began. “This motion for receivership, which is a drastic, drastic option, should not even be allowed based on the operating agreement.”

Denver District Judge Bruce Jones appeared ready to appoint Cordes & Co. to run the business, which has reportedly been brought to its knees by an ownership deadlock caused by Song’s client, Mark Hansen. Jones was irritated by Song’s late appearance and delay tactics.

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