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P31 REYDON SPORTS page_SPORTS INSIGHT 31/10/2019 12:21 Page 1 3 WELCOME Nike CEO Mark Parker to step down and become executive chairman to this month's Sports Insight Nike has announced that suited to accelerate our digital Chairman, President and CEO transformation and to build on the Mark Parker will step down in positive impact of our Consumer January to become executive Direct O ense. chairman. “I look forward to continuing John Donahoe will be appointed to lead the Board as Executive as the company’s new President Chairman, as well as partnering and Chief Executive O cer, from closely with John and the January 13, 2020. management team to help him Parker, CEO since 2006 and transition to his new role.” Chairman, President and CEO Donahoe added: “It is an honour since 2016, will continue to lead to become President and CEO of the Board of Directors and work this amazing, innovative company, closely with Donahoe and the and to join the more than 76,000 senior management team. talented and passionate employees I hope Halloween wasn’t too Parker said: “This is an exciting dedicated to serving athletes. Over scary for everyone! time for Nike where we see the last fi ve years, I’ve been proud The clocks have gone back and brand strength and momentum to be connected to Nike through the nights have drawn in – the throughout the world and great my role on the Board and now and also serves on its Board and a Managing Director from 1992 perfect time to sit down and opportunity for future growth. I look forward to being a full-time of Directors. He is Chairman to 1999. He earned a bachelor’s peruse this issue. am delighted John will join our member of the team, working even of PayPal Holdings, Inc. From degree in Economics from If you think it’s getting a bit team. His expertise in digital more closely with Mark, building 2008 through 2015, he was Dartmouth College and an MBA colder and going out for a run commerce, technology, global on Nike’s success and seizing the President and CEO of eBay, Inc. from Stanford University. is a bit of a bind then spare a strategy and leadership combined opportunities ahead.” and previously was the CEO and Donahoe will remain on the thought for Fiona Oakes. She with his strong relationship Donahoe is the current President Worldwide Managing Director Board of Nike where he has been a has competed in marathons on with the brand, make him ideally and CEO of ServiceNow, Inc. of Bain & Co. from 1999 to 2005, member since 2014. all four continents, including the Arctic and Antartic. Read about her incredible battle Editor: MARK HAYHURST against injury and championing ICON outlet at the O2 strikes a new Tel: 01206 508618 veganism. Email: [email protected] Wellbeing is on everyone’s balance with latest signing lips these days but is there a ICON Outlet at The O2, the stock their full range of footwear Advertising Manager: way to benefi t? Fiona Bugler 210,000 sq ft premium urban for training, walking, hiking and KEITH MARSHALL explores the changing landscape outlet developed by AEG working, as well as shirts, jackets, Tel: 01206 505947 of corporate wellbeing and and Crosstree Real Estate hoodies, sweatshirts, shorts, and Email: [email protected] how sports retailers may fi nd Partners has announced the sweatpants for both men and opportunity there to reach new signing of performance wear women at ICON Outlet. Advertising Sales markets. brand New Balance. Speaking on behalf of AEG popular UK and global brands. 21-23 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Rd, Black Friday continues to be The brand is set to take 2,700 and Crosstree, Marion Dillon, Since launching we have signed Colchester, Essex CO2 8JY a major event in retail and Paul sq ft of space and is due to open Leasing Director for ICON Outlet, a broad range of retailers putting Sherratt takes a closer look at the in October. Global American said: “Activewear is a trend-led us fi rmly on the map as the Group Advertising impact that it continues to have footwear and apparel brand, category that attracts high volumes premium London destination Manager: SAM REUBIN on the Sporting Goods industry. New Balance, will be opening its of diverse consumers, so we are in which brands want to be, Publisher: MATTHEW TUDOR Paul Clapham looks at the store on the lower level of ICON pleased to announce New Balance and where the strong retail increasingly popular way to fund Outlet. Renowned for its blend of is joining our line-up at ICON o er is complemented by The Art Director: LEE WHITEFORD your sport business, brand or function and fashion among its Outlet alongside top sportswear O2, the world’s number one start-up – Crowdfunding. products, specifi cally its trainers brands Nike, adidas and Asics. entertainment venue, seamlessly MS TYPESETTING AND DESIGN I hope you enjoy this issue of in which performance technology We are committed to delivering integrating retail with music and Photography: Sports Insight! meets style; the brand will a premium o er of trusted and leisure.” CLIQQ PHOTOGRAPHY www.cliqq.co.uk ECB launches new plan to transform women’s and girls’ cricket Twitter: @CliQQphoto Accounts: SUE CARR The England and Wales Cricket recruit more dedicated resources, representation and improve Hundred, the England Women’s Board (ECB) has launched improve the player experience, opportunities across the game. The team and the elite game Tel: 01206 505903 its action plan to transform and increase the opportunities plan focuses on fi ve key objectives: • People: To increase the women’s and girls’ cricket with to build careers in the sport. • Participation: To increase the representation of women Published by Maze Media (2000) the fundamental goal of making Another ground-breaking number of women and girls across the cricket workforce Limited, 21-23 Phoenix Court, cricket a gender-balanced sport. commitment is the funding playing cricket recreationally Hawkins Rd, Colchester, Essex Transforming women’s of 40 full-time professional, • Pathway: To develop aspiring Clare Connor, ECB Managing CO2 8JY and girls’ cricket is one of six domestic contracts. These female cricketers (U11-17) Director, Women’s Cricket, said: All contents © Maze Media (2000) Limited. The views expressed in priorities within ECB’s ‘Inspiring contracts will be in addition to as players and people “We have an amazing opportunity this magazine are not necessarily Generations’ strategy for 2020- the existing England Women • Performance: To drive the to make cricket the sport we want those of the publisher. Every e ort 2024. An unprecedented £20m of Centrally Contracted players. performance of England it to be - a sport that is modern, is made to ensure the veracity and integrity of the companies, persons, funding will be invested over the The comprehensive ten-point women’s cricket through innovative and inclusive. I have products and services mentioned in next two years, with an ambition action plan aims to transform all a new semi-professional, been so heartened by the level this publication and details given are believed to be accurate at the of investing £50m over the fi ve elements of women’s and girls’ eight region structure of enthusiasm, commitment time of going to press. However, no years, to enable organisations cricket in England and Wales • Profi le: To elevate the profi le of and support for this plan from responsibility or liability whatsoever can be accepted for any consequence across the cricket network to to increase engagement, grow women’s cricket through The everyone involved in cricket.” or repercussion of responding to any information or advice given or inferred. No part of this publication may be copied, broadcast, interpreted, or stored, in any form, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH for any purpose, without the written permission of the publisher. e offi cial publication of the Sporting Goods Industry Association Sports Insight has a current ABC certifi ed circulation of 5,281 (audit period July 1, 2016 to June 30, 2017). The Audit Bureau of Circulations (ABC) is an independent audit watchdog that verifi es magazines’ circulation fi gures, providing accurate and comparable data for advertisers. ABC Certifi cation 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).

www.sports-insight.co.uk All the very latest in the NEWS sports industry... EMD UK Who will get the gold? Application period APPOINTS MARCUS for the ISPO Award 2020 has begun KINGWELL For the ninth time, ISPO industry can submit products will honour the outstanding – regardless whether they are products and services of the exhibiting at the ISPO trade fairs. AS NEW sports industry with the For many years, the ISPO renowned ISPO Award. Award has been the seal of quality CEO Companies across the entire for innovation, quality and Marcus Kingwell has sporting goods industry can functionality with a high external been appointed as EMD submit their new products up until impact in various segments - from UK’s new CEO.For the December 6, 2019. health and fitness to outdoor and last five years Marcus ISPO, the leading international snow sports. Winners benefit has held the position sports business network, presents from the award in several ways: of Managing Director the ISPO Award every year in Specialized retailers focus at AoC Sport, a not-for- recognition of the top products on products that have been profit company which in the sports industry. In doing distinguished and add them to represents, promotes so, an international and neutral their upcoming product ranges. and supports further jury of experts made up of For consumers, the award serves education and sixth media representatives, retailers, as a reason for buying the product, form college sport and athletes, consumers and material and journalists use it as a source physical activity. His experts review several hundred of information when covering the main responsibility submissions according to certain next season’s highlights. while there was getting criteria, such as design, function, The winners also receive a 700,000 16 to 19-year- sustainability and innovation. comprehensive communications impact at sporting goods retailers and 200 Euro (instead of 450 Euro) olds physically active; in David Badalec, responsible for and benefits package. This includes and with consumers. with the regular rate. addition he oversaw the the ISPO Award, said: “It is the the ISPO Award label, hangtags and Companies can benefit from The ISPO Awards are presented World Skills UK Fitness trendsetting, innovative products stickers for the product award at special early-bird rates when at ISPO Munich from January 26- Trainer Competition in particular that carry the sporting the point of sale (POS) along with submitting their products by 29, 2020. All “Products of the Year” which finds the best goods market forward – and they product features and extensive November 6, 2019. Exhibitors at and the “Gold Winner” from official personal trainers in the often find a special way to make media presence on the ispo. ISPO Munich and ISPO Beijing ISPO Munich exhibitors will also UK through a vigorous sports more enjoyable. This is one com news platform, all of which pay only an additional 125 Euro be presented during ISPO Munich competitive process. aspect we pay special attention to.” generate additional marketing (instead of 325 Euro) per product and ISPO Beijing (February 12 Marcus brings a Companies from the entire sports opportunities with greater external submission with the early bird rate, through 15, 2020). wealth of experience to the role with more than 15 years’ experience in sport, health and wellbeing, leisure and cultural projects. The scale of Total Fitness’ turnaround Marcus said: “I am thrilled to be joining EMD UK at this exciting success highlighted by 2018 results time. Participation in group exercise Total Fitness, which promoter scores (NPS), leading to been invested in the refurbishment but it’s fantastic to be able to increasing and the operates 17 health clubs fewer membership cancellations. of the Wilmslow gym. Another announce that our hard work social and health across the North of England The business’ growth comes as a £500,000 investment was made is paying dividends in 2019 – benefits that it brings and Wales, has released its result of a concentrated strategy into its Altrincham site, which was and that revenue, EBITDA and are widely recognised. 2018 accounts, alongside by the new management team, used to expand the brand’s 360 membership are all up. By supporting and 2019 figures which highlight which focused on increasing fitness offering. “A bright, engaged and expanding the workforce the sheer scale of the membership acquisition and a Also underpinning this success resilient team, and our of instructors, I want turnaround success major focus on retention. was a focus on human resources commitment to employee and group exercise to be achieved by its new Since Lawler and Sanghera took and better management with a member engagement have seen enjoyed by even more management team. the helm, the health club chain “people power” strategy, to train, memberships and customer people, in particular the Following the arrival of has instilled a major push on its develop, motivate and empower satisfaction soar. Crucially, we harder to reach groups.” Sophie Lawler and Jasvir core fitness ‘product’ and has put its workforce to help achieve its can see this reflected in our Sanghera as CEO and CFO in investment in its gyms at the heart corporate objectives. NPS scores and cancellation June 2018, the company has of the company’s strategy. Jasvir Sanghera, Total Fitness rates. We have more work to do seen sustained revenue, NorthEdge Capital invested CFO, says: “These results really but the entire team should be EBITDA and member growth. £4.5m into the chain in September highlight the scale of the challenge proud of their work to date, While the 2018 accounts 2018, which has been used to that the new management team and both Sophie and I couldn’t showed a decline in revenue and improve facilities. Over £1m has and our staff took on last year – be prouder.” EBITDA, the 2019 figures show Total Fitness is the leading how the business is on track mid-market health club to double EBITDA, having in the north and provides grown from £1m in 2018 to more ways to get fit, stay in £2.2m in 2019. shape, and more support to The outlook for the next keep members focused. three years predicts sustained With 17 health clubs across growth of the health club the North of England and brand’s membership, which has Wales, Total Fitness provides already seen a ten per cent a full-service fitness offering; increase in 2019. guided by knowledgeable Total Fitness has also seen a and supportive fitness dramatic rise in the satisfaction teams, the brand works scores from members, with a 28 hard to meet the individual per cent rise to the business’ net needs of its members.

@SportsInsightUK FITNESS MAD page_SPORTS INSIGHT 14/10/2019 10:07 Page 1 6 NEWS SPARTAN RACE adidas re-imagines the retail experience with UK ANNOUNCE NEW new Oxford Street flagship store PARTNERSHIP adidas has opened the doors of Interactive changing room Spartan Race UK, the its new Oxford Street flagship – mirrors use RFID technology to leading obstacle race and a home for creativity, born from recognise products and provide endurance brand, have London, that combines digital information, with shoppers also announced Shooting innovation, unique shopper able to request different sizes and Star Children’s Hospices experiences and a focus on in- colours without leaving the space. official charity partner store experts to create a new For those who can’t quite find the for the Windsor Spartan benchmark in retail. right fit, on-site seamstresses are race and the first ever Over 100 digital touchpoints – available to make the crucial final Spartan Stadion race held all 100 per cent powered by green tweaks. at Twickenham Stadium in energy - feature throughout the Chris Walsh, VP Brand, adidas November. store, each with a clear focus on North Europe, said: “The new Shooting Star Children’s improving consumer experience or adidas LDN store is more than Hospices cares for babies, inspiring creativity from visitors. a retail experience of the brand, children and young Roland Auschel, adidas Executive it’s going to be a beacon for us in people with life-limiting Board Member, responsible for the city. Whether its designing in conditions, and their Global Sales, said: “We’re confident the MakerLab, finding the perfect families, throughout Surrey with the new adidas LDN store footwear in the Running Lab or and across 15 boroughs of we have created an unrivalled competing in The Base, this is a London. experience for shoppers, our most reminders for upcoming releases by sold in-store. Each floor of the place where communities from all They support families from digital store ever, a hub of creativity interacting with a Hype Wall digital store features also original corners of London and beyond can diagnosis to end of life and and innovation for the city and the display on the ground floor. commissions from London artists. come together and create.” throughout bereavement very best expression of our brand In The Base visitors will get to Most strikingly, a Union Jack Across four floors, adidas with a range of nursing, all in one amazing blockbuster take part in product experiences, installation made from 1,000 LDN features the very best of practical, emotional and destination.” activations and interactive national flags celebrates the ‘city of the brand across sport and style medical care. The new store design has challenges in an immersive a thousand nations’; a diversity also including the widest range of As part of the official included embedding bespoke environment made from LED reflected by an in-store team who football apparel and footwear, partnership, Spartan are innovations into the adidas screens and flooring that can speak 31 different languages. the latest Originals designs hoping to raise £50,000 for app, including a ‘Bring It to Me’ change mood and purpose at the The store’s digital innovations and collaborations including Shooting Star Children’s feature which uses in-store click of a button. Along with the are augmented by a range of adidas YEEZY, alongside adidas Hospices through the geolocation tracking to provide MakerLab customisation hub, it bespoke services that bring the by Stella McCartney and Y-3 fundraising efforts of racers an uninterrupted browsing will host a programme of regular best of boutique shopping to specific areas. Throughout the taking part in the events. experience. Shoppers can scan events to bring creativity back to Oxford Street. Consumers can use whole store, consideration has As well as this, as the products, check stock, request the heart of Oxford Street. the adidas app to book a slot with also been given to respecting and official charity partner, the their size and purchase on the spot Just as adidas LDN sits in the Crep Protect at an in-store sneaker protecting the environment by hospice will have a presence as they shop without the need for heart of London, the city runs cleaning service, arrange a product using a large range of sustainable at both the Windsor and queues or designated collection through the heart of the store. test in the Running Lab or secure and responsibly sourced materials Twickenham events and spaces. Additionally, on the app Bespoke ‘LDN’ product has been a bra-fitting appointment with a including recycled plastic, foam across all Spartan Race sneakerheads will be able to book in designed and will be exclusively team of experts. and textiles. digital channels in the lead up to the races. Alex Clarke-Dawson, Sponsorship lead UK & FREEMOTION APPOINTS Ireland at Spartan Race UK said: “We are incredibly excited to announce our new JILL DRUMMOND partnership with Shooting Star Children’s Hospices. Freemotion Fitness, one of come to life, helping to drive It is a fantastic cause and the world’s leading fitness business growth. the level of care that they equipment manufacturers, has Dan Toigo, Senior Vice provide is second to none. added another key member to President and Managing Director We hope that we will be able its team with the hire of Jill at Freemotion, said: “Jill will to raise a significant sum Drummond as Global Education work on developing our global of money for the charity & Program Manager. presence through customer-centric and help give back to the With eyes firmly set on education and programming while community.” enhancing the Freemotion brand revitalising our Freemotion Master Nigel Harding, Chief worldwide, Jill will play a crucial Coach program. It’s great to have Executive of Shooting Star role in the company’s continued her on board and we’re excited Children’s Hospices said: growth. about what we can achieve together “The support Shooting Jill has worked in the health to maximise the potential of our Star Children’s Hospices and fitness sector since 2002 products and services globally.” provides to families is and has held a range of education Also tasked with helping to crucial, yet the funding and program development roles launch Freemotion’s highly we receive from the where she was instrumental in anticipated and innovative group government is negligible. the creation of new products and training product, the Freemotion We rely on the generosity taking them to market through Fusion CST (where powerful the perfect time. We can’t wait for Jill follows a series of recent of the public to keep our development around education. strength exercises and incredible the spring of 2020 when the Fusion hires as Freemotion continues vital care service running, She provides Freemotion with a cardio come together with fluid CST will start to appear in clubs to implement its global growth so we’re thrilled to be the wealth of experience in developing resistance, building both stamina around the world.” strategy, which includes official charity partner of education around fitness products and muscle in record time), Jill will Jill said: “This is not just an Apostolos Seintis as Europe Sales the Windsor Spartan and and also managing fitness be instrumental in bringing new, exciting time in my career, but Director, Leopoldo Torres as Sales the Twickenham Stadion operations. She is also a certified cutting-edge products to market also an exciting time for the Director for Latin America, and Race. Personal Trainer and holds a B.A. while ensuring that customers can Freemotion brand. This is a Tony Ali as UK Country Manager, “We hope that those signing in Kinesiology from the University make the most of them through fantastic opportunity for me to join with promotions for Chris McGill up to take part choose of Colorado, along with many world-class education. an ambitious, forward-thinking to Vice President of Global Sales to support their local industry certifications, giving her a Dan added: “After the incredible company and to work with some of and Marcy Spaulding to Director children’s hospice charity tremendous understanding of the pre-launch feedback we received the world’s most innovative minds of Sales for North America. – every penny raised really end-user. at IHRSA, FIBO and IDEA this and fitness products. I’m looking Freemotion is the commercial will ensure we can continue In her new position, Jill will be year about the Fusion CST, and the forward to helping to maximise our division of ICON Health to support families facing focused on making some of the desire shown by clubs to add an customers’ experiences through & Fitness. ICON brands: the unimaginable.” world’s most innovative fitness exciting, new product to their group high-quality education and strong NordicTrack, ProForm, iFit and products created by Freemotion training offering, Jill’s arrival is at working partnerships.” Freemotion.

