Outdoor Trade Show, 26th – 28th September 2011.
Stoneleigh Park Exhibition Centre, Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire.
News
4 October 2011 : AND THE WINNERS ARE...
The winners of the hotly anticipated 2011 Novel Awards have been announced at the Outdoor Trade Show (OTS) by mountaineer Bonita Norris. Held at the Outdoor Trade Social, the awards ceremony was watched by a large number of exhibitors and visitors keen to see which products were favoured by the judges.
Each of the finalists in the six categories were assessed by a panel of expert judges which included specialist outdoor retailers and journalists, as well Bonita. The Geigerrig 2 Litre Hydration Engine by Whitby & Co was not only selected as the winner of the Accessories category, but also the coveted Product of the Year.
The 2011 winners for each category were announced as:
• Accessories: Whitby & Co – Geigerrig 2 Litre Hydration Engine
• Backpacks: Vaude - Wallaby
• Clothing: KoziKidz – Soft Shell Jacket and Trousers
• Camping Equipment: Lyon - Jetboil Crunchit
• Footwear: Tecnica – Diablo Max
• Sleeping Bags: Snugpak - Chrysalis
The products from the winners, as well as the other finalists, are on display in a dedicated awards area for the duration of the show.
OTS Show Organiser Marta Williams added: “With over 100 entries, this was the largest number of entries to date for the Novel Awards. The popularity of the awards continues to grow and this demonstrates the need to recognise the achievements and innovations of manufacturers across the outdoor industry.”
4 October 2011 : SHOW NEWS - ED& PHIL ACTIVE
Ed & Phil launch new Alpina Binom shoe range at OTS 2011
Since striking the distribution deal with Alpina in early 2011, Ed & Phil Active has been working with retailers and independent reviewers to get feedback on the initial product range that was adopted to ascertain likely UK market reaction to Alpina and to tailor appropriate sales and marketing campaigns.
The Alpina Vision, Tundra, Mont Low, Vantage, Metro and Kody (a child’s walking boot) have been trialled by a mix of journalists and retailers, and one of Ed & Phil Active’s retail customers has been selling them as a market testing exercise. As a result of feedback, a brand new UK Alpina logo has been designed for the launch with the slogan: ‘Sheer outdoor pleasure – Quality footwear makers since 1947’.
The new Binom range (pronounced ‘bee nome’) is designed for users with an active lifestyle and produced in two different width ‘volumes’ and with a removable ‘volume control plate’ inside which enables the user to achieve a more perfect fit, regardless of whether his or her metatarsus is high or low, wide or narrow. The double-density Vibram sole also ensures an excellent and safe grip in a firmly stable shoe and the Binom range is also waterproofed with the breathable Sympatex membrane, which, like other shoe materials, is ecologically friendly.
22 September 2011 : WHITBY & CO NEWS - STAND 66
WHITBY & CO NEWS – STAND 66
It has been confirmed that Curt Geiger, owner of the Geigerrig brand of hydration packs, which is distributed in the UK by Whitby & Co, will be present at OTS for the duration of the show. The brand has two products nominated for a Novel Awards in the accessories and backpacks categories.
During the three days of the show Whitby & Co will be hosting three competitions (one per day) for an opportunity to win a Geigerrig product. The lucky winner will be presented with the prize by Curt Geiger who will also be doing hourly demonstrations of the Geigerrig products at Whitby & Co stand 66.
22 September 2011 : CONTIGO NEWS - STAND 82
Contigo (stand 82) is back with us again this year with their new range of innovative water bottles and Travel Mugs. After winning an IF Design award in 2011 the Contigo team are very excited about showing off their new AUTOSPOUT System Bottles as well as their ever sought after AUTOSEAL Bottles and Travel Mugs. Drop by stand 82, across from HiTec, and pop your business card in the drop box and be in with a chance to be a daily winner of Contigo products.
22 September 2011 : SKIWEB NEWS - STAND 207
Visit our stand for Special Show Prices, Free POS & Free Delivery on all orders placed at the show
Launching the New ULTRA Get a Grip Ice Grip & All Purpose Heavy Duty Ice Grip, With 6 Tungsten Carbide Spikes Lasting 10 times longer.
