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BASEBALL [email protected] TEL: 01942497707 MORE INFO? 4 WELCOME Brooks Run Happy to this month's Sports Insight Team 2019 The running shoe expert From the UK and Ireland, Brooks has put together a 25 applicants were selected to cross-country team of 110 motivate others to run and be active. running enthusiasts for 2019. True to its motto "Run Happy", For the Run Happy Team, the sports shoe manufacturer is Brooks received almost 4000 convinced of the positive power of applicants from passionate running and offers the participants runners from all over Europe of the Run Happy Team the special who want to become part of the opportunity to experience this team and represent the spirit of enthusiasm and share it with others. Manager (UK, Ireland, Benelux), all levels to have fun running and the brand. Throughout the year, the is pleased to launch this great being active. A lot of you will be returning from No matter whether you are members receive not only the initiative this year: "Running has “No matter whether it's the Munich and this year's ISPO. a beginner or an experienced latest Brooks products, but also always been more than just a sport achievement of self-set goals, It looked to be another busy marathon runner – they all share innovative training plans from for Brooks - it is a connecting personal well-being or sporting show and despite some bad their enthusiasm for running as experts and professionals as well as element! Run Happy is our success - the most important thing weather beforehand lots of you well as the optimism and energy invitations to selected events. philosophy. It is important to us is experiencing the joy and energy made it to Munich. it releases. Claire Butters, Marketing as a brand that we get runners of that running sets free: Run Happy!” We have a round-up of what went on and Paul Sherratt gives his take on the 2019 edition. There is also a look at how ASICS takes action to reduce CO2 Editor: MARK HAYHURST OutDoor by ISPO is shaping up Tel: 01206 508618 for its first show later in the Email: [email protected] year, when the outdoor industry emissions at European marathons Advertising Manager: descends on Munich. ASICS has committed to Launching at the Barcelona sustainability strategy. ­KEITH MARSHALL Fiona Bugler examines the reduce product related Marathon on March 10, 2019, ASICS “Working on our global Tel: 01206 505947 growth and changing face of greenhouse gas emissions by and I:CO will work to collect used programme to reduce greenhouse Email: [email protected] endurance events, explores 55 per cent globally by 2030 sports apparel and footwear for reuse gas emissions in alignment with the Advertising Sales some of the challenges and the and will implement product or recycling ASICS also ensures that Science Based Targets initiative, 21-23 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Rd, opportunities for the wider sports any merchandising and promotional we have identified that more than recycling programmes at Colchester, Essex CO2 8JY industry and asks what’s the impact eight of its biggest sponsored apparel developed for the races is 80 per cent of our CO2 emissions on the non-commercial governing events in Europe in 2019. made from sustainable materials. originate from the processes and Group Advertising bodies and grassroot clubs? The European initiative The programme will be delivered materials we use to create our Manager: SAM REUBIN Known throughout the cycling follows the recent announcement at eight of ASICS largest sponsored footwear and apparel and end of life Group Editor: world as one of the sport’s most by ASICS that 30,000 pieces of races across Europe in 2019 treatment of sold products.” competitive, and successful, riders, EMILY SEDDON sports apparel will be collected including the Paris Marathon, As part of the programme, ASICS Tel: 01206 505983 Fabian Cancellara talks to Jake from consumers in Japan to be Barcelona Marathon and is calling on runners and supporters Taylor about life on the road, his recycled toward 2020. Stockholm Marathon. to return their used sports apparel Publisher: MATTHEW TUDOR victory-laden career, and just what ASICS Europe has partnered Romy Miltenburg, Manager and footwear at the Barcelona Art Director: LEE WHITEFORD it takes – both inside and outside of with I:CO – a leading innovator CSR & Sustainability EMEA Marathon Expo or at the Barcelona sport – to be a champion. in the sustainable collection, at ASICS, said: “As a product flagship store located at Avinguda Advertisement Art Also, David McNaMee talks to reuse and recycling of clothing driven company, shifting to more Diagonal. As a thank you for Director: KEVIN DENNIS Tony James about his Ironman and shoes – to implement sustainable materials and engaging teaming up with ASICS on a more Reproduction: ambitions and his career. a programme to enable the our customers and consumers on sustainable world, participants will I hope you enjoy reading the ACE PRE-PRESS. recycling and reuse of its products our journey to a circular business receive a discount voucher that can Tel: 01206 797541 February issue. at eight marathons across EMEA. model are at the heart of our be used on a next purchase. Photography: CLIQQ PHOTOGRAPHY www.cliqq.co.uk Odlo once again awarded leader status by Fair Wear Foundation Twitter: @CliQQphoto made exceptional commitments are proud to be setting an example For the fourth consecutive As well as requiring strict working Accounts: SUE CARR. year, Odlo has been awarded to improving working conditions in this respect. practice guidelines, specifications for Tel: 01206 505903 Leader status from the Fair among suppliers and are actively “Sustainability is a continued their monitoring, and improvements Published by Maze Media (2000) Wear Foundation. seeking solutions in complex areas. journey that requires a in global supply chains, Fair Wear Limited, 21-23 Phoenix Court, This rating is given to selected Odlo owns two production consolidated effort. Together Foundation membership also Hawkins Rd, Colchester, Essex clothing manufacturers for their locations in Romania and Portugal, with our employees, suppliers includes a comprehensive annual CO2 8JY efforts to continuously improve where 50 per cent of its products are and partners, we will continue to audit of all members. All contents © Maze Media (2000) working conditions in their manufactured. This, as well as a high increase the impact of the changes The results are compiled in the Limited. The views expressed in supply chains. leverage with most suppliers, allows we make". Brand Performance Check and this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort After the annual, third-party effective work on implementing the Last year Odlo celebrated its are then published. Experts use is made to ensure the veracity and monitoring, the Fair Wear Fair Wear Foundation’s Code of ten-year anniversary as a member predefined indicators to check integrity of the companies, persons, products and services mentioned in Foundation, an independent, non- Labour Practices. of the Fair Wear Foundation. As whether companies comply with this publication and details given profit organisation that works to Knut Are Høgberg, Odlo’s CEO, one of the first Swiss members the Fair Wear Foundation’s are believed to be accurate at the improve workplace conditions said: “We are delighted to see our early on in 2008, the performance time of going to press. However, no requirements, and to what extent responsibility or liability whatsoever in garment factories around the continuous efforts to improve sportswear brand is committed to their decisions and processes are can be accepted for any consequence world, awarded Leader status working conditions in our global implementing the world’s leading contributing to improving working or repercussion of responding to any information or advice to selected members who have supply chains acknowledged and standard for fair clothing. conditions with suppliers. given or inferred. No part of this publication may be copied, broadcast, interpreted, or stored, in any form, for any purpose, without the written IN PARTNERSHIP WITH permission of the publisher. Sports Insight has a current The official publication of the Sporting Goods Industry Association ABC certified circulation of 5,281 (audit period July 1, 2016 to June 30, 2017). The Audit Bureau of Circulations (ABC) is an independent audit watchdog that verifies magazines’ circulation figures, providing accurate and comparable data for advertisers. ABC Certification demonstrates a media owner’s integrity, in their willingness to be audited and to conform to industry standards. UK/ROW subscription: £25/£42.50 for one year (10 issues).