@SportsInsightUK UP & RUNNING page_SPORTS INSIGHT 25/10/2019 12:30 Page 1 8 NEWS Under Armour’s technical MOTOCADDY IAMRUNBOX is revolutionizing SECURES spacewear system developed the future of running NEW for Virgin Galactic IAMRUNBOX is launching their INVESTMENT In January 2019, Virgin fourth Kickstarter campaign with Motocaddy, the world’s Galactic Founder Sir Richard a mission to inspire more people to top-selling brand of Branson and Under Armour run to work and change the future powered golf trolleys, has CEO and Founder Kevin Plank of urban running. sold a majority stake in announced a collaboration This time it’s about an upgraded the company to a private which saw Under Armour version of their popular running investment group in a move become Virgin Galactic’s backpack – the Backpack Pro 2.0. designed to expand the Technical Spacewear Partner. IAMRUNBOX was very successful with business further on a global The companies have now previous Kickstarter campaigns and scale. unveiled the collaboratively UNDER ARMOUR FOUNDER KEVIN exceeded expectations as well as the The Hertfordshire-based designed spacewear system PLANK STAND WITH MODELS WEARING funding goal on all occasions. The last THE UADESIGNED BASE LAYER AND company formed 15 years for Virgin Galactic astronauts SPACESUIT. campaign involved almost 600 backers. ago retains its senior comprising of a base layer, Kirill Noskov, CEO and founder of management team, while spacesuit, footwear, training suit and Limited Edition astronaut IAMRUNBOX, said: “We are delighted by the Ethos Partners private jacket. It is the fi rst such collection ever created specifi cally for private the interest in our previous campaigns investment group is astronauts. and are happy to see an increasing strengthening the Board Kevin Plank said: “Virgin Galactic gave us an exciting challenge to movement of run commuters. People with the introduction of build the world’s fi rst commercial spacesuit. Innovation is at the core of are getting more health conscious and former KPMG Chartered everything we do and our team delivered a unique twist on the classic understand that we need to take care of our environment. This leads to Accountant Brian Phillips spacesuit utilizing both existing and new UA technologies to defi ne more healthy life choices, including run commuting.” as the new Chairman. space gear for the future. It is an incredible opportunity to showcase our The Backpack Pro 2.0 is packed with features that are essential for Led by Chief Executive key performance innovations in space at the highest level and continue runners. The anti-bounce technology as well as the optimal ergonomics John Helas, who joined to push the limits of human performance.” achieved through adjustable straps, padded back panel and load-lifter Motocaddy last year From the initial brief through to fi nal fabrication, the suit design straps lead to a pleasant running experience. from the Black & Decker concepts were defi ned through inputs from a wide variety of experts, The backpack is water resistant, lightweight and perfectly fi ts group, the executive team including doctors, astronaut trainers, pilots, apparel and footwear your body due to adjustable straps. There is no need to worry about includes Neil Parker in the designers, engineers and Future Astronaut customers, to fully your belongings, neither your business attire nor your laptop, while role of Sales Director and understand and address all requirements. commuting. The backpack has various compartments on the inside Paul Straker as Product The spacesuit is made from lightweight fl ight-grade fabrics, with so that you can easily pack your laptop as well as your business attire. Development Director. cushioning in elbows, knees and in the footwear, to provide safety in The specifi c clothes compartment ensures that your clothes are not Marketing remains under out-of-seat zero gravity. The spacesuits are complemented by training getting wrinkled. Smaller pockets ensure an even more organized way of the stewardship of Oliver suits which will help to optimize the e ectiveness of astronaut packing your stu . Churcher and Steve Morris preparation in the days immediately before spacefl ight. The spacewear The bag is equipped with refl ective parts and di erent ways to attach continues to manage sales materials have been rigorously tested in laboratory conditions which essential things like safety lights. across the UK & Ireland. match the measured environment at all stages of spacefl ight. The Kirill said: “The global movement of run commuters is growing After more than a decade system will also be worn by Virgin Galactic Mission Specialists on every single day. Most people are living a really busy life which makes with Motocaddy and 30 board VSS Unity’s crewed test spacefl ights, prior to commercial fl ights it extremely hard for them to combine training, work and social years in the golf trolley which are currently expected to commence in 2020. interactions. Our customers want to be fl exible in their active lifestyle industry, former Chairman Comfort has always been fundamental to Under Armour’s approach and don’t worry about their belongings. That’s where our products can David Wells is stepping to performance enhancement and the new spacewear system follows make a change!” down from the business in this mantra, informing fabric choice, structure and fi t. Temperature IAMRUNBOX is also o ering a range of new accessories designed for January along with former management, for example, is regulated by performance fi bres and knit Backpack Pro 2.0: Managing Director Tony density, mapped to the body to provide perfect warmth and moisture • Space Bag with extra straps to attach for example shoes, lunch box or Webb, who both retain non- management, while preventing overheating or chilling. Great care has dirty clothes to the outside of the backpack. executive roles during this also been taken to ensure the spacewear design is fully woven into cabin • Quick-dry microfi ber towel transition period. design, in particular with the spaceship’s seats where integration with • Extra rain cover for the bag if you run in bad weather conditions Helas said: “Ethos Partners harnesses and seat contours ensures comfort, particularly during the • Water bottle holder have an impressive record high G portions of fl ight. of investing in profi table companies that are primed for bigger things and OPRO and SWA launch head impact monitoring and management system Motocaddy fi ts that profi le OPRO have partnered with David Allen, OPRO Chief perfectly with our emphasis Sports & Wellbeing Analytics Executive O cer, said: “OPRO+ is on new technology. (SWA) in the launch of OPRO+, the next stage in the evolution of “This new injection of their next generation of our mouthguards. The data OPRO+ investment enables us to mouthguard with cutting-edge provides will help us all to better consolidate our established technology built in known understand and manage impact and business in Europe, while as the PROTECHT system, in play collision. being in a stronger position a system that monitors and “Players will wear their OPRO+ to expand on a global scale. manages head impact data. mouthguards during training, so It puts us in a great position Whereas a GPS system focuses that team sta will continually be to move forward, based on on the running aspects of the game, able to collect data that will give a our successful business the collation and analysis of this clear picture of a the team’s day to model - innovation, impact data allows coaches to day impact in the contact part of reliability and o ering optimise training drills, reducing the game in a similar way that GPS value for money to help unintended impact load and systems do for the running game.” golfers enjoy the game more avoiding training injuries in the Chris Turner, SWA Chief and play for longer.” contact part of the game. Executive O cer, said: “The The issue is that until now, development of the PROTECHT there has been no objective way system has ultimately been focused MOTOCADDY to monitor all head impacts, to still achieving overall training and drill enhancement and to reduce on one key priority; reducing the CEO JOHN measure the force of impact and performance goals. unintended impacts. volume and intensity of impacts HELAS LEFT WITH SANDY the rotation of the head as a result OPRO+ mouthguards containing PROTECHT has been developed for the players. The system FARMER, of impact. According to the latest the PROTECHT chips provide and fi ne-tuned for over two years allows objective surveillance so PARTNER AT ETHOS. injury data from Premiership rugby with a solution by by Sports & Wellbeing Analytics. that unseen head impacts are Rugby, almost 40 per cent of transmitting the head impact data PROTECHT will benefi t the recognised and understood and injuries occur in training and 20 of each player to a laptop. This wellbeing and the performance of this data provides a new layer per cent of head injuries, despite provides objective information a team by monitoring training data of information that will inform this being a more controllable about impacts experienced by the over time to understand the size, coaches to enable them to make environment. Application of team and in training, in certain frequency and types of impact. better informed decisions about the PROTECHT system allows positions during the drill. The coach Head impact data collected allows training drill design and allowing coaches to optimise team training is then able to adjust accordingly coaches to make informed them to reduce unintended impacts drills to reduce impacts while to optimise performance through training choices. in training.”

@SportsInsightUK NEWS 9 Zwift and UCI agree terms to host first UCI Cycling Esports World Championships New partnership to streamline Zwift, the global online training and bookings for Sodexo-run gym racing platform for athletes, and the World’s Cycling Governing Body, the A new partnership is set to create a UCI, have agreed terms to host the simpler, more streamlined booking first ever UCI Cycling Esports World process for 7HQ Gym, a health and Championships in 2020. fitness centre in London, managed Zwift and the UCI have enjoyed a long by Sodexo, a leading global services standing relationship that has seen three UCI provider. Road World Championship Courses created The tie-up sees facilities management on the Zwift platform, including the 2019 company, Sodexo, partnering with Yorkshire Course. Collectively, Zwifters have innovative booking management ridden over two million miles on UCI Road platform fibodo, to implement a new World Championship Courses. booking system that allows over 3,000 David Lappartient, President of the UCI, people to seamlessly book personal said: “We have been looking at the emergence training and fitness sessions at the of esports for some time with Zwift. As Zwift first embarked on its esports 7HQ Gym. The system also includes a healthcare, education, leisure, justice the governing body for the sport, we need journey in January this year with the launch dedicated booking app exclusively for and defence sectors. to remain open to technical innovations of the KISS Super League, the first esports users to book activities - whether they Alan West, Head of Health & and change, and to remain relevant to all league to feature professional athletes. are working in the office, at home or on Wellbeing, at Sodexo, said: “Our focus audiences. Zwift is a platform that is enjoyed The launch followed a $120 million Series the road. is on providing a great service to our by people of all ages and abilities. However, B funding round led by Highland Europe, Launched on September 2, the clients. We wanted a straightforward, there is a particularly exciting opportunity Causeway, True Capital and Novator with a platform enables any user to book innovative way to deliver an effective through esports as we look to attract a younger view to develop an esports platform. fitness sessions and classes, beauty and booking platform for the 7HQ Gym. audience to cycling. Together we have an Sustainability and accessibility are two of relaxation sessions with trainers and fibodo’s booking management solution opportunity to support a fitter youth, through the driving factors behind Zwift’s desire to therapists at the 7HQ Gym. had been recommended to us in this the creation of a new sustainable sport.” move into esports. By removing some of the The partnership called upon fibodo to respect and we’re delighted to be Craig Edmondson, CEO of Zwift Esports, associated logistical costs around traditional deliver a platform that manages bookings working with the team as we build upon added: “The beauty of creating a new cycling events, Zwift Esports presents a cost and payments for multiple activities, success for the future.” discipline is that we have a blank slate and no effective way for brands to access the sport, provided by several people – ultimately Anthony Franklin, CEO and founder limitations. Parity is incredibly important to us and an entirely new opportunity to create a creating a smooth booking journey and a at fibodo, added: “It’s great to be brought at Zwift and together with the UCI we will be fan base for teams and riders. great customer experience. on board to support Sodexo and deliver working to create equal competition for both The first UCI Cycling Esports World In the UK and Ireland, Sodexo delivers a smooth booking journey for their men and women. This means the same number Championships will take place in 2020. food and facilities management services clients. We’re confident that our award- of races, the same coverage for races, and of Official formats, location and details of to clients at over 2,300 locations in winning technology will provide a huge TARGET course,DRY 1.2_SPORTS equal prize INSIGHTmoney. We 10/09/2019 will set the 10:00 Pagequalifying 1 events will be announced in the the corporate, energy and resources, benefit to Sodexo and its client base.” standard for fair play and equality.” coming months.

www.sports-insight.co.uk Intersport page_SPORTS INSIGHT 13/09/2019 15:42 Page 1 NEWS 11 GET A CASH BOOST FREEMOTION APPOINTS TO ATTEND ISPO UK MANAGER IN GLOBAL BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE GROWTH DRIVE If you haven’t decided to attend provides grants, support and Freemotion Fitness, ISPO yet then the Federation expert advice for businesses one of the world’s leading of Sports & Play Associations wanting to attend overseas innovators in fitness (FSPA) can give you a helping trade shows including ISPO. equipment, is continuing hand. ISPO is the world’s leading Jane added: “It’s easy to to progress its global trade fair for the sports industry apply. To qualify, you must growth strategy with the and is being held on January 26-29, be a UK-based business or appointment of Tony Ali as 2020, at Neue Messe München, in organisation which includes a Country Manager UK. Munich, Germany. It will have over UK subsidiary of an overseas Tony, who has an 2,800 exhibitors with an audience company. Just get in touch and impressive track record of of over 85,000 visitors from more we can take it from there.” over 12 years in strategic than 120 different countries. DiT grants of £1,500 are • A UK Trade Zone position in services and refreshments will be sales management, joins The FSPA is appealing to sports available towards exhibition the Team Sports Hall or other provided prior to and throughout Freemotion from Matrix businesses that are thinking of space and stand costs. Terms and dedicated sports halls the duration of the show.” Fitness where he was the attending ISPO 2020 to claim conditions apply and are available • H assle-free stand build ready The Federation of Sports & Play Head of Sales UK - Education their grant from the Department via the Federation of Sports and for arrival Associations is a Trade Challenge Sector. In his previous role, of International Trade (DiT) as Play Associations for ISPO 2020. • F urniture package (including Partner of the Department for Tony developed and grew a soon as possible, the closing date If you would like further electrics), display panels etc International Trade (DiT). They team that demonstrated a for applications is December 3. information on the UK Trade Zone all included. administer the DiT’s Trade strong ability to secure new Jane Montgomery, from the or DiT Grant for ISPO 2020, please • Free Wi-Fi Access Programme (TAP) which accounts and grow existing FSPA, said: “We’re urging sports contact Eileen Taylor, eileen@ Jane added: “We’re on hand provides grants, support and business while maintaining companies to contact us so that sportsandplay.com or call Eileen at the show to help and to make expert advice for businesses and enhancing relationships they can take advantage of the on 02476 414999. things as easy as possible for our wanting to attend overseas with key accounts. DiT grant of £1,500 towards How the FSPA can help: exhibitors and those companies trade shows including ISPO. With a degree in Sport, their exhibition space and stand • Eas y application to the largest who obtain grants but exhibit Jane said: “It’s easy to Exercise and Health Sciences, costs. This is a service offered trade fair for sports businesses elsewhere. The cost per square apply. To qualify, you must and a diverse experience exclusively through us.” • An exclusive DiT grant of meter covers space, stand build, be a UK-based business or encompassing leisure, The FSPA is a Trade Challenge £1,500 furniture package (including organisation which includes a education, manufacturing Partner of the DiT. They • A ccess to an audience of over electrics), display panels, table UK subsidiary of an overseas and industrial, Freemotion administer the DiT’s Trade 85,000 customers from 120 and chairs, display counters and company. Just get in touch and identified Tony as the perfect Access Programme (TAP) which countries Wi-Fi. The FSPA offers support we can take it from there.” addition to its global sales team at this pivotal time in the company’s journey. Chris McGill, Vice PLAE EXPANDS EQUIPMENT Wahoo acquires President of Global Sales, said: “I am very excited with the addition of Tony AND FLOORING SOLUTIONS Speedplay to our International Team. His experience, passion Since its beginning, PLAE has been expand training and conditioning Wahoo, the leader and understanding of the known globally for innovating environments virtually anywhere, such in connected fitness industry will make premium solutions for customers as directly at practice and competition fitness devices, Freemotion a leader in that demand the best. The company sites. Built to withstand the outdoor has announced the UK market and help to now is adding a new line-up of solutions elements, Scout Lockers are always its acquisition enhance the brand’s presence to its existing arsenal to meet even available, anytime and anywhere. of Speedplay, in Europe as we continue broader needs. the iconic pedal to drive forward our global Brett Waits, president of PLAE, said: Stealth brand found growth strategy.” “Because we are committed to delivering For customers that need to minimize on the bikes of Tony added: “I’m delighted the best to our customers, we have the acoustic footprint of their training athletes such as to have been given the developed partnerships with companies space, PLAE introduces Stealth, a Tour de France opportunity to join this great that are the proven leaders in their fields. subfloor system that is precisely winner Sir company, which has proven “Through these valuable engineered to isolate sound and Bradley Wiggins, itself as an industry leader in collaborations, along with our own vibration without compromising two-time innovation and service, and creativity and expertise, we’re able performance. Ironman World I look forward to playing an to create brand new solutions for the Champion Jan instrumental role in devising industry that wouldn’t be possible on PLAE Outdoors Frodeno, and two-time Time Trial World Champion a powerful strategy for our own.” PLAE’s new Outdoor Division is Kristin Armstrong. Freemotion in the UK.” Among PLAE’s new solutions: focused on elite outdoor training Speedplay products have a long heritage of providing Tony, whose appointment surfaces and competition tracks and unique, cutting-edge pedal technology to a passionate follows that of Apostolos ROGUE Fitness fields, including the new Ascend community of athletes. Wahoo seeks to build on that Seintis as Europe Sales Collaboration premium long pile outdoor turf legacy by bringing its commitment to smart training, its Director, will be attending the PLAE has teamed up with ROGUE system that is customized according extensive suite of products, and its history of innovation IHRSA European Congress Fitness, the global leader in performance to infill type, shock pad and base and to the Speedplay brand. By focusing on the needs of in Ireland and SIBEC in strength equipment, to provide new drainage needs, along with two high- cyclists across all disciplines, Wahoo intends to put Malta and is looking forward custom strength products for training performance track systems, Speedplay pedals on as many bicycles as possible and to working closely with centers worldwide. ROGUE’s 600,000 Velocity and Accelerate. continue to drive creativity at this celebrated brand. Freemotion’s distributors, as square-foot facility delivers unmatched Chip Hawkins, Founder of Wahoo Fitness, said: well as the wider Freemotion capabilities in conception, quality Performance “Wahoo and Speedplay share a common approach of family. manufacturing and distribution to Structures leveraging technology to develop products that enhance empower performance. Backed by more than three years the performance of cyclists. Speedplay pedals are the of research and development, the most innovative, high performance pedals available so it’s Scout Lockers unique Performance Structures are a perfect fit with Wahoo. We welcome the opportunity to PLAE also has partnered with thoughtfully designed for athletics, offer another edge to Wahooligans around the world with BeaverFit, the global leader in military recreation and everything in between. the best pedals in the business.” and tactical training, to present Scout These fully customizable Performance Richard Bryne, CEO of Speedplay, Inc, said: “When Lockers exclusively to the athletics and Structures, which facilitate multiple Sharon Worman and I founded Speedplay, it was because recreation markets. Scout Lockers are foundational, natural movements, make I wanted to solve problems performance athletes were mobile training solutions that can be outdoor training inspiring, accessible having in reaching their full potential. By becoming part customized for any sport to conveniently and fun again. of the Wahoo family, we can carry that mission to more athletes with more compelling products than ever before.”