21 September 2011 : WHITBY & CO NEWS - STAND 66
Whitby & Co will be celebrating 50 years of excellence at the sixth annual Outdoor Trade Show at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire from September 26th – 28th. Established in 1961 by Major Aubrey Whitby, the company is now a major wholesale distributor of international outdoor consumer brands including Leatherman, Wenger, Nite Ize, Princeton Tec, Geigerrig, Inova, Luger, Heat Factory and cutlery brands Opinel, Buck and Helle. At Outdoor Trade Show 2011, Whitby & Co will be showcasing exciting new products from its partner manufacturers including the launch of the award winning Geigerrig pressurised hydration pack, a children’s headtorch from Princeton Tec, a new stylish hand warmer from Whitby, camping and hiking knives from Buck, a colourful take on Opinel’s classic outdoor trekking knife, and. Find out more from the Whitby team at stand 66.
New Whitby & Co products for Outdoor Trade Show 2011
? Leatherman Wingman and Sidekick multi-feature tools
New from Leatherman this September are two multi-feature tools designed to tackle any situation around the house, garden, workshop or great outdoors. Both the 14-tool Wingman and the 15-tool Sidekick are made from stainless steel and feature a range of knives, pliers, screwdrivers, can and bottle openers, files and wire cutters. Both come with the Leatherman 25-year guarantee and will be distributed in the UK by Whitby & Co.
? Wenger Ueli Steck knife
World record breaking Swiss mountaineer Ueli Steck has joined forces with Wenger this year to launch a specialist multi-functional tool for climbers, hikers and backcountry skiers. Available through Whitby & Co from July, the Ueli Steck Knife has been built to Ueli’s exacting specifications. It features a titanium handle, a part serrated wide blade incorporating three hexagonal keys ideal for crampon adjustment, as well as a suite of tools.
? Geigerrig 2 litre hydration engine
2011 has seen a major leap forward in hydration technology with the launch of the Geigerrig 2 Litre Hydration Engine. Distributed in the UK by Whitby & Co this innovative hydration pack can be quickly turned inside out for easy dishwasher cleaning. And its slide top makes it easy to fill - whether from a tap or natural water source such as a stream or river. It can also be used with an optional filter which removes 99.9% of cryptosporidium and Giardia from water sources.
? Wenger Titanium Series
New for summer 2011 from Wenger are two titanium-handled knives designed with the climber and mountaineer in mind. The Titanium 1 and 2 feature a partially serrated blade with three hexagonal keys and come in a lightweight case. Distributed in the UK by Whitby & Co, the knives each feature a different suite of tools and offer the user the ultimate combination of lightweight, strength, and corrosion resistance.
? Helle Temagami knives
Norwegian knife specialist Helle has teamed up with TV survival expert Les Stroud to create the new Temagami series of knives. Best known for the TV series Survivorman, Les has worked with Helle’s highly skilled team of craftsman to create the traditional single blade knives which come in a choice of carbon steel or stainless steel blade. Both will be available in UK outdoor stores from XXX via Whitby & Co.
? Princeton Tec BOT kid’s headlamp
Princeton Tec’s new range of funky kids headlamps will soon be making their way to UK stores through Whitby & Co. The BOT headlamps come in four colours and offer youngsters the Princeton Tec stamp of ruggedness and reliability. And there’s a large push button that’s ideal for little hands! Powered by two ultra bright LEDs the headlamps weigh just 63g and offer three modes: low (5 Lumens), high (15 Lumens) and flash.
? Nite Ize S-Biner Ahhh
Get more from your carabiner with the new S-Biner Ahhh from Wenger. Like Wenger’s classic S-Biner, the S-Biner Ahhh features sturdy stainless steel gate closures and bottle openers. So whether you’re opening your favourite drink, or looking for something to safely clip keys, water bottles, camping gear or lanterns, the S-Biner Ahhh does the job.
? Nite Ize ClipLit LED
Whitby & Co will be lighting up Outdoor Trade Show 2011 with the new ClipLit LED from Wenger. Bright, water resistant and encased in a durable plastic housing, the ClipLit can be easily attached to just about anything – from belt loops to key rings, backpacks to zippers. The light weighs less than 4g and runs off a lithium (included) battery.
? Heat Factory PoS stand
“Never Be Cold Again” is the confident message to consumers at the toasty new Point of Sale stand developed by Whitby and Co for Heat Factory’s Hand & Body Warmers. The heavy duty floor display is designed to offer a high return from a small space and has space for 80 pairs (two boxes) of Hand Warmers; 60 (two boxes) of Large Body Warmers; 40 (one box) of Toe Warmers and 30 (one box) of Foot Warmer Insoles.
