SI Cover.Indd 1 10/10/2016 14:51

OCTOBER 2016 £3.50

sportsSPORTS TRADE LEISURE CYCLING SPORTSinsight NUTRITION FITNESS TECH sports-insight.co.uk ATHLEISURE GREG WHYTE SELLING REPLICAS DON’T SPORT SWEAT RELIEF ARE THEY LOOKING COACH TO WORTH A GOOD THE STARS GAMBLE? P. 16 P. 25 P. 30 REYDON SPORTS THE ONE STOP SHOP SEE PAGE 19

SI cover.indd 1 10/10/2016 14:51

5 WELCOME IN PARTNERSHIP WITH to the new look Sports Insight

This issue, you'll see Sports is it worth independent sport Insight has had an update. The retailers stocking them? new format enable us to cover We take a look at the issue more news, industry comment, and some innovative ways of product and analysis of the making some money off the back sports retail trade and we have of replica football shirts. exciting plans for the months For a little light relief – well ahead. Sport Relief anyway – check This month we take a look out the interview with sports at the rise of athleisure and scientist Greg Whyte. whether or not you take a How do you get David gamble on stocking replica Walliams to swim the Thames, football shirts. or Chris Moyles up Mount Gone are the shellsuits of the Kilimanjaro? Whyte will tell 1980s and it's now time to pull on you how. the fashion sweats – not just for You can also catch up with the gym – but also to take a trip the Intersport Q2 show and get to the shops or just lounge on ready for the Stag Winter the sofa. Buying Shows. Every football fan wants to I look forward to meeting wear their club's colours – but some of you at these events.

Art Director: ABC Certification CHRIS ASHWORTH Sports Insight has a current ABC certified circulation of 5,352 (audit Advertisement Art Director: period July 1, 2015 to June 30, 2016). The KEVIN DENNIS Audit Bureau of Circulations (ABC) is an independent audit watchdog that verifies Reproduction: magazines’ circulation figures, providing ACE PRE-PRESS. Tel: 01206 797541 accurate and comparable data for advertisers. ABC Certification demonstrates a media owner’s integrity, Photography: in their willingness to be audited and to conform to industry CLIQQ PHOTOGRAPHY standards. www.cliqq.co.uk Twitter: @CliQQphoto Editor: Accounts: MARK HAYHURST SUE CARR. Tel: 01206 505903 Tel: 01206 508618 Published by Maze Media (2000) Limited, Email: [email protected] 21-23 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Rd, Colchester, Essex CO2 8JY Advertising Manager: KEITH MARSHALL All contents © Maze Media (2000) Limited. Tel: 01206 505947 Fax: 01206 500243. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily @SportsInsightUK Email: [email protected] those of the publisher. Every effort is made to ensure the veracity and integrity of the companies, persons, products Advertising Sales and services mentioned in this publication and details 21-23 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Rd, given are believed to be accurate at the time of going to : Colchester, Essex CO2 8JY press. However, no responsibility or liability whatsoever can be accepted for any consequence or repercussion of www.sports-insight.co.uk Group Advertising Manager: responding to any information or advice given or inferred. SAM REUBIN No part of this publication may be copied, broadcast, interpreted, or stored, in any form, for any purpose, Group Editor: without the written permission of the publisher. COVER PHOTO: CHARLOTTE SMITH Tom Heaton – Burnley Tel: 01206 508615 ABC certified circulation: 5,352 and England Goalkeeper Email: [email protected] (audit period July 1, 2015 to June 30, 2016). and Precision Goalkeeping Publisher: UK/ROW subscription: MATTHEW TUDOR £25/£42.50 for one year (10 issues). Ambassador: see page nine

www.sports-insight.co.uk

Welcome.indd 2 10/10/2016 15:33

Pioneering Dartboard Technology

H B

C D

I E

T I

N S

L O

O -

I I I A T V C V B N A M O E E I - - L C R I D L C B I L T T E O S D A C S O N Y Y T E P E S T E Y K C E N S E S I C G S T E C IO EN M IS S IL HNOLO YSTEM OR WIR IFICAT DORSE AL BA DURAB

For details of the current portfolio, please visit winmau.com

Follow us on @winmau Find us on winmaudarts Subscribe on winmaudartstv 7 JD Sports to open new NEWS store All the very latest in the sports industry... JD Sports is set to open a new store in London's Oxford Street.

JD SPORTS, represented by international real estate advisor Savills, has secured Big change for business rates 375-381 Oxford Street for a major store west of The biggest change to business rates in A typical Regent Street flagship store over £100,000 receive no more than a one Oxford Circus. years is coming and there will be winners will see a 50 per cent increase on their per cent reduction in next year’s rates bill in and losers across the country. annual business rates bill. order to cushion the impact on properties They has agreed a new In England and Wales the Valuation There will be local variations in certain seeing big increases in their business rates. ten-year lease for the Office Agency (VOA) is responsible for property types but, according to the “This comes as a blow to retailers 23,000 sq ft (2,137 sq m) assessing the rateable values of all non- statistics published by the VOA, the total operating in hard-hit high streets who property, which is owned domestic properties. burden of business rates will slightly reduce had anticipated falls of over 50 per cent.” by Norges Bank Investment Every commercial property in the UK across all regions in England. However, The draft rateable value, however, Management, within West will get a new rateable value in April 2017, there is an overall national increase in cannot be appealed until April 1 next year, One Shopping Centre. which for most properties is based on rateable values of nine per cent. when a new appeals system takes effect. an open market rental value that it could In England’s regions, many businesses Phil Vernon, Head of Rating at PwC It will pay an annual rent have let for two years beforehand. With will benefit from a fall in rates as the new said: “The new system will have time limits of £3.1 million. seven years since this was last done, it is figures aim to take into account a change built in to resolve appeals but it’s likely anticipated that the gap between winners in property values since the downturn. that these limits could prevent any appeal In 2014, Savills also acquired and losers will be far wider than ever before. But the changes to the transitional being settled for at least 18 months. a 34,500 sq ft (3,205 sq m) The amount of rates paid is calculated relief system will also cap the amount of “In many cases it may take several store east of Oxford Circus by multiplying rateable value by the reduction that many businesses will see in years for appeals to be formally settled.” for JD Sports at 201-203 relevant year’s rate poundage, or multiplier. the first year. The Federation of Sports and Play Oxford Street. As this is currently around 50 per James Thompson, head of business Associations is recommending the cent in pounds, it’s vital to ensure each rates at Deloitte Real Estate, said: “The bad employment of property chartered The new deal means the rateable value is as low as possible. news for the many businesses that were surveyors who are RICS registered retailer, which exited a The VOA released the draft rateable hoping for a significant reduction in their - www.rics.org smaller second unit on values at the end of last month. business rates bill, is the government’s The Valuation Office has made the the street earlier this The City of London Offices and proposals for transitional relief. new Rateable Values available on-line at year due to the future London’s prime retail streets will bear the “The government’s preferred option www.gov.uk/correct-your-business-rates, redevelopment of the brunt of the 2017 rating revaluations. would see a business with a rateable value of where the amount can be checked. building, now has a major store on both east and west Oxford Street.

Sam Foyle, at Savills, said: “This property is ideally MARO ITOJE positioned to complement our client’s existing store JOINS MAXIMUSCLE on east Oxford Street England rugby star Maro Itoje “My aim is to constantly look and ensure JD Sports can has added his weight to the to improve all areas of my game maximise the benefits of new Maximuscle range. through a combination of a future footfall increases The Saracens second- strong training programme and linked to Crossrail and row forward joins a strong premium nutrition and go from other infrastructure Maximuscle team including strength to strength. improvements.” fellow England rugby stars “I’m confident I have the Chris Robshaw and Anthony strongest team behind me Watson, Wales’ winger George and I’m delighted Maximuscle North, plus Aviva Premiership will be a part of that, providing Showroom is teams Northampton Saints me with market leading, Life Fitness take over ICG and Harlequins – both of innovative products and expert Life Fitness' parent company, innovative technology, indoor opened whom recently signed contract knowledge that can help me Brunswick Corporation, has cycling expertise and talented BEHRENS Sportswear extensions with the supplement achieve my goals.” completed its acquisition of team position us to advance in has opened a new team- brand – which continues to It has been an outstanding Germany’s Indoor Cycling the indoor cycling and group wear showroom at the demonstrate its sports nutrition year for Itoje, breaking into the Group (ICG). training categories.” company's head office. expertise in the rugby sphere. England senior team and going ICG is the latest to join Founded in 1995, ICG is Itoje said: “I am young and on to earn seven caps, winning Life Fitness’ leading health, headquartered in Nuremberg, fitness and well-being brand Germany, and is the leading Open to new and existing determined to succeed. the Grand Slam and making portfolio. supplier of indoor cycling trade customers the history on the tour of Australia Chris Clawson, Life bikes through both direct and showroom, in Trafford Park, with a 3-0 whitewash. Fitness President, said: “ ICG's distributor channels Manchester, offers the Itoje’s signature also marks full Behrens Sportswear the unveiling of Maximuscle, range and the chance the brand’s new range of raw to learn about their ingredient protein powders Movistar stay with Endura sportswear fabrics, product including Whey Protein Isolate, Endura's partnership with the La Vuelta-winning Movistar development and bespoke Whey Protein Concentrate, Team will continue for 2017. design and sourcing BCAAs, Micellar Casine and The Scottish clothing brand, whose partnership with the capability. Creatine Monohydrate. world’s number one ranked professional cycling team has yielded Maximuscle prides itself on nearly 100 victories in just three years, will again supply Nairo All Behrens UK stock is held the fact that all its products are Quintana, Alejandro Valverde, Alex Dowsett and more of the in the warehouse next door. 100 per cent batch tested and world’s top professional cyclists. Informed-Sport accredited. Endura’s founder and managing director Jim McFarlane Maximuscle’s new range of said: “Areas throughout the company and collaborators such To book a visit call raw ingredient protein powders as Simon Smart at Drag2Zero, have worked tirelessly to bring Mike Humble on are available to order from at important innovations to the kit that we make for the team in 0161 872 1444 or email www.maximuscle.com. Visit the Scotland and by further extending our partnership with Abarca [email protected] website for more information Sports we look forward to the demands of the UCI WorldTour's and to sign up for special offers, leading team and riders driving Endura forward too.” training tips and much more.

www.sports-insight.co.uk

News.indd 2 10/10/2016 14:59 8 News

monetising the success of the Rio games for TIA members. “We have seen year-on-year growth Berry takes over as of 15 per cent over the last year, and our core purpose is to see this continue.” The TIA comprises event organisers, chairman at TIA equipment manufacturers, tour 361° EXPAND operators, retailers, distributors and Mel Berry, founder of Very Berry, its commercial future flourish, I media. INTO EUROPEAN has been appointed chairman of am very proud to represent the The new board is as follows: the Triathlon Industry Association industry as Chair of TIA. Mel Berry - Very Berry (Chairman), MARKET (TIA) board. “Mine and the new board’s Nick Rusling - Human Race (Deputy Berry will swap roles with Nick vision for the association over the Chairman), Brendan Fox - Sports Tours Asian sportswear brand 361° have expanded Rusling (CEO of Human Race), who next 12 months is to strengthen key International, Jane Hansom - Sponge into the European market. becomes Deputy Chair of the ten- partnerships with industry leaders and Marketing, Dean Jackson – Huub, They launched their European person board, after two years at the governing body British Triathlon, as Fliss Jackson – Triathlonguard, Gary headquarters in Amsterdam last month the helm. well as growth into new areas. Roethenbaugh - MultiSport Research, with a new team of General Manager, Jurian Berry said: “As someone who “This will involve consultation Paul Shanley – Tri247, Damon Street – Elstgeest (pictured), Sales Director, Ron van cares passionately about the sport with and continued growth of Zoot, David Townsend - Kelsey Media / der Linde, and Marketing Manager, Johanna of triathlon, and wishes to see the membership and a focus on Triathlon Plus. Meyer-Staude. Elstgeest and van der Linde were both key players in establishing brands into Europe and in developing specific collections for Ideal acquisition for Hut Group local markets. Elstgeest said: “We have a strong The Hut group has acquired Ideal, growth rate of over 250 per cent. understanding of the market situation and the weight management and sports Matthew Moulding, THG Chief 361° are an exciting business partner with nutrition retailer. Executive Officer and founder, said: a philosophy that both retailer and brand Ideal trades under the IdealShape “This is a genuinely innovative and should fully benefit from.” (www.idealshape.com) and IdealFit popular brand with a fast growing The 361° European sales network (www.idealfit.com) brands and complementary customer base currently consists of agents and distributors. and was launched in the in the USA.” 361° Europe will continue to strengthen USA in 2003. The IdealShape and IdealFit relationships with buying groups and national It generates ranges will expand with the benefit accounts as part of their plans in business $60m of online, of the Group’s nutrition and weight growth. direct-to- management production and research They will continue their focus on the consumer centre housed within its 1.1 million sq ft running and fitness categories but will revenues facility in Omega, Warrington. be expanding into other performance annually IdealShape and IdealFit will join categories, including court sports as the and boasts THG’s portfolio which includes brand grows. an annual Myprotein, Lookfantastic and Zavvi.

@SportsInsightUK

News.indd 3 10/10/2016 14:59 News 9 Profit drop sees Wilson leave Large leap in orders ADIDAS Outdoor's spring 2017 pre-order Evans Cycles 69 per cent drop in large drop in profits. “In 2015 we made significant sales for trail running footwear increased by profit saw chief executive Nick The company posted a 4.5 per investments in our e-commerce more than 62 per cent from last year. Wilkinson leave the company. cent increase in sales to £133m offering (roll-out of a new web Greg Thomsen, adidas Outdoor managing Wilkinson – who had led the over the year but profits fell 69 per platform, with leading edge mobile, director, US, said: “The outdoor trail running bicycle chain since 2011 – left cent to £1.4m. omni-channel and merchandising category is one of our strongest areas. on mutually agreed terms in Evans Cycles profits were functionality), in revamping our September. hit by significant investment in existing stores and also opening “adidas has a very rich heritage in trail In 2015, Evans Cycles’ pre-tax e-commerce, revamping of existing seven new stores. running, having developed the first trail profits plunged by 69 per cent to stores, a new stores roll-out “We continue to invest for running specific shoes more than 25 years £1.37 million. programme, a softer cycling growth – we’ve opened four new ago with improvements and technical Private equity firm ECI Partners, market which resulted in lower sales stores so far this year, in Aberdeen, advancements every year since. which bought the company for growth than planned and lower City of London, Durham, and “Today’s market place has evolved around £80 million in 2015, recently margins as they took steps Leamington Spa. tremendously with different demands and a invested more money as part of a to manage inventory. “We continue to gain market new generation of ultra-runners. refinancing package. The softer market was blamed share in a softer market.” “Our designers are relentlessly focused on The retailer’s chairman, Mike on poor weather and strong events Evans Cycles refinanced its creating new products that enable today’s Tomkins, became interim chief for 2014 which did not repeat in bank loans on July 28, reducing outdoor athletes to go farther faster and to executive until a permanent 2015, post London Olympics and its loans from £29m to live without limits. replacement can be found. TDF Yorkshire. £23.8m and extending the “We continue to push the boundaries of design However, Evans Cycles remain James Backhouse, Marketing next repayments out to technology to support the dreams of every confident in the future despite the Director at Evans Cycles, said: 2021. level of trail runner and outdoor athlete.”