www.sports-insight.co.uk 12 NEWS

Pentland Brands targets Inaugural Sportswear Pro to be held in 2020

international growth with new Sportswear Pro, a new exhibition dedicated executive team structure exclusively to sportswear manufacturing, will run for Pentland Brands has strategy, product and marketing the first time from March 24- announced new executive across the brand portfolio. 27, 2020 at IFEMA – Feria de team responsibilities, and Matt Rock continues as Madrid, Spain. a new chief marketing president, Asia Pacific and Supported by the Spanish Sport officer role, to help drive the global supply chain, Katrina Industry Association, AFYDAD, international growth of its Nurse, who joined the business Sportswear Pro will focus on the portfolio of sports, outdoor from Selfridges in 2018, latest technologies in on-demand and active brands. continues as chief finance and customised production, with Richard Newcombe officer and Katrina Wright a host of exhibitors specialising While at the event, visitors can (pictured below), currently continues in her role as chief in three key areas of sportswear access FESPA’s popular fashion president of the footwear human resource officer. manufacturing: design, production feature Print Make Wear. This year’s division, is appointed president, Andy Long said: “Following and decoration. edition will focus exclusively on EMEA. While continuing to our business transformation Michael Ryan (pictured), customised sportswear production, lead the footwear division, and our recent brand Event Manager, FESPA, said: enabling visitors to get a close look Richard will be responsible for acquisitions, the exec team “A comprehensive conference at the garment production chain increasing brand presence and roles will focus on delivering and seminar feature, ‘Triathcon’, from initial design to final product. sales across priority EMEA international growth, while will take place throughout the When participating in the feature, markets. making sure that our brands first three days of the event. The visitors will receive a personalised Andy Long, chief executive continue to evolve and respond programme will see a host of sportswear garment, printed on site. officer, continues to lead to the fast-changing needs of speakers covering topics such as Sportswear Pro will speak directly the executive team with our retailers and consumers. on-demand customised production, to a large variety of companies in the Chirag Patel taking on “Chirag and Richard’s sustainability, automation and industry who are wishing to evolve deputy chief executive officer additional responsibilities smart wearables. The speaker line their manufacturing businesses for a responsibilities, alongside his are an acknowledgment of up for Triathcon will be officially fast-changing and dynamic segment current role as chief operating the significant impact they announced in winter 2019.” within the textile industry. For more officer, which includes have had, and the pivotal The event will be co-located information on Sportswear Pro 2020, overseeing the Pentland Brands role they play, in leading our with FESPA Global Print Expo, visit: www.sportswearpro.com. business in the Americas. organisation.” providing attendees with the In addition, recruitment has After ten years at Pentland opportunity to visit an array started for a chief marketing Brands, president, EMEA & of screen and digital printing officer. This new role, reporting Americas, Carl Davies, left exhibitors within the FESPA BROTHER 1.2_SPORTS INSIGHT 10/09/2019 09:52 Page 1 to Chirag Patel (pictured above), the business at the end of textile halls. will take responsibility for September.

@SportsInsightUK HYPRO page_SPORTS INSIGHT 24/10/2019 09:56 Page 1 NRS page_SPORTS INSIGHT 22/10/2019 15:05 Page 1 NEWS 15 Pure London SPEEDO AIMS TO announces new KEEP STUDENTS SWIMMING Pure Body sector Iconic global swimwear university can be a hectic period brand Speedo has been for students and, as a result, sport In a move designed to create a wider unveiled as the headline can often be the fi rst thing which o ering across the active and sponsor of the British is forgotten about. Speedo is loungewear sectors, leading Universities & Colleges Sport passionate about inspiring people festival of fashion Pure (BUCS) Swimming Series. of all levels to swim and we want to London will launch The Speedo BUCS Swimming help students engaged and enjoying Pure Body at the Series features the Short Course their swimming. February 2020 show. Championships, Long Course “BUCS o ers us the opportunity The new section Championships and Team to be associated with high-quality will incorporate Championships, playing host to racing alongside a fun and inclusive Athleisure, Nightwear, more than 1,700 students from format for university students. We Swimwear, Lingerie, over 120 institutions across the want to help keep this energy and and rebranding it as the Speedo Hosiery and will debut at the next United Kingdom. buzz going and encourage students and BUCS Swim Series is show from February 9-11, 2020, at To celebrate, Speedo will be to keep their eyes peeled for our a historic moment for the Olympia London. o ering discounts to students in exciting giveaway competitions in programme and the competitors Gloria Sandrucci, Event Director the build-up to the competitions, the future.” within. We have no doubts the at Pure London, said: “Building on the as well as running a series of fun Vince Mayne, BUCS Chief students involved will see great growth and success of the Athleisure giveaways; giving students the Executive, said: “BUCS are thrilled benefi ts of the partnership.” sector, and following feedback from chance to win the necessary kit to partner with Speedo as the The deal will begin at the visitors, we are excited to be launching to either help them get back in headline partner of our swimming Speedo and BUCS Short Course Pure Body in February to encompass to the pool with their friends or series. Speedo’s expertise in the Swimming Championships in and broaden the active, swim, lounge to compete against their fellow swimwear market combined She eld from November 15- and nightwear sectors and introducing university swimmers. with Speedo’s position as an 17, 2019, and signals Speedo’s more lingerie and hosiery to give visiting Speedo athletes Duncan iconic global brand, make Speedo intent within the competitive retailers the complete o ering.” Scott and Tom Dean both raced the perfect fi t for the BUCS swimming market in the UK. Alongside over 700 brands o ering at BUCS Championships last Swimming Programme. Speedo’s All three Championships womenswear, menswear, footwear and year and may well feature again dual focus on performance and also include events for accessories, young fashion, kidswear in this year, whilst Olympic silver participation and our shared focus disability athletes, enhancing Bubble at Pure London, ethical fashion medallists Siobhan-Marie on para swimming and inclusion further Speedo’s support in Pure Conscious and businesses from O’Connor and Jazz Carlin have are mutual values underpinning of para swimming, fresh o across the supply chain in Pure Origin, MAKURA 1.2_SPORTS INSIGHT 14/10/2019 10:07 Page 1 also lined up in the past. this fantastic partnership. the back of sponsoring the the February edition will present Gavin Herbert, brand manager “BUCS’ Swimming Programme World Para Swimming Allianz inspiring and educational content, at Speedo UK, said: “Moving to is one of BUCS’ largest programmes Championships in London. keynote speakers and trend-led catwalk shows.

www.sports-insight.co.uk 16 NEWS ASICS confirmed for The National Running Show Birmingham 2020

ASICS will be present at trying on, all the latest technology Course Race, The Trail Zone, The National Running Show and updates from ASICS across 3D Gait Analysis, Steve Cram’s Birmingham 2020. Global footwear and clothing. Training Camp, Nutrition Advice sport performance brand Over the two days, ASICS Zone, Sweat Test Zone, All Terrain ASICS promises to be a huge FrontRunners will also join the Train, Treadmill Challenge, The draw for the many thousands show. They will be on stage to Treatment Room and more. of runners coming to the show, share inspiring messages and The Speaker Programme for the at the NEC Birmingham on experiences, provide talks on a two days lists an exciting line-up January 25-26, to make their range of expert topics, and be of Olympic athletes, globe-trotting footwear, apparel and equipment available on the Ask the Experts adventurers and ultra running choices for the year ahead. area. Come and chat to the heroes, with stars including Sally ASICS will be located within the ASICS FrontRunners for some Gunnell, Linford Christie, Dean Intersport Zone, and will be present first hand experience on using and Karnazes, Kriss Akabusi, Jo Pavey, with their team of experts ready to wearing ASICS. Steve Cram, Susannah Gill, Rhys help runners to find their perfect The National Running Show and Scott Jenkins, Lazarus Lake, shoe. Research, commissioned Birmingham 2020 will benefit Camille Herron, Nicky Spinks, their running technique thanks to the right shoe. We are happy to be by ASICS, shows that over three- from a larger floor space than in Mimi Anderson and Anna McNuff. the hands-on feature areas. returning to The National Running quarters (79 per cent) of runners previous years, bringing with it The National Running Show Mike Seaman, CEO of Raccoon Show Birmingham 2020 and look could be unaware of their running increased retail opportunities is the UK’s biggest independent Events, said: “We welcome the forward to supporting runners to style, and only one third (30 per for those wishing to snap up the running show, offering runners return of ASICS to The National find the right footwear and clothing cent) of UK runners admitted to latest gear, product launches the unique opportunity to try out Running Show Birmingham 2020 for their needs, wherever they are knowing the difference between and limited editions from and purchase the latest products as one of our key brands, and we on their running journey.” a stability and neutral running the top running brands. and limited editions from big, well- are incredibly excited about what Susan Herbert, Head of shoe. ASICS Brand Trainers will There will also be a greater known brands through to smaller they have planned for the show. We Marketing at Intersport UK & be available for personal advice on offering of interactive Feature brands not found anywhere else. are committed to offering visitors Ireland, said: “The presence of running style and on which shoe Areas where runners can learn The Birmingham show expects to the show an extensive choice of ASICS is very much in line with best fits their needs and their own how to improve their running more than 55,000 visitor ticket products from a range of brands our commitment to provide an foot type. The Brand Trainers will technique, find out more about registrations for 2020, all of whom and we can’t wait to see everyone area where runners can come for also be on stage offering tech talks specialist areas and chat to those will be able to discover the latest in January.” the very best running products and NEW ERA 1.2_SPORTS INSIGHT 25/09/2019 10:41 Page 1 and demonstrating the science in the know. Feature Areas for kit, tech, nutrition and races from David Hanson at ASICS added: advice.” behind ASICS footwear. Visitors 2020 include the Running Skills over 250 exhibitors, learn from “As the leaders in running we want Tickets cost £10 and are valid for can look forward to seeing, and Theatre, The Ultra Zone, Obstacle inspiring speakers and improve to ensure that all runners run in both days.

New Era Headwear Sales Agent Opportunity New Era is an American headwear company headquartered in Buffalo, New York. It was founded in 1920. New Era has over 500 different licenses in its portfolio. Their heritage is in Baseball and since 1993 they have been the exclusive baseball cap supplier for Major League Baseball (MLB). They currently have some world class partnerships, across many sporting disciplines, including the likes of Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, Chicago Bears, Boston Celtics, Dallas Cowboys, New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox as well as numerous major league sport association endorsements! Their collaborations do not end at Sport. They feature across the world of art, music, lifestyle and entertainment. New Era truly is the heritage global leader in bespoke headwear.

Opportunity Overview Ideal profile Universal Kit Co are in partnership with New Era are now looking for a The ideal sales agent will have experience in representing products for the dedicated sales agent to work exclusively with the New Era product range sports apparel or fashion retail clothing industry. They can be an independent across the UK and Europe. Under this agreement we are able to produce agent or a business agency looking for additional services to offer the UK small minimums across a range of products. This provides the sales agents markets to create new revenue streams. with an outstanding opportunity to build a strong customer base with a cool, • Sales Commission must have product range. • Comprehensive assistance and sales support Target clients and regions • Sales leads and contacts for the territory will be passed to the agent. The target market for new Products: - • Samples of products and a comprehensive sales tools pack • All sporting clubs and institutions • Plus, any other support the agent deems necessary and essential to • Education establishments acquire new business. • Gyms & health clubs • Musicians and music venues The modern-day baseball cap is a global tradition, a ritual on and off the field. To be considered for this sales agent role, Its why New Era produced over 70 million baseball caps last year alone. Whilst it is a must have fashion accessory it also provides identity and loyalty to the please contact Jon Haile on 07889 597360 club or the institution that you belong to. It’s a bold and proud statement. or [email protected] Because of this, the list above is not exhaustive. Any institution or club that has members are potential New Era headwear customers which means the potential for high commission earnings are unlimited.

@SportsInsightUK ENERTOR page_SPORTS INSIGHT 10/09/2019 09:54 Page 1 18 NEWS Swim England and Mind work to promote mental health BABOLAT benefits of swimming TO SUPPORT Swim England and Mind are poor mental health at some point RACKET working together to promote in their lives. People respond to the benefits swimming can these challenges in many different SPORTS IN offer to people experiencing ways. Swimming is one of those a mental health problem. activities that allows people to take CHINA As part of the Get Set to Go part in the way that suits them. After having recently campaign, the two charities “This might be taking some time to established its Chinese will also be educating the relax on your own, or train hard with headquarters in Guangzhou swimming workforce and friends. Swimming offers so many and Shanghai, Babolat, world facility staff on mental health. options that really can help everyone. leader in racket sports, And they will also share messages “We have always worked announced it will partner about how swimming can support closely with Mind and are looking with Alibaba Group-owned positive mental health across forward to increasing awareness Tmall, the leading China’s BtoC their social media channels. of swimming and its mental health marketplace, to open a flagship YouGov research, commissioned benefits to a wider audience.” health problems. It can reduce the As part of Swim England’s store and look into ways to by Swim England, has shown that Get Set to Go helps people risk of depression by up to 30 per focus on health and swimming, further drive the promotion of almost half a million (492,000) find the physical activity that is cent and can improve a person’s the team will be encouraging all Tennis, Padel and Badminton British adults have reduced, or right for them, so they are able resilience and ability to cope. Water Wellbeing sites to work sports in China. no longer take, medication for to enjoy the physical, social and “Unfortunately, we also know with Mind to gain further insights China is recognized as a their mental health condition mental benefits of being active. that many people who do want and expertise in these areas. priority for Babolat to grow as a result of swimming. Hayley Jarvis, Head of Physical to be more active are being held Fact sheets, produced in their racket sports business Duane Newton, Swim England Activity for Mind, said: “We know back by their mental health, conjunction with Mind, have also (including Tennis, Badminton, Health and Wellbeing Manager, that physical activity can play a vital whether that’s feelings of low been published to offer expert and Padel) and the opening of a said: “Everyone will be affected by role in the lives of people with mental self-confidence, exhaustion or advice and support for people with flagship store on Tmall will give fear of crowded spaces. That a mental health problem who might the Lyon-based iconic brand is why we’re delighted to be be thinking about swimming. a stronger footprint in China, Nike and Ocean Conservancy partnering with Swim England to They include tips and advice and access to over 670 million ensure more people with mental on starting out, what to avoid active annual consumers on announce new Arctic health problems feel welcomed and specific advice for coaches, Alibaba’s platforms. Babolat’s and supported to get active. clubs, operators and other most popular products such Shipping Pledge “We also look forward to working professionals to make the aquatic as the rackets of Rafael Nadal, alongside Swim England, Sport experience a more positive one. Li Na or Dominic Thiem, as England and other partners in the Mind will also be providing well as a full line of Padel sector to promote the benefits of a service to current and and Badminton gear will be swimming for people with mental former athletes, as well as available for the Chinese health problems through the We all members and volunteers sports enthusiasts to purchase. Are Undefeatable campaign.” involved with Swim England. Moreover, both companies will look into further ways to collaborate and drive initiatives to spread the culture Gray-Nicolls launch Off-Cuts and knowledge of racquet sports among the Chinese eco collection public. Global cricket manufacturer incredible. Hopefully they’ll serve Eric Babolat, President and Gray-Nicolls have launched an me well this winter.” CEO of Babolat, said: “Digital exciting new concept for the By embracing this new collection and e-commerce development 2020 season, which launches you’ll also benefit on price, but are a strategic priority for our Nike has teamed up with the Ocean Conservancy to launch on November 1. with zero compromise in terms of brand. Working with Tmall the Arctic Shipping Corporate Pledge, inviting businesses and Designed to reduce wastage in quality. The adult batting glove in is more than just a great industry to join in a commitment against shipping through the their factories, the 160-year-old the range – the Off-Cut Pro - will opportunity. This is mainly a Arctic Ocean. company will be using discarded be £44.99, while the junior - the strong partnership between As climate change causes Arctic sea ice to diminish, cargo traffic materials to create a brand new, Academy – is £24.99. both of our companies. I believe through previously unnavigable ocean routes becomes increasingly eco-friendly collection of batting Nick Wilton, Brand Manager of it will contribute to grow both feasible. gloves: The Off-Cuts. Gray-Nicolls, said: “The Off-Cuts is businesses.” Though these routes can offer decreased transit times, the possibility Off-Cuts is exactly as the name a project we are immensely proud Sébastien Badault, General of increased vessel traffic across the Arctic poses great risk and suggests, a range of batting gloves of. As a global brand we have a Manager of Alibaba Group potentially devastating environmental impacts for one of the world’s that have been manufactured responsibility to ensure that we are for France and Belgium, said: most fragile regions. from the leftover material of as eco-friendly as possible. This “We are incredibly thrilled Hilary Krane, EVP, Chief Administrative Officer and General old products. Surplus parts - is just one of the first steps we are to welcome Babolat on Tmall Counsel, Nike, Inc, said: “At Nike, we exist to serve athletes. That means sweatbands, padding, leather – have taking to ensure that our effect and give our consumers access taking climate action through Move to Zero, Nike’s journey towards a been combined to create a new on the planet is as small as it can not only to a vast selection zero carbon, zero waste future. We know climate change impacts how collection of gloves - without the be. The dual benefit for the public of unique and innovative our athletes train and play, and whether they get to enjoy sport at all. need to source new materials. is that they’ll get a pair of gloves products, but also to the Through this pledge, we’ve made a clear choice – to help protect the Not only is the Off-Cuts that look fantastic and perform exciting world of racket sports. planet and preserve the Arctic.” Collection great from a brilliantly.” “We see in Babolat a Often referred to as “the world’s refrigerator,” the Arctic plays an sustainability point of view, but for perfect union of unparalleled essential role in regulating global temperatures. It is also one of the cricketers everywhere, they come heritage and craftsmanship regions that is most vulnerable to climate change, with temperatures with the promise of a completely with a forward-looking use of rising in the Arctic at twice the rate of the rest of the planet. unique design for every customer. technology to manufacture the Janis Searles Jones, CEO of Ocean Conservancy, said: “The dangers A pair of Off-Cuts could be green, best equipment for today’s and of trans-Arctic shipping routes outweigh all perceived benefits and we pink, yellow, orange or all four. If tomorrow’s champions. We are cannot ignore the impacts of greenhouse gas emissions from shipping you like your cricket gear loud, looking forward to developing on our ocean. Ocean Conservancy applauds Nike for recognizing the these will be the gloves for you. together further initiatives real bottom line here is a shared responsibility for the health of the Sam Billings, England and Kent to promote racket sports in Arctic—and believes the announcement will spur much-needed action CCC, said: “It’s a pretty amazing China.” to prevent risky Arctic shipping and hopes additional commitments to product, out of waste parts of other Sebastien Bodennec, Babolat reduce emissions from global shipping will emerge.” bits of kits made by Gray-Nicolls. China General Manager, said: The Arctic Shipping Corporate Pledge invites companies to commit It’s a great initiative, I think the “We are very excited to start to not intentionally sending ships through this fragile Arctic ecosystem. world generally now is trying to get this partnership. We believe Initial signatories include Kering, PVH, H&M, Gap, Columbia, far cleaner and recycle far more. Tmall will helps us to display Bestseller, Li & Fung, MSC, Hapag-Lloyd. I love the fancy colours – always the whole Babolat offer and To learn more about Nike’s commitments to climate action, visit have done – and the great thing make it easily available to purpose.nike.com about it is the quality is the same Chinese rackets sports lovers.” as any other product – and it looks