? Whitby Hand Warmer
The Whitby Hand Warmer will be hitting stores this September just in time for the colder weather. The metal and chrome-finished hand warmer weights in at just 80g and runs on lighter fuel – offering a broad range of outdoor enthusiasts near instant relief from the problem of cold hands. It comes with a protective fleece bag and runs for six (half fill) or 12 hours (full).
? Opinel Outdoor/Trekking knives
Whitby & Co is to act as UK distributor for a new colourful take on Opinel’s outdoor/trekking knives. The single-blade knives are ideal for a range of outdoor tasks and come in five handle colours: sky blue, apple green, tangerine, plum and natural beech. The knives have a varnished hornbeam handle, and an 8cm Sandvik stainless steel blade (8.5cm for the natural beech model). A 60-piece display stand is available for retailers.
? Buck camping and hiking knives
Three new Buck camping and hiking knives will be distributed by Whitby & Co from this autumn. The 770 Flashpoint, 766 Revel and 750 Redpoint are suitable for a range of outdoor activities from trekking and climbing to fishing and hunting. The Flashpoint comes in black, blue and orange and features a 7.3cm partially serrated 420HC steel blade; while the Revel has a 6.4cm 420HC stainless steel blade and comes in blue, black or yellow. The Redpoint is available in black, blue and yellow and has a 7cm drop point, partially serrated 420HC steel blade.
21 September 2011 : ULTRASPORT NEWS - STAND 19
Ultra Sport Europe is a leading action sports equipment distributor, operating primarily in the UK and Ireland as well as in some parts of Europe. Like our name implies, we’re not your average sports company. We don’t deal in the run-of-the-mill everyday sports. We’re about living on the edge, feeling the adrenaline and thrive on the challenges that only action sports can really give you.
Like getting a rush when you face the elements? Whether your playground is in the mountainous peaks of the Alps, or the chilly waves of the Irish Sea, we’ve got the stuff to make your playtime worth living for.
Following the popularity of our products at last years OTS Show, 2011 see us presenting three leading outdoor brands at the exhibition: Contour, BIC Kayaks and Bern helmets.
Contour: a market leader in hands-free video cameras and adventure storytelling tools that enable modern day explorers to tell their stories of action and adventure. All 3 hands-free HD models are ergonomic, robust and come with an array of accessories for use in all extreme sport conditions, even if you’re 60m below the surface! GPS and live streaming make these mini machines superior to anything else on the market.
BIC kayaks: delivering the broadest range of sit-on-top and inflatable boats available for the outdoor market. Our sit-on-tops are stable, safe, colourful and make kayaking an extremely affordable past time. If space is an issue, our comprehensive inflatable range makes kayaking accessible for everyone; a family fun day out down the river, to the ocean going adventurer.
Bern, the most versatile brand in stylish, revolutionary action sports helmets. Bern specializes in action sport head protection, pads and apparel for the outdoor market, be it Snow, H20, Bike, and Skate. Our Hard Hats and helmets feature the All Season comfort liner system with removable and interchangeable warm and cold weather liners. The helmet construction ranges from Multi impact bBrock foam to high-impact ultra light Zipmold construction.
21 September 2011 : PROGRESS NEWS - STAND 34
Progress launches award winning head torch
Stocks of the Sensormatic are now available for retailers
Progress Importers, the UK importers of their own Silverpoint brand of LED lighting products, are pleased to announce that stocks are now available of their award winning Silverpoint Sensormatic head torch.
Winner of the ‘Most innovative product’ award at the 2010 Outdoor Trade Show, the Sensormatic utilises IR (infra red) sensor operation technology which allows switching on and off by merely waving a hand in front of the torch. This is extremely useful for times when to manually turn it on and off would be difficult – such as when hands are dirty, when wearing gloves, or undertaking activities such as running, climbing and fishing.
It is driven by an XP-C Cree LED which provides up to a powerful 100 lumens of measured light at maximum output (the brightness is variable down to 10%) for a full 4 hours of on operation. It incorporates both separate manual switch and IR Sensormatic operations and has an additional 2-piece red LED feature for night vision use, including an emergency red LED flashing facility. It is water resistant and powered by 3 AAA batteries which are supplied in the bubble pack packaging. All this is provided for a suggested retail price of just £40.00.
