BE PART of the FUTURE Itscooler.Asia/Home

JUNE 2017 £3.50

sportsTRADE LEISURE CYCLING NUTRITION insight FITNESS TECH OUTDOOR sports-insight.co.uk RETAIL TECHNOLOGY SPORTING LIFE DO YOUR AN ANGEL SWEAT, CUSTOMERS LOOKING GEARS, KNOW WHO OVER YOU HOPEFULLY TO TURN TO? P. 29 NO BLOOD P. 31 P. 39

BE PART OF THE FUTURE itscooler.asia/home

Cover.indd 1 26/05/2017 11:06 flights-sport-insight2-orange.pdf 1 10/05/2017 17:13

INNOVATE YOUR DARTS RANGE

VISION ULTRA

AVAILABLE IN STANDARD NO2, NO6, KITE & VAPOR

M Y VISION ULTRA CM

MY CY AVAILABLE IN CMY

K STANDARD NO2 & NO6

For our full range of ORDER NOW!

darts equipment go to Phone us on: +44 (0) 1279 410155 target-darts.co.uk Email us at: [email protected]

Editor: MARK HAYHURST WELCOME McColgan signs up with Polar Tel: 01206 508618 Email: [email protected] to this month's Sports Insight Polar has announced that British team, Eilish said: Advertising Manager: Double Olympian, Eilish “Monitoring and tracking KEITH MARSHALL McColgan, will be a sporting your data is crucial as an Tel: 01206 505947 ambassador for the brand. athlete, and no products are Fax: 01206 500243. The appointment of the more accurate and reliable Email: [email protected] than Polar. Having worn sports star comes at a Advertising Sales monumental time for Eilish, Polar products in the past, 21-23 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Rd, who represented Great Britain I’m particularly excited Colchester, Essex CO2 8JY in the 3,000M Steeplechase at about training with the new the London Olympics in 2012, Polar M430.” Group Advertising reached the final of the 5,000M Coached from overseas by Manager: SAM REUBIN Well that's that then (probably). at last summer’s Rio Olympic her mother, former World a perfect ambassador for the Group Editor: Without a crystal ball I Games and won bronze over Champion and Olympic silver Polar brand – a brilliant athlete CHARLOTTE SMITH can't say what happened in the 3,000M at the European Indoor medalist, Liz McColgan, Eilish whose gutsy, resilient approach Tel: 01206 508615 General Election this month but Championships in Belgrade. will also be making use of Polar to training and competition is a someone has hopefully formed a Eilish is currently training for Flow technology, ensuring all massive inspiration to other Publisher: MATTHEW TUDOR government by now (depending on the IAAF World Championships her data can be reviewed runners. We’re incredibly Art Director: CHRIS ASHWORTH when you read the magazine). in London this summer. remotely by her coaching team. excited to be working with her One thing I think that Taking time out from her Lucy Johnson, Marketing in such an exciting year for both Advertisement Art everyone can agree on though US training camp with the Director at Polar, said: “Eilish is Eilish and the Polar brand." Director: KEVIN DENNIS is the need to end the months Reproduction: of uncertainty that have been ACE PRE-PRESS. affecting the country. Tel: 01206 797541 Now we can, hopefully, push DW Group strengthens its business ahead with negotiations with the Photography: European Union with a clear and CLIQQ PHOTOGRAPHY www.cliqq.co.uk understood strategy on what we with new CEO appointment Twitter: @CliQQphoto want to achieve. The DW Group is our newly expanded senior team. and retail sectors most recently And Saucony's Jonathan Quint strengthening its business “Combining DW Sport's spending eight years as CEO of Accounts: SUE CARR. looks at who is after your vote. with the appointment of pedigree in retail and fitness with LA Fitness. Prior to that, he was Tel: 01206 505903 Don't worry it's not political! Martin Long as its new CEO. the experience and strength of the CEO of Game Group, the market Published by Maze Media (2000) He examines the issue of social Long led the successful Fitness First brand signals exciting leader in video game retailing, Limited, 21-23 Phoenix Court, media influencers and who exactly acquisition of Fitness First for the times ahead for the Group.” which grew to over 800 stores in Hawkins Rd, Colchester, Essex they are these days. DW Group in September 2016 and Long has extensive nine countries during his 13 years CO2 8JY And staying with the has now accepted the opportunity experience in both the fitness with the business. All contents © Maze Media (2000) digital theme Fiona Bugler asks to head up the Group. Limited. The views expressed in DW has a strong presence in this magazine are not necessarily whether the blog is dead or is it those of the publisher. Every effort transforming into something else? Sports Retail with over 90 sites is made to ensure the veracity and across the UK. With the Fitness integrity of the companies, persons, Things in politics can get products and services mentioned in extreme at times but Paul First business added to its gym this publication and details given portfolio, it is now the second are believed to be accurate at the Sherratt examines another time of going to press. However, no sector that embraces it. largest operator of gyms in the UK. responsibility or liability whatsoever He looks at the rise of extreme Long said: “I'm delighted to can be accepted for any consequence be leading the DW Group. or repercussion of responding events and the influence that it is to any information or advice having one the running market. “I will be ably supported given or inferred. No part of this by Scott Best who will head up publication may be copied, broadcast, So let's all take a deep breath, DW Group new CEO Martin Long with Dave interpreted, or stored, in any form, Fitness, and Matthew Sharpe who keep calm and carry on. Whelan, Matthew Sharpe and Scott Best. for any purpose, without the written will continue to head up Retail, plus permission of the publisher. Sports Insight has a current ABC certified circulation of 5,352 (audit period July IN PARTNERSHIP WITH 1, 2015 to June 30, 2016). The Audit Bureau of Circulations (ABC) is an The official publication of the Federation of Sports and Play Associations independent audit watchdog that verifies magazines’ circulation figures, providing accurate and comparable data for advertisers. ABC Certification demonstrates a media owner’s integrity, in their willingness to be audited and to conform to industry standards. UK/ROW subscription: £25/£42.50 for one year (10 issues).

@SportsInsightUK

Welcome.indd 1 26/05/2017 14:32 TR015 / TR025 TRIDRI® HEXOFLAGE™ PERFORMANCE T-SHIRT

AVAILABLE IN 8 COLOURS

RE- BRAND- ABLE

CLAIM YOUR

SAMPLE NOW! THROUGH OUR DISTRIBUTOR RALAWISE AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY FROM SIMPLY LIKE RALAWISE ON FACEBOOK! WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/RALAWISEUK AND COMMENT ‘TR015/TR025’ TEL: 0800 212 180 50 TR015/TR025 TRIDRI® HEXOFLAGETM PERFORMANCE EMAIL: [email protected] T-SHIRTS TO GIVEAWAY! FIRST COME FIRST SERVED. IRELAND TEL: 1 800 599 599 COLOURS AND SIZES SENT AT RANDOM. TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY. IRELAND EMAIL: [email protected]

RAL13119 TriDri Sports Insight Advert v9.indd 1 23/05/2017 15:57 NEWS All the very latest in the sports industry... Tough first quarter for ASICS Mason joins NEW ASICS EMEA has announced ASICS apparel PrettyGreen a tough first quarter but within the markets. BALANCE achieved a strong growth in Later in the SIGNS UP emerging markets and its year, ASICS will own retail stores. launch a new VERTUE AS AN After more than doubling creative brand sales between 2010-2015, in campaign to AMBASSADOR 2016 ASICS made the strategic introduce refreshing New Balance has appointed decision to streamline the brand expressions personal trainer and yoga distribution of iconic running across multiple teacher Shona Vertue as its shoe models - including the consumer touch- newest ambassador in the GEL-NIMBUS, GEL-KAYANO, points to further Following the UK and Ireland. GT-2000 and GT-1000 - across connect with a announcement of the Virgin Having worked with New EMEA in order to provide a broader audience and enhance have strengthened the senior Media Twenty’s Plenty more diverse collection across its brand presentation in the management team and are Balance as part of its ‘My brief, Sport, Entertainment its distribution network. marketplace. This strategy will heavily investing in the brand Toughest Opponent’ & Wellbeing Agency The long-term aim is to coincide with the opening of new presentation. PrettyGreen is expanding campaign in 2016, Shona answer the changing needs of flagship retail stores at premium “There has been a short- its Sports Division with the has now been signed up with the consumer by providing a locations in London (Regent term impact in 2017, but the appointment of Dan Mason the brand on a longer term greater variety of products Street), Berlin (Kurfürstendamm) brand is now well positioned to as senior account executive. ambassador deal that will that are suited to a broader and Paris (Les Halles). Each store grow sustainably and we expect Mason (pictured) joins from see her champion the New spectrum of consumers to will feature the new global retail to report sales growth by the end sports and entertainment Balance performance, ensure healthy growth for concept, showcasing the brand’s of the year. communications agency Clifford lifestyle and women’s ASICS and its accounts. full collection and providing “I’m particularly pleased to French where he worked on studio collection. ASICS strategy has had an a more consumer centric see the development of apparel NFL UK and Euro 2016. As part of her impact on short term growth with environment including the across the region, a key growth His hire follows the ambassadorship, Vertue consolidated net sales of -7 per addition of community spaces. area and how the new retail announcement of the Virgin will host a weekly class for cent, but despite the slow start in Over the last two years concept is driving a ten per cent Media Twenty’s Plenty brief as her Vertue Method training the first quarter of 2017, ASICS ASICS has also made significant higher share of apparel in our well as growth from existing concept at the New Balance business in the EMEA region has strides in developing its business new and refitted stores. clients including MaxiMuscle London Flagship store on shown positive signs in a number in emerging markets with Russia “The new Middle East and the recent launch of GEN-P. Oxford Street. of key strategic growth areas. (25 per cent) and South Africa subsidiary has made a positive Mason will work across The Vertue Method, The first quarter saw a three (nine per cent) showing strong start to sit with the continued Virgin Media and MaxiMuscle launched this year in per cent rise in apparel sales, growth and further progress growth in Russia and South reporting to Paddy Hobbs, association with New including a ten per cent rise in predicted for the remainder of Africa. The next part of 2017 is director PrettyGreen Sports. running apparel, and the continued 2017. There are also clear signs very exciting for the brand with Balance, was developed by PrettyGreen founder Mark growth at four per cent of ASICS that the newly opened Middle the launch of our new creative Stringer said: “Dan’s hire comes Shona and incorporates a Tiger, the lifestyle expression of the East subsidiary will grow sales in brand campaign which will at a time of agency growth off fusion of yoga, weighted performance brand. a key premium market. further connect with a broader the back of new sports briefs. circuit training and Alongside this, ASICS’ own Alistair Cameron, CEO of audience, whilst our sponsorship “Dan has a fantastic meditation. retail stores increased sales ASICS EMEA, said: “We are of the IAAF World Athletics pedigree of working on sports Sam Matthews, marketing ten per cent, with apparel making all the right moves for Championships in London will sponsorship activations, manager of New Balance UK taking a significant share of all the brand by ensuring our legend demonstrate our continued talent and influencer & Ireland, said: “Shona sales in ASICS own stores, further products are re-positioned in commitment to the highest levels marketing and we are very understands the power of demonstrating the potential of the right retail environment, we of athletic performance.” excited to have him on board.” fitness for both body and mind, which makes her a perfect ambassador for New Balance. She has amazing presence and an innate LUCOZADE SPORT SIGNS ability to engage female fitness consumers on a DEAL WITH TOUGH MUDDER personal level, so we’re excited to see how we can Lucozade Sport is now the Mudder UK event build on what we have official sports drink for the 2017- weekends in 2017, already achieved together.” 18 Tough Mudder UK events. which includes Vertue said: “I am delighted Lucozade Sport will provide Tough Mudder Half, to have joined the New on-course and finish-line hydration Tough Mudder Full Balance family after a stations for hundreds of thousands and the inaugural of Tough Mudder participants. Europe’s Toughest really exciting year Following Lucozade Sport’s Mudder, Lucozade together. 2016 was an launch of its Made to Move Sport will co-brand utterly memorable year for campaign – which aims to get the signature Tough me with the launch of the one million people moving more Mudder obstacle, Vertue Method training by 2020 – the company has Everest 2.0, a slicked videos, and with New joined forces with Tough Mudder quarter pipe that sits Balance still by my side with the mission to inspire and at over 15 feet tall. 2017 is set to be even bigger encourage people all over the UK James Young, and better.” to get moving. head of partnerships Sign up in store at New Beginning this event season for Lucozade Balance Oxford Street for Lucozade Sport will launch an Sport, said: “As the weekly Vertue Method official Tough Mudder Running obstacle course and activities to get people across the Twitter at @ToughMudder, on class; head to - Guide to help people prepare for endurance events become more UK moving more.” Instagram @Tough_Mudder, New Balance, their Tough Mudder event and will popular than ever, our partnership To see the full roster on Snapchat at Tough.Mudder, 287 – 291 Oxford also promote ‘Workout Wednesday’ with the biggest brand out there of UK events in 2017, visit on YouTube at Youtube. Street, London, – a series of weekly workout videos makes perfect sense. toughmudder.co.uk. com/ToughMudder and on W1C 2DR on Facebook and Instagram. “We’ll be rolling out a range Join the conversation by Facebook at Facebook.com/ As a partner of the 11 Tough of suitably Tough ‘Mudderesque’ following Tough Mudder on toughmudderuk

@SportsInsightUK

News.indd 1 26/05/2017 12:14 You are the Technology

V-TRAIN

Contact Vibram’s new UK distributor CHARLES BIRCH LTD Call: 01702 530656 Email: [email protected] Unit 7-8 Fleethall Road, Purdeys Industrial Estate, Rochford, Southend on Sea. Essex. SS4 1NF www.charlesbirch.com 8 NEWS Sainsbury's teams up with Russell Athletic Sainsbury’s is launching a new strong growth since then, with Inspired by University and SKINS partner with a alliance with the iconic sales up 155 per cent compared College sports and worn by world American sportswear brand with the initial launch. The class USA athletes including Russell Athletic. collection was originally available major league baseball and NFL retail sales specialist A wide range of Russell Athletic in 100 Sainsbury’s stores but players, the Russell Athletic range clothing for both men and women, as quickly expanded to 170 stores delivers classic vintage styling SKINS has changed its sales function in the United Kingdom well as accessories for men, will be with a wider range to keep up with through premium jersey fabrics and Ireland by partnering with a retail sales specialist. available on Sainsbury’s Tu clothing growing customer demand. teamed with the iconic arch logo. The UK subsidiary for the SKINS Group, SKINS Services website as part of the retailer’s The partnership with Russell James Brown, Sainsbury’s Limited, based in Staffordshire, has partnered with SKINS Retail (UK & Ireland) Limited, a company based in Wales and headed up strategy to offer customers choice Athletic comes as the trend for commercial director, said: by Damian Cooper. across different channels. wearing sports-style clothing for “Sainsbury’s clothing business is The Welsh based company will install a specialist key account The partnership with Russell everyday activities continues to grow. quickly becoming a destination representative and an integrated sales force across the UK and Ireland. Athletic will mark the first time ‘Athleisure’ sales have grown 42 fashion brand, growing strongly Emmanuel Lorenzato, SKINS global sales director, said: female customers are able to buy per cent over the past seven years over recent years and continuing “SKINS has been a leader in the specialist sports compression branded clothing alongside and the market is worth £204 billion to gain market share. category for a number of years. On the back of our technology and Sainsbury’s Tu range. For men, it globally and £7 billion in the UK. “Through working with brands compression product benefits, SKINS will increase its offering in follows the success of leisurewear The move will enable we are able to offer our customers an expanded activewear range for men and women. brand Admiral. Sainsbury’s to further grow an even greater choice alongside “The expansion in products is being led by our Swedish Sainsbury’s launched its first market share and compete with our popular Tu range. Russell product & design and marketing director, Pär Westerlind. branded partnership with high-street brands by offering Athletic shares our approach to “From a sales opportunity point of view we are very excited as Admiral in stores and online in customers the same style and great quality at fantastic value and we will be rolling out a range of products that look great, August 2015. The brand has seen quality at supermarket prices. we are delighted to be able to offer compliment our performance expectations and allow customers to our customers its iconic transition on and off the competition floor or training track. sportswear. Admiral has proved “SKINS Retail will compliment this expansion by providing successful on menswear and we are specialist sales function across the entirety of the UK and Ireland. sure that both our male and female We are excited by this opportunity.” customers will love this new range.” Damian Cooper, SKINS retail rirector, said: “We were Zubair Mal, VP Future Brands fortunate to see the new activewear range and plans going forward in Amsterdam last week. The quality of fabrics and colours were Ltd Russell Athletic, said: “We’re first class. The most exciting part was to see the range for men and excited to be launching Russell women presented in collections with merchandising combinations. Athletic clothing and accessories in “Customers will be excited which will stimulate the retail Sainsbury’s. With its growing online partners of the brand to really create something meaningful in this offer, customers will be able to find market. We are looking forward to working with SKINS and taking new ways to shop our products with a this brand to the next level within key general sports retailers and brand they know and trust. Whether independent specialists.” on or off the field, inside the gym or In support of the expansion from June 2017, SKINS will open a out, Russell Athletic provides stylish new showroom in Burton-on-Trent with customer service and products that are both comfortable marketing support together with a second showroom in South Wales. and performance driven."