@SportsInsightUK NEWS 19 PUMA gets personal with sporting idol experience at NYC flagship store PUMA opens the doors to to our long-term commercial thousand football fans in the crowd its latest new flagship store strategy and the Skill Cube New and updatable sponsorship boards, in New York on 5th Avenue. York delivers on this in every TV screens and pitch patterns. The unique store spanning way. This is truly a one of a kind Visitors are scored on their across two floors, features an experience and we are confident performance and at the end of industry-first multi-sport, multi- that our shoppers in the NYC the experience, the stadium sensory Skill Cube, designed and Store will find it extremely comes alive with confetti canons, developed by human experience engaging and compelling.” fireworks, and a cheering crowd. design studio Green Room. Once inside the Skill Cube, The Training experience transports Green Room’s creative platform visitors are immersed in a multi- participants into a warehouse to ‘idols brought to earth’, integrates sensory environment incorporating train with Lewis Hamilton, who global PUMA brand ambassadors 270° floor to ceiling LCD content takes them through three trials; into an immersive experience, screens, graphic projection, motion ladder, jab and jump, going head- positioning them as virtual training sensing devices, dynamic lighting to-head with their idols to develop buddies, as opposed to elite and and surround sound. The floor their skills to be forever faster. inaccessible celebrities – an covering is a high-quality, multi- Martyn Palmer, Digital approach, established through sport, synthetic turf, designed Experience Director, added: behavioural research, as key to to bring the footwear benefits to “Our approach was to encourage better engaging the lifestyle traits the fore by simulating authentic engagement and disrupt of PUMA’s target audience; Gen Z. trial conditions, that further ‘autopilot customer’ browsing, Respected for their training enhance a life-like experience. by introducing a highly curated regimes and prowess, athletes Converging analogue and digital approach to the experience Lewis Hamilton, Antoine worlds, the Teamsport experience zone, we have succeeded in Griezmann and Romelu Lukaku kicks off in a virtual PUMA locker creating a harmonious customer host coaching sessions that room with footballers Griezmann journey that mixes physical and transport customers either to or Lukaku; trialists are transported digital interactions to elevate a a virtual football stadium, or a to a CGI replica of a capacity-filled positive product experience.” disused warehouse; an experience San Siro Stadium. Reconstructed In both experiences, the data specifically designed to deliver to a superior level of detail and captured, pulls their position the best authentic footwear adaptability – featuring an through to a digital leader-board trial whilst still in store. impressive five million individual housed on a large screen within Jason Isenberg, Global Head of blades of grass – the virtual the waiting area. Post-experience, SPORTSWEAR PRO 1.2_SPORTS INSIGHT 22/10/2019 15:05 Page 1 Commercial Marketing at PUMA, environment offers full flexibility everyone who takes part in the trial said: “Facilitating unique and and control over 152 lights, will receive a personalised email immersive experiences is central independent movement of all 80 and SMS message for social sharing.

www.sports-insight.co.uk 20

sports e place to source all your hub products and services

www.sports-insight.co.uk Sports Insight @SportsInsightUK @SportsInsightHub

Updated Paradigm Personalising Make sure you Style and Altra’s (UK) best-selling road shoe, the Paradigm is updated for 2019 - this is Altra’s outdoor wear SmellWell Performance A must for all sports footwear retailers, Introducing the new performance line from max cushioned long-distance running shoe. Providing customisation services with SmellWell will remove the nasty ni s from Gold’s Gym, o ering modern style from The neutral platform allows the foot to Brother Embroidery Machines allows overworked shoes. These small breathable the world’s number one heritage brand, run naturally but has a guide rail for foot you to generate additional income for pouches contain a secret Swedish formula combined with stretch, breathable and support when you start to tire. The midsole your business from clubs and event including bamboo charcoal absorbing all wicking properties that comfortably deals Ego material has been made sti er and organisers. The Brother PR1050X and moisture, killing the bacteria causing foot with the demands of a modern day workout. additional fresh colourways added. PR655 are ideal for adding logos, names and numbers to tops, shorts, jumpers, odour and leaving a pleasant scent. Plus bags and more. great packaging for easy display. Swedish, Odour Kill, Shoe Fresh, Easy to Post.

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ODLO Active Spine Saucony Supporter with Cup Arsenal FC With Active Spine, better posture can Ideal for hockey and fi ght sports. improve performance! ODLO’s latest Triumph 17 Constructed with supportive four-way Hip Flask The new Triumph 17 from Saucony is Every Gunners' fan would love this innovation helps athletes to stabilise their stretch mesh, cup retention straps and available from November 1. It features their stylish o cially licensed 60z hip posture. This is important because an comfort waistband. Comes with a gel lined next generation of cushioning, PWRRUN+ fl ask. The stainless steel fl ask is upright posture increases oxygen intake and BioFlex cup that protects all the vital areas to give you a springy and responsive emblazoned with an antique badge reduces muscle fatigue, with positive e ects with a vented bio-shape design. Combines underfoot feel. It’s for those of us who crave and comes in a gift box. on performance, recovery and overall health. comfort, fi t and superior protection. the ultimate in protective cushioning. And if it helps athletes, it’s also ideal for Available in S, M, L, XL. everyday wear.

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@SportsInsightUK 21 sports insight selects New Balance 1500T2 The New Balance 1500T2 boasts Bootie construction for a custom like fi t. The innovative REVlite midsole provides premium responsiveness and durability at a 30 per cent lighter weight than other foams with comparable performance. The Boa System features a midfoot canopy and heel wrap for a truly customizable fi t. www.newbalance.co.uk

CamelBak Double Gel Enertor Kids insoles Gola Active Major 2 Enertor insole supplier to the British Army The Major 2 is the running shoe you were w o m e n ’ s fi t Mouthguard and elite athletes including Usain Bolt, are looking for. This Gola Active running trainer Iconic kit with a female fi t! Whether it’s a d3’s entire mouth guard range are tested and excited to launch their new kids insole range, features a high density open cell in-sock park run or an athlete race, we’ve got what proven high quality products that are simply providing outstanding shock absorption which provides added rebound and shock you need. Our most popular run vests and essential for contact sports like MMA, for children age four plus, protecting every absorption while running. The one-piece packs are now engineered to fi t a woman’s Boxing, Rugby, Hockey, GAA, American step they take, available in two sizes from knit upper provides additional comfort, frame and available in four di erent sizes to Football even Netball and Basketball. The September at Enertor.com/products/kids ensuring stability mile after mile. ensure a personalised fi t. Range consists of seven colours in junior and senior - great value with a great RRP. RRP £13.99

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Infrared Hex Forearm Energy bars from Runner’s Compression Socks Sleeves space Compression Socks KYMIRA Sport Infrared compression socks Superior elbow protection with 9mm THIS1 was designed to be eaten in extreme TOETOE Compression toe socks provide are the must-have socks for putting in the Hex Technology. Features hDc Moisture conditions. These vacuum-packed energy help in improving circulation of the entire miles! These socks o er all the benefi ts of Management that keeps you cool and dry. bars are a surprisingly fresh combination of calf. The elasticated calf channel ensures compression with the scientifi cally proven Breathable and lightweight. Fully machine features – non-freezing, waterproof, crush- dynamic adjusting and secure hold on the benefi ts of infrared sportswear. The more washable and available in a range of colours. resistant and delicious, especially when the leg. This is very benefi cial not only for you put in, the more you get out, so run Available in S – XXL. sub-zero weather limits your menu to dried encouraging better circulation for sports, longer, train harder and recover quicker. fruit and a handful of nuts. “This looks like but also when not moving at all, as the lack of astronaut food” is one of the comments the movement slows down circulation. bars are getting.

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www.sports-insight.co.uk 22 sports insight selects Aloha M LTD Tri Aero SS Race Suit For maximum comfort on race day, the Tri LTD Racesuit delivers. Aero-cut with textured sleeves to reduce surface tension and increase speed on the bike. Sublimated Italian fabric helps you stay dry and comfortable while providing enhanced breathability. Integra SBR 2D pad construction provides support where you need it most. Race in style and comfort. www.zootsports.de

Cobra Ultra Swipe The Prince of the Finding the right JuzoFlex Mirror Goggle Package tempo Genu Xtra Discover the most advanced anti-fog Whether you’re working out or relaxing The Hilly Tempo running sock is ideal for a JuzoFlex Genu Xtra sets a new standard for protection ever! arena’s new Anti-Fog at home, the Comfyballs Performance run in the park, on pavements or meandering sports injury supports. Unrivalled comfort, Swipe Technology is a ground breaking new series is perfect for those who want to stay paths. Whether you are taking on your fi rst functionality and technology makes it one approach to solving the problem of goggles comfortable and stylish all year round. They 5k or putting in the training miles ahead of of the best supports on the market. Now that fog up. The Cobra family’s existing anti- feature 84 per cent Coolmax All Season the autumn marathon season. The Tempo the o cial supports partner of England fog treatment is already one of the best. Now Microfi ber, 16 per cent Lycra = Super Soft, has a perfect combination of a durable heel Athletics, Juzo are bringing the best to with Swipe technology, arena made it even unique PackageFront Technology, well and toe and a soft main body. The Tempo the UK sports injury market. Unrivalled better! With just a single swipe of the fi nger, suited for year-round use, sweat wicking and is available as a great value two pack. performance, functionality and comfort. Swipe Anti-Fog can be reactivated, extending are fast drying Lightweight comfort. the protection up to ten times longer. 015396 22322 015396 22366 0161 366 5020 0161 358 0104 / 07376 058 789 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.solosports.co.uk www.comfyballs.co.uk www.hillysocks.com www.juzostore.co.uk

For a run Vibram Blade 5 Dual Core A Classic Reinvented The Blade 5 Dual Core represents the Newly redesigned for Spring 2020, Mac in a in the sun FiveFingers pinnacle of dartboard technology and Sac’s new Origin and Neon rain jackets are Gear up with the latest vests, shorts and innovation. Exclusive dual-core technology now 10,000 mm waterproof and 8,000 gsm tees from Ronhill. Featuring lightweight V-TRAIN The new and improved V-TRAIN with achieves lower compression at the outer breathable. With updated branding, new mesh fabrics, split shorts, supportive new softer feel, available to pre-order core, increasing point penetration, whilst features and a range of new colours the go-to twin layered shorts and breathable for 2020 delivery. The perfect tool higher compression at the inner core packable performance jacket has just got t-shirts. Available in a variety of colours for trainers and athletes. Designed increases resistance below the surface better. Become a stockist today. and styles to suit all types of runners and for balance and strength workouts, for improved durability. running disciplines. powerlifting, martial arts and running. #ChooseBlade Barefoot, traction, stability, comfort, new concept. RRP £120.00

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@SportsInsightUK outdoorFRESH news stories & everything Outdoors!insightoutdoor-insight.co.uk

POWELL AND FOSTER DYNAFIT’S BÖHM SETS ODLO INTRODUCES JOIN MONTANE P25 NEW RECORD P32 WEARABLE HEAT P33

Packable Performance Packable Warmth in association with

www.outdoor-insight.co.ukwww.sports-insight.co.uk GOLA page_SPORTS INSIGHT 28/10/2019 17:11 Page 1 OUTDOOR INSIGHT 25

EOS 2019 delivers an engaging, DRYROBE challenging and stimulating programme ANNOUNCE

A resounding success for its two days there was plenty of time PARTNERSHIP seventh consecutive year, the for networking during the breaks. WITH KENDAL European Outdoor Summit There was ample opportunity (EOS) has proven a hit once to unwind and relax at Thursday MOUNTAIN again with delegates, sponsors night’s Networking Evening dinner, and partners alike; delivering where delegates were treated to FESTIVAL another engaging, challenging traditional Swiss Alphorn and flag and inspiring programme throwing entertainment. Later they dryrobe has joined the 2019 over the course of two days. enjoyed a box of popcorn courtesy Kendal Mountain Festival as The Summit finale announced of headline sponsor IWA, while the Presenting Partner of the Annecy, France, as the host location watching some inspirational films Outdoor Swimming Session. for EOS 2020. The EOS 2019, from Kendal Mountain Festival. Taking place bright and which took place in Interlaken These included an uplifting short early on Sunday, November Switzerland from September film on the National Brotherhood 17, 9.30 – 11.30am at Kendal 26-27, brought together over 200 of Skiers, which encourages greater Town Hall, the session will high calibre leaders in the outdoor ethnic diversity within snowsports. combine screening of films industry from across Europe and “Once a year at the EOS we from the world of outdoor beyond. Presentations and breakout short films, while an educational Silkeborg Project to embed outdoor encourage outdoor industry leaders swimming plus tales of sessions followed the theme: The keynote from Chris Doyle of the into local government strategy. away from their busy work schedule incredible adventures from Outdoor Industry - Redefining Adventure Travel Trade Association Towards the end of day two to introduce and discuss topics that inspiring characters. Boundaries, with speakers gave delegates insight on how to Donna Carpenter, CEO of Burton are approaching our sector from the The fantastic Colin Hill touching on topics such as social access gear-hungry, passport- Snowboards urged the outdoor horizon, look at current and future returns to Kendal to host the innovation, biotechnology, global wielding adventure travellers! industry to do more and do better challenges, opportunities and last session for 2019 and share sharing, industry case studies Day two saw a great start with in its efforts to address some but not least, to network. This year's his infectious enthusiasm for and forging new collaborations. Benita Matofska from The Sharing big challenges and issues and edition in the EOG‘s homeland, outdoor swimming, plus the The Summit was compered by Economy who delivered a thought- declared that "passion without Switzerland, proved again that riotous Outdoor Swimmer Wolfgang Greiner from EOS media provoking keynote with positive purpose is meaningless." there is a great appetite to think Quiz of the Year is back, partner The Outdoor Industry insights into change-making The final keynote speaker at this outside of the box in our sector. hosted by Jonathan Cowie Compass and presentations were and how outdoor businesses year’s Summit was mountaineer Many exciting and challenging and Ella Foote. kicked off by Futurist Anne Skare should engage with the sharing and quadruple amputee Jamie topics were touched upon and The full line-up of speakers Nielsen, who gave an amusing, economy. During her presentation, Andrew. Jamie shared the new connections were made. A will be revealed very soon, engaging, challenging and optimistic five volunteers committed to be incredible and very moving story big thank you to all the delegates but the speakers confirmed keynote about “Why the next 10 change-makers in their companies. of how he rebuilt his life and who came out to Interlaken, to our so far include Lindsey Cole, years will be amazing”. The second They were each given a copy of resumed his outdoor adventures sponsors who make this whole event who takes us from Shetland keynote speaker, Pippa Goodman Benita’s book ‘GenerationShare’ after a terrible climbing incident possible and of course to the EOG to the Scilly Isles on her from Foresight Factory, then and each asked to pledge to get that left him with life-changing team working behind the scenes 'Dipping Britain' adventure, shared some of the latest research five other people to buy the book. injuries and claimed the life of to ensure a smooth event. See you and Kendal cyclist and on the changing boundaries of Every copy is produced from his best friend. His emotional all next year in Annecy!” said Arne swimmer Ben Dowman who engagement – offering essential waste, educates a girl in the slums and inspiring story received a Strate, General Secretary, EOG. created the Frog Whitton insights for outdoor businesses. in Mumbai and plants a tree. well-deserved standing ovation EOS 2020 Annecy, France will Round - a 96 mile bike Delegates were treated to Two more keynote speakers from the crowd of delegates. take place from 15-16 October ride with four lake swims an insight into the evolution of completed the first session with Each day kicked off with an early and details about how to book totalling six miles. adventure film-making and the thought provoking presentations: morning Tai Chi and run activity will be made available in due The Outdoor Swimming world of Kendal Mountain Festival Tomas Vucurevic of BRAIND on delivered by sponsors Vibram and course. For more information Session is shaping up to from festival director Steve ingredient brands and collaboration; ISPO to invigorate delegates ahead about the Summit, visit www. be a must see at Kendal Scott, who showed two inspiring and Jeppe Thorgersen on the of a busy day and throughout the europeanoutdoorsummit.com. Mountain Festival, Gideon Bright, dryrobe founder and Director, said: “We’re Countdown to the Outdoor Military Show proud to be joining the Montane welcome new With the 2019 Outdoor Military Show Kendal Mountain Festival fast approaching nearly 30 suppliers to present the Outdoor ice climbing talent to have signed up to support the event Swimming Session - here which moves to a new exhibition venue at dryrobe our mission is athlete roster this year. to help inspire, enable and The larger venue at the University of the improve the experience of Montane expand their athlete roster West of England Conference and Exhibition an active outdoor lifestyle, with two young internationally-rated Centre (November 19-20) makes a great for everyone. Kendal ice climbers; Emma Powell (UK) and choice due to its ease of access, bespoke facilities and flexible floor space. embraces and shares this Liam Foster (USA). The move to this new venue and vibrant city comes as a result of ethos wholeheartedly, which Emma is the first and only British person to feedback received from both visitors and exhibitors alike, who suggested a is why we’re excited to be podium at an Ice World Championship, placing need for more floor space on the one level to accommodate an increase in working together with them third in 2016 and 2014. Despite this incredible demand from exhibitors. for 2019. We can’t wait to achievement she is only 18 years old, having started It’s not too late to exhibit and there is still space for other brands to see the amazing outdoor climbing as a way of burning off excess energy as a child. Starting exhibit - to date the following suppliers have pledged their support by swimming community at the at age seven she quickly transitioned through climbing disciplines booking stand space - Helix Tactical, Brigantes, Armadillo Merino, Lyon festival - see you there!” before finding ice climbing, becoming a member of the GB Ice Equipment, Petzl, Snigel Designs, Keela, Dalesman, Lowa, Arktis, Central The 2019 Kendal Mountain Climbing Team (sponsored by Montane) in 2011. Trade, Jet Press, Boreal, Tasmanian Tiger, Mammut, Pellitec, Black Festival programme is Emma Powell said: “I am excited by the opportunity to work Diamond, Powertraveller, Exotogg, Stormsure, Mountain Boot Company, now live. with Montane. I am keen to use their products in my niche field of Storm, Buffalo, Equip UK, Proagencies & Ace Supplies. For tickets head to www. climbing and to represent the brand.” The event, now in its third year, attracts military buyers and kendalmountainfestival.com Liam is already an accomplished ice, mixed, and drytooling athlete procurement officers from the MOD as well as representatives from at the age of 19. He is the youngest American to climb some of the the Special Forces and activity training centres. Visitors can attend the hardest grades in drytooling (D12, D13, & D14), placed fourth in show completely free of charge and this includes onsite parking facilities. difficulty at the 2019 Youth World Ice Climbing Championships, Advance registration is required and can be completed on the website at was second in difficulty and speed at the 2018 North American www.brigantes.com/oms Championships, and has won the Hari Berger Speed Competition at Access to the Bristol conference centre is easy with its location to the the Ouray Ice Festival two years running. north of the city just off the M4/M32 motorways with Filton Abbey Wood Liam Foster said: “Montane is the ideal gear for the harshest train station a short walk away, and Bristol Temple Meads train station a environments in the world, and their kit allows me to push my limits. 15-minute drive away, which has excellent national rail links. I am honoured to be supported by them and look forward to seeing If you have any questions regarding OMS and to download the latest what is possible.” floorplan , please visit www.brigantes.com/oms for further details or contact Alasdair Scobbie at MCS via email [email protected] Tel: 0161 437 4634.

