Acknowledging ‘sentiment has shifted and the outdoor and snow communities would prefer to gather at a single show,’ Outdoor Retailer and the Outdoor Industry Association canceled November’s Winter Market and combined it with January’s Snow Show.
Outdoor Retailer today announced it has canceled its November show and will now host only two shows — one in summer and one in winter — moving forward. The Winter Market and Snow Show will combine and take place January 29-31, 2020.
The Outdoor Retailer shows are the largest outdoor industry conventions in the United States. The move comes as a surprise as many brands, retailers, and media have already secured exhibition space and booked travel. In a lengthy press release, officials said that all brands booked for November will be welcome to exhibit in January.
What’s more, bike brands will also have the option of attending either Outdoor + Snow Show or Summer Market. “When we positioned Winter Market at the front of the buying season, it was in response to our community,” Marisa Nicholson, Outdoor Retailer senior vice president and show director, wrote in the press release.
“Through ongoing feedback, it has become clear that one combined winter show in January will best support brands, retailers, and reps, leading to greater value for all in attendance. Outdoor Retailer is where the entire industry comes together, and we’re looking forward to having outdoor and snowsports gather for one vibrant show and to collectively help our industry continue to grow.”
Outdoor Retailer Winter Market Canceled
Numerous questions arise as a result of the decision, so OR put together a comprehensive FAQ to address the most pressing issues. Here are some key takeaways:
- Winter Market sponsors and exhibitors will have a space on hold for January’s show; brands can also opt for a full refund
- There will be only two shows — winter and summer — going forward
- Attendees will receive a full refund
- For now, each show will last for 3 days
- SIA’s On-Snow Demo will take place after the show, with the exact date to be announced.
More than 230 brands and 2,300 retail buyers had already committed to the November show. Today’s announcement marks the first time there will be only two large industry trade shows. Even when OR took over the SIA snow show, it retained a three-show schedule.
To be sure, combining two winter shows into one will make for a very busy, interesting exhibition. We will continue to follow the story as it develops.