@SportsInsightUK

News.indd 3 26/05/2017 12:14 NEWS 9 Technogym to equip Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games Technogym has been the newly released SKILLROW, flexibility and posture and appointed by the Gold Coast the first indoor rowing simulating sport specific 2018 Commonwealth Games equipment designed to improve movements. MATTA appointed by Umbro as the Official Fitness anaerobic power, aerobic Nerio Alessandri, Equipment Supplier. capacity and neuromuscular Technogym founder and CEO, for new campaigns Technogym will equip all abilities in one solution. said: “We are very proud to have the training facilities, including Athletes will also have been chosen as Official Supplier UMBRO has appointed MATTA and through their innovative work the Commonwealth Games available solutions like of the Gold Coast 2018 to be their creative agency for a such as the Emirates FA Cup, and Athletes Village Gym, athletic SKILLMILL, the only non- Commonwealth Games. This series of campaigns in 2017/18, England Lionesses campaigns. I’m performance centres and four motorised functional training achievement represents an including new kit launches delighted to be working with them.” smaller fitness studios across product - specifically designed important recognition of our for AFC Bournemouth, and MATTA’s executive creative Queensland. for Athletic Performance commitment in research and current Dutch champions PSV director, Matt Campbell added: The athletes competing at Training– which allows athletes innovation in order to create the Eindhoven. “It’s really exciting to be working the Games will come from the 70 to train power, speed, stamina most advanced equipment and MATTA’s credentials in with a brand with such history and nations and territories of the and agility exercises with the digital technology for the world’s football, and in communicating iconic style, it’s a brand close to Commonwealth and compete in same product. elite athletes.” to sports fans in other sports, many of our hearts here at MATTA 23 sport disciplines. The training facilities will Cameron Murray, GC2018 impressed Jason Fairclough, - we look forward to creating some The athletes will be able to include also EXCITE, the widest general manager said: “With a head of marketing at GLD Group great campaigns with Umbro.” train on a selection of the best and most complete cardio resume that includes equipment (licensees of Umbro). MATTA will launch the new and most innovative products training range in the world supply and sponsorship of the He said: “Umbro occupies five year partnership between covering all training areas such featuring UNITY, the latest Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth a unique space in the sports Umbro and AFC Bournemouth - as cardio, strength and generation interface, designed to Games and six editions of the brand market, with its strong the club’s record kit deal - as they functional training. All ensure a fully personalised Olympic Games including Rio heritage as a true, original, move into their third season in the Technogym equipment will be training experience, which 2016, Technogym is a great classic football brand. Premier League. fully integrated with mywellness allows the athletes to access addition to the ever-expanding “We wanted to work with an The campaign, called ‘Next cloud, Technogym’s open digital their personal training GC2018 Sponsor Family. agency that fully understands Chapter’ will include a film platform enabling athletes to programmes via Technogym’s “Technogym will supply this positioning. But moreover we referencing the incredible recent stay connected to their own mywellness cloud. the necessary cardio, wanted to work with an agency history of the club, who have had personal training programme Kinesis, the unique strength, high performance that will help us define what comes four promotions in seven seasons. directly on the equipment itself Technogym-patented and recovery apparatus to next, an agency that has the ability They are also in the process of and via their mobile devices. technology, will allow athletes to ensure our athletes warm to help evolve our strategies and creating a campaign for current The state of the art explore the freedom of 360° up, warm down and general deliver great content. Dutch champions, PSV Eindhoven solutions that Technogym movement to perform exercises training needs are taken “MATTA demonstrated all of - which will focus on the ‘unity’ will take to the Games include aimed at improving balance, care of during GC2018.” the above during an initial meeting and ‘inclusivity’ of the club.

www.sports-insight.co.uk

News.indd 4 26/05/2017 12:14 10 NEWS

CANCELLARA UNVEILED AS NEW BRAND AMBASSADOR FOR GORE BIKE WEAR The Swiss ex-cyclist and current Olympic time trial champion, Fabian Cancellara has been unveiled as a global brand ambassador for Gore Bike Wear. The multiple world champion is one of the most successful cyclists of all time and is considered a perfectionist, Team England partner with arena who will lend his experience to product development for Gore Bike Wear. for the 2018 Commonwealth Games Fabian Cancellara is one of the arena has been appointed partnership with Team England, news that we will continue our England’s official kit, which most successful racing cyclists Official Supplier of Aquatics the overall leading nation from relationship with arena for the includes racing suits, training of all time with high profile Wear to the England the 2014 Games. Gold Coast games. suits and swim caps. The replica Commonwealth Games Team. “They demonstrated in “The athletes were delighted kit will be available to Team victories in cycling classics The 21st edition of the Games Glasgow that they’re a with the quality of products and England fans and consumers such as Paris-Roubaix, the will be held on Australia’s Gold powerhouse in the pool, and we service in Glasgow and this from March, 2018. Tour of Flanders, four World Coast from April 4-15, 2018. expect they’ll once again be represents another step in Team Debbie Poulson, marketing Championship titles, two The agreement includes extremely competitive in 2018. England’s commitment to manager for Solo Sports Brands Olympic gold medals and an the supply of the company’s “The UK, and England in provide the best possible Ltd, arena’s representative in the unmatched versatility. Even industry-leading product range particular, is a strategic market environment for our athletes so UK, said: “We are really pleased after a 16-year professional of competition and training for us, and this partnership is that we deliver the best ever to support the renewal of the career, he remains passionate swimsuits, goggles and swim emblematic of our commitment prepared team.” relationship between arena and about cycling, but he wants to caps, and follows a successful to swimming there, not only at arena’s connections with Team England, solidifying concentrate on a few select first collaboration at the 2014 the highest level, but throughout swimming in the UK go back arena’s position in the UK projects and, true to his motto Commonwealth Games held in all levels of the sport. We are many years. Today, the competitive swim market. ‘less is more’, intends to devote Glasgow, where Team England optimistic that our continued company’s grassroots initiatives “We are extremely proud to himself entirely to them. At the won 28 medals in the pool, investment will bear fruit for in the UK include sponsorship of be associated with Team England top of his list is the partnership including ten gold, out of 44 both Team England and arena as The National Arena Swimming and believe that arena can make a with Gore Bike Wear. total events. we look forward to what promises League and the Arena Junior material contribution that will Cancellara said: “You have to Luca Belogi, arena’s general to be an eventful two years. Inter-League. complement the hard work and give it all you’ve got – and at manager of sales, said: “We’re Paul Blanchard, Team arena is also producing a dedication shown by Team the same time have the best very pleased to be continuing our England CEO, said: “It is great replica kit collection of Team England athletes.” equipment made of the best materials. “Gore Bike Wear is the perfect fit for me. Highest demands on Canada Goose opens two international flagship quality and constantly searching for the perfect stores and expands E-Commerce in Europe solution – that is what we have in common. It’s the same as in Continuing its global engage and learn more about the inspired environment. Launching in seven additional a time trial: you have to give it expansion, Canada Goose company’s 60-year history. Building on its six decades as European markets this autumn, all you’ve got – and at the same Holdings Inc will open two Dani Reiss, President & CEO, a manufacturer, Canada Goose customers will have access to time have the best equipment flagship stores this autumn in Canada Goose, said: “Opening our became a retailer in 2014 with the the brand’s largest assortment, made of the best materials. In London and Chicago. first European store is not only a launch of its first e-commerce site exclusive products and decision- the end, every little detail The company will also expand milestone for Canada Goose, but it’s in Canada, quickly followed by the making tools to help find the right matters. Even in my its e-commerce channel to seven turning a dream into reality. London United States in 2015 and the UK product for their environment, professional career, I was new markets including Germany, and Chicago are world-renowned and France in 2016. level of activity and desired fit. always the first person Sweden, Netherlands, Ireland, shopping destinations and I’m proud wanting to test new Belgium, Luxembourg and Austria. to bring our Canadian heritage, prototypes in order to develop Marking the company’s first experience and unparalleled product products further and to get the location in Europe, the Canada to their historic streets.” Goose London flagship store, the In 2016, Canada Goose most out of them.” brand’s largest retail space to date, opened its first two flagship As a leading manufacturer of will be located on Regent Street. stores in Toronto and New York, functional cycling apparel, In Chicago, the brand will showcasing the spirit of Canada Gore Bike Wear sees great open its doors on Magnificent Goose, a brand that’s equally potential in the collaboration Mile on Michigan Avenue. at home on the fashionable city with the Swiss champion, who Both stores will feature streets of Paris and Milan as on will not only function as a inspired Canadian design scientists working in Antarctica, brand ambassador but will elements, including marble and trusted for decades by film also actively contribute to quarried in British Columbia, as crews, athletes, and adventurers. the development of well as the broadest assortment of The stores weave together the highly functional seasonal collections and exclusive brand’s authentic heritage and cycling collaborations, and will provide commitment to craftsmanship clothing. an opportunity for consumers to with modern design in an Arctic-

www.sports-insight.co.uk

News.indd 5 26/05/2017 12:15 “ The Retail IT team have strong technical expertise and a fantastic knowledge of retail. Their strength is their ﬂ exibility and commitment to their clients.” Laetitia Kotsiopoulos Head of Supply Chain & IT AIS Stores & Intersport

Our retail software is in a league of its own

Having worked with Intersport for ﬁ ve years, we understand the challenges and needs of sports retailers. That’s why we consult with you and tailor our software to your business and budget.

This includes customer loyalty tools, fashion matrix management, item classiﬁ cation, and season management, as well as e ective price and discount management - providing powerful insights into future buying decisions. Our software is intuitive and easy to use for sports-store ﬂ oor sta . Why settle for an ‘out of the box’ solution?

020 8605 9725 www.retailit.com [email protected]

OUTDOOR 13 With the rise in If you're stepping outside wearable GPS technology - are they now an into the wild what should essential bit of kit? Good navigation skills are certainly an outdoor essential, you be looking out for? and these skills are enhanced (not replaced) using GPS. Wearables Dan Mapleston, Burton McCall Ltd brand are perfect for swimming, running and other sports where manager, talks to Mark Hayhurst about the you want empty hands – hence their enormous popularity as a What do you future development of outdoor products sports product. However, when it look for in a good comes to dedicated hill and outdoor product? entrants (Goal Zero Lighthouse material - how it works, its benefits consumers carrying portable mountain navigation, no one has A good outdoor product needs Mini), which gives them a strong and safety. However, performance devices (mobile phones, yet managed to produce a watch- to justify its place in your pack, with consumer appeal. Beyond this improvements can often be achieved rechargeable headtorches, sized device that fully competes its user benefit outweighing both there is a real appetite for brand by using existing materials in a new GPS receivers...the list goes on) with the large screen, high- size and weight. Even in equipment, authenticity: consumers don’t just way – and this has been more of a there is an increasing need to resolution and long battery life of aesthetics are increasingly want to buy good products, they driving force in new product either carry or generate power a good handheld GPS receiver. important with interesting shapes want to buy them from companies/ recently. Examples would be the away from a plug socket. The good and colour pops increasing the shelf brands that are in tune with their Stanley Master Series Vacuum news is that solar panels have appeal of an otherwise purely own interests. flasks (using thicker steel, reflective come on leaps and bounds in the functional product. linings, and smart design to improve last few years and the good ones How do new materials thermal retention) or the CamelBak work in any daylight, not just Innovation is always affect the development Crux reservoir (which delivers 20 blazing sunshine. moving forward of new products? per cent more water per sip by - what do you see We haven’t seen much in the way of changing the proportions and shape What are the go driving the industry 100 per cent new materials of key components). to products for at the moment? influencing development of our those who enjoy the We are in a period of refinement outdoor brands in 2017, although we Have solar powered outdoor lifestyle? right now, with brands constantly will be seeing a little of this in 2018. products made a Water bottles, lightweight improving and re-inventing proven The introduction of new materials socks, walking shoes, torches designs. Multifunctional products needs to answer a particular need: to big impact on the and pocket-tools comfortably maintain strong appeal, but should make something weigh less, perform marketplace or is that make the transition from the be the result of careful design that faster, taste fresher, reduce muscle something that will great outdoors to everyday life. recognises a genuine need. This fatigue etc. There is the grow in the future? The potential to get value from considered approach can be seen disadvantage of having to ‘tell the Solar powered product has these products across many on both design classics (Victorinox story’ from scratch and build up become part of the wider ‘portable different activities make them Swiss Army Knives) and newer consumer awareness of the new power’ story. With more outdoor great ‘go to’ products.