Heaton said: “I am delighted to be joining Precision Bonk Athletic to close Heaton joins Precision Goalkeeping. They have been BONK Athletic will cease trading at the outstanding in creating a end of the year. Goalkeeping team specific glove that’s tailored to my exact needs. They’ve Bonk, a clothing label that makes lifestyle PRECISION Goalkeeping the development of the brand, allowed me to share my and training apparel for athletes, was have teamed up with Burnley including the introduction of input, thoughts and creativity founded by Charlie Evans. and England International his very own goalkeeping glove into the gloves, which is very In a statement on their Facebook page, goalkeeper Tom Heaton. range. The Burnley captain will important to me. Evans said: “It is with a great deal of Heaton joins on a four-year be wearing Precision’s brand "Their attention to detail sadness that we have to announce Bonk contract and will become the new Premier collection initially, and fantastic feel of the will cease to operate at the end of this year.” face of Precision Goalkeeping before moving onto his own gloves is very exciting to and will be heavily involved in range later in the year. be part of.”

www.sports-insight.co.uk

News.indd 4 10/10/2016 14:59 10 STAG ARE GEARING UP for another great round of winter shows The Ireland and UK buying shows are now firmly a part of the sports industry calendar and Ricky Chandler explains why

NOVEMBER 20-21

The UK Winter Show is being held at the Cotswold Water Park Hotel, South Cerney, Cirencester. The event begins on Sunday, TAG Buying Group are preparing November 20, with doors opening at for their Winter Buying Shows. 9am and closing at 6pm. S November will be a busy month On the final day, Monday, the day with both the Ireland and the UK Winter begins at 9am and finishes at 4pm. Shows taking place. The shows have always proved On Tuesday and Wednesday, popular and are firmly established as November 8-9, the Ireland Show takes go-to events. place at the Heritage Resort, Killenard, Chandler added: “Our shows have County Laois. evolved over the years in such a way The doors open at 2pm on Tuesday that we are an integral part of the sports and close at 7pm, while Wednesday sees industry calendar now. an earlier start at 9am with a 4pm finish. “We have improved the location and STAG are extremely experienced in quality of our venue. holding their shows and have been in “We have worked closely with operation since 1987. suppliers to promote their offers prior to And over those years there have the show and worked hard to promote a been some large changes within the show that’s professional, rewarding and industry. also fun in a relaxed atmosphere. Ricky Chandler, STAG joint MD, has “We have seen buyers coming along reflected on those changes, over the in recent years fully prepared to take past decades. advantage of what’s on offer over the He said: “Back in the late eighties two days because we have shared lots of there were lots of what were classed information with them prior to the show. as regional sports chains, 30 in fact, “Shows have to be worked properly including the likes of Gilesports, Terry and thoroughly if you want to get the Warner Sports and Hargreaves Sports. "Shows have to be worked properly and rewards from it. “There were many other examples of “After all we are all in this industry these sorts of businesses throughout the thoroughly if you want to get the rewards from it" together. If we all do our bit it can work UK and most of the stores commanded for us all for many years to come.” prime, high street, locations. The shows offer the chance for the “Over many years all of these specialising in certain sports categories, dealt with in recent years. group's retail members to see multiple businesses were swallowed up by national having technical product on offer and “The business acumen of the brands over the two days. chains or simply ceased to trade, it applying great customer service. independent retailers has also To view new ranges easily and seemed that they were too large for “In more recent times the growth massively improved. thoroughly and to take advantage of a regional business but too small to of online sales has changed consumers' “From the brands' perspective, I many show special offers. become a dominant national chain. buying habits massively and many would say that it is their willingness to A new opportunity for the members “The growth of JJB, JD and Sports independent and national operations now consider sports businesses that are is to attend seminars that are targeted at Direct followed very quickly. rely on this as additional income. not necessarily located as traditional improving their business. “The demise of JJB has now left the “I would think that the independent high street outlets but have very good Chandler said: “Another key UK sports industry with chains consisting businesses' ability to re-invent businesses, say in team kits, back to advantage is for our members to network of SDI, JD and DW. themselves, adapt to new consumer school, embroidery or online where with other retailers and brands. “During this period the independent buying habits and to specialise would be business premises may be located on “This is often overlooked as people sports trade has survived and thrived by the largest change that has had to be industrial sites off the high street.” spend so much time in their own

@SportsInsightUK

Stag show preview.indd 1 10/10/2016 15:05 11 THE UK WINTER SHOW IS BEING HELD AT THE COTSWOLD WATER PARK HOTEL SOUTH CERNEY CIRENCESTER

NOVEMBER 20-21

businesses, but it is important shoes, lifestyle, outdoor and stock for the first time are TYR, Inov-8, Hoka, so much can be gained from working the to consider new suppliers or new management, with virtually every Dita and Feet Space.” show thoroughly and effectively that it product categories. category represented. The shows can be really beneficial to really is a no-brainer to attend. “It is also good to take a little time There is also a strong presence for the trade and while improvements have “Every supplier can have the chance out to relax after hours and socialise. running, rugby, swim and football but been made over the years they haven't to see as many of the 150 attending “Everyone under one roof creates this year outdoor, team kits and field changed that much. retailers as is physically possible in two a brilliant atmosphere during and after sports will also feature heavily. Chandler said: “The format of our days and we encourage suppliers to the show.” Chandler added: “ All of our top show has not changed in principal as it make as many appointments as possible There are 50 suppliers exhibiting suppliers exhibit at the show every year has consistently worked. to make the best of their time as well. this year ranging from running, and we are extremely grateful for their “We have made improvements along “It really does work for everyone football, rugby, cricket, netball, hockey, ongoing support. the way to make it what it is today. concerned as long as all parties are racket sports, team wear, embroidery, “New suppliers that will be exhibiting “We emphasis to our members that willing to work at it.”

www.sports-insight.co.uk

Stag show preview.indd 2 10/10/2016 15:06 PING-PONG ANYWHERE NET SET

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

Visit www.phoenixsportinggoods.com for more products

Phoenix Sporting Goods Limited, University House, Oxford Square, Oxford St, Newbury, Berks, RG14 1JQ T: 01635 517560 E: [email protected] W: www.phoenixsportinggoods.com News 13

DANNY ROBERTS JOINS REEBOK

Reebok have teamed up with punching skills with kicks and Fight Kit in the Octagon has proven UFC athlete Danny 'Hot submission skills on the floor. to me the quality of their product, and Chocolate' Roberts. Roberts said: “Reebok have had it is these standards that I replicate in The Liverpool-born welterweight a massive influence on UFC and my training and preparation, so the will represent the brand in their as a sport so close to my heart it partnership is a perfect fit. UFC licensed apparel and combat is a huge honour to be chosen to “UFC’s popularity across the training ranges throughout 2017. represent them as an ambassador. globe is exploding so to be able to With a strong background “Training in their combat gear for partner with the leading brand in in boxing, Roberts, 29, mixes fights and wearing the official UFC the sport is immensely exciting.” DW takes over Fitness First Dave Whelan Sports is moving into Predominantly based in the London and the South East after North West, DW Sports currently operates 78 leisure clubs and 90 Dave Whelan (left) with Scott Best VOLLEYBALL England has signed an agreement taking over the Fitness first chain. retail stores. with Bio-Synergy which will see them Dave Whelan (DW) Sports has Fitness First will allow DW Sports provide sports drinks for Volleyball England acquired Fitness First UK and its DW plans to retain 48 of the to invest further in innovation, competitions and England squads. 62 clubs. acquired sites and has exchanged upgrading and maintaining the contracts with other operators for existing Fitness First sites. Bio-Synergy was established in 1997 Dave Whelan, owner and Chairman the disposal of 14 Fitness First sites and is regarded as one of the leading of DW Sports, said: “Fitness First UK's “Our plans are yet to be that are not core to its future plans. companies providing consumers with great reputation, enviable brand and confirmed but we are looking to sports nutritional products. positive culture will strengthen and The Fitness First UK teams will install swimming pools in some of broaden our offering in the South. remain in place and will continue to the larger clubs in London and are Daniel Herman, Director at Bio-Synergy: be led by Martin Seibold, Managing looking to continue to innovate. “We are really excited by the partnership “Fitness First has traded well since Director of Fitness First UK, who and we look forward to supplying drinks for the significant investment in its brand “At the same time, we plan will work closely with Scott Best, volleyball athletes and to support the sport in portfolio and DW Sports intends to to invest in new openings for Managing Director of DW Sports. any way that we can” continue that investment while ensuring the brands and the continued the Fitness First brand remains.” Best added: “The acquisition of refurbishment of our DW portfolio.”

www.sports-insight.co.uk

News.indd 6 10/10/2016 15:34 14 News Special women's range launched Lotto role Salming have launched a said: “Women's squash has special women's specific progressed exponentially for Taboga range of PSA branded over the course of the STEFANO Taboga is clothing. past few years, and the new head of Lotto's Complimenting the we are committed to communication and line of PSA branded men's supporting the sport's marketing as well as their clothing, the women's line, push towards achieving digital sales division as worn on the PSA World parity across the men's and Tour by Alison Waters, women's games, and are Taboga, from Friuli, in the Kanzy El Defrawy and pleased to be able to offer north-east of Italy, and a Hollie Naughton. our colourful and exciting graduate in public relations Salming's Global Brand range to female players all at the IULM University, Manager Adrian Grant over the world.” Milan, comes to Lotto from the Luxottica Group, where he was Global Digital and Omnichannel Director of the Sunglass Hut brand. Warning issued over Sports Direct profits From 2008 to 2014 he was head of Digital Marketing Sports Direct has issued a warning of that rate at 1.19, resulting in a negative It also sustained a large loss in its at Diesel and before over profits. impact of approximately £15m on the last financial year because of currency that gained experience Extreme swings in the pound on Company's FY17 Underlying EBITDA movements. at Genertel (Generali Friday, October 7, saw the company expectation. In that case, because of a fall in the insurance group), Wolters release a statement from Matt Pearson, “In addition, after taking into value of the pound against the euro, it Kluver and Lycos. Acting Chief Financial Officer. account the hedging referred to above, took a £65m hit. In a bid to protect the group if the GBP/USD rate is 1.20 on average As a result, Sports Direct reported He will report directly to following the drop in sterling against for the remainder of FY17, then the underlying earnings of £381.4m for the year company President Andrea the dollar following the Brexit vote they negative impact on the Company's FY17 to 24 April against expectations of £420m, Tomat, leading the Lotto hedged against further falls but this Underlying EBITDA expectation would be resulting in staff missing out on a bonus. group in the areas of seems not to have worked. in the order of a further £20m.” It has been a tough year for Sports advertising and media, PR The statement read: “In light of On October 7 the pound temporarily Direct which has been criticised for and events, sponsorship recent downward currency movements, plunged by six per cent, in a flash crash working conditions at its Shirebrook and digital. the Company entered into a hedging that is thought to have been triggered by distribution centre. arrangement with respect to the GBP/ automated trading. Recently, its chief executive Dave USD rate. The company had expected to report Forsey stepped down and was replaced “Extreme movements overnight underlying profit of £300m based on the by Mike Ashley, the founder and majority (October 7) resulted in a crystallisation pound trading at $1.30 against the dollar. shareholder of the retail chain.

@SportsInsightUK

News.indd 7 10/10/2016 15:00 TM

X PATCHES FOR TARGETEDPRO MUSCLE PAIN RELIEFX

X MARKS THE SPOT 801.224.2717 /801. [email protected] / [email protected] / www.kttape.com / www.kttape.com FOR RELIEF

SPORTINGSPORTING GOODS GOODS

WATERPROOF1.5 1.5 IDEAL FOR SWIMMERS ® ® KTKT TAPE TAPE 4 4 LATEX-FREE ADHESIVE ™ ™ SUITABLE FOR SENSITIVE SKIN PROPROX X 4 4 X PATCHESX PATCHES FOR TARGETED FOR TARGETED MUSCLE MUSCLE PAIN RELIEF PAIN RELIEF

1.5 1.5 COMFORTABLE SYNTHETIC FABRIC PROVIDES UP TO 5 DAYS OF WEAR KT TAPE® KTPRO TAPE® X™ provides PRO X™ targeted provides relief targeted for muscle relief for pain, muscle overuse pain, overuse Comfortable toComfortable wear to wear injuries, andinjuries, tendon-related and tendon-related pain and injuries. pain and PRO injuries. X™ was PRO developed X™ was developed for for Days of wear Days of wear 4-7 4-7 the on-the-go,the on-the-go, active consumer active consumerwho appreciates who appreciates a healthy lifestylea healthy and lifestyle and Water proof Water proof Single convenientSingle convenient doesn’t wantdoesn’t to be want slowed to be down slowed by pain down or by complex pain or taping complex applications. taping applications. ORDER NOW patch per applicationpatch per application FOR JUST £22.99 SRP £

FOR FAST,FOR EASY FAST, PAIN EASY RELIEF PAIN RELIEF DEALERS AND PHYSIOS PAIN PAIN • EASY TO USE• EASY - X TOmarks USE the - X spot marks the spot • USE ALONE• USE as a ALONE pain relief as apatch pain relief patch POINT POINT PLEASE CONTACT 2PURE FOR TRADE DEALS. • DESIGNED• DESIGNEDto provide targeted to provide pain targeted relief pain relief X MARKS X MARKS • FOR muscle• FOR pains, muscle overuse pains, injuries overuse injuries THE SPOT THE SPOT FOR RELIEF FOR RELIEF• USE IN PLACE• USE of IN KT PLACE Tape halfof KT strips Tape half stripsand more and more

PRO X™ USESPRO X™KT TAPE®USES KT PRO TAPE® TECHNOLOGY PRO TECHNOLOGY

SYNTHETIC SYNTHETIC ADHESIVE ADHESIVE BI-DIRECTIONALBI-DIRECTIONAL FABRIC FABRIC PATTERN PATTERN STRETCH STRETCH

DISTRIBUTEDWHAT’S IN THE INSIDEWHAT’S UK BY 2PURE INSIDE/ [email protected] / 0131 449 7323

• 15 precut X• 15patches precut X patches • Plastic case • Plastic case • Instruction • sheetInstruction sheet

KT_SportsInsight_September16.indd 1 04/10/2016 09:33

Colors: Colors: Jet Black Jet Black

MSRP: MSRP: $19.99 $19.99

Box Dimensions:Box Dimensions:4.5 3 4.52 0.25 3 lbs 2 0.25 lbs

UPC: UPC: 851144005785851144005785

www.kttape.com www.kttape.com 16 Athleisure No need to raise a sweat JUST GO OUT & LOOK GOOD Athleisure is proving to be a driving force for British retailers

surge in sportswear sales in health and wellness among sportswear that can be worn has been powered by the young consumers, coupled with when not exercising, 11 per A fashion conscious – who an increasing acceptance of cent have purchased celebrity may not want to exercise but casual dressing, the athleisure sportswear collections. want to wear the latest trends. trend is dominating the sector. Furthermore, one third (32 The rise of athleisure is now “The success of the market per cent) of purchasers say a driving force in pushing up has seen increasing levels they prefer to buy from sports sales as retailers make a grab of competition from non- retailers who follow the latest for a slice of the action. specialists, and more than ever, fashion trends. Research from Mintel retailers need to establish their It also seems that high estimates that sales of sports position in a crowded sector.” levels of consumer interest goods will reach a personal best Half (50 per cent) of in health and wellness trends of £7 billion in 2016, up six per those who have bought sports is also driving growth in the cent compared to 2015. clothing, footwear, equipment athleisure market. Samantha Dover, retail or accessories in the past 12 Currently, over half (53 per analyst at Mintel, said: “The months (up to May 2016) did so cent) of UK consumers take sports goods market continues for non-sports use. part in sport at least once a to grow at an exceptional rate. And, while 34 per cent week, with almost one in six (16 “Driven by a rising interest have bought fashionable per cent) exercising five times a