www.outdoor-insight.co.ukwww.sports-insight.co.uk 26 OUTDOOR INSIGHT RUFFWEAR Burton McCall COMPLETE AW19 SEASON partners with BioLite Burton McCall is to be the “BioLite’s product development, LAUNCH exclusive UK and Ireland innovation and diversity ensure Ruffwear complete their Distribution for BioLite Energy the brand fits beautifully within the AW19 season with the launch products. Burton McCall portfolio and we’re of major lines designed to Through this partnership extremely excited to see how we enhance and inspire outdoor BioLite, an innovator in off-grid can further develop the brand in adventures with canine energy solutions, will receive the UK.” companions. on-the-ground retailer support, Demian Lashlee, International The Overcoat Fuse Jacket opportunities for door expansion, Sales Manager for BioLite Energy, is a unique 2-in-1 jacket- expert marketing and brand building said: “The UK is one of our fastest- harness combo designed guidance, and overall support for growing markets; having the We look forward to learning BioLite’s products will be to make getting outdoors growing business in the UK. opportunity to work alongside an from their extensive knowledge available to order from Burton even easier. It combines Michelle Dickinson, Managing industry leader like Burton McCall and experience, accelerating our McCall Ltd beginning January the structure of Ruffwear’s Director of Burton McCall Ltd, said: gives us tremendous momentum. presence in the market.” 1, 2020. best-selling Front Range Harness with the warmth and weather resistance of CARINA POLZER. PHOTO BY DAVID HOFER the Overcoat Jacket, giving dog owners a convenient PrimaLoft announces alternative to layering. Meanwhile the lightweight, multi-use Flagline Harness, partnership with Parley is the latest addition to the core Ruffwear harness range. for the Oceans It offers a no step, easy on/ off design with a supportive PrimaLoft and chest/belly panel, padded environmental organisation handle, and three points of Parley for the Oceans have leash attachment. Perfect announced a strategic for ‘Houdini’ dogs and those partnership that will take needing extra assistance, plastic intercepted from the Flagline brings the most- remote islands, beaches and loved features of Ruffwear’s coastal communities and core harnesses into one use it to manufacture high- hybrid design. performance insulation For 25 years, Ruffwear products. has sought The Road Less PrimaLoft, the experts in Travelled and this launch advanced material technology, is set to inspire even more will be the first insulation adventure-seeking humans provider in the textile industry to to discover new trails, partner with Parley to develop products from marine plastic waste. Runners tough it out in the new adventures, and new In addition to the material PrimaLoft sources, the company also challenges with their dogs at supports Parley in its projects preventing ocean pollution all over inov-8 Descent Race mud their side. the world. Rob Hughes, managing Cyrill Gutsch, Founder and CEO of Parley for the Oceans, said: “Parley One of the world’s most daredevil sporting events saw runners director of Accapi Group, Ocean Plastic is a trademark for a range of premium materials to turn plunge down a near-vertical ski slope. Ruffwear’s exclusive products into Symbols of Change and fund our battle against marine Brave entrants from across Europe took part in the inov-8 Descent distribution partner across plastic pollution. The enormous success of our partnerships with brands Race on the legendary Streif – a slope on the Hahnenkamm mountain Europe said: “Each of these like adidas and Stella McCartney, internationally renowned athletes, in Kitzbuhel (Austria) that has a gradient of 80 per cent and is new lines demonstrates artists, and entertainers has had a carry-over effect on the whole industry. regarded as the toughest on the world cup ski circuit. Ruffwear’s dedication to Recycling is now sexy, desirable and stands for meaningful design. The second staging of the annual race was held amid an alpine creating products that Purpose is the new luxury. We welcome PrimaLoft as an official Parley rainstorm, making the course extremely muddy. Most runners used enhance and inspire supply chain partner to our global network, adding new high-performance special graphene-enhanced shoes provided for free by race sponsors canine adventure with zero material types to our portfolio and drastically supporting the growth of inov-8 to get tougher grip in the slippery conditions. compromise on quality. With our movement – for the oceans.” The men’s winner was Markus Wiltschnigg who, despite suffering a each season Ruffwear are Mike Joyce, PrimaLoft president and CEO, said: “Using upcycled shoulder injury, proved to be the master of the downhill mud. The evolving and innovating their marine plastic waste to create insulation that meets the high-performance 27-year-old trail runner from Styria (Austria) claimed the €300 range, integrating customer standards customers expect from PrimaLoft presents a unique challenge. cash prize. feedback and trail testing, to Sourcing high-quality raw materials is essential to the development of Entrants of all abilities started at one-minute intervals from the make dog gear that performs our insulations, and marine plastics are often lacking that level of quality. iconic ski house on the mountain summit. They then weaved their way at the highest level. We are Together with Parley, our engineers have developed a method that allows down the hill, on a 350m course marked by ski flags. delighted to bring these for marine plastics to produce insulation products that meet our high- Each runner completed it twice, with their times added together for products to the European performance standards.” the overall results. Markus flew down in 58.54 secs and then 56.87 secs market where we are already for a combined winning time of 1min 55.32 secs. seeing strong demand from Fastest woman down the treacherous slope was Carina Polzer, who our customers.” made it look easy with times of 1min 22.40 secs and 1min 21.24 secs. Her combined time of 2 mins 43.64 secs put her ninth overall. The 23-year-old Austrian international orienteer, who is studying medicine in Innsbruck, also won €300. The race was organised by Georg Uberall, an outdoor sports retailer from Kitzbuhel, who said: “The conditions were certainly special, so I was all the more pleased that so many came to race and that everything went well.” Lee Procter, Communications & Ambassadors Manager for inov-8, added: “Everyone got to grips with the muddy course and demonstrated both skill and bravery to tame the world’s toughest ski slope. We loved seeing everyone play dirty in the mud, share in the camaraderie of the day and, in some cases, overcome fears. We look forward to returning to Kitzbuhel in 2020.” Results (top-3). Men: 1. Markus Wiltschnigg (1:55:32), 2. Daniel Hauser (2:12:33), 3. Moritz Mayer (2:18:06). Women: 1. Carina Polzer (2:43:64), 2. Lisa Kroll (2:57:00), 3. Lena Sulzenbacher (3:48:40).

@Outdoorinsightuk ISPO page_SPORTS INSIGHT 25/09/2019 10:48 Page 1 outdoorwww.sports-insight.co.uk Sports Insight @Outdoorinsightuk hub @SportsInsightHub The place to source all your products and services

Farpoint Trek 55 Alpine RDS MT18 Outdoor Wilderness Wash The Farpoint Trek 55 is equipped with an With its brightness and ease of use, this up Sea to Summit’s super concentrated adjustable trampoline suspended mesh Down Vest to 3,000 lumens strong flashlight wins over Wilderness Wash goes a long way, it is New for AW19, the versatile range of backsystem providing ultimate ventilation hunters, campers and fishers alike. Thanks gentle on fabrics and skin but effective on lightweight, packable, performance when hiking in warmer climes. It also boasts to its rapid focus, you can focus it using dishes and laundry stains. Available in their outerwear from Mac in a Sac has now the Farpoint’s signature suitcase style just one hand and it can even be positioned popular “Pocket Soap” (50 leaves) version, expanded to include a packable, high quality, opening for easy packing and access. While vertically on the floor due to its flat end and in two liquid versions; one unscented RDS down vest. Offered to retail with in transit you can deploy the Aircover to cap. The strong battery can be charged via and one with Citronella and Sandalwood attractive mark-ups and POS display stand. protect your pack as it makes its way to the USB 3.0 and has a quick charge feature. The essential oils to help deter bugs and odours. Become a stockist today. hold luggage. darkness doesn’t stand a chance against you. All versions are biodegradable. Three sizes including 40ml, 89ml, 250ml.

028 9079 0588 www.ospreyeurope.com [email protected] www.ledlenser.com www.seatosummit.co.uk www.targetdry.com

GX Waterproof La Sportiva Palm Tsangpo Hat Rainbow One Palm Tsangpo Hat keeps your head warm. Daysack Futura Woman This Fleece beanie hat, made from stretchy, Person Tent Single compartment waterproof daysack The Futura model belongs to the innovative Updated for 2019, the Rainbow is the solo soft Pontetorto fabric, is great for wearing with rolltop closure, fully taped seams, front “No-Edge” generation. The No-edge concept version of Tarptent’s most popular shelter, under your helmet or to keep in a drybag panel with reflective shockcord accessory eliminates the traditional “edges” of the the Double Rainbow, and includes the same for emergencies. If the hat gets wet ring patch, inner key clip, inner zip pocket, haul sole. This allows the foot to come into special features. An exceptional balance it out and put straight back on. Materials: loop, light padded backsystem and fully closer contact with the rock surface, thus of strength, spaciousness, and value, the Pontetorto technostretch fleece (65% padded light 3d Airmesh shoulder harness, enhancing foot sensitivity and allowing a Rainbow is ideal for people who want a light polyester 25% polypropylene 10% elastane). waiststrap, UTX duraflex buckles and greater, homogenous push on the hold. tent with a large living space. The Rainbow Weight: 30g accessories. is easy to set up and can be converted to freestanding with trekking poles.

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@Outdoorinsightuk outdoorwww.sports-insight.co.uk Sports Insight @Outdoorinsightuk hub @SportsInsightHub The place to source all your products and services

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AMK ODLO Fast & Light Anker PowerPort Petzl Duo S Small and quick to pack, super light and Ultra-powerful with 1,100 lumens in Mountain Series extremely functional – Odlo’s outdoor Solar Lite BOOST mode, the DUO S headlamp runs Find supplies quickly with the Easy When you’re out enjoying the great outdoors, performance line FLI (Fast & Light) on a rechargeable battery. Waterproof Care Organization System in the newly enjoy yet another perk: free limitless prepares outdoor enthusiasts for anything and durable, it is ideal for demanding revamped Mountain Series first aid kits power. Simply spread out the solar panels the weather throws at them while hitting the sports such as caving, orienteering and from Adventure Medical Kits. The durable, or attach to your pack to start repowering trail. Incredibly lightweight, the FLI 2.5L cycling. Featuring the FACE2FACE anti- water resistant bags include trauma supplies your gadgets. Exclusive to Anker, PowerIQ Jacket is the perfect packable companion for glare function, a Petzl patent, the DUO S which are of hospital quality and are labelled discovers and replicates your device’s outdoor adventures. headlamp allows users to face each other by injury for easy access. original charging protocol to provide its without blinding one another, making group fastest possible charging speed up to 2.1 activities more comfortable. amps overall (with enough direct sunlight).

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www.outdoor-insight.co.ukwww.sports-insight.co.uk@SportsInsightUK 30 OUTDOOR INSIGHT Arc’teryx launch Trips PATAGONIA

Arc’teryx, the design company providing an immersive experience LAUNCHES which specialises in technical, to put our products to the ultimate high-performance apparel, test.” NEW DIGITAL outerwear and equipment, has Launching next year, but its roots in the Canadian West available for booking this autumn, PLATFORM Coast Mountain wilderness. the programme features guided, Adventuring in remote places small group trips to ten awe- TO PROTECT is in the brand’s DNA, and now inspiring destinations with through a new Arc’teryx Trips world-class mountain guides. THE PLANET programme the company will The experiences on offer include share that passion for the first trekking in the Yukon, trail running Patagonia has launched time by offering immersive travel in Corsica, mountaineering in Patagonia Action Works experiences to some of the most Chamonix, and rock climbing in the (eu.patagonia.com/ wild and spectacular locations on Dolomites, with each trip centred actionworks) in the UK, a the planet. around the main sports Arc’teryx digital platform that connects George Weetman, Vice President makes products for. of Canadian Mountain Guides) group sizes will allow participants its community with local of Brand & Digital Commerce Each meticulously-designed or AMGA (American Mountain to have a more personalised grassroots organisations at Arc’teryx, said: “Arc’teryx is experience will move active Guides Association) certified to experience with their guide. working to save the planet. founded on the idea that there is adventurers to the next level of ensure trip attendees receive the The cost for each Arc’teryx Trips The Europe-wide launch always a better way. Our products technical expertise alongside like- best in safety, local knowledge and experience will range from £1,800 to follows the huge success of the are designed with solutions for minded explorers. All of the guides skills development. £6,000 per person, including taxes. platform in North America, the outdoor elements in mind, and chosen to lead each trip have been The individual experiences For more information about the where it has seen half a through our new Arc’teryx Trips carefully selected by Arc’teryx, and are now open for registration and programme, details about expertise million people take action program, we’re rethinking the way all are either IFMGA (International depending on the destination, needed, recommended supplies and to support environmental that people experience spectacular Federation of Mountain Guides space will be available for between booking, please visit http://trips. issues, and enabled users to and remote destinations by Association), ACMG (Association four to 12 guests. The intimate arcteryx.com volunteer time and skills, join events, sign petitions and donate to conservation causes. The online community- HILLTREK VENTURES INTO ORGANIC WITH VENTILE based platform is the next chapter in Patagonia’s 45- Growing demand for organic Daniel Odermatt, Marketing year history of activism, and and sustainable cotton has Manager at Ventile, said: “Over giving programme, 1% for the prompted Scottish outdoor the past three years we have seen Planet, a global movement clothing brand, Hilltrek a 115 per cent growth in the sale created by Patagonia Outdoor Clothing to launch of Ventile Organic Cotton Fabric, founder, Yvon Chouinard, their first complete capsule the largest growth ever reported and conservationist Craig collection created exclusively for our brand. Such growth Mathews. The company’s from Ventile high-performance indicates a strong demand for support of grassroots organic cotton. organic and sustainable solutions environmental organisations Designed with outdoor pursuits from global retail markets and around the world has totalled in mind, the range is made entirely consumers across multiple over $100 million and in organic Ventile. The collection sectors. The new Organic has reached thousands of comprises of both menswear and Ventile cotton offers designers groups. Many of the not-for- womenswear ranges including for only 0.04 per cent of cotton The new collection sees Hilltrek and brands such as Hilltrek, profits operate with limited jackets, shirts and trousers and has production worldwide. The selecting their best-selling Glencoe an organic alternative to our resources, and through been in development for over a year. fabric’s structure means that the and Greenspot jackets and giving traditional Ventile fabrics.” Patagonia Action Works, the Ventile Organic Cotton fabric Hilltrek x Ventile organic range is them an organic makeover. The Dave Shand, Director at company aims to make these is sustainably grown without breathable, soft and durable and range launches for autumn and Hilltrek, said: “We are very proud groups more effective and the use of pesticides or chemical unlike synthetic fabrics, the use of comes in seven colourways: black, of the products we have created, powerful than ever before. fertilisers and is made using cotton Ventile results in a finished olive, navy, charcoal, spruce green the additional offering we can Patagonia Action methods that have a low impact garment that is quiet and does not and survival yellow. Hilltrek have now provide to our customers, Works will highlight and on the environment. The fabric is rustle during movement making the included organic cotton versions of and the environmental support the work of NGOs produced with an organic extra- range perfect for those who want to the best-selling styles Blaven trouser, credentials of the fabrics facing the most pressing long staple yarn, which accounts blend in with the countryside. Kintail shirt and Braemar smock. available in the outdoor industry.” environmental challenges. Mihela Hladin Wolfe, Patagonia’s Director of Environmental Initiatives, Jason Fox joins Osprey and Kayaks the Yukon EMEA, said: “We’ve lost Jason Fox has joined specialist a territory nearly four times the proud and then some. They took faith in world leaders to act outdoor pack brand Osprey as size of England with a population away what could of been a worry on the climate crisis in time. an official Brand Ambassador. of only 35,000. An area rich in and allowed us to concentrate The public want to know Former Royal Marine Commando wildlife, the duo encountered on taking in the amazing scenes what they can do, and this and SBS Special Forces brown bears, moose, beavers and we witnessed for 48 days.” platform allows them to take Sergeant, Fox joins Osprey golden eagles along their journey Gary Burnand, Head of action, in the communities bringing a wealth of survival across unknown territory. Marketing, said: “We’re thrilled to where they live. Patagonia and expedition experience. From here the Yukon have Jason join the Osprey team Action Works enables people Following his recent TV work River crosses the border into as an official Brand Ambassador. to fight for the issues they drilling participants in ‘SAS Who Alaska, meandering across An inspiring and accomplished are passionate about.” Dares Wins’ and ‘Meet The Drug the entire breadth of the explorer and survivalist, we Mihela has a account Lords: Inside The Real Narcos’, untamed state for the final look forward to supporting him Dan Yates, founding member Fox has since turned his attention 1,265 miles of their journey. on his future expeditions.” of Save Our Rivers, a UK to extreme exploration. Fox has Fox said: “This expedition Fox and Johnson packed NGO on the platform, added: just completed one of his toughest was epic in every sense of the their equipment in the Osprey “This platform is going to be expeditions to date; a two man word. Sean and I embarked on Xenith 105 to ensure optimum revolutionary for us. It has unsupported 2,029 mile trip it so we could experience what carry comfort, expedition built a bridge between us and across the Alaskan wilderness. we consider to be one of the ready features and complete the community that we have Beginning in the remote Alaskan last wildernesses on the planet preparation for the trail ahead. never had before. Patagonia area of Skagway, Fox and expedition and we were not let down. Jason is also a co-founder of Action Works enables people partner Sean Johnson took on a “The trip itself was long and Rock 2 Recovery, which helps to have a voice and the power 49-mile trek across the arduous, arduous and required, from us both, enrich the lives of distressed to act. With the backing of historical gold rush trail from physical and mental robustness. servicemen, veterans and their more local residents, our Chilkoot and on to Lake Bennett. What it also required was reliable families, and is also an ambassador organisation is going to The pair then set off by kayak packs that kept equipment in for Veterans 4 Wildlife for the achieve so much more.” along the wildlands of the Yukon, working order. Osprey did us prevention of wildlife crime.