www.sports-insight.co.uk

burton Mccall.indd 2 26/05/2017 12:08 14 NEWS

Badminton England unveil Places for People ASICS is new sponsor of partnership to serve up badminton benefits Alongside the benefits that will “Almost one million adults Victoria Park stadium be felt by clubs and tournament play badminton monthly across ASICS has entered a deal with Warrington Borough Council organisers, Badminton England England and we want to firmly to sponsor the town’s Victoria Park stadium and facilities initiatives, such as the No Strings establish it as the nation’s until 2019. Badminton and Racket Pack favourite racket sport - to do this, Victoria Park ASICS stadium is a sporting hub for Warrington’s programme for under 11s, will making badminton even more local athletics and running clubs, as well as local schools. carry heightened importance in accessible is pivotal. Setting With ASICS’ support the Victoria Park facilities will be Places for People’s timetable. stronger partnerships with key updated and improved, continuing to benefit people of all ages and The partnership is a key leisure operators will ensure high abilities from the North West to enjoy sport. Badminton England has unveiled milestone in Discover Badminton quality court time delivery for As part of the sponsorship, ASICS will be branding the arena leisure operator Places for People - Badminton England’s new those who have a close affinity spectator area, changing room facilities and the athletic track with as the first ever Official Leisure eight-year strategy to reinforce to the sport as well as acting inspirational imagery to give athletes a motivational boost as they Partner in a groundbreaking the grassroots of the sport as inspiration to those who are compete at the stadium. move for the sport. while opening new, high quality discovering badminton all over The official launch was last month and was attended by the The partnership will opportunities to play the sport. again or for the first time.” mayor of Warrington, councillor Faisal Rashid. significantly enhance the The agreement also sees Sandra Dodd, chief executive Warrington Athletic badminton experience and court Wycombe Leisure Centre – one at Places for People Leisure, said: Club hosted a free time delivery for visitors enjoying of Places for People’s flagship “Our mission is to ‘create active taster session at the 120 Places for People leisure facilities - host the 2017 places and healthy people’ and our track, alongside the facilities across England. English National Badminton appointment as the first ever Official Warrington Wolves It will see clubs, players, Championships in September. Leisure Partner to Badminton Foundation who hosted a families and tournament Adrian Christy, chief executive England absolutely reinforces this. rugby session. organisers benefit from improved for Badminton England, said: “We continually invest time The Victoria ASICS and exclusive court booking terms “Supporting the growth of the grass and effort into programmes that Arena and Victoria and priority access to facilities. roots of our sport is fundamental are designed to engage local ASICS Stadium Best practise will be shared by way to our new strategy and the communities and maximise the celebration was open to of improved access to value added partnership with Places for People opportunities to play badminton. the public, showing the membership services and benefits. is a significant move for English “Places for People were commitment to develop A joint funded badminton badminton; for clubs, players and amongst the first to introduce and encourage people to development manager – the first members of both organisations. No Strings Badminton some get involved. of its kind - will be appointed to “Working more closely with seven years ago and through this The ASICS tech work across Places for People key national leisure operators is new official partnership with team was also on hand facilities with a national remit to so important to our future growth Badminton England we are taking to answer any questions drive even greater levels of grass and success and Places for People a long-established relationship on ASICS products and roots badminton within local are the first of several partnerships and making it stronger for the services. communities. we will be announcing. benefit of badminton.”

www.sports-insight.co.uk

News.indd 9 26/05/2017 12:16 spECIALIsT FITNEss bRANd pROvIdINg INNOvATIvE, pERFORMANCE ENhANCINg sTudIO quALITy EquIpMENT ThAT’s buILT TO LAsT. ThE ChOICE OF MANy LEAdINg gyMs, hEALTh CLubs ANd sTudIOs.

comprehensive range of studio quality fitness, yoga and pilates equipment

no minimum order quantities, uk based, excellent stock levels at competitive prices

CALL OR EMAIL FOR MORE INFORMATION:

[email protected] +44(0)1386 425 920 FITNEss-MAd.COM 16 ANALYSIS WHAT'S BEYOND THE BLOG? Don't forget graphics, videos and the all important SEO

ast month Fiona Bugler, Mobile matters Microsoft's Cortana already proving are swimming aids? How to use com/google-working-on- who heads up the Running Any decent blogger will have to be very popular. Some enterprising swimming aids? and Where to buy conversational-shopping-in- L Ed (www.therunninged. already checked that their site is individuals are trying to introduce children's swimming aids? pop up search/) discusses Google's plans com), an agency specialising in mobile-friendly – in other words the the technology in children's toys (they helping to generate ideas for blog for 'conversational shopping' endurance sports content content is easy to read and digest. ask a question and the toy answers). posts and other content. – something all sports retailers marketing, reports, looked at "With 91 per cent of mobile users Therefore, bloggers who want to stay should be keeping a close eye on. how influencer marketing can saying that access to content is very ahead of the game need to think about Local? Make sure work for your brand. In part important, optimising blogs for the strategies for optimising their you mention it Mobile driven and two she discusses what's next mobile has never been more crucial, content for voice queries, by first and If you're a local business, voice engages the user for the blogger? and could set you apart from your foremost optimising for mobile, as search matters. Shoppers will use Although not strictly a blog, more When it comes to producing competitors,” says James Dempster, above, but also thinking about other voice search to ask questions such of a platform, the Pool which content online, site engine MD of Brighton based agency, Cobb things such as how to use key words as 'what's the best running shop optimisation (SEO), or being Digital (cobb.agency/digital). and to write how a user speaks using near the high street in Watford?' found is essential. And now natural language. especially when they're out and SEO is shifting with Google’s The importance of about searching with their 'mobile-first ranking system' Voice Search Words that matter mobile phone in their hand. where algorithms will primarily Another change to tune into when Use long tail key words, which are Make sure your content use the mobile version of a site’s writing blogs is the rise of voice three or four words that are very has the locality covered – or content to rank pages. And this search on both mobile and desktop. specific to what you're selling, if you're using a blogger to help has implications for the type of According to researchers at Emory for example, swimming aids for promote your brand, guide them content that bloggers produce. University (who worked alongside performance, is more important to include detail about the area, in In addition to this move, Google Google on the eye tracking study when a user is voice searching, as this example, the high street. And of and others such as Twitter have mentioned above), "Web Search has questions are naturally longer when course, it's vital to think beyond the also backed a mobile-exclusive seen two big changes recently: rapid we're not writing computer speak. blog and ensure you are on listing function, Accelerated Mobile growth in mobile search traffic, Brainstorm to work out what sort pages such as Google maps, or Yelp – Pages (AMP) (https://www. and an increasing trend towards of questions might be asked about and all the information is up to date. ampproject.org/) allowing providing answer-like results for your subject/brand/product or Voice search is an area that users to access content in super- relatively simple information needs service. A clever tool that helps you will certainly drive change for quick time and preview app (e.g., [weather today]).” Voice search do this is, http://answerthepublic. shoppers and the type of content content even when they don't is set to grow, with Google Home com/. Typing in the swimming aids you produce. A report in The SEM have the app. (Alexa), Amazon Echo, Apple Siri, and example, questions such as What Post (http://www.thesempost.

@SportsInsightUK

Bugler Feature and Mel Berry.indd 1 26/05/2017 11:50 ANALYSIS 17

Is football commercially sustainable to the lower levels and women’s game? TIA Chair Mel Berry looks to the future of football The world of football is an interesting one for me and one that I have had very little to do WAYS TO MAKE MOBILE WORK with over my business and sporting career. FOR A BLOGGER TO OPTIMISE But having been working with the new THEIR CONTENT ON MOBILE THERE owner of Notts County FC, Alan Hardy, for ARE SOME SIMPLE THINGS THEY CAN DO: the last two months, I struggle to see how many of them will weather the storm over the 1. Keep it short and snappy next decade. One eye-tracking study revealed that a reader focuses 86 per cent of Alan made his money in many ways but over the last decade their attention to the upper two-thirds of the screen, missing most of building Paragon Interiors Group PLC and recently bought The the lower content. There's a lot less real estate on a mobile screen. The Nottinghamshire Golf and Country Club. And so has a strong space available for grabbing the user's attention is limited, so after the business and sporting knowledge, a great set of credentials. headline you'll need just a couple of lines of well-written straplines on Formula 1. Regular updates Let’s take the women’s team to start with. Notts County women’s which will make the reader want to read on, below the fold. keep this blog alive, with posts team, until late April, were one of ten Super League teams. The Super appearing several times in a day. League was set up by the FA in 2011 to give women the chance to play 2. … But longer blogs work too Each post always attracts a high professional football in England. An ideal situation you would say? "For many of our clients we see that blogs of around 800 words tend number of user comments and has Let’s address the female sport debate again and ask the question is to keep users on the page and often navigate to other pages within the a strong community feel about it. women’s professional sport commercially sustainable? site," says James Dempster. "The best blogs have a mixture of content Commercial investment and media coverage of women’s sport (i.e. images, videos, infographics) that supports the company’s wider So…is the blog dead? remains shockingly low, particularly in comparison to the deals messaging but importantly, offers valuable insight for its users. Content With multi-media platforms and done in men’s sport. Women’s sport sponsorship accounted for only ultimately needs to answer a question," he adds. And longer blogs can blog hosting sites such as Medium 0.4 per cent of total sports sponsorship between 2011 and 2013. work on mobile too, just keep the screen in mind and make sure that and Huff Post turning brands Media coverage of women’s sport shows a similar level of headlines, the Calls to Action, and straplines work (see above). Always and individuals into publishers, disparity – women’s sport accounting for only seven per cent of preview what your blog looks like in mobile before you publish. and the ever-growing popularity total sports coverage. of video, podcasts and images, And what about the importance of key decision makers in is the blog as we know it dead? sport? Is this important to enable it to prosper? 3. Be clever with images The percentage of women on the boards of Sport England funded When thinking about mobile, it's still vital to use images, but opt for less The written word is still thriving National Governing Bodies remains static, with an average of 30 per complex infographics, and make sure the image you use has a function. online but the writers must now cent of board positions continuing to be held by women. This does not You have less room for manoeuvre on mobile. On desktop or mobile, not only consider who they're really prove anything in the link to making sport more commercial but it's vital to always remember who you're talking to. "Infographics, talking to but how the user is I am happy to know, as chair of Sport Nottinghamshire, that I am doing video and imagery play a large part in marketing, these need to be reading the written word and what my bit and we have a 50/50 gender split. incorporated with the user in mind," says James Dempster. the platform looks like. Quality is more important than ever and It’s not looking very positive is it? So how much does it cost for brands and bedroom bloggers alike a Women’s Super League team? I can only talk for Notts County need to prioritise it over quantity. and that was an operating budget of £500,000 with £28,000 is staffed by digitally native want it to be a "conversation in a To stay ahead of the game the revenue. It’s crazy to think that any business can survive on this millennials (and professional locked room." blogger with aspirations should model. And that was unfortunately the case when the team was journalists) and aimed at 30 keep one eye on the professional put into administration in late April with over £300k of legacy plus, metropolitan women who Professional content online publishers and keep up to debt, and a sad day for women’s sport. The question around the are 'too busy to browse’ is a great producer and date with SEO trends and search FA’s vision for the game needs to be addressed in my mind. example of clever mobile content. community engine (Google) changes. So does the men’s team look better? And what is the brand It broadcasts relevant content In contrast, number one Sporting Big brands and enthusiastic offer, in what is a very cluttered market? It’s the world’s oldest straight to a device at a time Blog F1 Fanatic (http://www. bloggers need to remember that football league club for one and its partner in the football world is that suits the user via a unique f1fanatic.co.uk/), has a lively the foundations of what we once Juventus, who generated €341.1k in revenue last year. approach called ‘Appointment community. This is a blog and, called journalism remain core The brand is about to come under a new vision from Alan and Digital’. A daily schedule of 15 to like the Pool, it is run by someone when it comes to engaging the his team. But, does this make it more commercially attractive to 20 bits of content a day, places who writes, and broadcasts user with great content: a good bridge the £1.7 million short fall? It’s a hard sell in the lower an emphasis on audiences' professionally, emphasising the story must always answer, what, divisions but the opportunity has never been greater. engagement rather than flooding importance and growing trend for how, when, why, where. Snappy As an industry should we focus more on the lower levels of the them with content. Content is quality. Blogger Keith Collantine headlines, and clever calls to sport and look at creative ways to get brand fame and drive sales? I produced on a two-pronged plan previously worked for Auto Trader action in clear, easy to read say yes, but it’s easy for me as I am not a brand owner with what – long term schedule for longer as Expert Guide Editor and, formats are the winners. "Content usually is a shrinking budget. reads and a daily plan for breaking prior to that, Assistant Trade strategies will adapt and evolve," But what I do ask is we keep the game of football alive at all news stories. Comments are not Editor and he's also appeared on says James Dempster, "but levels, genders and ages. allowed on the site as they don't television and radio commenting blogging is not dead."

www.sports-insight.co.uk

Bugler Feature and Mel Berry.indd 2 26/05/2017 11:51 18 NEWS Celebrating the ten-year anniversary of Vibram FiveFingers KSO EVO It is ten years since designer Rober Fliri and Vibram owner Marco Bramani produced the most popular FiveFingers barefoot running shoe, the KSO EVO. Thankfully for all its loyal Gold’s Gym and Vibram partner users it has stayed true to its roots with only small cosmetic on cross-training footwear improvements in that time. American gym chain Gold’s Gym people everywhere, indoors and Ideal for all uses from the trail has announced its expansion to outdoors, from weekend warriors to the gym with no mid sole and the footwear market through a to professional athletes.” only a 3.5mm rubber grip sole for partnership with Vibram. Gold’s Gym opened its first protection, the KSO EVO offers The two companies came gym in Venice, California in 1965. the original barefoot experience at together to develop the Gold’s Over 50 years later, the company an affordable price. Gym Vibram FiveFinger cross has over 700 locations in 38 states For those wanting a little training shoe, which speaks to and 22 countries serving over more support and the latest their passion for fitness and three million members worldwide. rubber sole technology, Vibram spirit of innovation. The In 1977, Gold’s Gym received have developed the V-Train. collaboration shoe will be international attention from The TPU panels and spandex launched in the second half of “Pumping Iron” a bodybuilding material provide more structure 2017 in North America. documentary starring Arnold and comfort in the upper whilst Chris Melton, Vibram USA Shwarzenegger and Lou Ferrigno. sole has been designed to give sales director, said: “The The new product will be extra grip in a variety of uses. partnership between Gold's Gym available only in the USA market. The circular lug pattern and Vibram USA is inherent, provides extra grip on lateral referencing back to the movements whilst the rope legendary photos from traction lugs in arch formation Gold's Gym Venice assist with rope climbing. This where famous makes V-Train ideal for all bodybuilders tended to fitness work in and out of the manager Dan Hume, said: “We workout barefoot. gym including Power Lifting, look forward to demonstrating the “Vibram FiveFingers is a Cross Training, Plyometrics new V-Train and the other Vibram natural training tool for active and OCR work. FiveFingers styles at the Outdoor Charles Birch Ltd sales Trade Show in July.”

@SportsInsightUK

Charles birch.indd 1 26/05/2017 12:09 19

sports: www.sports-insight.co.uk Sports Insighthub@SportsInsightUK The place to source all your products and services

Reebok SAFEJAWZ Corona Vision British & Irish No shadows and simple assembly. Combat Range Intro Series Target's new Corona Vision has Lions replica balls The Reebok Combat Range allows The new benchmark in Sports Mouthguards Get the official British & Irish Lions magnetic feet, allowing them to attach you to discover combat and train like is coming. Designed in collaboration with replica balls for the upcoming 2017 to the ring of the dartboard without a fighter. The stylish and bold range the University of Warwick, SAFEJAWZ tour from your leading sporting any need for screws or bolts. Using 125 includes combat gear, gloves, bags, are very confident that your customers will brands wholesale supplier. Order now LED lights, the Corona dramatically pads and wraps; providing dedicated find the fit and comfort superior to that of and enter their prize draw to win one improves the vision of the board and support whilst enabling you to develop the competition. Call them to try the fit for of five Dan Carter kicking tees signed provides virtually shadowless play. skills and become like the best. yourself with a free sample. The best fitting by the legend himself. Train like a fighter. mouthguard ever?