UK Silverpoint distributors ‘Ed & Phil Active’ think the Sensormatic will be in high demand. Its partners, Edward Chapman and Phillip Howells, are seasoned and experienced long distance runners, which often means night time running. As Phillip has commented: ‘I have long wanted a torch like this, which I can turn on and off easily. This is very difficult to do when running because head torch switches are usually small and fiddly. For instance, when I run around the streets of my home town, I go through dark areas when I need good lighting, but also through well illuminated areas where I do not need it and could therefore save battery life. It is also useful to be able to turn off the light on busier pavements so as not to blind or confuse pedestrians with a ‘bouncing’ light. This is a very common situation for many UK urban runners. The Silverpoint Sensormatic is the perfect solution’.
21 September 2011 : NEXTORCH / MYTORCH NEWS - STAND 116
NEXTORCH are showing their range of top-quality LED Torches at OTS for the 1st time including their new ‘myTorch’, claimed to be “The Worlds First Smart Torch!”
Fully programmable, you can set the number, order, brightness and functions to your exact needs, resulting in “myTorch – my way”!
Full demonstrations will be given throughout the show, where a series of attractive offers and support packages will also be offered to welcome & assist New Distributors in selling NEXTORCH & myTorch products!
In addition NEXTORCH will be showing their full range of Torches, Head-Torches & accessories, along with their handy ‘Clip-Lite’ ideal for ‘hands-free working’, camping, map-reading etc. and also as an aid to personal security when used in a gentle strobe mode for identification & visibility.
21 September 2011 : CARE PLUS NEWS - STAND 23
Be one of the first visitors to the Care Plus stand and receive a “Tikko” cuddly tick toy, or a free Skin saver SPF 30 Lip salve.
21 September 2011 : ED & PHIL ACTIVE NEW - STAND 166
Ed & Phil launch new Alpina shoe distributorship at OTS 2011
Deal is a direct result of its first time attending OTS in 2010
When Ed & Phil Active sets up the stand at its second Outdoor Trade Show (OTS – held at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, September 26th-28th) it will be launching its UK distributorship of Alpina shoes; a deal which is a direct result of attending OTS 2010.
Attending the 2010 event was the company’s first foray into trade exhibitions as a mark of confidence since its move into product selling in late 2008. Now established as a growing distributor and agency for a range of running, outdoor and sporting activity products and specialising in trail and off-road, Ed & Phil Active felt that OTS was the perfect platform to help showcase its expanding range of quality brands and extend its customer retail base.
One visitor to the stand, who has turned out to be a very important one for Ed & Phil Active future prospects, was Gasper Semrov of Slovenia based Alpina Shoes. He had travelled to visit OTS specifically to find a UK distributor for the brand, which embraces outdoor (from walking to mountaineering), skiing and everyday shoes in its range. After a couple of jointly rewarding discussions, sandwiched between a tour of all the other stands present, Gasper announced that he thought Ed & Phil Active would be the perfect partner to help them establish a retail presence in the UK.
Despite the company’s youth and size, he felt the combination of enthusiasm, energy and ambition of the partners (Edward Chapman, 57 from near Bude in Cornwall and Phillip Howells, 64 from Ledbury in Herefordshire) allied to their specialist knowledge of the trail and off-road market (both are very experienced long distance runners with some 200 marathons and ultra-marathons between them), were just what they were looking for.
A visit to the company factory in Ziri early in 2011 to see the production facilities, to familiarise themselves with the full range of products and to meet senior management, led to the agreement of an exclusive UK distribution deal. A limited range of walking boots and shoes will be featured in the initial launch, with a special package of an inclusive sock deal for each pair ordered before the end of OTS being offered to encourage retailers to place orders.
16 September 2011 : BOG-IN-A-BAG NEWS STAND 135
‘Boginabag Founder Enters the Den’
Dragons battle to secure a share in the next big outdoor product. The appropriately named BoginaBag is a unique solution to an age-old problem; the foldaway, portable seat doubles as
a toilet, perfect for when nature calls and there’s nowhere to go. Launched in May 2010, it has already proved popular with campers and festival goers but its inventor, mum of two Kate Castle, decided it was time to take her business to the next level by appearing on the BBC hit series, Dragons Den.
“Having negotiated the tricky path of product design, patents and manufacturing, and seen a steady growth in sales, I was really confident in the product but just needed that extra investment and assistance to take my
business to the next level. The Den was the perfect opportunity,” explains Kate.
It may not be the most glamorous product of all but Bogina Bag certainly caused a storm in the Den, sparking a bidding war between the Dragons and a first-of-its-kind scenario for
the show.