@SportsInsightUK

Athleisure.indd 1 10/10/2016 14:50 Athleisure 17

week or more. “AW-16 is now our second Collection that make it wearable Younger consumers, in season offering the “Animal when worn together with non- FSPA COMMUNICATIONS particular, are taking the ‘no Active” range. active product.” pain, no gain’ mantra to heart, “There was once a time Supermarket giant MANAGER MARY LUBRANO with over one quarter (28 per when the consumer would Sainsbury's are also getting in REVEALS THEIR LATEST cent) of those aged 16-24 be fine with wearing a pair of on the act as their Tu clothing RESEARCH exercising five times a week baggy sweat pants and a T-Shirt line has launched a new range or more. to participate in their chosen of athleisure sportswear in more AS THEY LOOK TO FUTURE NEEDS OF As a result, younger sport, activity or to just lounge than 170 stores. THEIR MEMBERS consumers are the most likely around in. The market is estimated to group to have bought sports “Times have now changed be worth $194bn worldwide, and products over the past year, and people want product that is growing in importance as the he FSPA, an umbrella trade body of over 14 sports with three in four (75 per cent) boasts innovation, technical boundaries between workplace, and play Associations, is undertaking new research Brits aged 16-24 purchasing performance fabrics and home and leisure pursuits are T among its members. new items. features while still being increasingly blurred. With around 500 businesses spanning the UK sports Of those who have bought fashionable and comfortable. James Brown, Director and play industry, our vision is to see the industry thrive sports goods in the past year, “People want product of Non-Food Trading at and to ensure the success of our members. 45 per cent did so for running they can look and feel great Sainsbury’s, said: “Men Our members are diverse – from the big brands, to SMEs, or jogging. in but at the same time it has and women of all ages are to sole agents. It’s so important that we continue to respond In comparison, over one an aspirational lifestyle feel embracing the concept of more to this diversity and provide relevant support. Through a quarter (28 per cent) bought about it. casual dressing. series of one-to-one interviews with some key MDs, we’re new sports gear for going to “There is definitely a ensuring that we keep up-to-date with our members on how the gym and 23 per cent did so trend towards people wearing best we can help them and champion the industry. for cycling. “Sales of sports sport-inspired fashion So what has this new research revealed so far? When deciding which items throughout the day because it Our Associations are providing vital services to to invest in, it seems it’s a case goods will reach a fits in with the way people live members, tailored to their needs. of the best foot forward as their lives these days. Many rely on the professional administrative support trainer sales are gaining speed personal best of £7 “We’ve designed our we provide, and our Business Support Advice Line – Of specialist sporting goods ‘athleisure’ range to be stylish, offering information on issues such as employment law and sales, Mintel forecasts that comfortable and great quality health and safety – gives members a real advantage. footwear sales will make up 34 billion in 2016” and it’s a growing part of our But it’s our collective strength which is one of the most per cent in 2016, up from 29 clothing offer this year because important benefits we offer. per cent in 2014. “You just need to look we believe it’s exactly what our There is a credibility that comes with being a member, However, clothing will around at how many brands customers want to buy. offering clients and potential clients peace of mind. still dominate at 54 per cent; and high street retailers are “Shopping for clothing in Our members can only carry their Association’s logo however, this is down from 59 offering this product now, so supermarkets has become firmly if they abide by a professional Code of Conduct, and it’s per cent in 2014. it’s important for us to have our established, and our strategy of this stamp of quality which can give them the edge over And to prove the impact own approach to it. offering customers high street their competitors. on the sector, JD Sports “We don’t want to be style at supermarket prices in an have stated that the trend competing with cheap high attractive, department store- for athleisure was largely street imitations, for us, style setting has helped us to responsible for the company combining fashion with increase our market share. posting record half-yearly function is key. “Over 8 million customers pre-tax profits. “We want to make product bought clothing from us over 500 14 The 66 per cent jump, a that performs great, focuses on the past year and clothing at leap of £77.4m, is the third functional fabrics and features Sainsbury’s is heading towards consecutive year of growth for for the girl that lives an active a £1bn business. BUSINESSES SPANNING PORTS the group and is being put down outdoor lifestyle but is still “We are now the sixth THE UK SPORTS AND AND PLAY partly to the strong demand in fashion conscious. largest clothing retailer by PLAY INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS the athleisure market. “It’s now acceptable to volume, up from seventh Peter Cowgill, executive wear this product in a non- place last year.” chairman, said: “This has been active environment. Sainsbury’s has also The research data so far suggests that another period of excellent “Although our range caters launched a new Admiral members would welcome: progress for the Group with a for your active/fitness fanatic, range for men – the Admiral l more Association-led lobbying on issues specific to their record profit before tax and we still have styles in the Active Performance collection. industry, using the FSPA’s links with UK government and exceptional items of £77.4 our counterparts in Europe and worldwide million (2015: £46.6 million). l more frequent up-to-the-minute industry-specific “Given that last year's research on consumer behaviours and market trends result was in itself a record, for l regular signposting to our websites containing constantly our Group then to increase updated, must-see content this by a further 66 per cent l targeted cross-media campaigns encouraging sport has exceeded reasonable uptake, facilitated by; expectations. l strategic partnerships with other sports and play bodies, “The favourable and regular networking events. trends for athletic-inspired footwear and apparel in Europe have continued The research is helping us shape our brand and, most into this year.” importantly, our services going forward into the future. The Group's Our re-brand, taking place early next year, will mean Sports Fashion saw not only a whole new look but a completely new website profits increasing so members turn to us first for support and can access by a further 53 resources quickly and easily. We’re working on making sure per cent to £79.9 that what we provide is exactly what members want to million (2015: help make their businesses thrive. £52.1 million). Thank you to all the members who have helped us so Extreme sports far and if you want to take part in the research, please do and leisurewear get in touch. chain Animal is So many people have expressed their appreciation of also aware of the the work the FSPA does, recognising the role it plays in importance of the championing their industry and supporting their business. athleisure market. But they have also outlined where, like any organisation, Karl Reid, Head we can improve. of Design, Animal, said: “I think its safe to say that everyone must 8 [email protected] have noticed the rise in Athleisure/ ' 07999 550452 Active wear.

www.sports-insight.co.uk

Athleisure.indd 2 10/10/2016 14:50 18

Q2 2017 Intersport Show, a NIKE evening and a 5k morning run

Parkrun caught on video ntersport UK and Ireland Olympic Champion Dame has unveiled the latest in its Kelly Holmes. “I love to see I series of videos celebrating people come together, feel its partnership with parkrun good, feel fit and socialise,” and Intersport Run Reigate said the running legend Half Marathon and 10K. herself, before going on to The latest video was start the half marathon too. filmed at Reigate Priory Popular endurance parkrun on September 17 runner Susie Chan was there and an Intersport Run to pace the race at two hours Reigate Half Marathon and and to meet local runners 10K on September 18, whilst supporting the event. welcoming runners of all levels The event’s Race Director, to the beautiful Surrey Dave Kelly, tells us all about countryside setting. the growing success of Run It was a weekend of Reigate and how the race is magnificent sporting receiving even more support achievement, with many from its sponsors, especially parkrunners using their weekly Intersport. “They are brilliant parkrun to train for to work with and we just @RunReigate and participate couldn’t do it without them”, in the Sunday races. he said. The event also raises The latest video can be an extraordinary amount of found at the Intersport UK money for charity: last year Intersport retailers get ready to go for a run channel on YouTube. it topped £200,000 and and test the new Nike Structure running shoe The video highlights the this year it is hoping to passion for parkrun in Reigate, raise £250,000. which was set up two and a The video is an excellent half years ago. weekend roundup celebrating THE EVENT Run Director Paul running in Reigate, and one ALSO RAISES AN Chandler said: “It’s a which Intersport hopes will EXTRAORDINARY no-brainer – people want to inspire more people to run AMOUNT OF MONEY come and run, people like and support. Whatever level FOR CHARITY: coming to run and everyone’s of runner you are, Intersport’s LAST YEAR IT happy when they run parkrun.” unparalleled expertise and Intersport also met some knowledge makes the of the fantastic volunteers leading sporting goods and runners who come out retailer a perfect partner TOPPED "rain, wind or shine" to take for events such as parkrun part in the weekly parkrun. and Run Reigate. Intersport is proud to be Intersport became an one of the main supporting official partner of parkrun in £200k partners helping to keep January 2016, celebrating with parkrun free, and enabling an inaugural partnership AND THIS YEAR IT IS ntersport across the UK running heritage and future over 1.5 million runners event on Wimbledon Common HOPING TO RAISE and Ireland is going from brand strategy along with across the country to and the opening of a smart I strength to strength. local middle distance 800m complete their timed 5K in a new Intersport store on With positive sales growth runner Elliot Giles, who won safe and fun environment. Wimbledon’s Broadway. during the back to school bronze for the senior GB team Parkrun was a fantastic Please visit www. period suppliers and retailers at the European Championships precursor to the 2016 intersport.co.uk for further arrived at the Q2 Show in this year. £250k Intersport Run Reigate Half information about Intersport September in great form. Intersport store Nick Rivett Marathon and 10K event on UK or follow on Facebook, The Intersport shows follow Sports, based in Hove, had Sunday, September 18, started Instagram or Twitter for all the category approach focusing the opportunity to share their by none other than Double the latest news. on the key sports for the passion for their local running period, with Q2 seeing tennis community which has helped and cricket come to the fore. them to build their own Run The showrooms were brought Squad and a close affiliation to life by the supplier brands' with parkrun, making them a new product and marketing real running destination store. stories with an emphasis on Having been inspired exclusivity for the group. the night before, a group of After a busy first day at Intersport retailers gathered at the show the social evening 7am with the Nike EKIN’s to trial “It’s a was hosted by brand partner the new Structure running shoe NIKE who took the retailers on a 5k route along the local no-brainer across the city to the Alexander canal paths. Stadium, home to Birchfield To keep up with what – people want to Harriers Athletics Club and host Intersport are up to follow us on to the annual British Grand Prix. FB intersportUK or tweet us come and run” NIKE shared insights into their @Intersport_UK

@SportsInsightUK

Intersport.indd 1 10/10/2016 15:37 Wholesale and distribution 19 REYDON SPORTS – The One Stop Shop

re you tired of being one place. It's one phone swamped by many call, one delivery, one invoice, A different brands and one rep. Gone are the days suppliers? where you need to deal with Reydon Sports features multiple suppliers. more brands and products “We've got an exciting, than ever before and you can brand new website coming and get them from one place, in just a fantastic telesales service. We one delivery. can take all the hard work out of As the UK's largest Sports managing and ordering stock. Wholesale and Distribution “If, for example, you were Company, Reydon Sports supply looking to open up your own a vast range of sporting goods sports store, from scratch, then and services to the independent we can fill your shelves for you ' +(44) 115 900 2340 8 www.reydonsports.com sports trade. All the hassle of with one phone call and one stock buying, gone in an instant. delivery. We can offer you a wide In a sentence, Reydon range of world renowned brands Fox TT (table tennis), Midwest it to your door free of charge margins on our own brands, Sports are the one-stop-shop from our warehouse, and we can (American sports) Swimtech the next day, if your order is and these can be bought for sports retailers. offer you that 24/7. (swimming), Dukes (cricket), over £100.” alongside our huge range of David Sanderson (picture), “We have brands that we own, and not forgetting their hugely Reydon are the official international brands. Brand Director, said: “We are the brands that we are official UK successfully fitness brand UFE. suppliers to the Stag buying “As an addition, we are now stock room distributors for and brands that In addition, they offer brands group, Intersport buying group able to offer an in-house printing of the we are third party distributors.” such as Bliz Eyewear, Puma, Fox and the RSI Group, a new buying service on our team kits. independent Reydon have developed a 40, Speedo, Shock Doctor, Head, group in Ireland. “In a nutshell, you have one sports retailer. wide range of highly successful, Wilson, Molten, Makura, and Reydon also offer great deals dedicated point of contact for “We have a in-house brands which include; SmellWell, amongst many others. on their own range of products. all our brands, no stock order massive range Precision (footballs, goalkeeping Sanderson added: “You can Sanderson added: “We are commitment, for bespoke, value of brands you gloves and training aids), MANTIS buy all these brands from Reydon able to offer incredible discounts, driven brands tailored to the can buy from (tennis, squash and badminton), on a daily basis and we will deliver giving the retailer stronger independent sector.”

www.sports-insight.co.uk

Reydons.indd 2 10/10/2016 15:46 20 sports hub The place to source all your products and services

THE HIPSTER ARENA 2UNDR –PERFECTION TECHNOLOGICAL WAIST BELT FASTPACK 2.1 IN YOUR PANTS UPGRADE Multiple pockets keep your essential A large 45L cupboard construction New to the UK, 2UNDR is essentially a Runners will never again have to cut items snug and secure in this super- backpack. It's perfect for the changing Premium, Technical and High Performance short their run because of their shoe, soft, step-through belt, that can be room environment as it can be hung Sports underwear brand which is taking thanks to the GT-2000 4 LITE-SHOW worn at the gym, on the run, and by carabiner and used as your very the USA & Canada by storm. Featuring PLASMAGUARD. The GT Series has around town. Comfortable and stylish, own locker. Its large enough to fit all the Joey Pouch for Ultimate Comfort and always been the go-to running shoe and The Hipster stretches to fit your training aids in and has ventilation for Fit – Think Base layer, think compression now with the water repellent Plasmaguard individual contours. And best of all, it moisture control. Easy to handle and then think better, much better, 2UNDR is and Lite Show technology there is no fits your iPhone 7 Plus! comfortable to wear. a whole new ball game! excuse to prevent a run.

08448112001 015396 22322 03333 583 151 01925 241041 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.2pure.co.uk www.solosports.co.uk www.2undr.eu www.asics.co.uk

PERSONALISING THE PACK FOR BYTE HOCKEY HI –VIS SPORTS KITS ANY SPORT LUGGAGE RANGE HYDRATION PACKS Brother's innovative, stylish and A favourite among sports lovers, this For season 16/17 Byte has launched a new The Hi-Vis Flow is a slimline, lightweight, competitively-priced sewing and embroidery lightweight and compact pack is redesigned luggage range. The MX stick bag offers pack aimed at cyclists, runners or anyone machines allow retailers to target teams with an improved harness and more excellent value for money at £20. The needing an efficient hydration system. It with personalisation services. They produce compression. Minimalist design, maximum MX bag which is ideal for junior hockey comes with two zipped side pockets for professional, bespoke embroidery at the comfort. With a stretch mesh pocket on the players has a single shoulder strap, mesh phones, keys, multi-tools or other bits touch of a button. The PR1000e and harness for stashing gels, you can hydrate side pocket for either shinguards or and pieces. It has a two-litre hydration PR655 machines can add logos, names and and refuel without slowing down. Front and water bottle and one front pocket. The bladder and a screw cap filling port for numbers to tops, shorts, jumpers and bags. back reflectivity keeps you visible too. capacity is two sticks. easy cleaning.