01908 793020 01543 361794 01279 410 155 01535 600342 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.cartasport.com rfeinternational.com www.safejawz.com www.target-darts.co.uk [email protected]

Sports Order today, Aqua Spray Accessible Performance Insoles with you tomorrow Water Bottle water aerobics Enertor Sports Performance Insoles The Everyday Collection, from Ronhill, of Optimum has created a unique bottle With a range of eye-catching equipment powered by D3O technology are core wicking t-shirts, lightweight jackets that features a no touch water delivery matched by expertise in top level athletics, revolutionising the sports insole category. and a range of both relaxed and net-to-skin system. This is the perfect alternative Waterflex makes water aerobics accessible Proven to reduce the risk of injuries when fit all-black leg wear options, are available on to traditional water bottles for team to all. A winning combination of comfort, participating in all foot impact sports by 24-hour delivery, if ordered before 2pm. sports that helps reduce the risk of design and performance. Waterflex bases recycling energy and reducing shock. The All everyday running products are great contamination and cross infection. RRP its strategy on a ground-breaking holistic only insoles worn and endorsed by Usain quality and value, starting from £12 (SRP), £6.99 and available in three colours concept, including training programmes Bolt. You can create these. Powered by D3O available in women’s, men’s and juniors'. Black, Fluro Green and Fluro Pink. with individualised assistance. Waterflex is shock absorption. One litre capacity, no touch. reinventing new ways to do watersports.

01202 812000 0161 366 5020 01942 497707 0114 275 2593 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.enertor.com www.ronhill.com www.optimumsport.com www.waterflex.fr

www.sports-insight.co.uk

Sports Hub.indd 2 26/05/2017 14:05 20

sports: www.sports-insight.co.uk Sports Insighthub@SportsInsightUK The place to source all your products and services

Arena Ride 10 Kameleon The tenth edition of the Ride franchise Compression Gear brings plenty of new innovation while swimming goggle PureLime Arena Powerskin pre and post Delivering excellent construction PureLime is the dedicated women’s still delivering a legendary running compression range combines two properties at a keen price point, the athleisure, active and tennis brand. They experience. Featuring a brand new unique performing fabrics, Powerskin Kameleon is a quality made-in-Italy use pure crisp Danish design in modern engineered mesh upper, woven heel Z-Raptor woven fabric with strong, goggle which delivers Aqua Sphere’s technical fabrics to create garments that collar and refined TRI-FLEX outsole durable carbon threads placed signature panoramic vision for only are feminine, fashionable and functional design, the Ride10 moves with the strategically for optimum vitalising £10.99 SRP. Also available in Kameleon with a superb fit. Their clothes always runner and cushions every foot strike. compression and focused support and Junior and Kameleon Kid versions reflect a woman’s priorities to look good All new TRI-FLEX outsole design. sensitive Italian knitted fabric for for £9.99 SRP. A summer essential. but still perform. PureLime, Danish perfect blend of comfort and support. Swimming goggles innovation. athleisure and activewear

015396 22322 0800 206 1491 01254 692200 01697 742 711 [email protected] www.sauconyb2b.eu [email protected] [email protected] www.solosports.co.uk [email protected] www.aquasphereswim.com/uk www.purelime.com

Fitness-Mad Multi-Sport Junior Finger Mission Fitness-Mad are innovators of studio fitness equipment from Swiss Rebounder Protection Cooling Towels The Reusch SG Finger Support Junior has balls to yoga mats. Excellent stock The Gorilla Training Multi-Sport The Enduracool cooling towels cool to been one of the best-selling kids' gloves on levels and two to three working days’ Rebounder is portable, lightweight and can 15 degrees celsius below average body the market for several years. Each finger, delivery all year round. No MOQ be set up within 30 seconds. With multiple temperature. Chemical-free cooling including the thumb have semi-flexible and competitive pricing. Benefit angle adjustment this makes it the coaches' made from premium lightweight polyamide sticks, which are totally flexible from in-store merchandising and choice. Complete with a 5’x5’ net and carry knot which dries soft and is machine one way to grip the ball but prevent over staff training. Enquire now for a bag, the multi-sport rebounder can be used washable. Activates in three easy steps: flexion and so helps to prevent injury. trade account. Excellent stock with anywhere. First 20 people to email Lee will Soak It, Wring Out, Snap It. Finger Support protects young hands. unbeatable service. get a free Multi-Sport Rebounder Ideal for various types of sports and is available in a range of sizes and colours.

01386 425 920 01635 517560 0161 439 4383 015396 22322 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.fitness-mad.com www.phoenixsportinggoods.com www.reusch.com www.solosports.co.uk

@SportsInsightUK

Sports Hub.indd 3 26/05/2017 14:06 21 sports insight selects Woolford Jacket This utilitarian-influenced bomber from Canada Goose comes with double- stacked side-entry pockets, a brushed tricot-lined chin guard for comfort and a heavy-duty centre front YKK two-way locking zipper. It also includes two large fleece-lined hand warming pockets with YKK two-way locking zipper. Heavy- duty rib-knit cuffs keep out the cold.www.canadagoose.com

Feetures! Elite Perfect Vibram FiveFingers Mercian Feetures! Elite socks are anatomically constructed using patented Sock- darts vision V-Train Evolution 0.3 Winmau’s SightRight 2 is a patented V-Train provides the flexibility of Lock Technology to provide targeted A 95 per cent Carbon Ultimate bend sighting aid that helps you stand the barefoot shoe with a little more compression where it’s needed most. stick with unique QCS technology. The in the perfect position on the structure, making it the perfect fitness Anatomical design enhances fit, delivering Quad Carbon Sleeve is a four-piece oche every single time, correcting and training shoe in and out of the gym. maximum comfort and protection by braided carbon ‘sock’ to give extreme sighting faults that 99.99 per cent of The sole design provides extra grip eliminating blisters. iWick fibres wick stiffness because of its seamless all darts players have. Perfect darts during lateral movements and rope work, moisture to keep feet cool and dry. construction. The single base sleeve vision and alignment also ideal for Power Lifting, Plyos and Lifetime guarantee. has three additional overlays to provide OCR work. Comfort, protection, grip, specific enhanced-strength areas. Four barefoot technology. piece carbon braided shell.

0131 499 417 01656 767042 01702 530656 01483 757677 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.2pure.co.uk winmau.com www.charlesbirch.com www.mercianhockey.com

Precision Fusion Personalising Booband - Asset Mac in a Sac Ultra New for S/S 2017 the highly breathable Training Ball outdoor wear Protection (10,000gsm), water repellent and windproof The Precision Fusion Training Ball is match Providing customisation services with Booband is an athletic breast support band Ultra jacket is designed for high activity. ball quality at a training ball price. Made to Brother Embroidery Machines allows designed to be worn across the top of the Using their VaporLite, Teflon coated fabric, international match ball standard, the Fusion you to generate additional income for breasts to reduce movement. Developed the Ultra offers both performance and Training Ball delivers heightened consistency, your business from clubs and event using scientific research this must-have lightweight packability. Offered to retail strength and water repelling qualities. The organisers. The Brother PR1050X and kit bag essential prevents ligament damage with attractive mark-ups and POS display ball has a combined stitch and wound-bladder PR655 are ideal for adding logos, names and increases comfort for active women of stand. Highly breathable and windproof. construction, which allows for improved and numbers to tops, shorts, jumpers, all shapes and sizes. Packable performance. shaped retention for greater power and speed. bags and more. Match Ball Quality - Training Ball Price.

0115 938 6444 0779 329 2758 028 9079 0588 [email protected] 0161 235 0344 [email protected] [email protected] www.reydonsports.com www.brothersewing.co.uk www.thebooband.com www.macinasac.com

www.sports-insight.co.uk

Sports Hub.indd 4 26/05/2017 14:06 22

sports: www.sports-insight.co.uk Sports Insighthub@SportsInsightUK The place to source all your products and services

Runners' Tough Mudder The ultimate Customised Tough just got easier in this Achilles Sleeve race-day shoe. A speed-lacing sports accessory Catalogue Views This new innovative support from McDavid A product presentation and order system and ultra-grippy outsole Blue Frog Sport Towel Pro features provides therapeutic support and pain relief writing app with unique features to give you traction in mud, while two different super-soft microfibre from moderate achilles tendonitis. Dual support purchasing decisions. the fit and protection stand up fabrics, one to wipe skin and one to clean compression anatomical design for enhanced Stay up-to-date and improve the quality from start to finish. RRP £110. equipment. Two hidden zipped pockets pain relief and recovery. Includes contoured keep valuables safe and secure, and the of buying meetings through personalised support pad and ergonomic, lightweight design elasticated loop hangs on the equipment presentations and easy ordering for all-workout comfort. Moisture-wicking as well as securing the rolled up towel. routines. Reduces print/sample costs and breathable with four-way stretch. RRP Two-sided zipped pocket sweat towel. and gains you time. Product presentation £24.99. Achilles support and pain relief. and order writing app

01582 670100 07942 256089 01460 279744 [email protected] www.sportshoes.com [email protected] [email protected] www.mcdavid.eu www.blue-frog.uk.com aworkbook.com

Personal CEP Recovery Maximum New generation cooking system Pro Tights protection from solar charger The Jetboil Flash stove system lights Fast and effective recovery from hard The new FREELOADER SiXER is with the click of a button and in just Makura Sport training sessions is essential. Featuring The Makura Sport Tephra Max gel the lightest and most compact solar over two minutes provides two cups precisely defined medi compression, these mouthguard, with shock absorbing battery pack on the market. Weighing of boiling water for cocoa, coffee, tights are designed to fight sore muscles - Flexicore, offers outstanding comfort in at only 260g, including its instant soup or a gourmet freeze- for a noticeable recovery effect after just and protection. With triple-layered impact and water resistant case, its dried meal. The newly designed two hours. Ideal for runners and endurance construction, Airthru Channel to improve integrated solar panel, with a storage burner secures the igniter, protecting athletes. Performance, recovery, CEP, breathing and Gelform liner to create a capacity of 6000mAH, is enough to it from bumps along the road. compression, running. precise mould of your teeth for a secure fit. fully recharge an iPhone three times. New compact solar battery pack.

0116 234 4600 01432 373500 0330 333 8940 0116 234 4611 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.burton-mccall.co.uk www.cepsports.co.uk/shop makurasport.com www.solartechnology.co.uk

@SportsInsightUK

Sports Hub.indd 5 26/05/2017 14:06 23 sports insight selects Varia UT800 headlight Garmin's Varia UT800 headlight works independently or pairs with compatible Edge cycling computers to control brightness. It’s visible in daylight from more than one mile (1.6 km) away. Once paired to a compatible Edge, it automatically adjusts to ambient light conditions, speed and ride profile to extend battery life.www.garmin.com

Sport retail Warm and durable Zoggs holiday The Women’s White Ice Jacket is tech solutions engineered using ultra light Barrier swimwear As an Intersport supplier, Retail IT Whether it is a dip in the sea or a splash Lite RS outer fabric and is filled with understands the challenges sports retailers in the pool, Zoggs offers the perfect Pool PrimaLoft SILVER Insulation Down face. Their software includes customer swimsuit for any holiday. With eye- Blend, a revolutionary hybrid material toys galore loyalty tools, fashion matrix management, catching prints and fantastic hidden A huge assortment of pool toys which combines all the insulative item classification, season management and support, their swimwear is created with from £2.99 and sun protection and packable properties of down effective price and discount management - real women in mind. Their 2017 range swimwear from £5.50 is with the wet weather performance providing powerful insights into future buying is available to ship now in a variety of available for immediate of synthetic insulation, making it decisions. The software is easy to use for colours, patterns and silhouettes. delivery from Jakabel. perfect for deep winter use. sports-store staff. Retail technology solutions.

07957 541406 020 8605 9727 01670 522 300 01276 489089 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.jakabel.com www.retailit.com www.montane.co.uk www.zoggs.com

Talbot-Torro New Breeze European Retail Gel Max Power Developed from the best-selling Gel Isoforce 1011.7 Lite Sock Distribution Max, the new Shock Doctor Gel Max Ultra lightweight high modulus carbon The 1000 Mile Breeze Lite sock is designed Import Services manages retail supply Power features a tight, natural fit and a frame with a six per cent slimmer to keep feet cool and comfortable in warmer chains, from product origin to customer reinforced inner grid worthy of any sport. shaft than standard and a 100 per cent climes or during intense periods of activity. delivery, in the UK and Europe. Our Pre order today and get ready for back graphite handle making this racket Featuring NILIT BREEZE fibres to give warehouses are located in Southampton, to school and the 2017/18 season. RRP an amazing 80g strung, 75g unstrung. maximum ventilation and breathability, a the first port of call for container ships £24.99. New and exclusive for 2017. Featuring a host of both power and double layer construction reduces friction originating from the Far East, which control technologies providing all-round between foot and shoe to help prevent decreases your transport time and logistics playability for skilful players. blisters. RRP: £11.99. costs. Time and cost saving logistics.

+49 8171 43180 01923 242233 01489 799 500 01582 670100 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.mts-sport.de www.1000mile.co.uk www.importservices.co.uk www.shockdoctor.co.uk

www.sports-insight.co.uk

Sports Hub.indd 6 26/05/2017 14:06 Special Summer Enduracool Offer Buy a box of 12 to get 50% discount.

Offer valid until the end of July 2017.

MISSION ENDURACOOL Game changing innovation becomes greater in the right hands.

Built for athletes, the Mission Enduracool Range works when a series of hollow core fibers are infused with water. These light weight chemical free pathways command the rate of evaporation to power you with instant, prolonged cooling effect.

Controlling your body’s temperature to unlock performance means you can go harder, longer. That can be the difference between good and great.