Having impressed the Dragons with her presentation, and been grilled closely on her figures, Kate received offers from both Deborah Meaden and Hilary Devey. However, while most entrepreneurs would have been delighted with these offers, Kate had her heart set on securing the investment of one particular Dragon.
“I’d done my research before going into the Den and had decided that Theo Paphitis would be the best match for my business. It was really nerve-racking but I was so determined
to get his backing that I embarked on a serious charm offensive.”
It was a risky strategy that saw Deborah Meaden take offense and withdraw her offer. At one point it looked like Kate’s investments dreams might slip away but luckily for her
Theo saw the potential in both Kate and her product.“Dragons do not invest money simply because they are charmed by an entrepreneur. I saw a fantastic opportunity not only with BoginaBag but with Kate’s ability to drive the
business forward,” says Theo.
And he was certainly right. Kate has spent the summer touring the festivals where BoginaBag has gone down a treat.
Sales have rocketed to over 10,000 items and with Theo’s investment Kate now has plans to triple turnover in the next year.
“Theo’s involvement has enabled me to really focus on where we want to be and how we get there,” says Kate. “I am now facing opportunities that I never dreamed possible.”
16 September 2011 : 5.11 TACTICAL OTS NEWS - STAND 38A
The 5.11 TACTICAL/Ray Mears cooperation
Ray Mears is one of the few true outdoor legends. While pioneering the study of
Bushcraft in the UK, he was one of the first to bring the outdoors indoors to the
masses through 17 years of Television Broad-casting. Quietly spoken with over 25
years experience, Ray is recognized worldwide as a true master of the outdoors.
Having spent the majority of his life travelling in wilderness, learning to be at home in
places others describe as hostile, he continues to work tirelessly to share his
understanding so that others may ‘drink at the well of bush craft’. Expanding their
knowledge and skills, ultimately becoming truly at one with the great outdoors.
Ray Mears has worn the 5.11 TACTICAL shirt at his own choosing in his films, TV
Programs and training courses, simply because of its fit, functionality and durability.
5.11 Tactical will start a widely advertised competition at the OTS show on the 26th of
September, the competition will end on the 30th of November. The grand prize of this
competition will be a day course exclusively given by Ray Mears himself on a location
with the UK. Other prizes will be other 5.11 Tactical products.
About 5.11 Tactical Series®
Located in Modesto, California, 5.11 Tactical Series® creates innovative, userrequired
products that enhance the safety, speed and performance of law
enforcement, military, fire and EMS professionals worldwide. Built on a foundation of
durability, quality and value that began with the authentic 5.11 Tactical Pant, 5.11’s
team of over 300 employees leads the industry in delivering the world’s most
innovative gear, head to toe. By working directly with end-users and utilizing the
expertise of highly-qualified subject matter experts, all 5.11 products exceed rigorous
and exacting standards.
14 September 2011 : FINALISTS UNVEILED FOR OTS NOVEL AWARDS 2011
Entries for the prestigious Outdoor Trade Show (OTS) Novel Awards have been assessed by a panel of industry experts and the three finalists for each category have been selected.
Since they were introduced, the Novel Awards have continued to grow in popularity and 2011 has been the most hotly contended year since the launch of the accolade, with over 100 entries across the six categories.
All finalists will have their products showcased in a dedicated awards display area for the duration of the show. The winner of each category will be announced by guest judge Bonita Norris during the Outdoor Trade Social which takes place at the end of the show’s opening day, Monday 26th September, in the link area between the two halls.
The judges have announced that the finalists for each award are:
Accessories:
• Ultrasport - Contour Camera (Stand 19)
• Lyon - Petzl Lynx Crampon (Stand 47)
• Whitby & Co - Geigerrig 2Litre Hydration Engine (Stand 66)
Backpacks/Travel Luggage:
• Oase - Outwell Wayfarer (Stand 3)
• Vaude - Wallaby (Stand 46)
• Whitby & Co - Geigerrig Rig 500 (Stand 66)
Camping Equipment:
• Lyon - Exped DownMat Ultralite (Stand 47)
• Lyon - Jetboil Crunchit (Stand 47)
• Rosker - Primus Omni Lite Ti (Stand 85)
Clothing:
• Horizon - Merino Trekker socks (Stand 51)
• Kozikidz - Soft Shell Jacket and Trousers (Stand 39a)
• Timberland – Mountain Athletics Aligned Jacket (Stand 65c)
Footwear:
• Tecnica - Diablo Max (Stand 101)
• Timberland - Mountain Athletics Lite Trace Mid (Stand 65c)
• Wolverine - Pulsar ICS Low Cut (Stand 190)
Sleeping bags:
• Ark Group - Nordisk Bering (Stand 10)
• Lifemarque - Lifeventure Downlight 900 (Stand 65b)
• Snugpak - Chrysalis (Stand 41)
Show organiser Marta Williams commented: “The calibre and volume of entries for this year’s Novel Awards is testament to both the importance of recognising innovation and product development within the industry, as well as the popularity of the Novel Awards and OTS. Exhibitors entered the most diverse range of products to date and this will no doubt have made it difficult for the judges to select the finalists. Good luck to all!”