0116 234 4611 01382 564290 0131 554 5555 0161 235 0344 [email protected] [email protected] george.sandison@ www.brothersewing.co.uk www.burton-mccall.co.uk www.bytesports.com brandagility.co.uk

@SportsInsightUK

Sports Hub.indd 1 10/10/2016 15:04 21 sports insight selects RECOVERY FOR YOUR FEET OOlala Bermuda Blue two-toned good looks you can wear all day, glossy uppers, bold colors, and a slimmer, more streamlined silhouette. Expect the same OOfoam technology and patented footbed design as our OOriginal to take the stress off tired feet and joints. Available in eight shades that go with everything www.oofos.co.uk, [email protected]

CLONE CUSTOM CONTIGO, SUPPLYING THE BRIGHTEST RECOVERY TIGHTS HYDRATION TROPHIES - IT’S A RUNNER Recognising every athlete is a different Hilly has partnered with 3M reflective shape and size, CEP launched its Clone WITHOUT SPILLS NO-BRAINER technology and LYCRA SPORT to provide Custom Recovery Tights. Using medi- Newcomer Ashland eliminates any risk of It’s a product that every team, club or event the ultimate in high visibility running socks. compression technology, the tights fit dehydration during exercise. The water uses at least once a year. As a sports retailer The vivid fluorescent yarns and reflective the athlete’s unique proportions. Using bottle comes in two sizes: 720 ml or a you supply the shirt, ball, racket and even the graphics provide a flash point at the ankle 41 measurements, the fitting process is larger 1.2 l version. Simply push the button socks, so why not the trophies? There’s no to motorists and other pedestrians. The incredibly thorough and delivery is 2-3 and the spout flips open. The extra seal big stock outlay, you don’t need to engrave Lumen socks are an easy way to get night- weeks after being measured. prevents accidentally pushing the button. and you already have the customer. time visibility and daytime conspicuousness.

01432 373500 02081 333452 0116 244 8131 0161 366 5020 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.cepsports.co.uk www.mycontigo.com www.glenway.co.uk www.hillysocks.com

SHOCK DOCTOR NEED RETAIL OS1ST FS6+SPORTS SAFETY AND FUN FLAVOUR FUSION LOGISTICS IN THE COMPRESSION IN THE SUN AT MOUTHGUARD SPORTS SECTOR? LEG-SLEEVE JAKABEL The reliable Gel Max mouthguard delivers We provide bonded warehousing and The FS6+ Performance Compression Leg Jakabel is a one-stop shop for sun essential protection and comfort for all retail distribution in the UK and Europe Sleeve relieves Plantar Fasciitis, Shin Splints, protection and safety, in and out of the performance levels. The Gel Max is available for goods manufactured in the Far East Leg Cramping and Achilles Tendonitis with water. They specialise in ages 0-13 years as in an array of flavours that stay fresh all or US. The location of our warehouses one light, comfortable foot+calf compression well as adults – selling floatsuits, wetsuits, season. This multi layer mouthguard is easy (within Southampton Container Port) leg sleeve. FS6+ Featuring our unique uvp50+ wear, swimming pool toys and to fit, provides great protection and is mean time and cost savings can be made Brace Layer System and Compression accessories in top quality fabrics. Delivery is suitable for all ages. throughout your supply chain. Zone Technology 2-3 days with no minimum order quantities.

01582 670 100 01489 799500 0844 811 2001 020 8715 2385 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.shockdoctor.co.uk www.importservices.co.uk www.2pure.co.uk www.jakabel.com

www.sports-insight.co.uk

Sports Hub.indd 2 10/10/2016 15:04 22

To see your products on this page contact [email protected] or call 01206 500243. : www.sports-insight.co.uk Sports Insight @SportsInsightUK

BE BRITE BE SEEN PING PONG REUSCH RE:PULSE MANTIS POWER Be safe this winter with the Optimum ANYWHERE NET SET S1 ROLL FINGER SQUASH RACKET NiteBrite Cycling range. Featuring Jerseys, The Ping-Pong Anywhere Net set is a A very popular roll finger style The new MANTIS Power Squash Racket Jackets, helmet covers, Bags, Gloves and must for all stores this Christmas. This from Reusch incorporating the is our lightest and most powerful squash Bike lights, this range is one of the best regulation-height net extends up to latest sponsorship colours, seen on racket. Exceptionally manoeuvrable, the on the market today. Ensuring the rider is 6’ and clamps easily onto any type of Professional pitches up and down the racket allows players of all abilities to easily warm, dry and most importantly seen; this surface even the dining room table. country. An ergonomic cut makes the swing the frame and generate pace. The range is a must for the evening commute. Complete with three ITTF balls, two glove very comfortable to wear and the open throat design and open conventional High-Visibility, Waterproof, Thermal, regular sized rackets and a carry case it is S1 – Super Soft offers good cushioning string pattern also gives ultimate levels of Breathable, Wind-Tex, Lightweight the perfect Christmas gift. and a reliable grip. power. Available in red and blue.

01942497707 01635 517560 0161-439-4383 0115 900 2340 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.reydonsports.com www.optimumsport.com www.phoenixsportinggoods.com www.reusch.com

RUNNING TECNIFIBRE T-FIGHT SKINS DNAMIC TECNIFIBRE PRO IN A WINTER TENNIS RACKET THERMAL RED CODE WAX WONDERLAND RANGE COMPRESSION The string is designed to offer the best Running all year round is punctuated with Available in seven weights from 265g The range provides advanced compression combination of Spin and Durability, mild winter days and cold, fresh mornings. to 320g, with 98in2 (300g+) and 100in2 technology, increases muscle oxygenation, and is well priced from only £2.65 per A runner’s wardrobe should have a number (265g+) head sizes. Seven of the top 100 stabilises active muscles and reduces blood set. Manufactured using the exclusive of transitional pieces, which allow them to ATP players use Tecnifibre's T-Fight rackets, lactate build up, to enhance performance Thermocore Technology to produce the cool down or warm up. Ronhill has a new including British number two Alijaz Bedene. and speed up recovery. The fabric is brushed softest and most comfortable polyesters on selection of hoodies, merino base layers All come pre-strung in a premium Tecnifibre on the inside to trap air, providing excellent the market. A very affordable high quality and zip tees that would make ideal options. string worth £20 plus as a restring value. insulation and thermal protection. polyester tennis string from Tecnifibre.

0161 366 5020 01932 781311 01543 420550 01932 781311 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.ronhill.com www.tecnifibre.com www.skins.net www.tecnifibre.com

@SportsInsightUK

Sports Hub.indd 3 10/10/2016 15:04 23 sports insight selects FILM, EDIT, SHARE. The new WASPcam 9905 Wi-Fi gives users the freedom to Film, Edit and Share every moment, no matter where they are filming. The WASPcam 9905 allows users to go from land to water without a waterproof case to a depth of 98 feet (30 meters) and records HD Video up to 1080p/30fps. To learn more please visit www.waspcam.com

MAC IN A WINMAU BLADE 4 NEW TRAINING BOOTMATETSI WORKS SAC ULTRA DUAL CORE SWIMWEAR FROM MP WITH YOUR BOOT Made from highly breathable VaporLite Blade 4 Dual Core reaffirms Winmau’s values The new range of Training Swimsuits from A great deal of tech packed inside one fabric (10,000gsm), Mac in a Sac Ultra of design, craftsmanship and engineering MP, the partnership between Michael insole. Designed for studded and spiked is the performance jacket of choice for excellence. Dual Core technology reduces Phelps and Aqua Sphere, is available from footwear. With easy fit shock absorbing. high activity. Weighing just 185g, Ultra is surface pressure for higher scores twinned November. The men's jammers and briefs Ideal for natural and artificial surfaces. lightweight and packs away into convenient with increased inner core compression for and women's racing back and open back And improves foot function. Ask about sack. This VaporLite fabric is Teflon coated improved durability. Fitted with Rota-Lock’s swimsuits meet performance demands our great starter pack offer and how and is windproof, water-repellent and has triple wheel locators this is the most easy-to- and come in stylish graffiti-inspired prints we can work together. Incorporating reflective features front and back. fit dartboard in the world. and high saturation camouflages. patented insolia flex.

028 9079 0588 01656 767042 01254 692200 0808 2020 126 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] rob@robgregorysports www.macinasac.com www.winmau.com www.michaelphelps.com/uk agencies.co.uk

TRIGGERPOINT'S TARGET DARTS PHIL MCDAVID UCOOL PEARL IZUMI PURSUIT GRID FOAM TAYLOR POWER- ULTRA COOLING COLLECTION ROLLERS 9FIVE GENERATION 3 TOWEL HIGHLIGHT Triggerpoint's patented multi-density The Power-9Five Generation 3 is the latest The McDavid ultra cooling towel cools the The Men’s PRO Pursuit Long Sleeve Wind pattern channels blood and oxygen through dart used by 16-time World Champion Phil body surface by 12 degrees celsius when Jersey is the perfect balance between the tissue helping to alleviate common ‘The Power’ Taylor produced by Target wet. Radiator-like fibres circulate, regulate weather protection and performance for muscular discomfort. Use Triggerpoint Darts. At the BBC Champions League of and evaporate moisture in a way that makes cool weather riding. It features summer GRID's for a self-massage and roll through Darts this September, Taylor produced a the towel cool to touch. Simply wet, wring weight Transfer In-R-Cool and Softshell the tight muscles, knots and kinks that stunning display with this dart to win the out and expose to the air. Features copper Lite fabric panelling for maximum prevent feeling good and moving well. tournament and £100,000. infused material for antibacterial protection. breathability and a form fitting cut.

0330 333 5098 01279 410 155 01582 670100 01908 326032 [email protected], [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.fitdist.com www.target-darts.co.uk www.hy-pro.co.uk www.pearlizumi.co.uk

www.sports-insight.co.uk

Sports Hub.indd 4 10/10/2016 15:05 WINGS FOR WINNERS CEP WINGTECH SHIRT

SMARTWINGTECH STRIPES FOR A POSTURE-ENHANCING EFFECT. MUSCLE STIMULATION. IMPROVED POSTURE. ENHANCED PERFORMANCE. MEDICALLY BASED. ATHLETE DRIVEN.

www.cepsports.co.uk My Sporting Life 25

Sport Relief, celebrities, challenges, HELPING OTHERS – it's one way to not get bored Tony James talks to sports scientist Greg Whyte - the man to call if you have to swim the Thames or climb Mount Kilimanjaro

hat do Jo Brand, David the leading outdoor footwear Whyte has worked as a She hardly walked at all work hard you will achieve. Walliams, and Cheryl brand, to spread the word about consultant physiologist in before the challenge. Now It’s a great leveller. It’s all W Cole have in common, the benefits of getting out Olympic and professional she’s regularly out with a group about tenacity.” not to mention Eddie Izzard, and enjoying all that “nature’s sports, and pioneering exercise of friends. His family supported Chris Moyles and Gary Barlow? gym” has to offer. Merrell will therapy for cardiac patients, “All the celebrities I’ve his sporting ambitions and The answer is that they’re use Whyte’s expertise and cancer sufferers and anyone worked with have wanted to Whyte will always be grateful just a few of the celebrities motivational talent to highlight who can be helped by becoming give up at some stage but for that. He was an Olympic hardly known for their the health and fitness benefits more active. none of them have. These are pentathlete in 1992 and 1996 sporting prowess, who have of outdoor pursuits. But it is as the man behind really tough challenges normally and won silver in the 1994 world been coaxed and cajoled into “We are delighted Greg the Sports Relief challenges done by top endurance athletes championships. Since then he’s achieving extraordinary feats has joined forces with us,” says that his skills have hit the and these guys are a long way kept ferociously fit and can’t of endurance by a man who Merrell marketing manager, headlines as he cajoled over from that. resist a challenge. He’s swum believes that virtually anything Hugh Sweeney. “His industry 50 mainly unsporting celebrities “Tough times are going to the Channel, done the Race is possible if you put your experience and credibility to achieve extraordinary feats happen - the question is what Across America and an Ironman mind to it. will enable Merrell to amplify of endurance. are you going to do about contest and last year ran the In the process, Professor its mission to get the nation Under his guidance, Eddie it? My job is to be confident Marathon des Sables. Greg Whyte has helped raise outdoors, whatever sport or Izzard ran 43 marathons in 51 because they look to me to a staggering £35 million for activity they choose.” days and Davina McCall rode know whether they can do it Comic Relief and Sports Relief “Physical activity is my her bike through 60mph winds or not. projects - and not done any great passion. It forms the when professionals would have “Not only am I doing it with harm to his reputation as a basis of much of my work and given up. Jo Brand confounded them, but my job is to motivate QUICK-FIRE world-renowned sports Merrell shares this vision,” everyone by walking from Hull and support them and also scientist and a motivator Whyte says. “Nowadays we are to Liverpool. strategise as we go.” QUESTIONS with a magic touch. surrounded by technology and For the challenges, Whyte He’s always there in the After all, he got John Bishop devices which enable us to be donates his time and expertise background and while the to run, row and cycle to Paris less active. for free. “One of my goals is to celeb gets the glory, Whyte is 1 after his knees went and David “Being involved with Merrell persuade people in the public the one who keeps everything PROUDEST MOMENTS Walliams swam the Thames will mean that hopefully we eye who don’t think they are up going. “I take a scientific after being up all night with can persuade people who to doing exercise to have a go approach - my preparation The births of my diarrhoea and vomiting. And normally wouldn’t think about and see how it changes them. and planning is meticulous three children Cole, Moyles and Barlow exercise to get fitter and enjoy “Exercise is for everyone and I lead by example. admit they only reached the physical challenges.” and Jo Brand is a great example. “The motivation for me is 2 top of Mount Killimanjaro that what we do really does thanks to Whyte. make a difference to people’s BIGGEST REGRET A former Olympic “Whyte fits more into a week than lives. I’ve had the chance to see Not winning an pentathlete and now a how and where the money is Olympic medal supremely-fit 49-year-old, many of us manage in a year.” being spent. I’ve been to Africa, Whyte fits more into a week Kenya and Ethiopia. It sounds 3 than many of us manage in trite to say that £5 can change a year. He’s a professor in someone’s life but it’s true.” GREATEST INFLUENCE applied sport and exercise He tells the story of an My dad, who taught at Liverpool’s John Moores elderly woman in Ethiopia who me about hard University, and a director of the spent her £5 on putting a new work and humility London centre for health and roof on her house. “She said the human performance and sits on previous winter she hadn’t slept countless august medical and because she had been bailing 4 scientific bodies. water out of her house but this BEST MOMENT He’s also found time to year she could sleep. Her life publish 200 scientific papers was completely transformed for Watching a in the area of sport and exercise a fiver. I was welling up.” celebrity crossing and medicine, and eight Whyte understands these the finishing line books with titles like Achieve things. He’s from a working the Impossible. class family. “What my dad gave 5 “It’s busy, very busy,” me was a sense that you have says Whyte, who now lives to work hard. He had two jobs. BIGGEST CHALLENGE in Buckinghamshire with his One was in a car factory for 43 Being a father! wife and three children. “But years. We’d be up at 5.30am for it’s good fun. Perhaps I get swimming training. He’d come 6 a bit bored. Maybe that’s my home, grab a meal, go to work problem.” all night and come home to take REMAINING If it is a problem, he me swimming again. AMBITION certainly thrives on it. “Sport was very much a part To continually Then there’s what he calls of what we did. Most sport is challenge myself his “media work”, which includes classless. It doesn’t matter how a recent link-up with Merrell, much money you’ve got, if you

www.sports-insight.co.uk

My Sporting Life.indd 2 10/10/2016 14:58 GIVE YOUR CLUB A UNIQUE, OWN IDENTITY WITH SPECIAL DESIGN CLUBSHIRTS

Reece Australia is a specialist in multifunctional sportswear and casual fashion. Over the last decade Reece Australia has grown into an international specialist in stylish hockey products. Our aim is to create beautiful products that enrich peoples sports experiences, with colourful, fresh designs and a little bit of rebelliousness in the design to create the stand out from the

Our Special Design hockey shirts can provide a club YOUR SPECIAL DESIGN CLUBSHIRT IN A FEW STEPS with its own unique playing kit and identity. Shirts can be produced in a sublimated or cut and sew option. A sublimated shirt is a printed shirt that can be produced in any design and colour. The sponsors logo and club badge can also be incorporated at no extra cost. The cut and sew option is a shirt using separate colour patches, sewn together. A choice of collars can be selected and the club logo can be embroidered into the shirt. © WSP/Koen Suyk

The material for both shirts is 100% high ClimaTec

HIGH TECHNICAL FIBRE quality polyester with Climatec finish. by 3-guard This fabric is breathable, moisture wicking and 100% colourfast.