Solosports Brands [email protected] 015396 22322 COLUMN 25

UNDER THE INFLUENCE Jonathan Quint, Saucony marketing manager EMEA, examines who is out to get your vote and how

social media, in 2017 everyone And he has a point. Even brand creates products which serve competitive morality of spring- thinks they are an influencer. world class athletes are battling their own sporting aspirations. heeled running shoes and When reality TV stars are with the latest fitness-fashion If you ask the majority of New pancake flat race tracks. We born virtually every minute, when blogger or Instagrammer for Consumers to name a current might take offence at the apparent the distinction between online contracts, products and the ear athlete, I suspect once you get past stretching of the rules regarding and offline worlds is a hazy blur, of the leading brands. Usain Bolt and maybe Mo Farah, pacemakers but we should all and when more than 1.28 billion On the face of it, this reflects the majority would struggle. They marvel at the abilities of both the Facebook users comment, like, badly on our sport and the will be much more likely to tell running men and the marketing love and share posts every day, marketing minds involved for you the winner of Strictly Come men. For Eliud Kipchoge to run maybe everyone is an influencer. myriad reasons. Have our running Dancing than the winner of the two and a half minutes faster than So who holds sway and what superstars fallen so far since the London Marathon. So therein lies the official world record is one sort of impact do they have on the days of Linford (first name only as the challenge for us all. Do we keep thing, but to recapture the hearts electorate or (more pertinently for if to prove the point) racing a milk to the traditional sponsorship and minds and water-cooler talk nce again, the UK us) the consumer? float to promote the white stuff, let model and hope the sports of the wider sporting fraternity is population are making Why does a consumer choose alone representing one running personalities we choose to wear almost as inspiring. Otheir minds up and given to buy a branded product from brand for the vast majority of his our products will resonate well, The point of Breaking2 was the unpredictable nature of public your specific store rather than career? Have our current athletes or do we go around trying to sign that it was a complete story. You decisions recently, who knows your competitor’s? What, or rather lost the persuasive power of the reality TV stars to usher people had the hero, you had the fight what will be the outcome. who, motivates the new consumer Olympians of yesteryear? Or is it towards our stores? Or do we try against nature, you had old-school Who did you vote for last time to vote with their wallet and hand more complex than that? What of something entirely different? press corps reporting back to the round? Was it Ed Balls or Ann over their credit card? the impact of drugs scandals and Maybe for the answer, we can world and you had live streaming Widdecombe? Was it Vince Cable Traditionally, “influencers” the proposed rewriting of record look to the sports marketing story for the world to see for themselves. or Edwina Currie? in our world have been elite books? Is this a factor? Or an of the last month. Breaking2. Whether you wanted them Who will you go for this time? athletes, local heroes and maybe irrelevant red herring? Although from memory, I can only to succeed or you wanted them And how will you decide? Who coaches, and to some extent that Ultimately marketing budget name one of the three men who to fail, you had a viewpoint. You will you trust to advise you on who remains the case, but you may holders need to identify what attempted to take down one of the cared. You knew which box you deserves the coveted glitter ball have recently read the comments makes consumers tick, what biggest barriers in running, I’m wanted to put your cross into. And prize? Or the keys to Number 10. of an international athlete resonates with them and what sure we all know the marketing let’s be honest, in these days of The challenge facing who feels he is competing with makes them want to buy. behemoth who organised it. transient triumph and disaster, everyone who wants to virtual reality stars and beer Who does our New Consumer And what a story it was. that’s more than many of us can communicate with the general mile runners for the (financial) look to for their purchase We can sit in our offices, club say about the other big issues that population is that, thanks to affections of running brands. inspiration or for affirmation that a houses and pubs debating the face us in 2017.

www.sports-insight.co.uk

Quint.indd 2 26/05/2017 12:25 ImportServices_Sports Ad_265x360_HiRes.pdf 1 07/09/2016 19:30

• 24 hour Port-Centric • Bonded Warehousing Logistics ✔ / CFSP ✔ Saves time and cost in your Defer VAT & Duty payments until supply chain after you make the sale • Multi-Channel Retail • TRAC real-time access Distribution ✔ to your stock and Sell your product from Port order processing ✔ Valuable information at your ﬁngertips to DC, store or consume r

WAKE UP TO THE FUTURE OF LOGISTICS ~ CONTACT A MEMBER OF OUR TEAM TODAY Call 01489 799 500 or email [email protected] IMPORTSERVICES.CO.UK RETAIL 27 Stepping up to the oche and TAKING ON THE WORLD From starting out in a garage to worldwide business, Karl Holden explains how he has grown A180 Darts

“We are pushing 60,000 registered customers which is a far fetch from running the business from my Garage 12 years ago. “We used Google ad-words etc to grow but these days just use our great reputation, along with newsletters, which help to generate sales.” But outside the world wide web, A180 darts has another unique selling point to help draw customers into their bricks and mortar store, arl Holden has built up which they opened in Folds Lane, St A180 Darts from his Helens, in August 2006. K garage to a business that If you want to buy some darts has a global reach. – come and have a go. Hi father, David, a former Karl has set up a number of Lancashire County player used practice boards in the store so to sell darts around the St Helens customers can get a feel for the area from 1974 to 2000. equipment. And when Karl was laid off in He said: “Setting up the practice 2001 he thought he would take up boards was very important for our where his father left off and see customers but it's not really cost where it took him. effective for us as a company. And it has been quite a journey “However, we get big respect so far. for offering that service and that Karl said: “I was just selling in caring feeling really does keep them local pubs etc. It was doing okay but coming back to try and purchase it was only a limited customer base. the darts they really want and need. “Then a friend of mine “So much so we have now points are for different customers mentioned that eBay was huge in the increased it to six practice boards on every product.” USA and was going to be the same in due to demand.” Another service on offer sees UK. So I opened an account.” That is not the only way that PDC player Alan Tabern, and former Within a year Karl had Karl looks to keep repeat custom world number seven, come into the become one of the top sellers of and has firmly placed his business shop to give advice, known as Tabs darts and got so busy that his wife, at the heart of the darts community. Top Tips, and share stories about Dawn, left her job to help him out. He added: “We do our absolute what top level darts is all about. Two years later they launched best to make people happy. We look Karl added: “On top of this, the website a180.co.uk, took on after them and go that extra mile, we do try to offer advice to good another staff member and have especially in the darts shop where standard players who frequently grown every year since then. we have the staff and time to do so. come into the shop to sharpen up Karl added: “Competition is at “We keep the shop totally on some parts of the game. least ten times bigger now than it separate from the internet side.” “I feel it is important that was ten years ago. The staff who serve in the shop we offer something back to our “But our name and reputation have all been involved with darts customers. keep customers coming back time for well over a decade, including “We offer free advice, free tea or after time. Karl who has listed or been involved coffee and even feed them at times. “People who come into our with every new product available. “We have even picked many of shop in St. Helens also spread the He added: “The second we get our customers up from train and bus word about how much we care and a new product, we test it, check stations were possible because they around 55 all year round. Bunting, Michael Smith, Alan know about darts. it and feel it, so we can pass on come from all over the UK & EU.” “The committee of 12 put a Tabern, Alan Norris, Ian White, “ The internet changed us from a what the darts feel like. That way But Karl also has his eye on huge effort in and we only charge Brendan Dolan, Wayne Jones, James local company to a worldwide brand. we know what the good and bad the future of the sport and has £2 entry and they get their food Richardson, Andy Smith, ladies' launched an academy that has free. We run it every Monday world champion Lisa Ashton, World grown and grown. night, except Bank Holidays from Youth BDO Josh Richardson and Even in a town that boasted 6pm for a 6.30 start and it usually many more, has just been a pleasure. players such as Dave Chisnall, finishes around 8.30pm. “We were part of them Michael Smith, Stephen Bunting “We get kids from North Wales, developing and nothing is more and Tabern there was nowhere Liverpool, St. Helens, Warrington satisfying in darts than that. nearby that children who wanted and Manchester regularly “Plus we just meet so many to get into the sport could go. attending as they love it so much.” people in darts that are fantastic, Karl said: “We started out The downside of running including the darts academy with seven kids the first week. a successful business is that it parents and helpers. “After a few months it had doesn't leave a lot of time for “There are so many new friends grown to 30 but when it went up to family but it also gives Karl a lot of who really are like family to us now.” 40 we had to get a new venue. pride and great memories. And looking to the future Karl “We now have a brilliant He added: “We know all the is not going to sit still, he added: “We venue at the Sidac Club with players, not just the top ones but will constantly be adding the many 14 dartboards set up with four hundreds of others and been to so latest products on the website. categories for kids aged 6-18. many events, quite a few as VIPs. “The shop will keep “Many times we have had “But to help players out who increasing and we plan to take the over 70 kids enter with around were just starting their career the physical shop into the larger room, 150 people attending and average likes of Dave Chisnall, Stephen as it’s almost full to capacity.”

www.sports-insight.co.uk

A180 darts retail.indd 2 26/05/2017 12:24 BREAST SUPPORT FOR ACTIVE WOMEN

“I’m a 32H chested woman. I’m an athlete The Booband™ is designed to give and I coach softball. I got these in about active women extra support during 2 weeks ago and they’ve literally changed exercise and is worn across the my life. I workout 5 days a week and I can top of the breasts, either over or now take my workouts to levels I couldn’t under a sports bra. The compression before. I don’t have to hold my chest down provided by the Booband™ can help while I sprint, and I can push through prevent ligament damage and reduce burpees like never before. These are made pain caused by vertical and lateral well and I would highly recommend you get movement during physical activity. this brand, this company puts quality first.” This must-have kitbag essential is Brianna S. available in various different colours and sizes and has an adjustable fastening for added comfort. The Booband™ has been developed for modern activity using scientific research to ensure superior performance and fit for women of all shapes and sizes.

booband-sports-insight-265x360mm-V3.indd 1 17/05/2017 15:44 TECHNOLOGY 29

When you are out on a run it's always good to have AN ANGEL LOOKING OVER YOU Mark Hayhurst talks to David Caren about the wearable personal safety device – run angel

hat can keep you earlier. This sat with me for quite human hearing, thereby bring run angel to market but it The primary target of run safe when you are sometime afterwards. attracting greater attention also needed to be from the right angel are joggers and runners, out on a run? “At the same time I would in an emergency. investors too.” however, David believes that it also W has advantages for other users. That's the questioned that often come in from training and “Both chamber and the It is worth noting that run David and Ellen Caren asked tell my wife of situations where electronics design have been angel is manufactured in the UK He added: “We feel all before coming up with run I’d seen women out running alone carefully constructed to fit neatly and Ireland, which is considered demographics, especially other angel in 2013. at night. It wasn’t until Ellen on a wrist – which presented very unusual for a wearable lifestyle interests, can benefit The husband and wife team, began running herself several immense challenges in itself.” technology product. greatly from run angel including along with the help of an extensive years ago that she not only was As the product has a unique David added: “The vast cyclists, hill walkers and climbers. team of engineers, app developers, able to see this for herself, but acoustic element to it David and majority of wearable tech Run angel can also be acoustic experts, industry she too experienced a sense of Ellen first set about surrounding companies travel to the Asian considered an essential piece of kit mentors and security advisors, vulnerability a runner often themselves with the right team markets to build their products. We should you suffer a personal injury developed a personal safety feels when out alone. who could assist them in bringing believe when it comes to personal or a medical condition that requires wearable for runners, joggers, “We researched what was their vision to market. safety you cannot afford to immediate nearby help and your students, overseas travellers and available to a runner which David aded: “We not only compromise on the build quality listed guardians notified.” revellers that emits a loud 120dB could deter an attack and alert invested personally but were and reliability of your product, that high-pitched audible alarm when passersby. We found personal fortunate to receive funding the end user should feel confident activated, and pairs with safety devices that were quite from our local government that what they are buying stands up smartphone devices over cumbersome, that would not be office. We worked with several to what it says it can do. There Bluetooth to send out alerts in considered as a neat wrist worn universities on the design front, should be no short cuts to the finish the event of an emergency, wearable by the running enlisted the help of running line when safety is concerned.” showing your location. community and that also lacked clubs to conduct focus group Prior to developing run angel, the smart messaging capabilities interviews throughout all stages Ellen worked as a concessions that is found with run angel.” of development and assigned a manager for the Brown Thomas And it was a challenge to great deal of our budget on Fashion Retail Group and David develop run angel into what building prototypes. worked in the music industry it is today. “Any business attempting to predominantly in music David said: “We have spent raise investment for a connected management and A&R. several years perfecting the hardware product will appreciate David, run angel co-founder, design of our product. It has been the immense challenges that this said: “The impetus for run angel an ultramarathon journey to say presents. We made the conscious was born out of an unfortunate the least, making something so decision early on not to approach encounter while on an early small sound loud was no easy feat. potential investors until the morning run. “Our USP pertains to the hardware was near completion. In “After passing a woman out patent pending design of our addition to this, that our IP folder running alone I was knocked to acoustic chamber. We have built a was of significant bulk and a the ground by a hooded figure, chamber that emits 120dB when manufacturing and distribution when I got to my feet the guy had activated from run angel, or contract had also been secured. ran back in the direction he had remotely from our mobile “The investors we identified come from. It didn't hit me until I applications. Our electronics as a good fit for run angel was back into my run that this guy design has also been tuned to a understood what we were was actually pursuing the lone frequency level to enable the championing immediately. We female runner only moments sound to be more susceptible to needed private investment to

www.sports-insight.co.uk

Run angel.indd 2 26/05/2017 12:37 30 COLUMN Are sports sponsorships HITTING THE TARGET FOR FANS? Andy Bolter, creative partner at Yes&Pepper, a collaborative ideas agency, looks at the issue of brands and sports

described McDonald’s demand as a ‘dictatorchip’ – too good. A recent study suggested that Orange was the most successful sponsor of Euro 2016. This was down to its ‘fan focus’ and effort to target the millions of people who were travelling to France to watch the tournament; Zidane was also the protagonist of the campaign - never a bad idea. The whole campaign revolved solely around the fans, and even better, t’s a partnership made in fans from all over the world. heaven. Born out of love. Boy My convictions remain Imeets girl, boy meets boy, girl the same. When it comes to meets girl. Who cares… they’re consumer engagement, listen getting married. Excited parents to your audience, act on the agree that this is right, it’s a union feedback you’re given, and most that needs to be celebrated and of all, collaborate with everyone that’s what’s going to happen… Ma involved in your campaign: be and Pa grab their cheque book to it clients or fans. Collaboration pay for it, or at least to help pay a unlike rival fans shouldn’t have

large part of it. You two deserve CosminIftode / Shutterstock.com any boundaries. the wedding of the century. We’re My message to CEOs, MDs your biggest fans. or a pensioner, you felt the buzz only been around for 20 years, and the Olympic games since 1976. and FDs of global brands is don’t The good intentions are there walking into the Milburn Stand has seen a tremendous buildout However, it came under much act like controlling parents who to be seen, but certain friends from and seeing the field where many in the past decade - sponsorships scrutiny during the London 2012 have paid for their child’s wedding the club who aren’t invited really great players have swung a foot. being the catalyst in its growth. games when people couldn’t figure and are now dictating the whole should be. And we don’t think the So, it came as a jaw dropper The brand sponsors the likes of out what a fast food chain was event, inviting all their golfing hall you want isn’t really the hall when Mike Ashley decided to Steph Curry, Anthony Joshua doing sponsoring an event like the buddies. Listen to what your you need. Shouldn’t we get the rename the stadium after his and Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson Olympics – it is somewhat ironic fans want, get them on your side, wedding we want too, I mean we are other company; enter the Sports – all legends in their own right. if you ask me. To make matters adapt your campaign to the team, paying for it think the parents. Soon Direct Arena. This is a prime Sponsoring icons like these is sure worse, McDonald’s demanded league or sports person you’re planning the dream becomes the example of the ‘controlling parent to lead any brand to smile smugly exclusivity for the right to sell sponsoring, and only then will the nightmare, and the money invested syndrome’ coming into play. There at its competitors; it’s safe to say, chips in the Olympic park. What masses who come to the arenas in happiness is suddenly anchored seems to be no consideration for Under Armour has been smiling happens to all the fans who don’t every week appreciate your work, down in joyless expectation. We’re what the child wants - or fans for quite some time. like McDonald’s chips? Or to and success will surely follow. your biggest fans? in this case. This was purely the Talking as a sports fan myself, everyone who simply wants some Oh, and don’t name the It’s no secret that sponsorships choice of the ‘controlling parent’, supporters do get to feel some big fat traditional British chips? stadium Tesco Express Arena. are as much a part of sports as and even though the bride and emotional ties to their teams’ This is like the ‘controlling guest lists and seating plans are a groom are bringing the substance sponsors. The problem emerges parent’ demanding that the only part of weddings. It seems every to the day, they, ultimately, are the when the brands don’t deliver food to be catered at the wedding major team, league or sportsperson ones that have gone unheard and sponsorships in the way that the is pasta, not considering all the in the UK is flying the flag of its have been left disappointed. fans crave and accept. McDonald’s guests who might be allergic devout sponsor high and proud. If you alienate the people that has been the sole sponsor of to gluten. The Daily Telegraph What the brand offers, however, give the sport or team its value to will determine how much the your business, you’ll end up just recipient will give back, and the losing their support – who wants more money the brand pays, to go to a wedding where the main the higher the flag is waved. For protagonists don’t show up? This example, you might just get an isn’t the first time the bosses of arena named after your brand a sports team have swapped its if you’re willing to hand over a legacy in return for a juicy income. healthy cheque. Yet, when sponsors Etihad Stadium. Red Bull Arena. act like controlling parents, who Barclays Centre. These are all

have paid for their child’s wedding other cases of brands offering the Andrey Armyagov / Shutterstock.com and now want the whole event to be big buck in return for having their about them, this is when the dream name in bright lights. Saying that, marriage runs into trouble. all my Northern friends still call As a child, even as a West the arena St James’s Park; it’s tough Ham fan, St James’s Park – home referring to your team’s stadium as to Newcastle United - was an a shop on the high street. infamous arena that exuded The sports industry is an abundance of history and immersed and consumed by notoriety. St James’s Park wasn’t the lure of sponsorship. Under just a football stadium, it was Armour is a major sponsorship a monument to the Geordies, success story that other brands and whether you were a child can learn from. The company has Shahid Khan / Shutterstock.com