8 September 2011 : OTS AND TENT SHOW TO MERGE IN 2012
Following the results of a trade survey carried out earlier this year amongst outdoor retailers and manufacturers to find out their views on OTS and the Stoneleigh Tent Show and their preferred timings, a decision has been made to merge the two shows in 2012.
The results of the survey showed that 80% of retailers and manufacturers who replied to the survey, would prefer to visit a joint show, with expenses and time away from the business mentioned as the main reasons for preferring one show. Retailers cited that one visit but with a longer duration would be the preferred option. When asked about the timing of the show, both manufacturers and retailers (73%) would choose the first two weeks of September as the most popular dates for OTS.
Organisers of the Outdoor Trade Show (OTS) and the Tent Show, MCS, are pleased to announce that the show will take place at the Stoneleigh Park venue from the 10th to the 13th September 2012. The four day show will allow retailers longer time to browse through the two exhibition halls and the outdoor tent area. To make the show as viable and fair to all exhibitors, the outside grass areas will be exclusively reserved for tents with all other outdoor accessory products being displayed within the exhibition halls.
OTS and Tent Show organisers Marta Williams and Alasdair Scobbie said: ‘We are very pleased to announce that the two shows will unite in 2012, ending a few years of debate within the industry and solving the problem of OTS exhibitors wishing to display tents. Both shows are organised with the needs of retailers in mind and we are delighted to be able to move forward with one show that will tick all the boxes in terms of location, timing and convenience. The new show will be the largest outdoor trade event in the UK and we are looking forward to hosting the industry in 2012.
Space rates and floor plans for the show will be released in the autumn, allowing exhibitors to reserve stand space for 2012.
28 July 2011 : BONITA NORRIS ANNOUNCED AS SPECIAL GUEST AT OTS
Bonita Norris, currently the youngest British female to summit Mount Everest, has been confirmed as a special guest for this year’s Outdoor Trade Show (OTS).
The inspirational climber will present the annual Novel Awards, established to recognise excellence in innovation and technology within the industry, at the Outdoor Trade Social on Monday 26th September. Bonita will also join a panel of industry experts – comprising journalists and retailers - to judge entries for the Novel Awards.
Last year, Karrimor-sponsored athlete Bonita, reached the summit of Mount Everest at the age of 22 with mountaineer Kenton Cool. She has since skied the last degree to the North Pole and has also reached the saddle summit of another 8000m peak, Mount Manaslu, and hopes to attempt another in 2012.
Show organiser Marta Williams added: “Bonita’s professional experience makes her an excellent judge for the OTS Novel Awards. We are thrilled that she will be joining us at the show and helping to present the awards to the 2011 winners. We have no doubt that her presence will create an air of excitement for visitors and exhibitors.”
26 July 2011 : OTS BREAKS RECORDS - Organisers extend exhibition space to accomodate demand
OUTDOOR TRADE SHOW (OTS) BREAKS RECORDS
- Organisers extend exhibition space to accommodate demand -
OTS has continued to break its own record with 124 exhibitors now booked with two months left until the show opens its doors on 26th September – the largest number in the event’s history. To accommodate the increasing number of stand requests, the organisers have now extended the exhibition space in Hall 1 at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire.
The latest figures show that OTS 2011 is nearly three times the size of the inaugural event, having launched in 2006 with 46 exhibitors. The volume of bookings and visitors has since grown year on year, highlighting the need for such a trade event in the UK.
Reflecting on the continued success of OTS, show organiser Marta Williams commented: “Brands are keen to display their latest products and this has led to them booking space at OTS much earlier than in previous years. The sustained growth of the show is exciting and it is testament to the important role that the show has come to play for retailers and manufacturers.”