SUBLIMATION CUT & SEW CUT & SEW COLLARS

no buttons buttons CUFFS

standard cuff tape cuff LOGO OPTIONS

club & sponsor logo included body is made of 1 panel body is made of 2 or 3 panels embroidery embroidery “elite”

For further information about Special Design or Reece Australia, please visit www.reeceaustralia.com or contact our Sales Department on 01332 378966 or [email protected].

special design_UK_2016-2-potrait.indd 1 09-06-16 16:13 Promotion 27 FULLY LICENSED This is an excellent time for independents to get in on the lucrative football brand market, says Mark McDonnell, head of sport at Hy-Pro International ooty fans love a bit of club the past 10 years, more and brand Zinc. major chains selling products cut get in on the action are invited branded merchandise. more companies have joined the “Signature balls continue price. But that's changed now. to attend a one-day licensing F And no one knows football licensing market, which to be one of our key lines, The chains aren't as cheap as show at Chelsea Football Club more about football licensing means Hy-Pro have to work particularly with club marquee they were – they think they've on Nov 14 (sportsmerchandise than Mark McDonnell. “I used to harder at what we do.” signings – and are great to outdone the competition.” andlicensingshow.com) – where work for Manchester United on The business is also getting get into a shop in the run up Hy-Pro is thriving. “We Hy-pro will be exhibiting. their merchandising team– back more complicated. A football to Christmas.” continually invest in guaranteed “It'll give retailers an idea when it sold product through club might have up to 40 Hy-Pro products are good winners and product innovation of who owns which categories their own wholesale set up. different licenses for different quality and undergo stringent in terms of souvenir sales – and and what's on offer. All the Then 15 years ago the licensing products, for instance, replica tests to ensure club standards even though competition has football licensing categories will business started to emerge kit, stationary or bedding. “A are strictly adhered to, though increased, we're still a major be there, including us. It's well- and I moved over to Hy-Pro to knock on effect of this is that it's price points are slightly under player in this category,” says worth attending to get a feel for deal with it. Hy-Pro started out more difficult now to gain actual items from larger brands such Mark. Retailers that want to what's going on,” says Mark. working with US hockey brand floor space instore because as adidas and Nike. Franklin, but moved into football there are so many options for A large part of Hy-Pro's licensing as the opportunity retailers – but the hard work business does go into the chain arose. Man U and England were pays off,” says Mark. “We've just and grocery sector, but they also our first football clients. We've been through a huge number sell to the independents. “We expanded massively over the of renewals with the likes of offer a great service. We carry years and now work with all the Barcelona, Chelsea, Liverpool healthy stocks top clubs.” and England – and we've just in our UK warehouses in As competition within the added West Ham, Real Madrid Dunstable and the independents industry has increased, the and Paris St Germaine.” can draw down stock whenever business has changed. “Football Hy-Pro specialises in sports they need it. We have a is a safer bet than the likes of accessories including footballs, £300 minimum spend, but character licensing – it's here to shin guards and water bottles. alternatively, retailers can stay, which makes it attractive “We can also add football buy our products through investement,” says Mark. branding to other products that wholesalers. “Financial reward, fan bases we manufacture, for instance, to “Independents can be and global reach have also all scooters and skateboards that reluctant to sell licensed goods increased. It means that over we produce through our own- – they've been put off by the

www.sports-insight.co.uk

Hy-pro.indd 2 10/10/2016 15:51 28 The ULTIMATE sale of a sport The Ultimate Fighting Championship, flagship brand of Mixed Martial Arts, was recently sold for a staggering sum. Just how far can the self-proclaimed fastest-growing sport in the world go? Adrian Hill reports

he Rio 2016 Olympics tightened up, fighters began proved once again that to develop styles with aspects T the sporting landscape from across the spectrum and is an exhilarating and ultra- the MMA moniker was born. competitive place. Yet it wasn’t It has the glitz and glamour just the athletes who were of professional wrestling but involved in a frantic battle for the proper competitive action recognition. Activities both of boxing – it has become a ancient and relatively modern serious threat to both. jostled for attention, fighting When American duo Lorenzo for valuable airtime to sell their Fertitta and Dana White bought wares to a global audience. UFC in 2001 it was worth $2 With visibility comes increased million…15 years later they sold interest and, so the theory it to sports and entertainment goes, an uplift in participation powerhouse WME IMG, – a cocktail to turn the heads reportedly for an eye-watering of broadcasters and potential $4.2 billion (£3.25bn). UFC will sponsors alike. not confirm or deny this figure But, you have to look away but there is no doubt that MMA from the Olympics for the is now big, big business. current runaway success story. Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), a frenetic combination of boxing, Investment kick-boxing, wrestling and WME IMG is a serious player in jiu-jitsu played out in a caged the sports industry, each year octagon arena, has gone from a producing more than 52,000 barely-known activity 20 years hours of sports programming ago to become one of the most and distributing an additional instantly recognisable sports of 32,000 hours on behalf UFC star Conor McGregor puts in the the 21st century. of more than 200 clients, sparrinbg hours to fully prepare for his fights If proof was needed of including Wimbledon, the NFL, its impact, the sale in July of the FA Premier League, Major Partners, KKR and MSC Capital. always, unpredictable.” and it’s true to say that the its most famous brand – the League Soccer and Euroleague These billion dollar businesses UFC helped to define the Ultimate Fighting Championship basketball. It represents a host UFC now produces more simply don’t back companies sport,” Elliott adds. (UFC) - is all that you require. of sporting stars as an agency than 40 live events annually and that are going nowhere. “Does it have the chance The UFC was created in and is also renowned for its reached the landmark of 200 It all puts UFC in a powerful to be the biggest sport in the 1993, originally promoted as marketing, event production shows since its inception in 1993 position as it looks to build on world? Yes, absolutely, it is battles between competitors and management. in Las Vegas in July. White was the ground-breaking seven-year current, dynamic and 100% from different combat sports WME IMG brings with them a there from the beginning, and $700 million TV deal signed consumer focused.” in a loose, edgy setting with clutch of investment houses into will continue as President. with Fox Broadcasting Company UFC is the biggest but by no few rules. The regulations were this UFC venture - Silver Lake “No other sport compares in 2011, which helped propel it to UFC,” says White. “Our goal means the only MMA success to the forefront of the minds of has always been to put on the story. California-based Bellator fight fans across the world. biggest and the best fights announced in August new UFC has overtaken the for our fans, and to make this broadcast deals for key markets likes of WWE to become the (MMA) the biggest sport in including Australia, Japan, largest Pay-Per-View (PPV) the world.” Russia and China. event provider, regularly “Bellator continues to enjoy attracting over one million explosive growth overseas

“buys” for each of its events Heavyweights where we are now in over 140 It’s a mighty ambition but the in the US market, and is countries and have entered broadcast in over 150 countries progress made in such a short into numerous foreign event to a billion households. time indicates that MMA can, partnerships,” says Eddie “The UFC has been if not reach that exalted level, Dalva, Bellator’s executive progressing and developing, at least stand toe-to-toe with vice president. Whereas, in successfully building an the traditional heavyweights. the UK, UFC is broadcast on incredible sport for a number It still has a long way to go to subscription channel BT Sport, of years,” says James Elliott, challenge football, American Bellator is shown on terrestrial Vice-President & General football, baseball, golf, tennis network Channel 5. Manager of UFC Europe, and basketball for financial Asia’s One Championship Middle East & Africa. clout; cricket, hockey, table has, in just five years, grown to “The past couple of years tennis and volleyball have a level where it is broadcast into have seen a tipping point where bigger fan bases thanks to one billion homes. the brand has seeped into the the vast audiences they No formal bid has been public consciousness and is truly attract in Asia, but every year lodged as yet but could it on the brink of being accepted MMA is creeping up on a key become an Olympic sport? as mainstream globally. competitor - boxing. According to Elliott, this is very “The brand is slick and The names of UFC much on the agenda. strong, our demographic age superstars Conor McGregor “Lorenzo Ferttita said in ranges from 15 to over 40, the and Ronda Rousey have February that he could envisage athletes are grabbing headlines, become almost as famous that (Olympic recognition) as the events are getting bigger as boxing greats Floyd a next step for the sport in the and better with the best sports Mayweather and Manny future. We share in that ambition James Elliott, Vice-President & General Manager of UFC Europe, production in the game, the Pacquiao in such a short time. and would fully support the Middle East & Africa. crowds are educated, the fans “The UFC has brought the governing body’s work to reach are engaged, the fights are, as sport of MMA to the masses that goal,” Elliott states.

@SportsInsightUK

The ultimate sale of sport.indd 1 10/10/2016 15:08 29

RUNNING

BRANDSare in step together Ronhill and Hilly marketing manager Oliver Carter is delighted to team up with Altra

perfect fit – that's how perfect complement to the his background as a textile been selling specialist run Ronhill and Hilly innovative brand. chemist, he was the first to use products for best part of A describe their new Altra has designed running synthetic fabrics in sportswear 47 years. relationship with Altra. shoes famous for their zero and invented a lot of the fabrics “So there is a history there, The UK company has drop technology which offers that today’s latest products are some great working ALTRA become the distributor for the runners the world’s first fully modern generations of. relationships and I think beside US brand that brings proper cushioned, foot-shaped, training Ronhill pioneered various the fact that we make great HAS DESIGNED biomechanical footwear to the shoe without an elevated heel. products including wrap- product we want to be very RUNNING SHOES running shoe marketplace. This unique platform allows over shorts, mesh vests, flexible with retailers which is FAMOUS FOR THEIR And Ronhill and Hilly's for a more natural foot strike waterproof running jackets perhaps something that not decades of experience in the and a more efficient, and reflective strips. every brand can offer.” running wear sector is the comfortable ride. He sold out of the company Carter is also looking Also their distinctive toe box in the early 1990s before forward to the new year. ZERO DROP follows the shape of a healthy setting up Hilly, specialising in Hilly will be continuing their TECHNOLOGY foot for more comfort, balance technical socks. upward momentum with a WHICH OFFERS and running efficiency. Carter said: “It's a perfect whole new range on offer. RUNNERS THE Oliver Carter, marketing fit. We're two specialist running He added: “For Hilly, which WORLD'S FIRST manager for Ronhill and Hilly, brands and we have the has had a great couple of years said: “It's a simple premise that opportunity to then take in in terms of revitalising the the most natural way of running a shoe brand which was looking range, coming in January next is not to have the heel drop. to build upon the existing year we are launching a brand “So it's promoting that zero base that the previous new range of compression drop base and also the fact the distributor had built up in a products in to the technical FULLY toe box is made wider so that it specialist run market. running sock story. CUSHIONED allows your toes to spread as “Its going to be working “It's probably one of the you hit the floor and push off. with the right retailers, to get areas which we had, no pun FOOT-SHAPED, “Ultimately its promoting a the right product onto the right intended, dipped a toe into TRAINING SHOE more natural way of running.” runners' feet. the water. WITHOUT AN Carter believes that they are “We work with a lot of the “But we've now gone back ELEVATED HEEL in the prime position to specialist independent running to the drawing board, we have help grow Altra's business stores in the UK and Ireland and got some really good product with their experience in the some chains abroad as well. and it's all medical grade running market. “Altra specifically we have compression so its top drawer.” Ronhill was set up in got the rights to distribute in September 1970 by Dr Ron UK and Ireland. Hill MBE. “And Ronhill and Hilly are a In the same year he was the UK business which are now first Briton to win the Boston taking a real foothold in the Marathon, in a then world export market. record time of two hours, eight “The fit between all the minutes and 29 seconds, and brands is good. won gold at the Commonwealth “From a retailer's point Games in Edinburgh. of view they are working With his love of running and with a company that has