@SportsInsightUK

sports sponsorships.indd 1 26/05/2017 14:29 RETAIL 31 Do your customers know WHO TO TURN TO? Paul Clapham looks at the issue of staff uniforms and their marketing value

e all have to wear and from work they are throwing a group of young people in bright will be a pleasant surprise is the cool, a heavier weight might have something to work, so your business name around. I clothing, especially where it quality and variety available to distinct advantages. Wit makes a lot of sense don’t suggest that people will attaches to a positive story about you, compared to buying the above Finally in this section comes to turn that into a marketing be constantly asking where the a local business. products on the high street. sizes. I am aware of one supplier opportunity. Giving staff a store is but it does happen from That same principle works Retailers typically sell six or whose range goes up to 7XL and uniform doesn’t turn them into time to time. well if you have, say, a team perhaps eight different colours, several start at XXS. Size is not automatons, instead it can turn As a general principle, a store entered in a local fun run. OK whereas a printwear supplier can a problem and having staff in them into advertisements for your where the staff all wear the same the guy wearing an elephant’s offer you six shades of blue on its clothes that look and feel right business. People can be confused colour combination looks smarter, head will be photographed more, own. If you can’t find the colour regardless of a person’s size has about what they should wear to more distinctive than one where but you stand a good chance you want in the shade you like, it’s to be a bonus. work, so take that issue away. that doesn’t apply. Since this is of some column centimetres. a funny colour! A divisive issue applies to There is a clear benefit to a sports store it also supports Apply the same thinking to any You are even more spoiled headgear. In general they are not staff here: as well as not having the principle of team-working. If team activity that your staff are for choice in fabrics, weights and a favoured part of the printwear to decide what to wear, they you look like a team you are more involved in. This may or may not sizes. You can choose 100% cotton offering in Britain. This contrasts don’t have to pay for it. I’m aware inclined to act like one and sports require specialist kit. or a range of poly-cotton mixes. dramatically with the US, where that some staff balk at the idea enthusiasts like that. So what should your The latter are cheaper but the baseball caps of one style or other of uniform – it’s for school kids. If you become an enthusiast staff printwear actually be? former is the better quality and are number one choice. Obviously Sorry, chum, this is a sports store for printwear you could take a Lucky you! You have a Santa’s looks it. Your decision. that reflects the two nations’ and if you’re a team player you leaf out of JD Wetherspoons’ sackful of choice. Since you are From your experience of the different sporting enthusiasms. have to wear the team strip. book. When they are promoting in the sports trade, there’s an high street you may think that all There are advantages to The first benefit of printwear/ particular brands or products obvious temptation to use sports tees, polos and sweatshirts come baseball caps, however. First they workwear as it is properly called the staff wear shirts saying, clothes. I’d resist that because in a single weight. No they don’t! I are unisex and one size fits all. is huge: it helps customers to for instance, ‘ask me for an Old it may not help distinguish staff could quote figures here but they Each staff member only needs one, recognise staff on the shop floor. If Peculier’. If you go down that from customers. won’t mean much without picking maybe two, hats. Customers can you don’t think that matters much, route you should get at least part The choice tends to come up the product or better still see a staff member in a hat from a boy, are you wrong. A key reason funding from the brand owner. down to t-shirt, polo shirt or trying it on. Suffice to say, for each distance. Still, be conscious that why people leave a shop without Especially at the outset your sweatshirt, but I suggest you look product you can buy a variety of lots of people don’t like wearing buying is, ‘I couldn’t find someone new printwear will offer PR at other options as well. What weights. If you keep your premises them, check with your staff. to ask’. That clearly applies all opportunities. Editors of local the more to the new customer newspapers love a photograph of who doesn’t know your shop and can’t distinguish between staff members and other customers. So pick strong primary colours. In the same way when they are out on the street, on their way to

www.sports-insight.co.uk

Staff uniforms.indd 2 26/05/2017 14:30 Sports Insight 210x297_01.pdf 1 17/05/2017 15:28

11TH – 13TH JULY 2017 STONELEIGH PARK, WARWICKSHIRE, CV8 2LG

CMY

HUNDREDS OF REASONS TO BE THERE RETAIL 33 BUYING A BIKE is just the tip of the iceberg Mark Downie, Senior Brand Manager at 2pure Ltd, looks at the way the cycle market has changed and expanded

We still see the majority of our designing products that are ‘real their normal diet and eating habits. most valuable and demanded. storage sales to the trade for trade world’ and will stand up to long They probably read into brand Chamois Butt’r is a product many use, for example the Rakk from term use. Testament to this is our stories and ingredients lists fairly riders can’t be without! We have Feedback Sports is the accepted rate of return which is virtually deeply and go for products that you just spent some time conducting a number one solution for bike display zero - all items are designed to be could make in the kitchen except it’s product composition analysis and in stores. On the home side we have easy to repair over their lifespans easier to buy made and packaged in reformulation with the guys at seen massive success of the Velo meaning that in normal use, a the right format for the bike. The Chamois Butt’r to improve and Wall Rack 2D and the Velo Hinge - Feedback product will work latter consumer will be more confirm we are 100 per cent euro they are inexpensive highly almost indefinitely. focused in how to fuel and be way compliant for all the ingredients functional and demonstrate more numbers oriented and not as contained in the product and we fantastic longevity. Whilst there Also the rise in taste led. They may be more are happy to say we are. As part may be other products with a higher nutrition and energy accepting of products that are more of this process we were also aesthetic value available, it is rare to fuel cyclists - how synthetic in appearance or accepted by the European It's not just about they also possess sound design and is this reflected in the manufacture and have some form of Cosmetics Portal as a legitimate engineering features. The range pro endorsement. Put simply, they and safe product for consumers to owning a bike any offered by Feedback is deep and not marketplace? want to know how many calories, Cyclists have an obsession with buy with confidence. We feel, like more - there is so much too wide - this is intentional and how quickly it will work and if it is food - after all what other sport can with nutrition products, that the else that goes with it. due to the focus on engineering a priced well - they usually consume a claim to be so cake centric! Jokes consumer really values provenance How has this market quality and relevant product for the large volume in a year. aside, we live in an age where and is given confidence to buy grown over the years? market and to offer the dealer some We offer Honey Stinger to the consumers have more information when they can be assured of the That is an interesting question stability on range selection and in market which offers great taste and science on nutrition than ever supply chain and consideration and one that needs some store offering. and the energy source of honey in given to them as users. qualification. before and more options than we formats that cyclists accept such Certainly, bike sales have been really need but we still have as gels, bars and chews. We feel in decline but parts and accessories How much thought climbing rates of obesity and the brand appeals to the former What do you look for have remained near static but there and science goes into diabetes present in our population customer mentioned above. in a new product? has been an increase in the number the design of these so something isn’t working and it’s You have to ask yourself, does a of brands and products available, new products? probably education. The sports There are also products product offer a consumer genuine especially on a brand direct basis. Knowing the team at Feedback cyclist can be broken into two main designed to take some value for money and crucially, From my experience, even when Sports and the relentless focus they types in my eyes when it comes to of the irritation of a would we spend our money on it at bike sales are in decline, dedicated have on engineering, I can attest to sports nutrition, firstly the ‘normal retail. This rarely fails to weed out users will still be enthusiastic about the thought and design present in food’ rider and secondly the ‘fuel’ long ride away. Vaseline the bad products from the good upgrading kit and clothing and the all products they develop. This has rider. The former will aim to fuel isn't the only product but there are other parameters to real opportunities are in that area been reflected by the endorsement him/herself with up to date and on the market to make consider such as ‘who is behind for sure. Sensible shops and dealers of so many pro team mechanics in new products that are well the ride smoother. How the brand’, ‘what is the product will be looking for ways to attract cycling sport and the fact that so marketed and have a story and are these products roadmap’ etc. But put simply it customers and make sales without many working mechanics and crucially taste good! Usually these brought to the market? always comes back to whether or tying up cash in bikes so the P&A stores buy Feedback Sports for will be organic or with a provenance Ah yes… one of the least romantic not a product enhances a user market should always be relatively personal use. They specialize in or message they can mirror from products we offer but one of the experience or adds genuine value. buoyant. It needs to be borne in mind though that unless we can introduce a new customer to cycling at a lifestyle level more regularly then we will suffer from the introspection of sales to existing participants and not actually grow in real terms. This is where the government and other bodies need to do more to emphasise the importance of cycling to the economy and health in order to encourage more people to engage with cycling and become valuable consumers for both bike and accessory sales. The pure sports category needs to be enhanced by lifestyle and transport categories for real growth to occur long term. Innovations in bike stands, rather than just leaning your bike up in the hall or against the wall in a garage - how have they changed? This a particular area of interest for us as we distribute Feedback Sports here in the UK, who you could argue offer the most complete range of bike stands and bike support on the market. There are so many ways to store a bike now and it gives the bike user flexibility to fit into their lifestyle and living arrangements.

www.sports-insight.co.uk

2pure barry martin.indd 2 26/05/2017 10:00 34 COLUMN Are runners taking things TO THE EXTREME? Paul Sherratt of Solutions for Sport takes a closer look at the growth of extreme events.

record total of 253,930 active runners under these criteria. shaping the sport. side has been the driver towards further enhance both the fun and people entered the ballot Yet, leaders in the running Many of the women signing up increased participation in non- (often) team element of the race. A for the 2017 Virgin Money industry are quick to note that it is for ultra marathons and marathons timed, but fun, events. London Marathon. With 50,000 not just the growing participation today will take for granted their The future runners accepted and, with a in the sport that is driving interest right to compete. But only 40 years Impact and Given the fast and sizeable growth of proportion of entrants dropping out in non-traditional events. Many of ago, it was not an option. opportunities for the participation in the sport of running due to illness, injury or other reasons these leaders believe that society's As recently as the Eighties, it industry recently and the non-traditional before Race Day up to 45,000 shift toward a more localised was thought to be too dangerous With the growing participation races facilitating that growth, where runners finally completed the race. lifestyle is at the root of the growth for women to run long distances. of women in the sport of running is the sport of running headed? There is no doubt that the of non-traditional running events. It wasn't until the late Seventies and a shift in the types of events As we have already popularity of this event continues In the US, for example, Mikal that big city marathons began interesting runners our own established, running isn't an to grow, and, in fact, since the Peveto of adidas America said: to allow women to compete. industry is seeing some changes elitist sport in terms of costs. On event first started 36 years ago “There is a sea change going And women were not allowed to and some opportunities. top of that, research shows that it is true to say that the profile of on in the world, where we are take part in the marathon at the Extreme events have driven most participants are of a higher running as a sport has seen a huge embracing our smallness and Olympics until 1984. both the growth in specialist educated, higher income bracket evolution and has grown to be a local communities. Whether it's Since then, women's products (think innov8 and and professionally employed base. mainstream form of exercise. fresh foods and farming or stores participation in marathons, ultra the cross over products from Therefore, they have the means to However, in recent years, it becoming a more vital part of the marathons, and adventure races trail running) as well as more travel and pay entry fees and other is not running in its purest form communities they're in, we are has flourished. “informal” running apparel (think associated costs with running. that has been attracting more and seeing a natural reconfiguration There are likely a number of leggings, performance t's etc). The interesting shift is more participants - the sport of of our values in terms of localness. key reasons behind this evolution In fact, the latter category going to be watching and paying running and its industry alike have The same applies to running. Today, but certainly it does seem that a (in particular leggings) has seen attention to the next generation. undergone a metamorphosis of the fastest growing events in the lot of women are using endurance the boundaries between street How will millennials and their sorts, where for many runners, the sport aren't established marathons, races and events as a target to help fashion and sport once again approach and attitudes towards main goal of competing in events but things like obstacle course races motivate them to lose weight or become blurred. life - whether it's how they're is finishing a race - and having and the Tough Mudder, which are improve their fitness. Brands such as Sweaty employed, where they live and how fun doing it - rather than breaking all very community based.” Social Media is undoubtedly a Betty and Lululemon have they spend and donate - impact the records. This shift in the sport is Many market commentators driver with many women using posts driven demand and several sport? Will the popularity of non- due in large part to the growth of also believe that there are as a self motivational tool - much in online retailers have launched traditional events continue to grow popularity of non-traditional races, economic reasons behind the the same way that those attending sportswear verticals, such as with the millennials? such as the Tough Mudder, The growth of running and the weight loss groups traditionally used Boohoo Fit, Missguided Active My own conclusion is that, Colour Run and Rat Race. associated Extreme Events. their peer group within the circle to and Net-a-Sporter. as today's consumer continues Running is accessible. “compete against” they are now able Likewise, as retailers to search for experience-based What's driving Equipment requirements are low. to reach out to their wider peer group recognise the “local/community” events these sorts of activities the growth? There is no coaching required, to help encourage them to achieve element to many of these events, will indeed grow. Perhaps we But what is driving the growth of rules to learn, clubs to join. Simply their goals. the proactive dealers have created will end up with a sliding scale participation in non-traditional put on your shoes and off you go. It is also true that this “social” bespoke printed apparel options to of events from the very extreme running events? Certainly growth in running (think multi-day/multi discipline) On the one hand, the sport of has accelerated since 2008 – through to the more traditional running as a whole has experienced perhaps directly influenced by the 5/10k as the consumer continues unprecedented growth. Sports challenging economic period that to demand more choice. Marketing Surveys Inc (SMS) has presided since that time. It does seem that participation estimates the UK’s running numbers look set to continue to population has reached an More Women grow and thus, as an industry, the impressive 10.5million runners, Along with economics, another opportunities will continue to with one in five adults running four interesting aspect is the unique become available. or more times a year, while 25 per role that women's growing cent of under-18s also qualify as interest in running has played in I'm off to get my old running shoes on and get dirty... CA Eccles / Shutterstock.com Glynnis Jones / Shutterstock.com CA Eccles / Shutterstock.com

@SportsInsightUK

Paul Sherrat.indd 1 26/05/2017 12:17 No.1 in the Awesome USA* Shoes Lifetime Deserve Guarantee Awesome

Anatomical design Socks. for comfort and blister elimination.

The Perfect Toe® No irritating toe seams.

High density cushioning provides protection in high impact areas.

Call now to plan your store’s range with aWorkbook and a 2pure Territory Manager.