@Outdoorinsightuk OUTDOOR INSIGHT 31

Can outdoor retailers weather the changes? Natalie Took, Outreach & PR Executive for Salience Search Marketing, reveals the findings from their Insights Report for Outdoor Retailers

The digital world is looking by 12 per cent. Millets comes lot of monthly brand searches stormy. The weather can change in third place with a visibility and have the highest owned Reima wins without any warning and if you increase of 18 per cent, Blacks social score. The international aren’t prepared, your site can has seen its visibility increase by brand regularly promotes its suffer. At Salience, we have 16 per cent and so have stayed in products with short videos and Golden EU product released our Insights Report forth place. If the next algorithm interviews with customers. for Outdoor Retailers (https:// updates have a similar effect, They interview professionals salience.co.uk/insight/reports/ these places could easily be that use their products, such as safety award outdoor-retailers-market- shuffled around, so Go Outdoors professional climbers. This will Finnish children’s wear brand Reima has received a gold performance-report/), which and Cotswold need to take a look give potential customers trust award for Product Safety from the European Commission. shows who has conquered the at their SEO gear if they are to and confidence in the products. This exciting award shines a light on companies who put SEO mountain and who came survive the coming winter. The New Balance also makes children’s safety at the heart of what they do. unprepared for the trek. There hasn’t been any big good use of Instagram, their They won the large companies Gold Award for ensuring that The report looks at different movements in the top twenty, feed is filled with customer's clothes are not only safe for children but offer extra protection, for factors that can affect a brands though there has been some. images tagged with their famous instance in the dark. presence online. One main factor Mountain Warehouse and slogan #NeverStopExploring. The ceremony took place in Brussels and saw European is the visibility score. Looking Trespass have both climbed up They are also taking advantage Commissioner for Justice, Consumers and Gender Equality, Věra at a range of keywords, which two places in the rankings thanks of a popular USP on social, as Jourová, present awards to four large companies and four SMEs. The we can assume all competitors to a 51 per cent and 50 per cent they have a focus on recycled winners came from all across Europe, including Austria, Denmark, want to rank for, we can see how visibility increase respectively. fabrics, very on-trend right now. Germany and Greece with Reima the only Finnish company to be well each brand ranks overall. These two quick-climbing brands Go Outdoors comes in second awarded. As it’s unlikely that people will have caused Snow and Rock to with their social skills. They have Since the Company’s beginning in the 1940s, practical scroll through pages of search slip down, out of the top five. the highest number of brand childrenswear has been one of Reima’s focuses and safety has grown results, the better the rank, the The most impressive climb searches a month but their owned to be an integral part of the company’s DNA. more likely that the brand will this year is further down the social score is low in comparison. Besides making its products safe through non-toxic materials, be seen by potential customers. rankings at position 35. Fjallraven Helping customers appears to be PFC-free clothing and imitation fur, Reima have taken the safety Other factors we look at has increased its visibility by their focus, as they link to their of children one step further through ranges of protective clothing. include social, page speed, an impressive 155 per cent, own blog posts and news articles By the 1970s, Reima’s children’s wear with reflective details were and keyword niches. climbing up 17 places. This is no that could be of benefit. This will publicly recognised and commended and Reima still continues easy feat and shows that their help them to build trust as they’re developing new reflective products to protect children in the dark. In Who’s Got The Right SEO fitness levels are definitely socialising with their audience. the summer months, Reima have developed a SunProof range which Gear For Being Seen? improving. They’re definitely one Using social media to protects delicate skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays as well as With a number of algorithm to watch out for on the slopes! promote your brand's ethics mosquito-repellent clothing. For spring 2020, Reima will introduce updates this year, there’s been and values can help to gain top-to-toe clothing that repels other insects too, including ticks, an avalanche in the search Which Outdoor Re- new followers, with the hope which are a global health hazard. results, some brands have tailers Have The they’ll convert into customers. Elina Björklund, company CEO, said: “I am very happy and proud managed to climb further in Best Social Skills? Doing well online is rarely of our entire organisation for winning this award, as I know how the rankings, whereas others You can’t just hide in your smooth sailing. With algorithm much consistent work is behind this victory. have lost their footing. tent online. It’s important to updates that are as unpredictable “Safety is an essential part of all our operations, and we have Although the top four brands gather around the campfire and as British weather, it’s best to be achieved this level of performance through a combined effort of have all managed to stay in their socialise otherwise, you might prepared. Want to know if you many functions. Although our R&D and Quality team is ultimately spots, they have still been affected. get ignored. A strong social have the gear to tackle the online responsible for product safety, also other functions like design, Go Outdoors clings to its top spot, media presence helps to generate mountain? Contact Salience product management, merchandising and supply chain operations despite a 19 per cent decrease in trust with your customers. (https://salience.co.uk) to find play a big role.” its visibility and Cotswold are The New Balance tops our out how your brand is doing and second despite visibility dropping social charts as they have a how you can be better prepared.

www.outdoor-insight.co.ukwww.sports-insight.co.uk 32 OUTDOOR INSIGHT Dakine Equipment, LLC, Isbjörn founder and CEO to be awarded top global women’s award DYNAFIT’S names new distribution Maria Frykman Forsberg, BÖHM co-founder and CEO of premium technical and SETS NEW partner for key European eco-conscious outdoor children’s wear brand, Isbjörn of Sweden, is RECORD markets to be honoured by The Dynafit managing Dakine Equipment, LLC, have announced that Bucher + Walt SA, the Swiss International Women’s director Benedikt ‘Bene’ Dakine distributor for over 30 ye ars, has acquired the Dakine Europe Entrepreneurial Böhm climbed Dhaulagiri operations headquartered in Annecy, France. Challenge Foundation VII in Nepal in a new They have also been named the regional distribution partner for Dakine (IWEC) in New Delhi. record time. Equipment across the key European markets of France, Germany, Benelux, The IWEC Foundation The 42-year-old started Austria, Spain, Andorra, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Ireland and Italy. is a global not-for-profit his ascent from base Under the new distribution agreement, the Dakine Europe office in Annecy will organisation which helps camp, on October 15, at continue driving the sales management and operational efforts in the region, while women-owned businesses 4,903m (16,086 feet) and Bucher + Walt’s offices in Neuchâtel, Switzerland, will oversee management of the connect and grow. The only needed six hours and expanded strategic relationship. international economic empowerment program for women, six minutes to reach the Global and regional brand direction, marketing and direct to consumer strategy which started in 2007, is assisted by the US Department summit at 7,246m (23,773 will continue to be led by Marquee Brands. of State, Chamber of Commerce and various companies feet). Böhm skied from Global product creation, innovation, sales leadership and manufacturing will worldwide. With its headquarters in New York City, The the summit and returned continue to be driven by the Dakine Equipment team in Hood River, Oregon, USA. IWEC Foundation’s reach encompasses women who are to base camp in a total Julien Bucher, CEO of Bucher + Walt SA, said: “For more than 50 years, we already in the global marketplace but want to further expand, of seven hours and 53 have never ceased to reinvent ourselves and innovate within our company. The as well as those who want to enter international markets. minutes, breaking the goal acquisition of Dakine Europe enables our company to evolve while expanding Maria, who founded Isbjörn of Sweden with Camilla he set for himself of eight our range of services as well as our marketplace. We are proud to rise to this new Schmidt back in 2005, will be recognised at the forthcoming hours. The father of three challenge and our teams are ready for it.” IWEC Foundation Conference, which takes place in New made his speed ascent Jonathan Hirshberg, President and CEO of Dakine Equipment, LLC, added:, “We Delhi from November 10-13. Maria will be awarded with The for a good cause, raising are super excited to expand and strengthen our partnership with Julien and his IWEC Foundation Award and will also do a talk on import funds for an elementary entire team at Bucher + Walt. We are confident we have selected the right partner challenges to more than 250 delegates. Since 2007, annual and secondary school in to grow the brand’s presence in the European market to the next level, while conferences have previously taken place in major cities all Dandaphaya in Humla, continuing our commitment to Dakine’s core consumers by delivering innovative over the world, including New York, Lima, Stockholm and one of the poorest products on the mountain and in the water.” Istanbul. regions in Nepal. Dynafit It was Maria’s passion and determination to make the most created a headband sustainable outdoor clothing for children, with absolutely sold specifically for the no compromise on adult performance, that has helped to cause, and has already drive Isbjörn’s global success. Frustrated by the lack of good raised over 7,500 euros. outdoor apparel for children after having her first child, Böhm said: “Dhaulagiri Maria gave up her career as a management consultant to start VII is a stupendous ski Isbjörn with her business partner Camilla. touring mountain with Now available in more than 15 countries, the brand its amazing snowy slopes. continues to grow profitably year on year. Isbjörn is also the The snow conditions first outdoor children’s wear brand to become a bluesign were somewhat of a system partner and the company’s green promise to future challenge. From icy crusts generations is to provide them with the most sustainable, and icy passages where long-lasting “no compromise” products, so they can enjoy and the wind had blown help the planet and nature. away much of the snow, Maria Frykman Forsberg said: “This is an incredible we confronted about accolade for our passionate team, as well as myself. I’m very everything. In addition, much looking forward to the conference in New Delhi and it was extremely cold. will certainly make the most of this valuable opportunity, not In combination with the only to open new doors for Isbjörn and share my experiences, altitude the nights before but also to learn from other female entrepreneurs. Many of the summit push were of the former awardees will be in attendance to celebrate the course relatively uneasy. 12th annual conference, which will focus on accelerating “I am very happy business growth through Innovation and Integration.” that I was able to hit my goal of eight hours or less. However, this speed ascent definitively pushed me to my limits physically. When all is Keen and Sherpa join forces to raise literacy funds said and done, the mind is the decisive factor. And Keen and ethical Himalayan brand Perry Laukens, Marketing Director KEEN knowing the expedition Sherpa have joined forces for a unique EMEA, said: “KEEN have always been proud to was all in the name of a collaboration, the Innate Ltd project. practice ‘business unusual’ by using our global good cause, you give a Following the debut of their Innate travel shoe business practices to support causes that align little extra push. A hearty in Spring 19, Keen has partnered with Sherpa with our values. It has been great to work with thank-you to everyone Adventure Gear, to present a new edition for Sherpa Adventure Gear on this collaboration, who has supported the FW19, the Keen Innate x Sherpa. With every sale who share our principles and mindset in taking ‘United for Himalayan of the shoe €15 is being donated to the charity action, putting values into motion and aspiring Kids’ campaign and has Room to Read. to make a meaningful difference. thus given kids access Room to Read seeks to transform the lives “It was a great privilege for some of our team to a good education.” of millions of children in developing countries at KEEN to visit the project recently and see by focusing on literacy and gender equality first-hand the amazing work Room to Read are in education. Working in collaboration with carrying out in Nepal. The welcome was local communities, partner organizations and incredibly warm and the appreciation of the staff governments, they develop literacy skills and a and the children in Kathmandu and Nuwakot habit of reading among primary school children, will fund a child to be supported through was humbling. We are proud that alongside and support girls to complete secondary school secondary school for an entire year. Sherpa, this scheme will allow us to continue to with the relevant life skills to succeed in school Through this scheme, which supports support the invaluable work of Room to Read.” and beyond. the Room to Read literacy program, Keen Featuring a distinctive endless knot embossed The proceeds of the sale of approximately and Sherpa Adventure Gear seek to unlock into the upper and subtle signature Nepalese flag three pairs of Keen Innate x Sherpa Adventure a better future for Nepalese children, detail to the heel loop, this stylish boot pays Gear shoes will enable one child to read with an ultimate goal of teaching 1,000 homage to the Sherpa climbers and unsung and write for a year and the sales of 25 pairs children to read and write for one year. heroes of the Himalayas.

@Outdoorinsightuk OUTDOOR INSIGHT 33

COTOPAXI TO LAUNCH FW20 Odlo introduces COLLECTION IN UK AND IRELAND wearable heating Cotopaxi, the first venture capital-backed Benefit Corporation and Certified B technology Corp, and one of the fastest growing outdoors apparel In the age of Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of and gear brands in the North Things, the wait for frictionless, personalised and highly American market, has adaptable sportswear has been far too long. announced a distribution Not one to back down from a challenge, ODLO’s innovative plan and partner in the UK product team has developed I-THERMIC: An intelligent launching with the Fall/Winter thermal technology midlayer that regulates heat via an 2020 season. integrated app. Unify Brand Partnerships, Combining Clim8’s advanced intelligent thermal based out of South Wales, will technology and MAS Holdings’ Twinery innovation arm, be Cotopaxi’s first appointed ODLO’s I-THERMIC uses the most advanced active heating European distributor, focused on textiles available to give wearers full control of their personal the UK and Ireland. microclimate. This added control also reduces the need for Unify BP has a core competency extra layers during winter sports, thus avoiding overdressing in pivotal brands, representing and wet, cold, sweaty clothes. trendsetters such as Teva, Reef, ODLO Brand Director, Timo Pape said: “Effective Tretorn, Stance, HOKA ONE and temperature control is important in colder weather, but also more. others kinds of outdoor activities and conditions. Whether Unify BP is particularly excited you ski, climb or hike, nobody wants to look bulky, overheat, about its new partnership with freeze or constantly remove layers. I-THERMIC gives you the Cotopaxi, having followed the empowering the public and Questival series and engaging freedom and lightness. With ODLO I-THERMIC your ski day brand’s immense growth and advocating for change.” social media platforms. will not be ruined.” powerful advocacy program in the Cotopaxi, having launched in Heath Christensen, Cotopaxi Developed in collaboration with the world’s most advanced United States. 2015, has staked a claim in the Director of Wholesale, said: “We garment partners and manufacturers, I-THERMIC integrates Damian Cooper, Unify BP North American marketplace as the are truly excited to be working Clim8’s intelligent technology platform to detect fluctuations Managing Director, said: “We go-to brand for cross-generational with Unify BP. The UK and in skin temperature and activity levels. Then, based off a are thrilled to bring this hot new demographics invested in Ireland have a vibrant outdoor smart thermal algorithm, conducts heat through Twinery’s brand to market in the UK and sustainability, community and lifestyle culture and Unify BP is seamlessly woven copper wiring to regulate and maintain the Ireland, two regions focused connectivity. the perfect partner with a wealth ideal temperature as set by the user in the integrated app. on championing proactive and The upwards growth of Cotopaxi of experience to help us promote Worn as a midlayer, I-THERMIC’s washing-machine-safe conversation-starting brands, of year over year indicates a deep our brand mission abroad.” battery pack provides four hours of continuous heating, which, which Cotopaxi most certainly desire for more robust consumer Unify BP will launch Cotopaxi’s when applied via the thermal algorithm, results in more than is. Cotopaxi is a gamechanger in to brand relationships, driven new Fall/Winter 2020 collection enough heat for a regular day of stop-and-go activity on the the outdoor and lifestyle spaces, by the desire for experiential to the UK and Ireland markets, slopes, track or trail. representing the new wave opportunities tied to product, as and will present the collection at The integrated Clim8 app is where users can personalise of consumer-driven brands, exemplified by Cotopaxi’s popular ISPO in January 2020. their I-THERMIC, setting preferred temperature ranges and easily adjusting for on-the-fly heating. In the age of climate change, AI and the Internet of Things (IoT) frictionless, personalized and highly adaptable wearable The North Face resets outerwear expectations heating technology is the natural next step. ODLO I-THERMIC delivers the smart layering solution to active people who love with Futurelight apparel launch cold weather sports. The era of smart wearables is upon us, and ODLO The North Face claims to fabric is a pivotal moment for our I-THERMIC is an extension of this revolution. Providing have changed the future of the brand, for the future of the apparel a seamlessly integrated and personalised layering system, outerwear industry with the industry, and for consumers who will I-THERMIC is the perfect solution for people who love winter unveiling of Futurelight jackets, no longer need to sacrifice comfort sports but don’t like getting cold, overheating or carrying pants, and bibs in its Summit or air permeability for waterproof around extra layers. Series, Steep Series and Flight protection.” Not too hot, not too cold, just right – this is the future of Series collections. The nanospinning process used to intelligent thermal technology. This is ODLO I-THERMIC. Developed using innovative create Futurelight fabric has allowed I-THERMIC was recognized at two key Trade Shows in the nanospinning technology, Futurelight the brand to add unmatched air US and Europe. The first award was presented at CES in Las will offer first of its kind breathable, permeability into the membrane of a Vegas and it was followed by a Gold Winner Award at 2019 waterproof protection. fabric for the first time. The process ISPO in Munich. The concept for Futurelight was creates nano-level holes, allowing for can theoretically make anything born in the mountains out of specific incredible porosity while maintaining breathable, waterproof and for requests from The North Face global total waterproofness, letting air move the first time - comfortable. This athlete team looking for increased through the material and provide technology is paving the way for performance and breathability in more venting than ever before. the future of technical fabrics and their waterproof gear. Determined to Nanospinning also gives The provides endless possibilities across reset the expectation that waterproof North Face designers the ability to The North Face product categories.” product is uncomfortable, heavy and adjust weight, stretch, breathability, With the launch of Futurelight, The stuffy, The North Face commenced durability, construction (knit or North Face is also aiming to deliver a multi-year journey to create a woven), and texture during the industry-leading sustainability waterproof fabric that’s not only manufacturing process to match both practices through its new fabric soft, light, flexible and comfortable athletes’ and consumers’ end-use, creation process. These advances – but also durable and sustainably activity or environment. Designers have allowed the brand to responsibly designed. After three years of can customize the fabric for specific create three-layer garments with face research, product development usage, for example, by increasing and backer layers made up of 90 per and extensive lab and field testing, breathability in garments for aerobic cent recycled materials. The North Face introduces the pursuits or increasing protection Futurelight has been tested first apparel made from the brand’s for harsh, wet climates. The ability extensively for more than 400 proprietary, Futurelight fabric. to adjust these factors in fabric continuous days by 15 members of the Scott Mellin, Global General construction and manufacturing is brand’s global athlete team, proven Manager of Mountain Sports at pushing the limits of innovation in through use in the highest peaks and The North Face, said: “With the apparel, equipment and accessories. harshest environments, including introduction of Futurelight, we are Mellin said: “We are starting with the Himalayas’ Lhotse and Everest, finally offering clothing that adapts jackets and outdoor apparel, but in temperatures ranging from -50 to our needs. The introduction of this we won’t stop there. Futurelight degrees F to 60 degrees F.