' 0161 366 5020 8 [email protected]

www.sports-insight.co.uk

Hilly Ronhill.indd 2 10/10/2016 14:54 30 SELLING REPLICAS – are they worth a gamble? Paul Sherratt, of Solutions for Sport, looks at the lucrative football replica shirt market

ith sales of £250 million Without the leverage and with their own retail operations annually, and 57 per buying power many independents – improving their eCommerce W cent of overall sales are unable to purchase with operations, connecting better within the big five countries aggressive enough margins with their own fan databases and (France, Germany, Great Britain, to make it worthwhile to retail further taking sales from both Italy and Spain), Great Britain replicas. Kitbag and local independents. remains comfortably the biggest Once we add in other So do any opportunities still market for replica football shirts channels, such as grocery, exist? in Europe, according to NPD also joining the replica retail Neil Keeling of NK Sports consumer data. picture, then the sales and in Weston-super-Mare has In 2014, for example, Great margin opportunities become begun to focus his attentions Britain’s market size was more even smaller. on serving lower league teams than twice that of Germany’s and, and looking at driving replica thanks to the continued spectacle National Shirt sales by helping those clubs to of the Premier League, this trend However, some independent be more commercial. looks set to continue. retailers are beginning to He cites his greatest success However, despite these find alternative solutions for story as Weston-super-Mare FC: impressive figures, in recent years replica retail. “When we were first involved increasingly aggressive sales During major football the club was lucky to sell 15-20 tactics, predominantly by our Championships some retailers will replica shirts. We have now put multiple sports retailers, have led take a small quantity of national an online club shop in place, many independents to question shirts as much for “window communicated with the club whether, despite its size, the dressing” and to appear relevant database around shirt launches replica market is worth addressing. as opposed to necessarily shifting etc and now expect to sell over Indeed these aggressive any meaningful volumes. 120 replicas per year.” tactics have resulted in extensive To further offer a point of Similarly Peter Carpenter of retail price point erosion with difference a number of dealers Teamsport, Galway, has begun to the average replica shirt in also consider looking at “niche” work with his local club - Galway Great Britain now costing £30, national shirts - a strategy Utd – creating an online club compared to £43 in Germany, that is particularly effective in shop, managing the club shop at according to NPD consumer Scotland where, according to the ground and driving replica data, and thus potential margin Steven Dow, MD of Football sales in partnership. erosion as well. Nation in Edinburgh, 'If Scotland “This allows me to maintain do not qualify we usually see an exclusivity on the replicas as Price Fixing increase in interest particularly in well as working directly with the Its not difficult to trace shirts of nations that are playing club to enhance sales for mutual the beginning of this price in England's group- there are benefit” commented Peter. point decline. definitely customers out there So does this mean that there Just over ten years ago who want to wear something is still hope for the indpendent The Office of Fair Trading ( John Vickers, chairman of been the original whistleblower different- and in this case when it comes to replica retail? OFT) fined 10 businesses a total the OFT, said: "The fines imposed in 2000, handing the Office of anything but England!” Much like many other areas of £18.6 million for fixing the reflect the seriousness of the Fair Trading evidence of business of the sporting goods industry price of Umbro replica football price fixing in this case. Since we meetings held by sports retailers Club Shirt it is evident that the opportunity kits. High street chain JJB launched our investigation the to fix the price of football shirts, But does this same approach within the replica market is to Sports received the biggest prices of replica football shirts and it is Sports Direct that has work at local club level? find that point of difference – fine, almost £8.4 million, have fallen and consumers can ultimately benefitted. When Kitbag.com launched at whether it be working exclusively followed by kit manufacturer now shop around and get a With the decline of multiple the end of the 1990's their raison with a local club, finding those Umbro (£6.6 million). better price”. retailers such as JJB and allsports, d'etre was to stock every replica niche replica shirts/obscure The then Premiership With such a high profile case, Sports Direct have become the shirt across the entire football nations/clubs that are not widely champions Manchester United and such large fines, there is an UK's largest seller of replica shirts league and beyond. However, it or deeply stocked or simply were fined more than £1.6 million argument that suggests both UK and have used both buying power soon became apparent that the using them as a targeted way and the Football Association retailers and manufacturers alike and the basis behind this case to volume drivers came for a small to bring in customers to £158,000. have been much more aware lower prices to the benefit of the number of club replicas and, over purchase other items. The OFT investigation of the price points on these end consumer. time, the replica range reduced By looking at these found that at the time most particular lines since that time and, accordingly to showcase, alternative approaches margins retailers were charging just as such, have continued to remain Independent predominantly, Premier League can be maintained under £40 for an adult short- price aggressive on replicas. Opportunities and Champions League teams. and competition reduced. sleeved England shirt and just Interestingly it was Sports But where does that leave the At the same time many So....perhaps there is still under £30 for juniors. Direct's Mike Ashley who had independent? clubs became more proficient hope.

THE OFFICE OF FAIR THE AVERAGE REPLICA OF OVERALL SALES WITHIN THE TRADING (OFT) FINED SHIRT IN GREAT BIG FIVE COUNTRIES (FRANCE, 10 BUSINESSES THE BRITAIN NOW COSTS GERMANY, GREAT BRITAIN, ITALY AMOUNT OF £18.6 AND SPAIN), GREAT BRITAIN £18.6 MILLION FOR FIXING REMAINS COMFORTABLY THE THE PRICE OF UMBRO 57% BIGGEST MARKET FOR REPLICA MILLION REPLICA FOOTBALL KITS £30 FOOTBALL SHIRTS IN EUROPE

@SportsInsightUK

Replica shirt.indd 1 10/10/2016 15:53 Promotion 31

ventilation, and it also includes an integrated key pocket. The Feminine Soft Sports Bra also features mesh panels, a stretchy underband and even narrower straps, while the ODLO KEEPS IT COOL triangle bikini inspired the design nternational performance Seamelss and Pro ranges. of the Fitness Soft Sports Bra. sports and underwear brand Seamless is geared towards The on-trend Yoga Bra has I Odlo has pioneered new high performance sports seamless ventilation zones and is fabric technology development activities and Pro towards the multi-functional and the Padded since it was founded in Norway in everyday fitness and gym High Sports Bra, still available in 1946, and for SS17 it introduces enthusiast. All CeramiCool Black and White, is now available CeramiCool, the first active products also include in bright Beetroot Purple as well. cooling garment technology on comprehensive UV protection. Other key colours in the new the market. Spring-Summer 2017 sports bra This innovative new Odlo hits the gym collection are Fleur de Lotus and technology reduces skin Odlo will also be taking its Spectrum Blue. temperature by an all-important expertise in the outdoor sector 1ºC - keeping users cool and and applying it to the training comfortable indoors or out, and gym environment in 2017. Retail support even when temperatures Odlo has created a collection The new Odlo SS17 range will be are soaring. CeramiCool of active layers that are suitable fully supported in store with the technology works via a unique for training for any sport, with introduction of all new POS and three-way process: sports underwear underpinning promotional materials including Ceramic microparticles with the whole collection. Named an innovative retail stand designed to showcase the new excellent thermal conduction Odlo Studio, this new offering re-envisioned. While it maintains as sports underwear or as a CeramiCool Collection. Brand properties are incorporated into for SS17 is all about comfort and its renowned seamless gym base layer, while Evolution marketing support will include the garment yarn. These quickly creating the optimum balance construction and integrated X-Light remains the world's tactical print and digital draw heat away from the skin. between style and performance, functional zones, which provide lightest seamless performance advertising, ambassador The flat cross section yarn while providing the body with outstanding moisture underwear structure creates tiny air the best possible support in management, optimum sponsorship and a nationwide channels that quickly transfer terms of breathability and temperature and perfect fit Sports bras PR campaign. heat away from the body. moisture management for under the most demanding The popular Cubic all-season The lightweight, low bulk gym-based workouts. conditions, it has acquired underwear is now available in of the yarn increases Two key features of the several new and improved fresh summer colours with ODLO breathability and ventilation new Odlo Studio proposition features including additional sports bras made to make a INTERNATIONAL AG to boost cooling airflow. are Evolution Light base ventilation zones which increase fashionable statement. The The Odlo CeramiCool layers and Odlo’s new Sports breathability by 20 per cent. The Feminine Sports Bra is extremely 8 ODLO.COM Collection for men and women Bra collection. Evolution Blackcomb Light comfortable thanks to its broad, ' 0845 603 7289 includes pants, T-shirts and For 2017, Odlo Evolution collection is stylish and stretchy underband, while a singlets and is divided into Light has been totally multifunctional and can be worn central mesh panel provides

www.sports-insight.co.uk

Odlo advertorial.indd 2 10/10/2016 15:01 161005_Makura_SI_FullPage_Ad_Oct16.indd 1 05/10/2016 12:23 33 The Insider DAMOLA JOHNSON GIVES THE LOW DOWN ON LIFE IN THE TRADE AS STORE MANAGER AT BRISTOL'S BIKE UK

How did Bike up. A lot of bike shops have triathlon in the new season. gone out of business in the Hybrid bikes always do well for UK start out? us, but are not as good as two Bike UK has been in business last 18 months. They're either years ago. But those customers for around 20 years and was weaker generally or because will come back in a few years bought out by the current their customer service is poor, looking for their next bike. Not directors, Lyle Finley, Richard they've failed to survive. that the first bike isn't still good Chaplin and Ralph Catto, three enough, but now they've got Glenway Trophies years ago. They also bought out How do you keep the biking bug, they want to Ralph Colman Cycles in Taunton customers coming upgrade to a different genre at the same time, which had back? of bike. been in business since 1925. We go the extra mile and and Awards do things other retailers Why bike retail? don't. Examples are our Which brands work If you have ever thought about The directors don't have sports lifetime annual free servicing best for you? simple ways of bringing in extra backgrounds, but have all agreement on any bike priced Trek is our anchor brand, but revenue – well then it's time to worked in retail, marketing and over £350, and our seven we've got a huge choice of give yourself a trophy. finance. They're also all keen day exchange service where other bike makes across the Glenway Trophies and Awards cyclists and in their experience, customers can swap or upgrade spectrum including Whyte, believe that they know a way to it was difficult to find local bike parts – seat, tyres, etc – on Orbea, Ridgeback, Genesis, create extra income and engage shops to serve their needs. a new bike to make sure it’s Saracen and Focus. with the community. Given the growing interest in perfect for them, and only pay Glenway, the largest cycling, they decided the time the difference. Plus, we accept What about P&A? wholesale supplier of trophies was right to step in and pretty much any cycle to work We sell so many different bikes and awards in the UK, is celebrating its 40th anniversary change things. scheme vouchers – to so many types of cyclists, this year. even Halfords! we need to cater to all their And Tim Wilford (pictured), who has been with the How did you get into needs. Consequently, we carry company for 25 years, believes their products would be an Do you only cater to a massive array of parts and ideal enhancement to any sport store. the cycle business? accessories – I’d be surprised I had my own catering franchise He said: “More and more stores should be stocking local customers? if there was a bigger selection which was great for a while, As our marketing strapline says, trophies as a matter of course. anywhere in Bristol. but incredibly hard work, we are proud to be “your local “There is a big market out there. particularly doing it on my specialist” and being a local “The youth sport market is huge with football, rugby own. The recession didn't bike shop is key to our success Do you have an and hockey clubs, for example, having multiple teams help. I wanted out and when – you can’t pop into an online online arm? throughout the age ranges and they will always have trophy the chance came up, started store. However, our customer A year ago we introduced a presentations – with two or three awards per team. managing the shop in Taunton. service and huge range does click and collect service, again “But it isn't only sports' clubs that are on the lookout When the new directors took attract people from further the emphasis is on customer for trophies. over, they wanted me to work at afield, with regular visitors service and convenience. We do “Schools and businesses also have award ceremonies Bike UK, so that's what I did. from the Cotswolds, Wales, and however send out accessories and it is a good way for stores to engage with the local recently, even Uxbridge and by post. community on different levels.” Peterborough. Are you a keen cyclist? Glenway offer a huge range of trophies, awards I like mountain biking, though Marketing strategies? and medals with over 2,000 available for everything Provide high quality advice I would never have thought of What do you stock? from archery, martial arts and traditional ball sports to and service and gently prompt going into bikes as a job. But the We've got a huge range of windsurfing and ten-pin bowling. directors' way of doing business bikes – 150+ in stock at any customers to spread news by is the same as mine. They want time and more bikes on display word of mouth. It just snowballs, And Wilford believes that this provides an excellent to be the best in serving anyone than any other local bike shop. but you have to keep at it, opportunity to create another revenue stream in store for interested in cycling. A lot of The amount of choice appeals keep providing the service. very little outlay. bike shops are a bit too laid to customers. At the moment Bristol's got a lot of bike shops. He added: “They don't even have to get their own back, some even seem to look mountain bikes sell best, but We also invest a lot of time in engraving machines if they don't want to. down on customers if they two years ago it was road online marketing through the “We can offer everything that they need. don’t know what they want bikes. We are seeing growth in likes of Google to attract new “Most people when they are planning awards usually or aren’t spending enough. electric bikes and are also stock customers. know, at the very least, a week in advance and we can get We’re different. We want to all the engraving done. give everyone quality advice “We can supply samples for stores and a brochure so and service to enjoy whatever they don't have to hold a large amount of stock. kind of cycling they enjoy, and “We have no minimum spend and are happy to take at whatever level – be that an any order. electric assisted gentle ride in “It's a bit of a no-brainer for stores really. the park through to carving down the side of a mountain. “Also, having trophies on shelves in stores can be a talking point for customers.” The style and demand for certain types of trophies has What's the secret to changed over the years with crystal and glass becoming Bike UK's success? more desirable. Repeat custom, attracted Wilford said: “Glass trophies are becoming more popular by our quality of service and with customers now. friendly staff. We’re delighted to help someone select their “In the past it was more silver cups and shields and then first bike, but we also want we moved towards plastic trophies and resin-based statues. them as a repeat customer for “But we can offer a full range of trophies from medals accessories, or bikes for other and rosettes to shields, cups, statues, crystal and glass.” family members or friends, or For a full range of Glenway products and services visit their next bike if they get to www.glenway.co.uk or call 0116 2448131. the stage of wanting to trade

www.sports-insight.co.uk

The Insider.indd 2 10/10/2016 16:44 34 Nutrition

PROTEIN POWERS the dark days of training Dr Rob Child, Science in Sport's Chief Scientific Officer, explains how to fuel athletes through the winter months

latest advances in nutrition to going out to build muscle, take where I have been responsible for feedback a lot, in terms of where SiS products. half before training and half all the teams I have been involved they think the opportunities are in He spent many years at the during training, then take another in to ensure that the supplements the market and develop products cutting edge of research, before one afterwards. riders take, and have access to, to meet the needs of athletes or moving to elite sport and working “Which would be 40g of have been drug screened. for recreational riders as well.” in swimming, sailing, boxing and protein, which is what a lot of “It is a complete headache if The SIS community is very triathlon and is currently the the body building or the muscle you can't trust the products. diverse and has expanded from performance biochemist for building guys do. “I simply wouldn't supply them cycling, running and triathlon to Team Katusha, one of the world's “So it's quite a versatile to an athlete, there is simply too strength and power sports such top cycling teams. product and I think it is going much at risk. as boxing, rowing, gymnastics So Dr Child knows how to get to create a new category within “SiS screen all the raw and swimming. the best out of training sessions the industry. ingredients, which is actually Dr Child has worked with inter is coming and and what products to use to fuel “During winter training Rego the most sensitive and the most cycling teams Cervelo, MTN it's going to get dark, athletes to their goals. is still needed for recovery and thorough way to ensuring the Qhubeka and Katusha. W cold, wet and miserable He said: “In the northern the range of vitamins it provides products don't have any illegal He studied for a PhD at outside. hemisphere winters are cooler are important to help athletes contaminants in them. Wolverhampton University, The nice sunny runs and brisk and athletes tend to drink less stay healthy in the winter months, “They also swab the lines the leading muscle damage autumn outside exercise sessions during training. especially vitamins D and C. and test the final products research centre in the country, will soon be a thing of the past. “This can make dehydration a “In the early part of winter and probably have one of the Liverpool University School of So what happens now? Well genuine possibility. many athletes do additional most thorough drug screening Medicine and University College simple – the warmth of the gym “So hydration during and sports activities with their programmes in the industry. Chichester, the leading sports is calling. after training is still important, regular sport. “But they also haven't been science university in the country. And with that in mind, Dr Rob especially if further training “This often includes gym swayed by fad ingredients, which He said: “I moved away from Child (pictured) looks at what needs to be performed the same workouts, weight training a lot of companies will stick in medicine because even though products can help power through day, or in subsequent days. and skiing, while the athlete for a few years, because it is the you could do hi-tech stuff the a tough training period “Reduced fluid intakes during focuses on strength and power, buzz thing. problem was you couldn't do any Dr Child, Science in Sport's training results in a bigger energy particularly in the core. “The final thing was the team work with athletes. Chief Scientific Officer, is requirement from energy bars, “In the latter part of winter and the structure that they have. “So I learnt all my using his vast knowledge in protein bars and gels. most athletes reduce body “They are involved in doing biochemistry skills in medicine biochemistry and his experience “Team Sky actually use SiS’s fat, in preparation for the research trials on their products, and during my PhD and then in working with some of the industry-leading Whey20 protein competitive season. they have close links with went to work on athletes to do world's top athletes to bring the gel during rides, to reduce muscle “SIS’s high protein products academia and with the athletes. stuff on altitude training, muscle breakdown and improve recovery. are perfect for building strength “So they actually use athlete adaptation, antioxidants and all “These benefits are equally and power and reducing body fat sorts of stuff. important to recreational in the winter months. “Basically, it had given me the athletes, particularly during “SIS Whey protein, SIS tools to answer the questions that periods of hard training. Advanced Isolate can be used needed to be answered in the “Whey20 has made it even between meals and by varying sports world.” easier for athletes to reach the amount of carbohydrate their body composition goals consumed athletes can gain as it contains 20g of high muscle and/or lose fat.” quality protein in ready to eat At the Rio Olympics SIS format, but with less than 2g of fuelled an incredible 34 Olympic carbohydrate.” medals and work very closely Whey20 has very high levels with elite athletes. of branch chain amino acids However, after already in a convenient format and is working with elite athletes from innovative in its field as it doesn't around the world, it wasn't the have to be refrigerated opportunity of working with Child added: “In terms of Olympic athletes that attracted going to the gym it would be an Child to SiS. ideal thing to stick in your bag He said: “It was the ethics of and use immediately after the the company. training session. “They were very thorough on “You could, if you are really drug testing and that's an area