0131 449 4147 / [email protected]

® Workbook The No.1 Digital Sales App AVAILABLE FROM 2PURE/ *NPD Research Group - Feetures! hold 30% USA market share. Waterflex ‘Fit’s Pool’ for Gyms without a Pool

The New Profit Centre for Weight Loss/Low impact Exercise

‘Simply the best’ Low Price Water Therapy

www.waterflex.fr [email protected] Mob. 07847520057 Direct line...0114 275 2593 NUTRITION 37 How do you get to the end of the MOST GRUELLING CYCLE RACE IN THE WORLD? Dr Rob Child, Science in Sport chief scientific officer, explains how to fuel riders to stay the course

he Tour de France is one they refresh the palette, before of the most gruelling and Christopher Froome, wearing getting on the team bus and prestigious cycle races in the leader's yellow jersey in having a recovery drink, such as T front of Arc de Triomphe the world. REGO Rapid Recovery. during the Tour de France 2016 Dr Child added: “REGO This year's Tour will be the on the Champs-Elysees Avenue. 104th edition of the race and runs provides 20 grams of protein from July 1- 23 made up of 21 which covers the first stage of stages, ranging from 14 km to 220 muscle repair. km, and will cover a total distance “Then 20 minutes later they of 3,521 km. take on solid carbohydrates to The first event was held in refuel such as white rice, white 1903 and has only taken a break pasta or potatoes and slow release during the two world wars. protein in the form of meat or This year's Grand Depart fish. Fruit salad is also a key starts in Dusseldorf, winds its staple providing antioxidants and way to the south of France before phytonutrients, which also help finishing down the Champs- muscle recovery.” Elysees in Paris. The riders will also drink But it's various stages, water on the journey to the including time-trials, tortuous hotel, adding in several GO mountains and long distance Hydro tablets if its been a hot stages, all require different stage or if they feel they are a fuelling needs for the riders. little bit thirsty. Dr Rob Child, chief scientific On arrival at the hotel, most office for SiS, who previously riders immediately have a one worked for Katusha, Qhubeka hour massage before heading and the Cervelo Test Teams at down to dinner. This will typically the Tour de France, takes a look comprise of salad , pasta, rice or at the nutritional requirements potatoes with meat or fish. After required to keep the competitors Frederic Legrand - COMEO/Shutterstock.com a mountain stage some riders in the saddle. reward or console themselves He said: “The Tour is a huge or Go Energy Double Espresso road stage the following day. along, such as Go Electrolyte or with chocolate or a dessert. challenge, you are talking about 21 Caffeine Gels. Rob said: “For a typical road Go Energy, but if there are key Dr Child added: “The final stages, with only two rest days, and “They'd take those normally stage the guys will eat more of obstacles ahead like mountains call of the evening is the delivery the nutrition varies depending on one in the beginning of the pretty much the same thing, just then they will be thinking about of the night recovery drinks the length of each one.” warm up, then another one 15 increasing the respective amounts taking caffeine gels before the and REGO Overnight Protein The opening time trial is the minutes before they are going according to the energy demands major climbs in addition to the is very popular as it provides a shortest stage this year. to do their effort. of the stage. finish, just because it is going to be concentrated source of casein. Typically riders would have a “However, earlier this “The breakfast is pretty more physically challenging and This slow digesting milk protein standard breakfast, oats porridge, year SiS launched its award standard, with most of the protein they need to be alert. releases amino acids which is muesli, some fruit, omelette. winning GO Caffeine shot. coming from yoghurt, omelettes “So that's how the stage is laid important to muscle recovery. If Rob said: “In the two hours Uniquely this contains 150mg and poached eggs or cooked meats. out starting more on the solids you take 20-30g of casein it will beforehand they would typically caffeine, in addition to citrulline Many riders replace meat and eggs and then graduating to the liquids. take 6-8 hours to digest so there have a light meal of white rice or malate, magnesium and several with a high quality protein powder "If it's a mountain stage will still be amino acids repairing white pasta without sauce to be B-vitamins. These work in like SiS Advanced Isolates, to the the last gel is consumed 20 the muscle at 6am if you went to sure they have sufficient glycogen combination to provide major maintain protein intake with minutes before the finish. When bed at 11pm. in the muscle. Most riders also improvements in mental and minimum fat. riders take gels after this time it is “The immune system also have a small omelette. physical performance, and are “A lot of the riders have a a sign they are struggling.” uses amino acids so if the riders “They will also make sure they ideally taken 30 minutes prior coffee at breakfast then a second After the stage, the riders are fighting some kind of infection are hydrated, numerous teams use to big efforts. From the outset coffee about an hour before the often crave fizzy drinks because you are providing fuel for that to.” SiS Go Hydro tablets to achieve feedback from pro riders was race starts. this in the pre-race period. unanimously positive and the GO “If it was going to be a hot “They might only be racing for Caffeine shot has now become part stage they would use the Go Hydro 15 minutes in the opening time of the pre race nutrition strategy.” tablets starting at breakfast and trial but all the riders will do a Nutrition immediately on the bus on the way to the race warm-up of at least 45 minutes. following the first time trial start to make sure they start each So the warm up will be more is also of vital importance for stage fully hydrated.” demanding than the opening time the riders. And the fuelling doesn't trial in terms of total calories Dr Child pointed out that stop once the stage gets under burnt even though it is performed riders may have a small measure way with some riders taking a at a lower intensity. of recovery drink, being mindful of Whey 20 protein gel at the start “It's quite important to do a not consuming too many calories of the stage before moving on bit of fuelling during the warm before hitting the mountains. to protein or energy bars and up, and traditionally riders go for Then a little bit of rice, cooked finally energy gels. a carbohydrate electrolyte drink pasta, mixed with a bit of sweet Dr Child added: “Towards the with caffeine gels. corn or sardines which is pretty end of the stage riders will use “So, traditionally, the guys use light and easily digestible. more gels especially caffeine gels. Go Electrolyte during the warm- They then would have a proper “They would be taking

up and Go Energy Caffeine Gels, evening meal ahead of a tough hydration drinks all the way Radu Razvan/Shutterstock.com

www.sports-insight.co.uk

Nutrition.indd 2 26/05/2017 12:16 REEBOK COMBAT EQUIPMENT

Kit up and train with the latest combat gear, including gloves, bags, pads, wraps, and protective wear.

Find out more at reebokfitness.com or contact [email protected]

REEBOKFITNESS.COM MY SPORTING LIFE 39 SWEAT AND GEARS but hopefully no blood Tony James talks to Alex Dowsett about his haemophilia and his competitive cycling career

different so my parents were more his strict medical regime. the Manchester Velodrome, affected than I was. To me, taking Dowsett has hemophilia A - only for Bradley Wiggins to medication was only like eating the most common type affecting break it a month later. Now porridge every morning.” one in 5,000 males - which means Dowsett wants the record back By now, Dowsett was having he lacks the essential blood- but he’s in no hurry. “I hope it preventative injections every two clotting protein Factor VIII. will be possible before the end of days which made it safer to take In fact his natural levels of the year but everything has to be part in sport. But not everyone was Factor VIII are almost zero and perfect for the attempt because convinced, and at school, Dowsett he has a special dispensation from the ante is so high.” was barred from rugby, hockey and the sport’s authorities to inject Meanwhile he’s focusing his football because it was feared a himself before an event with an attention on his place in the bump on the head could kill him. engineered version of the protein. Spanish Movistar team which has He was advised to stick to chess In a sport in which the use of topped the UCI World Tour rankings or learn a musical instrument but needles is banned because of its every year since he joined in 2013. was determined to take up a sport. drug-tainted past, Dowsett has There’s also the Commonwealth “I just had this desire to be very occasionally had some explaining Games to look forward to next year, good at something and didn’t care to do. “When I was riding for Team and the Olympics. what it was,” he remembers. Sky they didn’t actually warn any of Hopefully retirement is still Dowsett says his parents put the riders that I was a haemophiliac years away, but Dowsett already has him on the path to sporting success and what that involved. plans for the future. He’s a partner by refusing to allow his condition “So when one of my team- in Cyclism, a performance cycling to compromise his life. They tried mates walked into the dressing- business that coaches amateur to him in a range of sports, including room before a race and said: ‘Alex, professional-level riders. sailing. “I was the only kid to wear what the hell are you doing?’ I had “Cycling has become a mid- a crash helmet in case the boom hit to give him a medical lecture! life crisis solution, predominately my head.” “I top up my medication before for men who are now thinking of Strangely, cycling didn’t races and the back-up team carry buying a £10,000 bike instead of interest the young Dowsett. “I extra, should I be injured. I would a bright yellow Porsche. We try to never watched it on TV. The still bleed, but no more severely than help people keep healthy, have a velodrome stuff at the Olympics someone without my condition.” good time on a bike and forget about looked cool, but motor-racing was He trains around six hours status symbols.” my thing. My dad used to race cars a day six days a week and says Dowsett admits he might still and that’s what I wanted to do.” cycling is the perfect sport for pick the bright yellow Porsche. He took up swimming but soon haemophiliacs. “It’s similar to From childhood he’s been an e has beaten Sir Bradley “But it’s what you do found it wasn’t what he wanted. “I swimming in that it has a fluid unashamed petrol-head and is Wiggins, held a world afterwards that counts. You can wasn’t a natural swimmer and at 11 motion with no actual impact on seriously considering a Hrecord, and struck gold at either let it hold you back, or accept asked my father if he could join his the joints. Running, career in motor-sport when the 2014 Commonwealth Games, it and lead a better life. I want mountain-biking group.” His dad for instance, would his cycling days are over. but Alex Dowsett’s greatest to show the younger generation said yes. Later Dowsett borrowed a have caused real Another needlessly victory has been over a potentially that what you can achieve with road bike from a friend of his father problems.” perilous challenge? life-threatening medical haemophilia is nigh-on limitless.” - and found the sport that would In 2014, “When you have condition which has confined The cheery, approachable change his life. Dowsett took haemophilia you lesser mortals to a wheelchair. Essex boy has certainly done From the start, he excelled at gold in the spend a lifetime Dowsett has haemophilia, an that. A multiple time trial cycling. At 14 he came second in Commonwealth being told what you incurable condition which stops champion, and a lead rider with the under-17 schoolboy national Games cycling can’t do,” is Dowsett’s the blood clotting properly. Head the top Spanish road-racing team championships, was talent- time trial and answer. “It gives you injuries can be fatal and internal Movistar, Dowsett is determined spotted by the British Olympic the following year, a burning desire to bleeding can permanently damage to get to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Development team and first broke the prestigious prove everyone wrong. joints and muscles, and yet he “I am only 28 and there’s no represented his country at 16. Hour world record, I would never have got regularly swoops at 70 mph down reason why I shouldn’t get better,” Looking back, Dowsett gives clocking up 52.937km in where I am without that.” a mountainside, hurtles around he says. “I’m good at maintaining much of the credit for his successful the world’s cycle velodromes my concentration, judging my fight against adversity to his and, thanks to a combination of effort and pacing it well.” father, former British touring car modern medicine and relentless It could have been a very championship driver Peter Dowsett. ambition, lives to tell the tale. different story. Dowsett was “He used to share his car-racing Today at 28, one of the diagnosed with haemophilia at 18 stories and it made me feel that I world’s most successful road and months after bruises from even wanted to be able to share the same track racing cyclists, Dowsett gentle contact rang alarm bells sort of stories with my children. He is the only elite sportsman with with his parents. “They noticed gave me the passion for racing.” haemophilia, which has made him that even picking me up for a Elite cycling can be a contact an inspiration to fellow-sufferers cuddle left me with black bruises.” sport and there have been who previously feared active sport The early years were hard. horrendous injuries on road and was too much of a risk. Just brushing against a door could track, but while acutely aware of the To give practical help, cause bleeding in a knee joint risks, Dowsett doesn’t allow them to Dowsett has founded a charity, and he could be on crutches for a interfere with his ruthless ambition. the appropriately-named Little few days. “In this situation most “When I cycle I don’t worry Bleeders, which supports young parents’ instincts would be to wrap about my haemophilia. If you haemophiliacs in sport and stresses their children in cotton wool but worry about going too fast and the importance of physical activity. mine did everything they could to coming off, that’s not good.” And “The message is about sending help me become physically strong. although he’s suffered injuries out positive words because in “Primary school was tough including broken collar-bones, life you can be dealt a very rough because I either went in on shoulder-blade, elbow and hand, particularly in childhood,” crutches or had my arm in a sling, ribs, there have been no life- Dowsett says. but I had never known anything threatening reactions thanks to

www.sports-insight.co.uk

My sporting life.indd 2 26/05/2017 12:12 GORILLA TRAINING ROCKET GOAL GORILLA TRAINING REBOUNDER Steel framed pop up goals that are set up within seconds. A portable & lightweight rebounder which can be set up Suitable for all recreational or training use.Complete with carry bag. in seconds, to be used anywhere. Complete with carry bag.

GORILLA TRAINING INFLATABLE GOALS GORILLA TRAINING SPEED RADAR Inflatable goals are perfect for training on the move. The flexible An essential tool for recording & analysing performance, speed & PVC hose is air pressurised, creating a rigid structure within minutes. style. Includes a built in camera, managed via a wireless wrist band.

T: 01635 517560 E: [email protected] W: www.phoenixsportinggoods.com TECHNOLOGY 41 It is always best to keep your cool Mark Hayhurst talks to Richard Townsend, Mission sales director UK and Ireland, about their cooling towel range and their plans for the future hen you are training cooling technology chills fabric Mission's range is now and competing it is surface temperature by up to 30° expanding from the cooling towels W often difficult to keep to help you control temperature and neck gaiters technology to yourself at optimal temperature. on demand. introducing seasonal thermo- Pouring water over your head But it's not all about cooling regulative apparel and accessories fabric technology which will keep you cool for a while but but thermoregulation across which addresses the threats to combines patented 37.5R Mission have come up with an the board. thermoregulation for Spring/ technology that rapidly innovative range of towels that Richard Townsend, Mission Summer and Fall/Winter. evaporates and removes aim to keep you cooler for longer. sales director UK and Ireland, Providing a capsule range of sweat that absorbs and Mission’s Enduracool instant said: “Mission has developed the activewear for SS17 including retains your body’s heat first and only line of athlete- men's and women's t-shirts, with odour control. engineered products designed to shorts and leggings and sports “It actively adapts to enhance performance in training bra for the ladies. your body keeping you and competition. Launched in Richard added: “The main ultra-dry. This 2009, teaming up with world- difference in products now is that technology has now class doctors, scientists and the Mission brand has branched been adapted for use athletes, the Mission Performance out from cooling technology to in cold conditions Lab at UCONN’s Korey Stringer heating technology, keeping you at with thermal fleece Institute is a state of the art optimal body temperature products providing facility dedicated to studying and through all seasons. All warmth without added weight testing thermoregulation science technologies are permanent and and water resistant.” in order to advance athletic will never be washed out. The products are designed for your metabolic energy on performance. “The Cooling towel and Neck anybody that wants to keep their thermoregulation, which leaves “This has enabled Mission to gaiter technology is a technology body at optimal temperature, less energy for performance. deliver game-changing that is permanent with no whether it be participating in sports This is where Mission comes in. innovations. Mission Athletecare chemicals. When wet it slows the activities indoor/outdoor or just “This Fall/Winter Mission has quickly become a driving force rate of evaporation and instantly keeping cool, for example, avoiding will be controlling temperature of innovation in the sports cools to 15o below average body heat stroke and also ladies' and unlocking performance with industry, uniquely focused on temperature, wicking sweat and experiencing the menopause. their first Fall/Winter range of products that help athletes circulating moisture. Richard Said: “Our optimal thermo-regulating apparel and prepare, perform and rehab “The Apparel technology core temperature is 98.6oF/ 37oC, accessory products for both men from competition.” (Vaporactive) is a new dynamic you use up to 80 per cent of and women.”

www.sports-insight.co.uk

Mission.indd 2 26/05/2017 12:10

NEWS 43 EXCELLENCE REWARDED AT 2017 RUNNING AWARDS fter nearly 100,000 votes changes in the brand and shoe of running the distance of 401 from the public, the 2017 categories to reflect the changes in marathons in the same amount of A Running Awards have the industry and plan on continuing days to raise money and awareness been announced. to do so in the future, so as to for bullying campaigns was BBC Breakfast sports continue improving and growing.” awarded the Inspiration award. presenter Mike Bushell was parkrun and The Running To run 401 marathons in 401 on hand again to oversee the Awards’ community partner, days is inspiring enough, but he proceedings at Indigo at the O2, in The Running Bug, opened the has gone beyond even this. London, with the help of several ceremony with two special By touring schools across the guest presenters, including recognition awards. country and addressing bullying Dame Kelly Holmes, Susie Chan Following Goodgym’s issues, he is now inspiring the and Sports Insight editor Mark inaugural innovation award next generation. Hayhurst, to award the very best in 2016, Ben Pochee took the Amongst the retailers it was across the industry. accolade this year thanks a select few that shared the top Sam Corrick, Running Awards to his fresh approach to a accolades between them. With editor, said: ‘It’s thanks to not just classic running event that has Scotland’s Run4It, Up and Running, the support of runners but the reinvigorated elite athletes, The SportShoes.com, Run and Become, industry as a whole that we can Night of the 10,000m PBs. Sweatshop and Wiggle again put together the truly independent Ben Smith’s 401 Challenge, showing they are amongst the very running awards. We made several a truly incredible achievement best in the industry.