For outdoor retailers, the diverse range of exhibitors at the 2011 show presents an attractive opportunity to find something fresh for their customers, while keeping up with demand for popular products. The latest exhibitors to sign up include Dickies, Vibram Fivefingers, Tecnica, Wardstones, Oxford Products, 3M and Sports Body Systems.
OTS 2011 will take place at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire from Monday 26th until Wednesday 28th September 2011.
For more information about the event, call organisers MCS on 0161 980 7242 to book exhibition space.
6 July 2011 : OTS - EVERYTHING YOU NEED UNDER ONE ROOF
The Outdoor Trade Show (OTS) 2011 continues to grow at pace with 116 exhibitors now confirmed for the event in September.
With the number of exhibitors continuing to rise, OTS presents retailers and buyers with an attractive opportunity to source a diverse selection of products for 2012 under one roof. The wide array of manufacturers displaying their latest developments means OTS is the ideal environment to discover new brands and innovative products, as well as meet with favourite companies.
Event organiser Marta Williams commented: “Trade shows are a crucial time for all retailers – from small independents to larger multiples - as buyers can source and order their stock for the next season. Time pressure is an issue for any business and OTS represents a great opportunity for retailers to make the most of their time away from the office or shop floor with over a hundred brands in one place.
“With such a wide array of manufacturers, the show really does provide retailers with the chance to find something fresh for their customers while keeping up with demand for popular products and trends.”
OTS will take place from Monday 26th until Wednesday 28th September in the exhibition halls at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire. To date, exhibition space at OTS has sold faster than any other year and the show is expected to attract in excess of 1500 trade visitors over the three day period.
16 June 2011 : OTS NOVEL AWARDS 2011 LAUNCHED
The eagerly anticipated Outdoor Trade Show (OTS) Novel Awards are now open to entries for the 2011 event. Hopeful entrants have until Monday 1st August to submit their applications to each of the seven categories.
Established to recognise product innovation and technology, the annual Novel Awards are open to all exhibitors at this year’s OTS. With a wide choice of categories to enter, from clothing and sleeping bags, to footwear, rucksacks and camping equipment, exhibitors have the opportunity to enter a multitude of their latest products.
Judging the awards will be a panel of expert industry judges comprising journalists and retailers who will assess the entries in all categories. All finalists will have their products showcased in a dedicated awards display area at the show and the winners will be announced at the Outdoor Trade Social on Monday 26th September.
Show organiser Marta Williams commented: “The Novel Awards represent an important opportunity for brands in the outdoor industry to put forward their new developments and innovations across a wide range of product categories. Since the first awards were launched, entries have been increasing year on year as it is a great opportunity to secure recognition in front of potential retail customers, and we expect this will continue for the 2011 show.”
20 May 2011 : OTS: MAKING THE MOST OF THE STAYCATION
Brits took more than 82 million camping and caravanning trips in the UK during 2006-2010, spending a total of 376 million nights under the stars*. With so many outdoor holidays taking place, the rise of the ‘staycation’ is an excellent opportunity for retailers and manufacturers in the outdoor industry.
Whether they are taking part in an extreme camping break, or enjoying a family caravan holiday, the need for holidaymakers to source everything from sleeping bags and camping accessories, through to clothing and technical outdoor equipment is undeniable.
The Outdoor Trade Show provides manufacturers with an ideal platform to showcase their new products to retail buyers and in turn, make the most of the staycation trend.
Reflecting on the figures, event organiser Marta Williams commented: “There are many reasons why the staycation has become increasingly popular, from the current financial climate through to increasing taxes on flights and fluctuating exchange rates. As more people than ever are choosing to stay in the UK for their holidays, it is crucial for brands to make sure they stand out and maximise their sales opportunities. By attending OTS, manufacturers will be able to showcase their products to the variety of retailers who attend the show, from small independents to larger multiples. It also means buyers will be able to see innovative products and provide their customers with the latest trends in the outdoors.”
OTS will take place from Monday 26th until Wednesday 28th September in the exhibition halls at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire. With 7,500sqm of exhibition space available at the venue, the show provides an ideal environment for retailers to secure orders for the new Spring/Summer 2012 collections. To date, more than 100 suppliers have booked stand space at the show which is expected to attract in excess of 1500 trade visitors over the three day period.