@SportsInsightUK

SIS nutrition.indd 1 10/10/2016 15:02 DANISH DESIGN - ACTIVE LEISURE WEAR

For futher details please contact: Martin Hudson T: 01697 742 711 E: [email protected] W: www.purelime.com F: www.facebook.com/purelime 36 Hit forty, get fit and buy the kit – THE POWER OF THE MAMILS Fiona Bugler takes a look at MAMILs' (middle aged men in Lycra) spending power and their influence on the recreational sporting market

hen ITV revived its they coined the phrase that’s time the number of cycling hit TV show Cold Feet now become mainstream. The enthusiasts grew from 3.5 million W (a comedy series media quickly grabbed the in 2012 to 3.8 million in 2013. In following the lives of three acronym and the 2012 Olympics England almost 200,000 golfers 30-something couples in the accelerated the cycling boom, left the game in a decade, and in 1990s), it was no surprise that particularly amongst men in 2013 researchers found that 20 the show now set 15 years mid-life - in Lycra. per cent of British golfers had on had its three lead men (all At the same time, traditional stated the reason they had given approaching 50) squeezed into sports such as golf witnessed up the club was to go cycling. green and black Lycra, sweating, a decline in participation, with struggling for breath, racing 18 holes being replaced by a Life begins at 40 each other before hitting the four-hour Sunday morning Mark Kleanthous, also known pub for a few pints – the very bike ride. Back in 2014, reports as ‘Ironmate Mark’ (www. definition of a MAMIL. were showing that in the US, ironmatecoaching.co.uk) is an Almost seven years often a barometer for changes advanced performance coach, ago market researchers, in habits, the popularity of golf author and triathlete who has Mintel found middle-aged men had declined between 2000 himself competed in 500 plus were spending more on bikes and 2013 from around 25 million triathlons, including double than any other age group, and players to 19 million. At the same ‘Ironman’. At age 55 he’s still able

@SportsInsightUK

MAMIL.indd 1 10/10/2016 14:57 37

to compete at a high level. In spending on accessories has September 2016 he came second increased. And it’s claimed that in the British championships for cyclists are now spending more ‘PACS’ (WHICH his age with a time of 5.05 in a on the accessories than bikes MINTEL DEFINES AS half ironman, which he followed themselves. ‘PACs’ (which Mintel INCLUDING BICYCLE up the weekend after with a defines as including bicycle PARTS, ACCESSORIES competitive performance in one parts, accessories and clothing) AND CLOTHING) WAS of Britain’s toughest triathlons, was valued at £1.25 billion in VALUED AT The Ben Nevis Braveheart 2014, whilst ‘just’ £956 million Triathlon. “Most of my clients are was spent on bikes. middle aged, successful business Sport England researchers people who run companies but have created profiles of typical now want to do an individual participants in all sports. Phillip event, something where they is typical of their MAMIL, a £1.25 are the only resource to rely middle aged, high earning on,” he said. “Athletic life now professional with a penchant seems to start at 40, with lots for bikes. The Triathlon BILLION of people choosing to celebrate Industry Association have also IN 2014, WHILST ‘JUST’ their benchmark birthdays with conducted research which has an endurance event. Seventy-five consistently found that the per cent of the people I see have Type A, middle aged man was not done anything competitively most likely to take part in the in the last 15 years,” he added. sport where you can spend upwards of 5K on a bike. Their Pushing the boundaries latest research, published in £956 Over recent years, MAMILs are June 2016, found the typical not just taking to the road. They triathlete is aged 42 with an MILLION are pushing the boundaries and average salary of £48,900. stretching their Lycra to the limits. An article in Telegraph Men, from Digital market WAS SPENT ON BIKES. February 2016, entitled ‘The Rise And although not quite digital of the Muddy MAMIL’ highlighted natives like their millennial a significant growth in mountain counterparts, most MAMILs biking as a pursuit for MAMILs. It are familiar with on-the-go fits the bill: expensive equipment, technology and are demanding adrenaline-fueled, technical and instant feedback. New launch an escape from our sanitized business Ampify are creating a lives. Off-road and ultra-running, digital solution for recreational adventure racing and tough athletes with a clever platform triathlons, also on the up, offer that will turn data from the same buzz for those realizing wearables into something useful, time might be running out. as well as providing nutrition “Most of my ironman tailored for best performance. athletes have either not “Middle-aged, professional make use of digital feedback. competed in a triathlon and recreational athletes who are We’re providing them a platform do so within a time-frame of time poor and cash rich, enjoy which will enable them to quickly around five years,” says Mark endurance sports, such as process information, analyze and Kleanthous. “And it’s not just cycling and running, are also measure progress,” he adds. ironman. I train athletes for likely to own wearable devices. Gordon Lott, from Forever events such as the Marathon These extend from the wrist to Media (an umbrella company des Sables, (250km of running the tennis racket, the golf club, for the Running Bug, Cycling in six days). Ninety per cent have the ski which will track, measure Bug and Forever Sports), says never even run a marathon.” and report back on progress as that the boom in busy, middle “the typical triathlete is aged 42 with they train,” says Damian Milkins, aged professionals participating Splash the cash director of Amplify. in sports such as running and an average salary of £48,900” Disposable income, empty nests “Professional people expect cycling has been helped by: and a desire to live a healthy, intelligent feedback and quick "the mass consumption of bite- track and give instant feedback The importance longer life mean the MAMIL responses, and many of them sized content on the move via on everything we do, and,” of nutrition is a retailer’s dream. As well are working with data all day mobile; availability of wearable he adds, another key driver is Managing nutrition and taking as bikes, Mintel has reported so are able to interpret and tech and smartphone apps that “an awareness of major health on supplements does become issues such as diabetes, obesity, more important as we age, and and mental health”. this opens up opportunities for retailers. “Protein supplements The health factor are close to becoming Clearly health, stress mainstream – well over a third management and a need to of runners use them, simply be fit for work are also strong because they’re a healthy motivators for the mid-lifers option for getting energy who also want to challenge while not putting weight on,” themselves, spend their cash says Gordon Lott. and do something with their Damian Milkins agrees: leisure time. And despite “There is already a large some of the recent warnings market for selling vitamins and about the dangers of taking up supplements on-line, however endurance sport in middle age, there is an information gap the benefits still outweigh any whereby people rely on risks. A Danish study published anecdotal information for in the journal PLOS Medicine what products they should reported that taking up cycling be taking to supplement in middle and late life helps to their health, training regimes cut the risk of type 2 diabetes or before, during and by 20 per cent. And if you want after events. Middle-aged to halt the middle aged spread, athletes also understand taking up endurance sport is a the importance of tailored no-brainer. A study published supplements and so we’ve in The British Journal of Sport devised tailored packs Medicine found that men who including nutrients such as keep fit are seven times more magnesium, zinc, B vitamins – likely to have a healthy old age. all important in midlife.”

www.sports-insight.co.uk

MAMIL.indd 2 10/10/2016 14:58 ImportServices_Sports Ad_265x360_HiRes.pdf 1 07/09/2016 19:30

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

WAKE UP TO THE FUTURE OF LOGISTICS ~ CONTACT A MEMBER OF OUR TEAM TODAY Call 01489 799 500 or email [email protected] IMPORTSERVICES.CO.UK Technology 39 See how your customers can BOOST YOUR BUSINESS User generated content is a powerful marketing channel that can lift a campaign to speak directly to its core audience, says Dave Howell

ser generated content According to Nielsen, a massive with 84 per cent of consumers (UGC) has over the 92 per cent of consumers trust globally considering it a U last few years proven peer recommendations above trustworthy source of brand or itself to be some of the most all other advertising. The trust product information.” effective marketing any store that was in the past placed in Today consumers have owner can use. brands has been eroded. Today, built highly-effective Using reviews, video, photos groups such as the highly- bunkers around or any other content in a coveted millennials need an themselves to stop campaign can elevate it to speak authentic voice when choosing what can be a tsunami directly to its target audience. which brands and retailers to of information and ad With masses of content available buy from. Brand advocates messages reaching especially across your store’s then become your store’s key then. As a store owner social media networks, it can influencers with more power this presents a massive be tempting to simply use this than any marketing campaign challenge when developing content for marketing. However, can hope to achieve. new marketing and ad you must ensure you have full “Whenever you’re planning campaigns. UGC is a highly legal rights to do so before your a UGC campaign you have to effective method of breaching campaign goes live. remember that it is designed these defences. Crowdtap, a social around your brand,” Joanna engagement and insights Halton, head of client strategy Audiences platform, says: “The UGC at myclever Agency, told Sports Tim Gibbon, founder and landscape covers a wide range Insight. “You’re losing some director at Elemental of creators, from high-reach control over the content that Communications, said: topical experts to everyday comes in because you can “Audiences and therefore peer influencers who share only ask people for what you potential customers want updates with their close want, you don’t control what to find and interact with networks via social channels. might actually be sent in. It is interesting content. A lot A reflection of the ‘real world,’ vital that if you’re going to run of the content having your online community is a UGC campaign that you put more chance of cutting though comprised of individuals who something in place to monitor the noise is likely to be UGC. online of course. Influencers already masses of content have their own passions, the submitted content and move More importantly, it’s likely to resonate with their followers to potentially use. interests and talents. Ensure quickly if it could be damaging.” be in environments that are who are looking for qualified UGC has a role to play in your UGC strategy takes into socially charged.” and honest appraisals of the your store’s marketing, but care consideration the full spectrum Sharing Stories In a recent Affilinet survey, goods and services they want needs to be taken to ensure of social influence and accounts For UGC to be effective in of 500 representatives of to buy. Choosing the right the right content is solicited for the unique motivations your store’s marketing it has e-commerce retailers, it influencers is important to and then used in an appropriate of everyday consumers and to connect with its audience. showed that 24 per cent get right, as it is they who can campaign. There is a mass of professional content creators.” The most powerful UGC tells had worked with bloggers or create the most engaging UGC content to choose from with stories, placing products or influencers. And looking to for your business. hundreds of thousands of Power services into a real-world the future, it revealed that 51 Here your research should photos, millions of articles and The power of UGC is the context that customers can per cent wanted more activity be detailed and thorough. hours of video uploaded and connections and relationships understand and appreciate. with bloggers, while 67 per Does the influencer have a shared every day. it makes with a highly focused Brand Republic with cent wanted more activity large enough following? What It’s vital to take time to group of customers. Influencers, Trustpilot, in their report into with social media influencers, is their reputation? Listening assess the UGC you want to use thanks to social media, can how effective online reviews described as having very to social media is a great way and then formulate a marketing reach their audience easily. can be, said: “Consumers popular accounts on Twitter, to locate the right influencers. campaign that includes your Cultivating these influencers is demand transparency, and it Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest What kind of content are they business’s key influencers and now a highly lucrative means to is the task of brands to match or other similar platforms. sharing? What’s being discussed advocates. Cultivate these increase sales and make long- this expectation. across their networks? With this relationships and your business lasting commercial connections “So-called earned Influence marketing information in hand, you can will see high quality UGC with customers. advertising – the Influencers have become then develop these people into that it can use to deliver the UGC supports the recommendation or advocacy incredibly powerful in today’s creators of the UGC you want commercial success advertising recommendation economy. of peers – is highly effective, retail spaces none more so than to use, if indeed, there isn’t simply can’t match.

HOW TO USE UGC SET GOALS MORE brand advocates. Rewarding them type of UGC works best in which All UGC should be just one component THAN VIDEO recognises that they are important marketing campaigns. of your wider marketing activity. Ask Video is of course a major source to your business. This reinforces the yourself why you are using UGC? What of UGC, but don’t forget the other relationship which will ensure continued COMMISSIONING UGC is the ultimate goal for the content? forms. The humble review when advocacy and also more UGC. Your store has a group of key attached to product pages are still influencers and advocates you could highly powerful pieces of UGC. REGULATIONS MEASURE YOUR UGC approach to create specific content The content you may want to It is vital to understand how effective for a UGC-based marketing campaign. use will be the copyright of the REWARD & or not the UGC in your campaigns use It is vital to ensure that it is clear you person who created it. You must RECOGNITION has been. Create metrics to measure commissioned this content when it is gain their permission to use in Remember that UGC at its heart is the UGC and wider campaign against. used. This ensures the integrity of the your campaign. created by influencers and your store’s You’ll then be able to identify what content and its creators is maintained.

www.sports-insight.co.uk

Social media.indd 2 10/10/2016 15:59 40 Retail Stepping up to the crease for CUSTOMER SATISFACTION Hand-picked bats, leather sofas and free beer – It's Just Cricket stump up to offer great service, educate their customers and grow their business

t's Just Cricket is putting customer care at the I forefront of their business and doing things just a little bit differently. Managing director and owner Paul Cole set up the business in 2011 and it has gone from strength to strength. They are the only specialised cricket store in central London (zone one) and believe that putting the customer and the love of the game above all else is what sets them apart. It's Just Cricket hand-pick all the bats they sell to ensure their quality, operate a club commission service, have an active social media presence and Managing director and owner their own YouTube channel. of It's Just Cricket Paul Cole Cole believes there is a simple explanation as to why people keep coming back to we love it and believe in it. the individual products that we spend their money at It's just "We only stock brands who we “We look to introduce think offer the best value for Cricket: “Quite simply, it's our smaller brands into the market - money in the market. customer service. trust in - and who we know Phantom and Boss are two “Essentially, any bat on “We are the highest-ranked major examples. our shelves comes with our cricket store in the world on where they make their bats" “They provide incredible personal guarantee - we can leading reviews' site, Trustpilot, value for money that the bigger tell you why we picked it and with a 9.7 out of ten rating over £400, that are under £200 about who we stock. brands simply can't compete the story behind it. spread over nearly 400 reviews. - something which is impossible “We only stock brands who with - and the quality is second “We are the only shop in the “We do our very best to without hand-picking. we trust in - and who we know to none. country which hand-picks each ensure a top service for each Chris Beaumont-Dark, Sales where they make their bats. “We are always looking for and every one of our bats, senior customer, regardless of order and Marketing Manager, said: “We only stock brands whose new brands to stock which and junior. value, making them want to “Competing on price with some bats we can hand-pick. conform to this ethos. “We pride ourselves on come back for more on a of the bigger, online only stores “That's why, despite their “Even within the bigger our honesty as a company, regular basis.” has been a challenge. popularity, we don't stock brands we do stock (Kookaburra, and see ourselves as educating They travel across the “It's meant we have to be New Balance bats, or Gunn Gray Nicolls, TON) we only stock the market as well as being country to visit factories and selective with what we stock and and Moore. just a shop.” warehouses and often, they find other ways to compete. “We'd probably make more That's not the only thing find bats which should be well “We are incredibly picky money, but we do this because that sets It's Just Cricket apart they also based themselves in what many would think is an unusual IT'S JUST TOP SIX BEST-SELLING location in Kennington Lane. Beaumont-Dark said: CRICKET'S BEST OTHER PRODUCTS “Business has changed as our SELLING BATS l AERO P1 WICKET KEEPING customer base has grown. “We have moved into a l PHANTOM ILLUSION FACE PROTECTOR Big Yellow Self Storage PRO RESERVE l AERO P1 KPR WICKET Building - away from a normal l PHANTOM SHADOW KEEPING INNERS high street location. “This allows us to keep PRO RESERVE l PHANTOM LIMITED EDITION l our prices competitive, and to NEWBERY KUDOS BATTING PADS have special rooms - like our PLAYER l PHANTOM LIMITED EDITION TYPE 1 Platinum Lounge. l NEWBERY MERLIN BATTING GLOVES “It's a luxurious space in which clients can have a free l NEWBERY l SHREY MASTER CLASS AIR beer or coffee and snacks, sit on PLATINUM TITANIUM NAVY HELMET our leather sofa, and sift through l KOOKABURRA l GRAY-NICOLLS SUPERNOVA our best 20 or so bats on our GHOST DUFFLE BAG handmade, custom bat rack.” And they don't want to rest