www.outdoor-insight.co.ukwww.sports-insight.co.uk 34 TRI INSIGHT

HUUB’S MOOV&COOL MAKES THE FIRST MOVE IN KONA HUUB have collaborated with textile innovator Devan Chemicals to bring even more performance-enhancing technology to their triathlon and cycling racewear. The two companies have been working on a long- term project around ‘Moov&Cool’ which has resulted in improvements to athlete performance. The cool comfort coating has a positive impact on core body temperature as well as on heart rate, which could lead to a significant improvement in race-day performance and faster finish times. Moov&Cool is HUUB’s exclusive formulation for triathlon that will be The date has been announced for the 2020 Brighton and Hove Triathlon. applied to the brand’s top- The event has been confirmed John Lunt, Race Director, said: conditions, a hot sunny day, no and more women taking up the end racewear, starting with as the weekend of September “Brighton is a top destination for wind and beautiful flat calm sea. sport of triathlon there were 30 Anemoi+ which was launched 12-13, 2020, and entries sport with huge participation in “We aim to make the Triathlon per cent of women competing following the iconic Ironman are now open at www. many events. In a year which will accessible to everyone including this year and a further 30 per cent World Champs in Kona. brightonandhovetriathlon.com bring us the Tokyo 2020 Olympic novices, first timers, veterans of of the field were first timers.” David McNamee, the most The event will return to Hove Games and the ITU World the sport, disabled and LGBTQ. We Peter Kyle, MP for Hove and successful British male Kona Lawns where it will continue to Championships in Edmonton, are fully inclusive and this is why Portslade, said: “The Brighton & athlete, has been involved offer the popular kid’s Scootathlon Canada, all eyes will be on the so many people enjoy competing Hove Triathlon is a real family in the testing process of the and the Children’s Triathlon sporting world and the huge with us at Brighton. We have event and it’s great to have it based original Anemoi Tri Suit from on September 12 before the benefits it brings to people’s lives. participants from all over the world on Hove Lawns. To see three year its conception. main adult triathlon takes place “I’m delighted we can open which obviously also brings a lot olds through to 87 year olds giving Dr Faulkner, Head of Sports on Sunday, September 13. up entries for 2020 race so of business to Brighton and Hove. it their best in an all-inclusive event Engineering at Nottingham This year was the biggest soon after the sell-out 2019 “We had 120 children race really fits well with the spirit of our Trent University, said: “When participation to date with over event. We are hoping for over in the scootathlon and we also city. Congratulations to everyone you compete in a triathlon, 1,600 competitors and organisers 2000 athletes to come race had 167 children compete in the who took part and who organised you produce heat as a result are hoping to exceed that next year. in Brighton. We had perfect children’s triathlon. With more this wonderful event” of the increase in metabolic rate required to meet the elevated energy demand due to swimming, cycling, and LOOK created limited edition running. This heat needs to be removed from the body, ‘Eruption’ 796 Monoblade Rs Time as if too much heat builds up inside your body, it can have Trial Frameset ahead of the 2019 a dramatic effect on your Ironman World Championships performance. “In races that are frequently LOOK have produced 50 of this century. He represents very hot, such as Ironman limited edition 796 Monoblade strength, bravery and tenacity: Hawaii and races in Asia, RS time trial bike frames, key ingredients for success in optimising your heat with the first ridden by a hostile landscape like Kona, tolerance is critical to French cycling legend-turned- Hawaii. performance. Most people IRONMAN competitor Laurent This frameset features a will know about the impact Jalabert at the 2019 IRONMAN bronze-burn effect, reflecting of acclimatising to the heat World Championships in the theme of a volcanic eruption, before race day. Still, one Kona, Hawaii. along with a tone-on-tone LOOK often overlooked component The striking ‘Eruption’ design graphic pattern on the frame to is an athlete’s clothing and the was created to celebrate Laurent’s symbolize dark ash clouds. This technology within that fabric typical ultra-competitive and Eruption limited edition includes that can help to keep you cool.” heroic approach to racing a numbered, unique design frame throughout his career, while also kit, LOOK’s all-carbon Aergo time paying tribute to the pinnacle of trial handlebar, ZED 3 crankset triathlon racing on the volcanic and Aeropost seatpost. island of Hawaii. It was the very Edition 1/50 was be raced first of LOOK’s ‘Odyssey’ range by Laurent in Kona, with the of framesets, exclusively created remaining 49 frames made to enhance the profile of their available to buy through LOOK world ambassadors, and expertise retailers, and cost €6,499 / in engineering with carbon for US$8,000 / £6,600. legendary riders. Laurent Jalabert, grateful to have the continued “The competitive spirit and Since their origin, LOOK’s 2019 IRONMAN World support from LOOK, allowing passion for racing never really leave know-how has fed on the battles Championships competitor, me to compete using their you, and LOOK have produced an led by their warrior’s races. Firstly said: “I’ve been supported by exceptional products, including the incredible bike here for me to be in the cycling world, and now in LOOK for many years throughout stunning limited edition Odyssey able to test myself at the highest triathlon, ‘Jaja’ is characterised my cycling career and into my frameset, in the IRONMAN World level of triathlon. The design is as one of the toughest riders retirement. I am extremely Championships in 2019. beautiful.”

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www.tri-insight.com 36 INTERVIEW “I love these races because they are more than about running. They are about surviving and learning so much about yourself. You go to very dark places in these events but come out a stronger and better person.”

@SportsInsightUK INTERVIEW 37 MARATHON MAESTRO POWERED BY VEGANISM Tony James speaks to Fiona Oakes about her extraordinary running career and life

iona Oakes is probably the to prove that a vegan diet was not most extraordinary athlete limiting but empowering. you’ve never heard of, and When she found ultra- Fthat’s not the half of it. marathons could be lucrative, Losing a kneecap at 17 and she realised they could be a fund- told she would never walk again, raiser for her animal sanctuary she holds four world marathon and her campaign against rearing records, has run seven marathons animals for food. “It’s a terrible in seven consecutive days, financial struggle to keep the stormed to victory in the desert, sanctuary going. Even as a child I the Arctic, the Antarctic, on the just knew I didn’t want to be party rim of a volcano and, incidentally, to harming beautiful creatures.” is the fastest female to run a half- Tower Hill Stables animal marathon dressed as a cow. Not sanctuary, at Asheldham in Essex, many people have done that. is the forever home for 100 horses, Then there’s her day job, which 48 cows, 150 pigs, 85 sheep, 11 dogs is running, with only the help and a variety of small animals and of her partner, a sanctuary in poultry. Since 1993, Oakes and rural Essex for over 500 animals her family and her partner Martin rescued from slaughter, which have weathered continual financial entails getting up at 3.30am and crises by keeping the sanctuary raising at least £5,000 a month to afloat with their own money. keep the place going. Any spare “Things are getting increasingly time is spent running around 100 difficult,” Oakes says. “But we miles a week in training or being would never even think about called out as a retained fire fighter. giving up.” Perhaps the most astonishing Oakes has been a vegetarian thing about Oakes, who is the since she was three and became a fastest female to complete a vegan at six. Her parents accepted it marathon on every continent, although they found it initially hard is that she doesn’t think she’s to understand. “Money was tight anything special. “I don’t love and we were taught to be grateful running and have no particular for what we had,” she remembers. talent for it,” she says. “If I do have “I’ve always been sports-mad. a talent it’s being able to motivate First it was cycling - I reached myself after 17 years of running, national level - but eventually I makes them cringe - they think the sanctuary, she starts at 3.30am learning so much about yourself. to do the very best I can.” found it too time-consuming to be that trying to run with my and seldom finishes before 8pm, You go to very dark places in She even feels the need competitive. I couldn’t bear the injury is absolutely crazy. mucking-out feeding and looking these events but come out a to apologise for that: “In the thought of not doing anything so I “Finding that I could run again after her ever-growing number of stronger and better person.” Antarctic ice marathon, 60 guys started jogging and then running.” coincided with the time Paula charges. ”A doctor once described Oakes is no stranger to suffering, paid 12,000 Euros to enter and Then came the blow which Radcliffe was doing well in the my lifestyle as suicidal,” Oakes albeit largely self-imposed, and they were beaten by a small vegan would have ended any normal marathon and I thought that if remembers. “But it suits me.” even welcomes it into her life. woman carrying a teddy bear. You mortal’s athletic career for good. I could compete at that level it “I never know what I will be “Indeed, I do wonder if that is what can understand why they weren’t A serious illness and a total of 17 would show that a lifelong vegan doing from one minute to the next drives me in the very extreme too happy.” operations on her knee resulted in could do anything. so I only eat when I’m hungry, races I run - a need to experience Oakes runs to raise awareness. the removal of her right kneecap “From the start, my aim was and that’s usually only in the and remember the feeling of pain, She is soft-spoken and and the diagnosis that she would to get attention for my vegan and evening. I’m truly grass-roots desperation and hardship. friendly but her actions and never walk again. animal sanctuary campaigns. about my veganism. I take no “I know it’s only a race, but as accomplishments have a steely But within months she was It was a simple equation: run supplements and never have. I someone who runs for the benefit relentlessness that speaks back in training against all fast, win races and be a good only eat one meal a day and that’s of others and not myself, failure is louder than any activist with a medical advice. “Even today, ambassador for what you were usually from what’s growing in the not an option. To fail would be to megaphone. She took up running doctors say that what I’m doing promoting rather than be garden, plus whole grains, nuts, let the animals down, to miss an aggressive or negative.” pulses, rice, pasta and bread. opportunity to promote veganism “From the start I have never had “I don’t do juices or smoothies -I in a positive way and show that a coach and I train alone. When I don’t have the money or the time anything is possible to achieve started winning races I did look for that.” without harming others.” for a trainer and several were From the start, the most A legendary figure in ultra- interested - so long as I stopped gruelling races were the most marathon running, prizes and being a vegan. They said: ‘You’ll be attractive to Oakes. The first of the personal glory are of little account wasting our time if you don’t eat four times she has run the 250km to Oakes, but one incident meat and dairy products’. Marathon des Sables, a six day trek continues to give her pleasure. “I went away and figured across the Sahara, reckoned to be “Once after I’d won a marathon out what you had to do to run the hardest ultra-marathon of all and broken the course record, the a decent race. Lots of trial and - she completed the race with two person presenting the prizes told error features heavily in my broken toes. “I hobbled around with me she had advised her daughter training. I have no coach, no the bone sticking out of my toe.” against becoming a vegan because physio and have never had a Warned that the Antarctic she feared it would be bad for a massage. I try not to spend any marathon could be too tough a growing girl. money on my sport because I challenge, she won it in record time “But seeing what I had just done need it all for the animals.” and smashed three world records. on a vegan diet had convinced her Her regime would make a “I love these races because they that it would be ok for her daughter. Spartan look like a wimp. Working are more than about running. I guess that was the best prize I’ve on the two farms that make up They are about surviving and ever won.”

www.sports-insight.co.uk ODLO page_SPORTS INSIGHT 27/09/2019 15:22 Page 1 RETAIL 39 BLACK FRIDAY MORE THAN JUST ONE DAY Paul Sherratt, of Solutions for Sport, takes a closer look at the impact that Black Friday continues to have on the Sporting Goods industry

As I write this the rush towards Christmas seems to have already begun. Back when I started in the sports trade, in the 1990’s, Christmas trade was a big deal but driven by general demand, not by heavy discounting. However, the adoption of Black Friday and the subsequent hysteria during the early 2000s has resulted The consumer is been a retailer and brand driven Black Friday weekend and what their courier service can in a desire to prolongate this now in control reaction not least to try and “spread factor in the chance of returns offer. Introducing a slightly trading period and to introduce In the past, promotions were the load”. On 2014, such was into their finances, otherwise longer delivery time over heavy promotional activity. driven by the need to shift end the Black Friday phenomenum they could fall short when the busy period could help Social Media has been the of season stock, as a reaction to that many retailers struggled to predicting their profit and loss. with the demand and keep facilitator of this change with most an unforeseen sales slowdown, cope with the massive business your customers satisfied. brands and retailers choosing a or around key events such as upsurge during one day leading Buying stock is series of focal points from October Mother’s Day or Christmas. Mike to logistics, IT, customer care and a balancing act Plan, predict through December on which Watkins, Head of Retailer and wider general business issues. Buying from suppliers and manage to hang new product launches, Business Insight at Nielsen UK, Of course the major activity may be costly, and on No matter how big a promotions and increased activity. emphasised that “the challenge is being driven by the major 3normal days when the shop isn’t business is, the key to These days kick-off is Halloween. we have is that shoppers' no players, however Black Friday as busy, having two of every item 5success over the Black Friday I don't mean October 31. I mean longer think in this way.” generates additional footfall in in stock may just be enough. weekend is preparing for every (at least) one week before. The recession and discounting most town centres and online However, more shoppers are eventuality. It should not be Activity then rolls seamlessly trends within the sector have and there is no reason why the expected on the high street during weeks in the planning but into Bonfire Night and then, after fundamentally changed the smaller independent sports this bumper sales weekend, so months, and failing to have a slight lull, Black Friday and consumers shop. Research retailer cannot take advantage having enough stock in store a complete overview of your Cyber Monday (again the result from Conlumino reveals that of this new sales opportunity. to cover extra sales is crucial. finances could stop you in your of trying to extend Black Friday 75 per cent of consumers would According to Dominic Allon, Use data from previous years tracks. Having a holistic view from one day to a long weekend). rarely buy certain products at Europe vice president and to understand what is likely of your finances that monitors Once the hysteria has reached full price, and 62 per cent say managing director of Intuit to sell, and buy enough stock all money coming in and going boiling point we are then they wait to buy until a product QuickBooks there are five key to keep customers happy. But, out is crucial to surviving the reminded of last ship dates to is on offer or discounted. things that owners of smaller retail do bear in mind that going weekend of extra sales and extra guarantee Christmas delivery In today’s digitally enabled organisations should consider overboard and not selling risks returns. If you play your cards and, depending on the success of world consumers can shop for when preparing their business problems for your cash flow. right and plan for every outcome, trade, the possibility of Christmas anything, anytime from anywhere. for their Halloween-to-Black- your small retailing business can sales (that used to historically No longer are retailers, distributors Friday-to-Christmas activity. Having to rely reap all the success of this long start on Boxing Day) starting or brands in control - it is the on others weekend of serious spending. even before Christmas! consumer that is firmly in the Giving the right Unlike larger retailers, Alongside the above activity, Black Friday alone has become driving seat. “Put simply,” said discount most small business make sure that your social such a fixture in the retail calendar Mike Watkins, Head of Retailer Shop owners must be 4owners do not benefit from media plan is in place for the that, according to the most recent and Business Insight at Nielsen smart with the discounts having their very own logistics key dates and use these focal predictions from Retail Week, UK. “We should now consider 1they offer and make sure they service that can adapt to the points to drive business interest Black Friday is set to break the ripping up the old rule books for are still able to make a profit demand over the busy period. and to engage with existing £2 billion barrier with 33.5 per promotional strategy.” As such, while remaining competitive. Instead, retail owners must rely and potential customers. cent of consumers planning to retailers need to find a way to play on external services that are Remember – you might buy something - but where, when their cards better to make the most Buy first, already busy with multiple other engage in October and convert in and what is in the retailers’ hands of this new consumer mind-set. return later suppliers. Small retailers must December, however if you do not as they take back the reins of This prolongation of the Smaller retail owners offer customers a guaranteed have the initial engagement then this pre-Christmas mega sale. promotional period has certainly 2must think beyond the delivery time that aligns with the conversion becomes harder. “Smaller retail owners must think beyond the Black Friday weekend and factor in the chance of returns into their finances, otherwise they could fall short when predicting their profit and loss”

www.sports-insight.co.uk 40 RETAIL THE BUSINESS OF WELLBEING Fiona Bugler explores the changing landscape of corporate wellbeing and how sports retailers may find opportunity there to reach new markets

nyone who works in a The HSE point out that work- corporate will know related ill health accounts for some the term ‘wellbeing’ 28 million working days lost a year andA that with wellbeing comes in Great Britain. By far the biggest responsibility, both corporate cause of this – up to half of all work- and for yourself as an individual. related absence in the education However, it seems the term is open sector – is stress and related mental to interpretation, and the doors health issues. are open for innovative businesses If you live a fit and active life, and to help serve the needs of anyone work in the sport sector, you know tasked with the responsibility of that healthy living and a sporty helping employees feel good. life help combat stress, but what The International Labour sort of opportunities are there for Organization define Wellbeing as businesses in this sector, how can relating ‘to all aspects of working you get your sporting brand, your life, from the quality and safety of product or service in front of a the physical environment, to how captive market – and who’s doing it workers feel about their work, their right now? working environment, the climate SOLOSPORTS Comfy Balls 1.2_SPORTS INSIGHT 24/10/2019 15:09 Page 1 at work and work organization,’ and Wellbeing in the it goes on to say, more progressive Workplace: Apps organizations, ‘appreciate that Apps such as My Fitness Pal their most important resources are continue to lead the way in and their human resources.’ out of the workplace, but there are