As always the winners were decided purely on votes from the THE 2017 RUNNING AWARDS RESULTS running public. With everything from individual blogs and start-up MEN'S CLOTHING BRAND SUPPORT SHOE BOOK races right up to the biggest brands Ronhill Brooks Adrenaline GTS The Mock Olympian adidas ASICS GEL-Kayano Running Free of Injuries in the world being recognised. Nike Saucony Guide Your Pace or Mine Partners Alpha Crew, Eventbrite, Sports Insight and UNDERWEAR & SOCKS BRAND LIGHTWEIGHT SHOE CUSTOMER SERVICE The Running Bug were thanked Hilly adidas adizero adios Run4It Runderwear Salomon Speedcross Up & Running for their help in supporting the More Mile Nike Free Sportsshoes.com running industry and keeping it possible for The Running Awards WOMEN'S CLOTHING BRAND NEUTRAL SHOE INDEPENDENT RETAILER to be decided purely on free votes. Nike Brooks Ghost Run4It Karrimor Nike Air Zoom Pegasus Run and Become The ceremony finished with Ronhill adidas supernova glide boost The Lincolnshire Runner the Half, Marathon and Charity awards, each of which were WOMEN'S SPORTS BRA SHOE BRAND NATIONAL RETAILER divided into large and small Shock Absorber Ultimate Run Bra ASICS Up & Running Shock Absorber Active Multi Sports Support Brooks Sportsshoes.com following feedback to ensure the adidas supernova bra Saucony Sweatshop best were recognised regardless of size. With voting open until the WEARABLE TECH CUSHIONED SHOE ONLINE RETAILER second the awards opened, it built Garmin Forerunner 235 Hoka One One Clifton Sportsshoes.com Garmin Fēnix 3 adidas ultra boost Wiggle to a fantastic climax. TomTom Runner ASICS GEL-Nimbus Up & Running

APP ACCESSORY NUTRITION BRAND Strava EventClips SiS Garmin Connect Million Mile Light HIGH5 TrainAsONE FlipBelt Clif Bar

BLOG 10K HYDRATION BRAND The 401 Challenge Mad Dog 10k HIGH5 Markgallmac Admiral Swansea Bay 10k SiS The Marathon Girl Market Drayton 10k Lucozade

ONLINE COMMUNITY EVENT SERIES WELL-BEING BRAND Run Mummy Run parkrun Nakd Virtual Runner UK Born2Run Forest Run HIGH5 Fetcheveryone Stroke Association Resolution Run Series Clif Bar

CHILD-FRIENDLY EVENT OBSTACLE RACE ENDURANCE RACE Admiral Swansea Bay 10k Junior Races The Wolf Run Race to the King Junior and Mini Great North Run Cancer Research UK Race for Life Pretty Muddy Mizuno Endure24 Gosport Half Marathon Children's Fun Run INVNCBL Equinox24

INTERNATIONAL EVENT NEW EVENT FUN RUN Street Child Sierra Leone Marathon The Poppy Run Muddy Dog Challenge SSE Airtricity Dublin Marathon Land and Sand Run, Exmouth Rock ‘n’ Roll Liverpool The Uganda International Marathon Running Down Dementia - Alzheimer's Re Dark Run 5k

HALF MARATHON MORE THAN 5,000 MARATHON MORE THAN 5,000 TRIATHLON JCP Swansea Half Marathon ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon The Brownlee Tri Ealing Half Marathon Virgin Money London Marathon Outlaw Triathlon Aldi Manchester Half Marathon Brighton Marathon IRONMAN UK

HALF MARATHON FEWER THAN 5,000 MARATHON FEWER THAN 5,000 SPECIAL RECOGNITION FOR Intersport Run Reigate Half Marathon Baxters Loch Ness Marathon INSPIRATION IN RUNNING St Albans Half Marathon Giants Head Marathon The 401 Challenge Northumberland Coastal Run Brooks Snowdonia Marathon Eryri BEN SMITH

SMALL CHARITY LARGE CHARITY SPECIAL RECOGNITION FOR A Mile in Her Shoes Cancer Research UK INNOVATION IN RUNNING Mountain Rescue England and Wales Alzheimer's Research UK Night of the 10,000m PB's Spinal Research Alzheimer's Society BEN POCHEE Gold Silver Bronze

www.sports-insight.co.uk

Running Awards 2017.indd 2 26/05/2017 12:54 44 RETAIL Don't sweat it - keep your stuff safe and jump into the gym Blue Frog's Rachel Lilley explains the development of their innovative double pocket sweat towel hat do you do if you just Rachel Lilley set up the reinvented it into what it is today. want to gym and go? Bolton-based business, with her “Soon after we started out we W You have got your mum Sheila Makeham, back in decided to offer a personalisation hands full: towel, keys, phone, bit 2014 when she was on maternity service, which resulted in a of cash and the all important leave with her first child. successful application to be membership card. Their latest product is the new on the prestigious A little too much to juggle and Sport Towel Pro. notonthehighstreet website. separate things. You could protect that's where Blue Frog come in. Two secure pockets keep your “With our new design we are your phone so the screen wouldn't Their innovative sweat towel stuff safe and separated, plus aiming for something that you get scratched by your keys. could be just the thing to keep hidden zips give the towel a super- would see in a retail store alongside “We also went for the dual- your belongings safe and sound smooth finish brands like Nike and Asics.” sided towel because of hygiene. I at the gym. It features two different Rachel, like a lot of people, don't want to wipe my face with super-soft microfibre fabrics, one goes to the gym already changed something I just used to wipe for you and one for the equipment, into her gear and heads home down the equipment after and the handy elasticated loop is straight after the workout. someone else has been sweating perfect for hanging the towel on The reason for coming up with all over it. equipment or securing it when it’s the product was simple. “The USP is it is a split pocket rolled up. It comes in a unisex Rachel explains: “I turn up, sweat towel, so there is a phone on-trend black and white/black workout, and go. I rarely use the protection element, and now we colourway, with plans for added lockers in the changing rooms. have added a hanging element colours/patterns further down the “I was losing my gym card on a after getting feedback from line. In attractive packaging the weekly basis so it was losing me customers.” towel is easy to display too. money – costing me £5 a time to The towel is not just limited to Rachel said: “We went to get a new card. gym use but can also be an essential Be:Fit with our original towel in “So I wanted something to bit of kit for yoga and crossfit. 2015 and got some great feedback keep everything safe, including And Rachel is confident that from suppliers there. my keys and my phone. Blue Frog's sweat towel will be a “So we went away and worked “We came up with the two- hit. She said: “It's a fantastic with a product designer and have pocket design so you could solution for a workout on the go.”

@SportsInsightUK

Blue Frog.indd 1 26/05/2017 11:48 RETAIL 45 Germany's MTS Sport is aiming to make inroads into the UK market Jean-Marc von Keller, general manager of MTS Sport, explains the ethos behind the company and their expansion plans years old and is the company that we started a long-term invented and developed the cooperation with Donic to procedure/manufacturing method combine the forces of the leading for table tennis balls and was table tennis competition brand acquired by my father, the founder (Donic) with the leading brand in of MTS, in 1984. leisure table tennis (Schildkröt). At MTS we position ourselves What is the history as a partner for both sporting goods with a long-time distributor who illuminated rucksacks) and and ethos behind and toy retailers. We offer a made a good job in table tennis, but Slackers (slacklines, ziplines and MTS Sport? balanced price/performance we think that we have more to offer more). We believe that we have MTS and its brands have benefited combination and provide strong and that a new structure is needed unique products, that sell well from a strong supply chain margins for our customers with to develop our brands and ranges without too much explanation structure in the Far East, with a products that we know sell through. further. Nowadays it’s more required. It will be crucial to find How long has MTS German managed Hong Kong As a family-owned and managed important than ever to have direct space in the shops and on the Sport been in office and our own factories in business we try to operate an access to important markets and we shelves and that’s why we are business? China. The idea of combining efficient and effective organization believe that no-one can represent investing in a new customer- MTS was established in 1992 as a forces of several leading brands and our established external the MTS philosophy in the UK facing distribution operation. distribution company for Major/ has been the core strategy at MTS. logistic centre in Bremen, operated better than MTS itself. Tecnifibre (tennis), Talbot-Torro Offering customers a ‘one-stop’ by an experienced and well-trained How do you intend (badminton) and Schildkröt (table solution for sports that are needed team, is known for fast deliveries What are your to distribute ? tennis) for the German speaking but usually not in the spotlight, and reliable customer service, also We will be working with a team of countries. The idea behind has made us an interesting option in English of course! popular brands and three very experienced and bringing the three brands together for many retail partners. how will you promote knowledgeable sales people who was to strengthen their position in That has encouraged us to add How important is the them to the UK know the British/Irish markets the market by combining forces to further product lines such as UK market to you? marketplace? well. This new sales strategy will be build a stronger distribution Schildkröt Fun Sports (outdoor, The UK is the second biggest racket Further to the brands already underpinned by excellent logistics company than any of the brands beach products and games), sport market in Europe and to this mentioned, we also distribute and customer service, great brands, individually could have achieved. Talbot-Torro Speed badminton point we have only been present OGO Sports (sport disks and unique products and many exciting Our brand Schildkröt is over 120 and Schildkröt Fitness. In 2000, with parts of our ranges. We worked more), Wheel Bee (LED offers/deals for our retail partners.

www.sports-insight.co.uk

MTS sport.indd 2 26/05/2017 12:11 46 UNDER THE COUNTER A sideways look at the world of independent retailing Is doing exercise all it's cracked up to be?

ou might think it odd that The bloke said he was tell me how to run the shop but it me personal inconvenience, that slipped his mind. someone who runs a sports thinking more of a home gym, a seemed unfortunate that we were would be fine. And of course if They had sold several yoga Yshop isn’t over-keen on rowing machine or even an missing out on a health and fitness anything worked I could always mats and I was welcome to a cut exercise but that’s the truth, so I’d exercise bike and could he see market worth £3 billion a year claim the credit. in the proceeds after expenses. rather you kept it to yourself. It what we could offer? Thinking on and 20 per cent of the population In fact, I heard nothing more We’ve suspended the yoga seems to me that the only my feet, I said that the stud walls either did some home-based and presumed Norman had classes until a builder has had a advantage of exercise is that you’ll wouldn’t support parallel bars, the exercise or were thinking about it. forgotten all about it. Then last good look at the shop floor, but in die healthier, and I go along with local stream wasn’t deep enough Norman reckoned that if we Sunday afternoon I called at the the meantime, the fitness business the comedienne Phyllis Diller, for a rowing machine and we’d moved the counter a bit to the left shop just to check the toilet had is certainly looking up. I’ve had a who said: “My idea of exercise is a once had an exercise bike, but sent and got rid of the life-size finally stopped leaking and call from that chap saying he could good brisk sit.” it back when it got a puncture. cardboard cut-out of A P McCoy couldn’t believe what I was seeing. be interested in the dartboard and So when this bloke came into I told him my neighbour had winning the 2010 Grand Everything in the shop had with a bit of luck we the shop the other day looking for made a really effective exercise National, we could squeeze in a been pushed to one side and a should also be able get-fit equipment he could use at bike by taking the chain off his display of home-fitness equipment dozen men and women were sitting to sell him a decent home, I felt the least I could do was son’s mountain bike and pedalling –exercise bands, sit-up boards, in yoga positions on the linoleum. set of arrows. to warn him of the consequences. gently while leaning against the hand-grips, exercise gloves... all You could almost hear the floor- “Everyone has a finite number of lounge wall watching Escape to that sort of stuff. joists crying out in alarm. heartbeats and are you sure you the Country. “I’ve got a mate who can get it Norman explained that he really want to waste any of yours For some reason, none of this on sale or return,” Norman said. really had intended to ask doing exercises?” I asked. seemed to impress the chap, who “Knowing the state of the floor, I whether it would be OK to hold a I said that if he was left the shop saying there was a wouldn’t suggest weights or yoga class when the shop was determined to start a fitness proper sports outlet next to the dumbbells unless we all want to closed at the weekend but with all regime, he could always put up a pork butchers which catered for end up in the cellar.” the worry about what President dartboard in his shed. “Picking up modern fitness requirements and Norman was quite right – it Trump might do next, it had the darts you’ve dropped will that dinosaurs like us were wasn’t his place to tell me how to loosen you up no end. I think we’ve doomed in the contemporary run the shop but, unfortunately, still got a board round the back retail environment. You just can’t he reads all this stuff in the that was signed by Jockey Wilson please some people. Sunday paper business sections in 1987. We could let you have it Not surprisingly, my assistant and does occasionally come up for a good discount.” Norman had been lurking about with something that I should A gentle walk with the dog can while all this was going on and have thought of but haven’t. apparently work wonders for couldn’t wait to put in his two- So I told Norman that if he cardio-vascular capacity, so long pennyworth. “I have to admit he’s liked to dream up something to as there’s somewhere outside the got a point ,” Norman said. attract closet fitness fanatics, pub to tie him up. It wasn’t really his place to which didn’t cost much or cause

@SportsInsightUK

Under the counter.indd 1 26/05/2017 14:31 The ONE stop for YOUR shop!

Distributor? Sports and Leisure supplier? Sports trader?

Reydon Sports 2017/2018 Catalogue!

Nearly 300 pages of products! Precision 2017/2018 Catalogue!

From GK gloves to educational equipment, Precision has it all!

Reydon Sports PLC is the UK’s largest wholesale/distribution company, supplying the whole spectrum of sports and leisure products across the globe!

Request a catalogue or open an account with us TODAY!

[email protected] 01159386444 www.reydonsports.com PING-PONG ANYWHERE NET SET

Play table tennis in seconds, anywhere, with the Ping-Pong® Anywhere Net Set. The regulation-height net extends up to 6’ and clamps easily on to any type of surface.

Visit www.phoenixsportinggoods.com for more products

Phoenix Sporting Goods Limited, University House, Oxford Square, Oxford St, Newbury, Berks, RG14 1JQ T: 01635 517560 E: [email protected] W: www.phoenixsportinggoods.com