@SportsInsightUK

it's just cricket.indd 1 10/10/2016 14:57 41

on their laurels as they look to “We think our promoting the future and aim to break into to overseas customers, through new countries, keep growing and targeted newsletters, social educating the market. media promotions etc, will THEY TRAVEL ACROSS Beaumont-Dark added: allow us to nail down that THE COUNTRY TO “We've had a very good couple untapped market as a big VISIT FACTORIES AND of years, but we don't want to region for growth.” WAREHOUSES AND take anything for granted. It's Just Cricket engage with OFTEN THEY FIND “We have launched our own their customers through social BATS WHICH SHOULD range of bats, in collaboration media and their website. BE WELL with world famous brand It also helps them to pick Newbery, and these have proved out new trends and discuss popular - The Gold by Newbery them online. and The Platinum by Newbery. Beaumont-Dark explained: OVER “We want to keep growing “This is something we often by ensuring every customer cover in our blog. receives the customer service “Duffle bags are incredibly that we pride ourself on - while popular for example, and we see expanding our premises, our social this continuing. £400 media presence and our stock. “Further, bats with a slightly THAT ARE “We are at the forefront of shorter blade and longer handle emerging cricket markets. will continue to boom, as seen “The US is our second largest on BOSS and Phantom UNDER market, and we regularly ship to Performance models already Canada and the Scandinavian this season. countries too. “We've got a feeling some “With Brexit meaning the companies will move away from pound is weaker, and with our big edges and towards a more cheapest shipping rates yet, small edge big spine situation, or £200 we are expecting to continue fuller bats with less concaving, - SOMETHING WHICH IS to see a surge in orders from GN already has a model in the IMPOSSIBLE WITHOUT these locations. pipeline with this type of shape.” HAND-PICKING. "We pride ourselves on our honesty as a company, and see ourselves as educating Some of It's Just the market as well as being just a shop" Cricket's best sellers

www.sports-insight.co.uk

it's just cricket.indd 2 10/10/2016 16:36 42 Technology IF YOU CAN'T FILM IT – what's the point of doing it? The rise of the action camera sees a new player take to the stage. Mark Close, managing director of Cobra Electronics, explains the ethos behind WASPcam

ho is going to believe Mark Close, managing you did a triple director of Cobra Electronics backward somersault EMEA, said: “We understand W that not everyone picking across a 60ft-deep ravine if you can't share it online? up an action-sports camera And the rise, and ease, of plans on producing full- putting videos on the internet length feature films or motion has seen a growing range of pictures. action cameras jockey for “Many will want to create airtime. professionally polished edits A new kid on the block is with a WASPcam, and we’re WASPcam, a division of Cobra happy if they do. electronics, which stands “However, the majority of for Wide-Action-Sports- users simply want to capture Photography. footage of their passion, WASPcam was launched in wildest moments or biggest WASPCAM WASPCAM WASPCAM Ontario, Canada, in 2013 and achievements, and instantly 9905 WI-FI: 9906 CAMO, 9907 4K has grown its sales at home and share those clips with friends abroad and is now making a and fans online and they want MSRP: £199.99 MSRP: £229.99 MSRP: £299.99 Features: Waterproof without Features: Waterproof without Features: Waterproof without push into the UK. it to be easy. a case down to 98 Feet (30 a case down to 98 feet (30 a case down to 98 Feet (30 Their motto is 'Film. Edit. “Our goal is to build user- metres), records HD video up metres), records HD video up Meters), records HD video Share.' and they claim to not friendly, high-quality action- to 1080p/30fps, up to 12MP to 1440p/30fps, up to 16MP up to 4K/24fps, up to 20MP be like the other guys in the sport cameras that are simple photo quality, built-in Wi-Fi photo quality, built-in Wi-Fi photo quality, built-in Wi-Fi marketplace. and straightforward for pros connects camera to WASPcam connects camera to WASPcam connects camera to WASPcam They provide outdoor and amateurs alike. App, 1.5" LCD Screen, two LED App, 1.5" LCD screen, Two LED App, 1.5" LCD Screen, new enthusiasts with highly “And we strive to do it all safety lights. safety lights, ability to turn off video time-lapse feature, built- affordable, user-friendly and at a much more affordable all camera lights and sounds in GPS, mini side bracket for high-performance action-sport price.” for stealthy filming, new video optional accessories and unique cameras for professionals and WASPcam offers a family time-lapse feature. mounting angles amateurs to capture adventure of rugged, high-quality HD and PROVE IT. cameras and accessories.

To learn more please visit www.waspcam.com. ALTERNATIVES

TOM TOM BANDIT GOPRO HERO5 BLACK Features: Video at 1080p30, 1080p60, 720p60, Features: 2-inch Touch Display + Simplified 720p120 , Cinematic at 2.7k30, 4k15, native Controls, Video Resolutions up to 4K at 30 time lapse at 4k30, 1080p30 (various capture Frames per Second, Professional Quality 12MP intervals), native slow motion at 1080p x2, Photos, Auto-Upload of Photos and Video to 720p x4, WVGA x6, single and burst photo up Cloud when Camera is Charging, Voice Control to 16MP at 10/s, Wi-Fi, bluetooth smart and with Support for 7 Languages (additional USB3.0 connectivity, App available for both iOS languages coming), Simple 1-Button Control, and Android smartphones, multiple accessories. Waterproof Without a Housing to 33 Feet (10m), Compatible with Existing GoPro Mounts, Including Karma, Stereo Audio Recording and Advanced Wind Noise Reduction, Professional-Grade Electronic Video Stabilisation, Distortion-Free Wide Angle Video and Photos with NIKON KEYMISSION 170 New Linear-View Setting, RAW and WDR Photo Modes, GPS. Features: Equipped with an electric VR function and supports 4K UHD/30p recording of 170° ultra wide-angle movies, a tough body waterproof to 10 m, GARMIN ULTRA shockproof to 2 m, freezeproof to -10° C, VIRB 30 and dustproof. Furthermore, when the WP-AA1 Features: Small and lightweight Ultra HD action Waterproof Case⁷ (available separately) is used, camera with crystal clear 4K/30 fps video the camera is waterproof to depths of 40m. footage, 1080p/120 fps or slow motion capability Powerful support for recording activities and at 720/240 fps, G-Metrix built-in sensors and editing content. Compatible with the SnapBridge GPS, LCD colour touchscreen, use your voice to 360/170 app (for smartphones and tablets), shoot hands-free to start or stop recording, take and the KeyMission 360/170 Utility (for computers). Equipped with a variety of a photo or remember specific moments, Wi-Fi shooting/recording modes, including Add Slow Motion, Movie + Photo, Superlapse connectivity and ANT+ lets you easily connect to Movie, Loop Recording, and Time-lapse Movie Intuitive and simple operation, and a the Virb App on your smartphone. compact body that can be easily attached to clothing and gear.

@SportsInsightUK

Whats the point if you cant post online.indd 1 10/10/2016 16:03 Sports Insight Full Page Sep.pdf 1 26/09/2016 12:43

CMY

K 44 Internet sales give athletic footwear and clothing A HUGE BOOST The NPD group says ecommerce is a critical driver for growth s observed across Spain, growing from a 22 per NPD’s consumer panel per cent, though this has to what they may purchase various consumer cent value share the prior year. data allows for an analysis decreased from 54 per cent in in-store. industries, e-commerce Looking at the countries of the demographics spurring the prior year. A Reasons to shop continues to serve as critical where e-commerce is the most its growth. growth driver in the footwear advanced, the weight of online Deconstructing the value Price online versus in-store and apparel market, offering sales in Great Britain comes to growth in Great Britain for Whether in-store or online, Consumers have varied reasons consumers convenience, the 34 per cent, only surpassed by athletic footwear and apparel, price will always play a critical to opt for particular retailers, opportunity to research Germany at 36 per cent. e-commerce expanded by £183 role in consumers’ purchasing with price naturally being one of offerings efficiently, and often In contrast, online sales million pounds. decisions. the most salient motivators, sleek shopping experiences. account for 11 per cent of Though consumers often though other factors come into Online sales accounted for sports footwear and apparel turn to the online channel in play in swaying shoppers, such as 24 per cent of sports apparel sales in Italy and 12 per cent search of bargains, the average the product range on offer, the and footwear value in the 12 in Spain. spend online for athletic atmosphere and staff months to June 2016 across the Though the bulk of sales still footwear and apparel is 20 per competence to name a few. Big 5, including Great Britain, take place through traditional cent higher than what Comparing online to in-store, France, Germany, Italy and in-store channels, an analysis of £183 consumers pay in-store, unsurprisingly, price again the value change in the last year averaging £21.34 in the former features as the most prominent helps us appreciate the MILLION and £17.84 in the latter. motivator, though the weight of dynamism of e-commerce. Moreover, in both channels this is stronger for online sales For instance, in Great Britain Of this, adult male wearers the average discount comes than for in-store (31 per cent of the athletic footwear market represented 41 per cent of out to 25 per cent off the full value versus 24 per cent, expanded by £82 million growth, adult females price, though when respectively). Aside from over- pounds, 90 per cent of which accounted for 32 per cent and considering the actual value indexing on the price motivator, 24% came from online sales – a children generated 27 per cent discount consumers shave the online channel is also highly disproportionate figure of sales. off -£6.17 online versus disproportionately sought due to compared to the 35 per cent of In addition to driving £4.97 in-store. the ease of finding products and ONLINE SALES footwear value that is derived growth, adult men also hold the This suggests that when product exclusivities. ACCOUNTED FOR 24 PER from the online channel. greatest share of these three consumers do turn to the Meanwhile, a stand-out CENT OF SPORTS APPAREL In addition to enabling the segments, accounting for more internet for deals, it is for purchase influencer for in-store AND FOOTWEAR VALUE sizing of the online channel, than half of the market at 52 higher end products compared is proximity/location.

@SportsInsightUK

NPD.indd 1 10/10/2016 15:00 45 36% 34% ONLINE SALES AS % OF IN GREAT BRITAIN THE ATHLETIC FOOTWEAR & ATHLETIC FOOTWEAR APPAREL MARKET £ MARKET EXPANDED BY 12 MONTHS TO JUNE 2016

15% 12% 11% £82 MILLION

ADULT MALE WEARERS REPRESENTED GB ITALY SPAIN FRANCE GERMANY

AVERAGE SELLING PRICE FOR ATHLETIC 41% FOOTWEAR & APPAREL IN GB 12 MONTHS TO JUNE 2016 £21.34 £18.90 £17.84 THE AVERAGE SPEND ONLINE FOR ATHLETIC FOOTWEAR AND APPAREL IS 20% TOTAL ONLINE MARKET IN-STORE

www.sports-insight.co.uk

NPD.indd 2 10/10/2016 15:00 46 Under the counter a sideways look at the world of independent retailing STAND UP STRAIGHT – it's all in the mind t was one of those days which getting to us. We needed called Mike (aren’t they all?), effectively and increase your it’s good enough for you lot,” sorely tempts you to set fire to to learn how to deal with anxiety certainly knew his stuff. He said energy and resilience. Mike said, and you couldn’t argue the shop and run away to join and anger. that everyone could benefit from Over a cup of tea, Mike told with that. I us that standing up straight can Afterwards, Norman said he the circus. “I was watching a programme the techniques being taught to My assistant Norman got into on sports psychology,” he said. footballers and which centred also make all the difference to would stand up straighter in future a row with a man who wanted to “And that’s how Premier League on the prefrontal lobe of the our mental state. “We tell players and speak positively regardless buy one football boot lace and at footballers are trained to think.” brain, which is apparently vital that if their eye-line is lower than of the circumstances. So why not coffee-time the milk was off. “Come off it,” I said. “All for decision-making and fighting the corner flag they’re in trouble. give it a try, boss? We had a delivery of mauve they think about is: ‘Should I buy stress so long as it isn’t overloaded. Standing straight can increase We’ve got off to a fairly good shin-pads we hadn’t ordered and a Bentley Continental GT or a “How you talk to yourself efficiency and confidence by 19 start. The man who bought one a non-delivery of red and silver Lamborghini Gallardo?’ and 'Is affects the chemistry of the per cent. boot lace has come back for the Taiwan trainers that we had. I went Dubai in America?’.’” brain,” Mike said. “It works better “If you have your head down other and the gas company have to the bank and was within an ace A fortnight later we were when you’re positive. That’s and your shoulders slumped, sent a revised bill for £67.30p. of being kept in for observation. A at a sports psychology taster why we get players to practise your brain chemistry changes for The Taiwan trainers should bloke called to say we had read the session at the town football capturing negative thoughts and the worse. That’s why managers arrive by the end of the week gas-meter wrong and we owed club given by a man who converting them into positives. take off the players who aren’t and there are rumours that them £475. And that was only until had helped Wolverhampton We call it squashing ANTs - that’s standing up straight. It’s common there might be some changes lunch-time. Wanderers be relegated twice automatic negative thoughts.” sense really.” at the bank. As we were locking up, in successive seasons. He said that positive “It could be they’ve broken a I wasn’t expecting that Norman said that a few years ago Apparently he’d done a bit language releases dopamine leg,” someone at the back said, but standing up straight and saying we would have taken all that stuff better since then. and nordrenaline which enables Mike said that was just being silly. yes when you mean no could have in our stride. But now it was really The psychologist, who was the prefrontal lobe to fire more “If it’s good enough for Rooney, quite such a dramatic effect.

@SportsInsightUK

Under the counter.indd 1 10/10/2016 16:50 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT [email protected] SJ_ICE_ARRIVED_MAG AD_360x265mm_5mm bleed.indd 1 06/09/2016 23:22