5 April 2011 : 100 EXHIBITORS SIGN UP FOR OTS
The popularity of the Outdoor Trade Show (OTS) continues to grow at rapid pace with the 100th exhibitor now booked for the 2011 event. With five months to go until the September opening, this is an impressive 18 per cent increase on the number of bookings for the same time last year.
Recent additions to the long list of brands include first-time OTS exhibitors Bergans of Norway, Alt-Berg and Timberland, with ActSmart and Anatom returning after a year away from the show. As well as new and returning brands, many exhibitors have enlarged their stand for 2011, including Karrimor Special Forces, Design Go, UKD and SealSkinz.
Show organiser Marta Williams commented: “It is encouraging that support for OTS has continued to grow year on year and more so that exhibitors are signing up earlier than ever. The increased demand for space at OTS demonstrates the continuing need for such a trade event and its popularity highlights the important role the show plays for many retailers and manufacturers.”
Now in its sixth year, OTS 2011 will be taking place from Monday 26th September until Wednesday 28th September at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire.
28 February 2011 : OUTDOOR TRADE SHOW SET FOR SUCCESS FOR 2011
Exhibition space at the Outdoor Trade Show (OTS) is selling faster than ever before with brands eager to secure a space at the UK’s largest outdoor trade event. To date, 89 companies have signed up to the autumn show – a 15% increase on this time last year. With five months left to book, OTS 2011 is set to be the most successful yet.
The 2011 show has attracted an impressive selection of well-known brands as first time exhibitors including Timberland, Yellowstone Camping and Alt-Berg. Additionally, past exhibitors who were not involved in OTS 2010 but are making a return this year include Anatom and Result Clothing.
The show will take place from Monday 26th until Wednesday 28th September in the exhibition halls at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire. With 7,500sqm of exhibition space available at the venue, OTS provides an ideal environment for companies to generate business, and for retailers to secure orders for the new Spring/Summer 2012 collections or simply place top-ups in time for Christmas.
Commenting on the success of OTS, show organiser Marta Williams said: “OTS was set-up by the trade, for the trade, and represents an important opportunity for companies to showcase their products to over a thousand retailers. The demand for a UK trade event means the popularity of OTS has grown year on year, with all the leading outdoor accessory brands eager to be a part of the success. With companies keen to secure their previous locations, many of whom have even opted to increase the size of their stands, OTS 2011 promises to be the biggest year in the show’s history.”
For more information and regular updates about OTS 2011, visit the event’s official website www.outdoortradeshow.com, follow the show on Twitter (@OTS2011), or join the Outdoor Trade Show group on Facebook.
25 January 2011 : OTS IS BACK FOR 2011
New Show Dates Announced
Following yet another record breaking show, the organisers are pleased to announce that the Outdoor Trade Show (OTS) will be back in 2011 for its sixth consecutive year.
Next year’s event will take place from the 26th to the 28th September and will be held across the two exhibition halls at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire. With over 7500sqm of space available, OTS will provide outdoor brands with a cost effective platform to display product ranges for the coming Spring / Summer 2012 season.
As well as enabling exhibitors to display new product ranges, OTS also allows them to display current ranges for retailers to place top up orders in the run up to the busy Christmas period.
Booking forms have now been sent out to existing exhibitors for a chance to re-book their 2010 stand location. Impressed with the quality and amount of visitors at the 2010 event, many existing exhibitors have been quick to secure space at next year’s show. New exhibitors will be allowed to book a space from December 2010.
OTS attracts a range of brands with an excellent and diverse product mix including footwear, clothing, rucksacks, sleeping bags, camping furniture, socks, barbeques, navigation equipment, torches, stoves, multi tools, water bottles and walking poles.
Stoneleigh Park has proved to be the ideal venue for a trade show, due to its popularity last year with visitors and exhibitors alike. With easy transport links to the motorway and rail networks and within close proximity to Coventry and Birmingham airports retailers from all over the UK are within easy reach of OTS.
Commenting on the 2010 event, show organiser Marta Williams said: “Feedback from exhibitors and visitors to this year’s show has been exceptional. Exhibitors have been quick to secure their location at next year’s show. OTS has firmly established itself in the exhibitions calendar and we are looking forward to another successful show in 2011.”
Floor plans and booking forms are now available with priority being given to 2010 exhibitors to re-book their existing stands on a first come first served basis.
For more information about securing exhibition space at the 2011 event, please contact show organisers MCS t: 0161 980 7242 or to take a look at this year’s show please visit www.outdoortradeshow.com