Andrew Denton, chief executive of the Outdoor Industries Association. Photo: Bob Smith/grough
The UK outdoor industry will stage a camping weekend aimed at future leaders in the business.
The Outdoors Future Camp will take place in Sheffield in September.
The two-day event is described by the Outdoor Industries Association as a learning and networking experience for the next generation of outdoor industry leaders. The camp is aimed at store managers and deputies, regional retail managers, brand-marketing, sales and product managers, representatives, agents and distributor staff, plus activity centre and hostel staff and instructors and any new prospects wanting to develop a career in the outdoor industries.
It is being organised jointly by the OIA and ISPO Academy, the training and development arm of ISPO, the international organisation that organises trade shows in Europe and Asia.
The OIA said, unlike other annual outdoor industry conferences, the camp is aimed at younger up-and-coming outdoor professionals rather than senior management.
Speakers will be announced shortly, but topics include understanding the ‘new outdoor’ consumer, merchandising, social media and online strategies, customer services, new media and inspiration in business. The camp will also include workshops, team-building and an adventure team challenge during the daytime, while a hog roast and live music will bring a festival atmosphere in the evening.
OIA chief executive Andrew Denton said: “We are incredibly excited about the launch of the Outdoors Future Camp, as it offers a completely new proposition within the outdoors industry and are excited to partner with ISPO Academy, who will bring a wealth of experience to the event.
“This has been specifically created to reach the important next generation and future leaders of the outdoor industry, bringing together their enthusiasm, vibrancy and dynamism to celebrate and encourage them to progress their careers in the outdoors.
“Not only will the Outdoors Future Camp offer delegates an inspiring programme, it will present a platform for them to be listened to and give insight into how the UK outdoor industry will develop with them in charge. It’s a great opportunity for all outdoor companies to invest in the future of the industry.”
Christoph Rapp, international sales and retail manager for ISPO, said: “As a partner to the global sports industry 365 days a year we are pleased to support the Outdoors Future Camp with our long term experience and expertise in organising conference and workshops for sport business professionals within ISPO Academy.
“The UK is a very important market for us. In addition, with this cooperation we strengthen our partnership with the Outdoor Industries Association.”
The event will take place at Eccleshall Wood, south of Sheffield. A place at the camp will cost £149 per person for OIA members, and £199 for non-OIA members. Included in the fee is the full programme of speakers, workshops, breakout sessions, activities and evening entertainment, as well as dinner and pitch fees. Details about how to book will be released soon, the OIA said.
- grough is a member of the OIA.