PERFORMANCE

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@SportsInsightUK RETAIL 41

innovative scheme state-of-the-art weights room and the idea of adopting a four-day a speeding up of post workout brands designed CrossFit rig, an indoor running week. And big companies, such recovery, essential for time-poor creating to reward track and outdoor strongman as the Welcome Trust, who weekend warriors (https://www. specific employees yard, all made available for their employee 800 people, are already cryoaction.com). wellness for all 300-strong staff plus two guests taking steps to make the three- It’s clear that wellbeing has for the their hard each at their Birmingham HQ. day weekend a reality. ‘It looks moved a long way from health and workplace apps. work and make In London, it’s the trend- like moving the working week safety executives. According to Sprout (https://www. life a little more setting co-working spaces who to four days rather than five gets Autonomy, a consultancy think sproutatwork.com), created affordable. Rewards include are leading the charge for onsite you a broader productivity and tank made up of academics from by two high-flying women, a gym memberships (save up to facilities, including Uncommon, wellbeing benefit,’ Ed Whiting, digital, politics and feminism, former competitive swimmer 28 per cent at hundreds of gyms based in Liverpool Street. The Wellcome’s director of policy, told (https://autonomy.work), and a former competitive dancer/ nationwide), and money-off cool offices house a Peleton the Guardian in January this year. ‘Productivity relies not just on marathoner turned city execs, vouchers for healthy organic food. studio, the leading cycle class the sheer amount of hours put offers a ‘corporate wellness The platform provided by Perkbox designed for home workouts, and Being the Best in, but on the wellbeing, fatigue platform.’ The app syncs with promises ‘team happiness’ and to their own research found that 92 You Can Be levels and overall health of the Strava and other tracking apps; help employees feel valued in their per cent of UK office occupiers As we aim to be more productive, worker’. And the 2018 Global creates challenges; and a rewards company. prefer ‘wellness-enabled and feel good about it, there Wellness Institute (GWI) report programme; plus gamification to buildings’. seems to be a growing demand (https://globalwellnessinstitute. encourage healthy competition Taking Wellness As well as the building, the for products and services that org) suggested an unwell, amongst staff. Teams of staff to work – literally furniture and environment where will help us to be the best we unproductive and disengaged can join each other in common In some ways it’s baffling that many will spend eight or nine can be. Recently opened in the workforce is costing the global activities such as cycling and share wellness and work were separate hours a day is being re-invented city of London, close to St Paul’s economy, with wellbeing mutual goals. A similar app has for so long. Now that businesses for a healthier outlook. Lifespan’s cathedral, is the Harpal clinic now taking centre stage, and been created by Health@Work a have seen that brands like Google, Treadmill desk, for example, which combines hormones, workplace wellbeing growing, and company who are also behind a with their fun-house approach to allows users to stand and walk aesthetics and performance now accounting for $48 billion of Workplace Wellness Charter, the work, seem to be doing pretty well at their desk. Given that many into one beautiful, futuristic the $4.2 trillion global wellness accreditation standard built on they’re keen to get on board and researchers have associated building. Corporates are hungry industry. ‘Once upon a time, best practice, the latest research improve their physical and mental prolonged sitting with bad health, for optimised health and as our contact with wellness was and business sense. health offerings to employees. this has to be a good thing. well as popping in for a vitamin occasional: we went to the gym or Earlier this year, Amanda infusion, bioidentical hormone got a massage. But this is changing Rewards and prizes Webb, head of people projects at More time to play replacement therapy, and alcohol fast: a wellness mindset is starting Sports shops, gyms and others can Gymshark, said: “Employee benefits Proposals to change the length of management, clients can take to permeate the global consumer link up with app providers and and wellbeing is fundamental to the working week means there’s advantage of services usually consciousness, affecting people’s corporates direct and offer staff us at Gymshark, particularly as we real potential for more time for reserved for elite sports men daily decision-making,” noted discounts to help improve what are growing rapidly! Having the people to play sport or indulge and women. The Cryotherapy Katherine Johnston, senior Perkbox (https://www.perkbox) right partners and platforms helps in leisure (e.g. on the traditional chamber from Cryoaction offers research fellow, GWI. ‘Wellness, calls the Employee Experience us deliver our physical, mental sports day Wednesday afternoon). three minutes of exposure to for more people, is evolving from (EX). As Perkbox point out, the and financial wellbeing agenda.” Labour’s proposed four-day week minus 130 degrees centigrade, a rarely to daily, from episodic average employee spends a third of Gymshark typify the type of has support and according to treatment favoured by Premier to essential, from a luxury to a their life at work, and life doesn’t company embracing wellbeing, and YouGov B2B polling nearly two League footballers, and elite dominant lifestyle value. And that start only when work stops. in August the fitness apparel brand thirds (64 per cent) of 502 UK runners. The result is a serotonin profound shift is driving powerful Perkbox is an employee benefit opened two fitness studios, a vast business-people would support boost to help combat stress and growth,’ she added. “Wellness, for more people, is evolving from rarely to daily, from episodic to essential, from a luxury to a dominant lifestyle value. And that profound shift is driving powerful growth” Katherine Johnston, senior research fellow, GWI

www.sports-insight.co.uk TAYLORS page_SPORTS INSIGHT 10/09/2019 10:02 Page 1 BUSINESS 43 NEED SOME CASH? JOIN THE CROWD Paul Clapham looks at the increasingly popular way to fund your sport business, brand or start-up – Crowdfunding

rowdfunding is a way of gain their first seed capital. raising finance by asking Investors can back a start-up firm a large number of people by providing seed capital, for as Ceach for a small amount of little as £10, in exchange for equity. money. Traditionally, financing The company carries out full due a business, project or venture diligence with all of the enterprises involved asking a few people (i.e. that list. But the firm also argues it banks) for large sums of money. is best “left to the crowd” to decide Crowdfunding switches this if the business is worthy enough to idea around, using the internet invest in. to talk to thousands – if not There are plenty of other millions – of potential funders. crowdfunding websites out there, Nicola Horlick, the fund the majority of which operate in manager dubbed “superwoman” niche areas. This could be ideal if in the Nineties for juggling a you fit their criteria. As a case career and family, has said it is a there are sites which focus on “no-brainer” that crowdfunding female entrepreneurs (although has become so mainstream, I wouldn’t call 50 per cent of the given that banks are not lending population ‘niche’). to small business and savers are fed up with receiving paltry Five main advantages interest rates in bank and of crowdfunding: building society accounts. • It can be a fast way to There is, however, a problem. raise finance with no Crowdfunding has grown at upfront fees a rapid pace and there are a • Pitching a project or business lot of sites out there, not all of through the online platform them doing the best for either can be a valuable form of investors or business owners. It is marketing and result in media absolutely paramount that before ensure that private investors fully seven per cent – of money raised. Scheme (SEIS) rules. This gives attention choosing this route to funding understand the risks involved. And sometimes the site also takes investors generous tax breaks. • Sharing your idea, you can often you do your research in depth. Some of the sites vet the fund- a slice of returns paid to investors. Whether investing or aiming for get feedback and expert guidance Make no mistake, raisers – others don’t. Whether Apart from the potential funding, I would have a number of on how to improve it crowdfunding involves at you are investing or seeking returns, some of the business questions: how many companies • It is a good way to test the least as much risk as the stock investment, I’d say you should walk proposals listed on crowdfunding have achieved full funding; how public’s reaction to your product/ market. The watchdog, the away from anyone with no vetting. sites qualify for special tax much time and money did they idea - if people are keen to invest Financial Conduct Authority, The websites make money too, reliefs under the Enterprise spend to achieve it; what is the key it is a good sign that the your idea is taking a close interest in of course. This is usually in the Investment Scheme (EIS) or factor in a successful launch and could work well in the market crowdfunding – and wants to form of a percentage – typically Seed Enterprise Investment what should be avoided at all costs. • Investors can track your I would also phone the MD of any progress- this may help you to business that was similar to mine. promote your brand through their networks Crowdcube.com Crowdcube.com is one of the And five disadvantages: longest-established sites providing • It will not necessarily be an a variety of firms, from motor easier process to go through companies to pizza delivery compared to the more traditional firms, the opportunity to pitch for ways of raising finance – not funding. Many of these businesses all projects that apply to are already successfully operating crowdfunding platforms get and are seeking investment onto them to expand their footprint in a • When you are on your chosen particular market. Investors can platform, you need to do a lot view a business plan and a video, of work in building up interest which details why the company is before the project launches – seeking funding and the potential significant resources (money rewards on offer. All businesses and/or time) may be required are vetted by Crowdcube and • If you don’t reach your funding must present business plans with target, any finance that has been at least three years of financial pledged will usually be returned projections. When you speak to to your investors and you will these people, they come across as receive nothing rock solid. • Failed projects risk damage to the reputation of your business Seedrs.com and people who have pledged Seedrs.com is another well-known money to you site, but has a greater focus on • Getting the rewards or returns listing entrepreneurial firms that wrong can mean giving away too focus on helping entrepreneurs much of the business to investors “It is absolutely paramount that before choosing this route to funding you do your research in depth”

www.sports-insight.co.uk CARTASPORTS page_SPORTS INSIGHT 31/10/2019 13:27 Page 1 BUSINESS 45 The evolving landscape of SPORTS SPONSORSHIPS FOR BRANDS James Tobias, a sports specialist at international law firm Reed Smith, examines the realm of sponsorship

ponsorships in the sports industry are nothing new. Teams, athletes, events and Sstadia have all attracted significant sponsorship interest over the years and it has been reported that business spending on sports sponsorships is set to grow by another four per cent to £35bn globally in 2019. However, while the overall outlook is healthy, sponsorship deals are becoming increasingly complex. This article will explore some of the notable trends and key contractual clauses and sticking points as all and challenges. This enables them The changing role of another layer of complexity when actions. One of the most important parties look to protect themselves to think creatively about the assets brand ambassadors working with these individuals. contractual protections, in this and maximise their return from they control and how these can The proliferation of social media, If the involvement of particular respect, is the right to walk away a sponsorship. be leveraged to extract maximum OTT platforms and gaming, has led athletes in a campaign is of from the agreement entirely in value for both parties. Nowadays, to individual athletes transcending particular importance to a brand, it certain events. Traditionally, A tailored and flexible the success of a sponsorship entire teams and sports to an is vital to address this at the outset. sponsorship agreements have partnership activation is often assessed by extent that brands (and sports Quite simply, the other party may included a ‘morality clause’ that Sponsorships in the sports industry the content that is created and organisations) have never had to not have the rights to involve enables the sponsoring company are continuing to evolve into richer, the return on investment that can contend with in the past. Indeed, particular athletes in a campaign to terminate the sponsorship two-way relationships. The days be demonstrated through user even the biggest and most popular and if this is central to the value arrangement if, for example, the of rights holders offering up a engagement. football clubs in the world, from of the deal, it is important to sponsored individual or company simple menu of fixed sponsorship The net result of this is that two Manchester United to Barcelona, understand any limitations before does something that damages the assets and inventory to potential aspects are playing an increasingly have individual players with larger it is too late. company’s or the athlete’s image or sponsors are largely behind central role to all sponsorships: social media followings than the The new digital landscape has brand; think of Lance Armstrong or us. These days, brands have a content and data. For brands clubs themselves. also given rise to a new type of Tiger Woods. clear objective for any potential looking to protect the value of Athletes have started to realise ambassador: the micro-influencer. However, more recently, athletes sponsorship opportunity, whether their investment, it pays to be their own value and the demand for These are individuals that are and rights holders have been that be related to brand and specific about these concepts in the them to feature in original content. usually not leading athletes but seeking to re-balance this dynamic product marketing, corporate contractual documentation. Rights holders often have a myriad have large social media followings by seeking to include ‘reverse social responsibility or employee However, there is a delicate of different commercial obligations (often between 5,000-50,000) and morality clauses’ that enable engagement. In turn, rights balancing act to play. While there and relationships at any one time are active and engaged around them to terminate the agreement holders often expect more than a is value in including specific that require careful balancing a particular passion or niche. if the sponsoring company is cheque as part of the sponsorship details about how campaigns will to ensure that they comply with Many brands have understood the caught up in a corporate or PR arrangement, whether through be delivered, the 24/7 news cycle the various category exclusivity value that these individuals can scandal or illegality. This is positive PR or engagement with makes it more important than ever restrictions. Many athletes, across bring, especially when activating particularly pertinent in long-term fans, even if the number on that to ensure that the sponsorship different sports, now engage a sponsorship and demonstrating endorsement deals and for deals cheque usually remains the most agreement allows – and encourages specialist digital media companies fan engagement in particular that will involve a deep association important factor. – the parties to be flexible to to advise and assist them with their geographic markets. between rights holder and brand. Leading rights holders change plans and execute new personal strategy and to liaise with In a world in which sports are on have realised the importance ideas quickly to take advantage brands on their behalf. In the US, Protecting the brand the front pages of newspapers as of initiating sponsorship of opportunities as they arise the biggest stars, such as Lebron One of the risks of any sponsorship well as the back and in the context conversations by seeking to throughout the course of James, have even created their own deal is the reputational damage of the portrayal of sponsorships as understand brands’ strategic aims the partnership. production companies, adding yet that can arise from one party’s ‘partnerships’ as described above; it “One of the risks of any sponsorship deal is the reputational damage that can arise from one party’s actions”

www.sports-insight.co.uk 46 UNDER THE COUNTER A sideways look at the world of independent retailing Maybe it's time to cash in your chips I think I might perhaps have “But they can’t do anything about baby carrots and half a dozen sticks stilts at a decent discount which momentarily nodded off over it because invoices saying ‘400 of celery to make up the difference. I can offer to Nigel in exchange a pile of VAT invoices when cabbages’, or whatever, change I said I’d think about it and for the phone number of the my assistant Norman burst hands in the normal way, when Nigel had gone, Norman woman with the Wrangler Jeep.” into the office to say that but any cash you get said: “You know, if we offered “I think there’s a flaw in your there was a chap in the shop goes into your pocket.” the veg to the woman who reasoning which I can’t quite trying to pay for a pair of Nigel said that runs the greengrocers in put my finger on at this precise cardiovascular jumping stilts only that morning Gladstone Terrace maybe moment,” I said. “Apart from the with a sack of potatoes and he had arranged for her husband would repair fact you’re married already and what should he do about it? an undertaker to the leaking roof on our I don’t like home-made wine.” Sure enough, there was a geezer swap a butcher’s shed. He did his By now I’d begun to get a few with a broad smile and half a mother-in-law’s City and Guilds as ideas of my own about this bartering hundredweight of King Edward’s, funeral for a part of his stroke business and the upshot was that standing there as bold as you like. weekly delivery rehabilitation when Nigel came back the next “Hi, I’m Nigel,” he said. “I’m from of pork chops, programme. day while Norman was at the the New Age Bartering Fellowship.” lamb cutlets, “Then we chiropodist having his corns done, He went on to say that at sweetbreads and a corn-fed could offer the we did a pretty good deal over the least 35 per cent of world trade chicken for the next two years. second-hand slates veg, with a pound of rump steak now operates through barter “If she’s not dead by then, for a marriage proposal. She to old Mr Mortiboys in the junk thrown in, and he took the jumping and it’s growing at 12 per cent a we’ll have to have another think got 400 offers on the first day shop next door in exchange for that stilts away in a wheelbarrow he’s year. “Our great grandchildren about it,” Nigel said. “But with all but most wanted to know coal-dust statue of Harry Kane going to exchange for a weekend probably won’t know what cash that cholesterol flying about, the what the mileage was? which has been in his window on a nudist beach in Filey. is,” Nigel said. “Already traditional butcher thinks he’s on to a winner.” In the meantime, how did we for months, and I could give it to It goes without saying that we money is going out of fashion.” Nigel said that was the most feel about bartering the jumping my nephew for his birthday. can’t compete with the big boys “Not in this shop it isn’t, squire,” unusual swap he had personally stilts for his sack of spuds? “Then maybe my brother-in- and their suicidal discounts and I said, but I had read somewhere handled, but he’d heard about When Norman pointed out that law would return the mower he cut-price sales but a nice bag of that King Edward’s make the Japanese corn-flavoured Kit-Kats he would be getting a custom- borrowed four years ago and I could mixed veg with every purchase best chips and they do say that being exchanged for a man’s green built quality product based on the mow my neighbour’s lawn in return could well be a winner in our exchange is no robbery, so I thought latex cat-suit and a tattoo swapped natural movements of the kangaroo for one of his very nice bottles of forthcoming winter sale. THE RUGBYwe might SHOW as 1.2_SPORTS well hear him INSIGHT out. 22/10/2019for a baby 15:05 alligator Page in Stevenage.1 for the equivalent of about an home-made wine which I could And I must say a nice bit of “The taxmen don’t like it,” Nigel Then there was the woman hour’s business in a chip-shop, give to you and your wife for your steak does go very well with my said, which was enough for me to in Devizes who had offered a Nigel said that was fair comment wedding anniversary in return wife’s home-made oven-cooked tell Norman to put the kettle on. 1992 Wrangler Jeep in exchange and he’d throw in some swedes, for letting me have the jumping chips and a few baby carrots.

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