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ENE9694_Trade_Ad_265x360mm v9.indd 1 26/04/2017 13:06 All the very latest in the NEWS sports industry... ASICS CONTINUES CatEye ‘Quick’ wins a TO SEE GROWTH IN prestigious iF Design EMERGING MARKETS Award 2019 CatEye has been announced as a CatEye, said: “We are honoured During 2018, ASICS winner of this year’s iF DESIGN and proud that our Quick computer continued to see strong AWARD for its Quick computer has been awarded an iF DESIGN growth in key strategic areas. in the Product category. Over AWARD 2019. It is well-deserved Although consolidated 6,400 entries were submitted recognition of the excellence net sales in EMEA declined from 50 countries, which were our experienced, user-focused by three per cent, sales in scrutinised by the 67-member jury design and product development Emerging Markets grew made up of independent experts team brings to every cycling currency-neutral by 21 per from all over the world. light, computer and accessory cent and sales in Direct- The jury’s award rewards the we produce.” to-Consumer channels design and development of the For over 60 years the iF DESIGN increased by 22 per cent. CatEye Quick – a simple and AWARD has been recognised as an All Emerging Market stylish cycle computer for urban, arbiter of quality for exceptional Vitality enter new partnership territories realised design-conscious cyclists. Unlike design. An annual event, it is run significant growth on a more traditional computers which by the world’s oldest independent with Runners Need currency-neutral basis, are often mounted directly on the design organisation, Hannover- Vitality is hoping to help get its members up and running led by the Middle East which handlebars, the CatEye Quick is based iF International Forum throughout 2019, with a new partnership with running saw a 99 per cent increase specifically designed with out-front Design GmbH. All awarded entries and Russia which saw a specialist, Runners Need. mounting for user-friendliness, are displayed at the iF design The new partnership will provide Vitality members with 50 per cent 19 per cent increase. easier and more natural visibility exhibition, Hamburg. Throughout EMEA, ASICS off one pair of running shoes every year, ensuring they have quality kit and cycling safety, while boasting a The iF label is renowned when keeping active. continued to expand its sleek side-on silhouette. worldwide as one of the most DTC footprint by both Nick Read, Managing Director of the Vitality Programme, said: “The In keeping with its slim, user- important design prizes in the world beginning of the year is a time to look forward to the next 12 months opening own stores and friendly design profile, the Mode and submissions are awarded in investing in ASICS branded and put in place goals that will get you more active and feeling healthier, button is located on the arm of the the following disciplines: Product, but it is important people have the support to make it a reality for more environments with key unit, while its inverted LCD screen Packaging, Communication and retailers. E-commerce than just a few weeks in January. At Vitality we are continually looking is easy to read even in daylight. It is Service Design/UX, Architecture, to partner with relevant brands to support our members to keep active sales grew by 105 per cent also easily removable for protection Interior Architecture as well as versus 2017. and our new partnership with Runners Need will do just that. against theft. Professional Concept.on Friday, “We are already feeling the impact of this new initiative, with over In order to accelerate Koichi Tsuyama, President of January 11, 2018. growth across all areas 250 members buying new trainers every single day from Runners of its business, ASICS Need since the beginning of the month, and there is no sign of these has introduced a new numbers tailing off. Whether it’s a 5k, a brisk walk, a trip to the gym or organisational structure a triathlon, having access to the right shoes and expert advice goes a with a new leadership team. long way.” The new organisation will Vitality has also seen 13 per cent more people braving the cold this be category-led to drive month to take part in Parkrun compared to any other winter month in growth in Running, Core the latest data available from their sponsorship of the weekly free run Performance Sports, that runs in locations across the UK. and Sport Style. Runners Need, established in 1982, has been helping people to train, It will also create greater run and keep fit for over 30 years. They offer top sportswear brands, alignment and efficiency quality kit and expert advice from people who love to run. They also through a consolidated offer customers free gait analysis and fitting, as part of their service. commercial organisation. Andrew Wood, Senior Marketing Manager, Runners Need, said: The new category "At Runners Need, we’re passionate about helping our customers organisation will combine keep fit and achieve their fitness goals. It’s all about supporting and the Product, Marketing, and inspiring people to get out there! We’re thrilled to partner with Vitality, Merchandising functions, a company who shares similar values to ours, offering innovative and and will be led by Gary award-winning Health and Life cover.” Raucher, who joins ASICS Vitality offers a range of discounts for members through their on March 1. partnerships which make accessing and achieving a healthy The new commercial lifestyle easier. organisation will combine the These range from healthy foods and health screens to travel and Planning, Buying, and Sales discounts for staying active. functions for both Wholesale and Direct-to-Consumer, and will be led by Scott Wakefield, who previously led the Garmin signs purchase agreement to acquire Tacx Direct-to-Consumer business Garmin has signed a definitive trainers allow cyclists to experience training market. Together with with in-house R&D and production, within ASICS. agreement to acquire all of the lifelike conditions, no matter the Tacx, Garmin will offer a seamless, Tacx is headquartered in Wassenaar, Alistair Cameron said: “I outstanding shares of Tacx, weather. For the most interactive enjoyable and motivating indoor Netherlands with a distribution am encouraged by the growth a privately-held Dutch and immersive indoor experience, and outdoor experience for cyclists centre in Vogt, Germany. The we are continuing to see in company that designs and the Tacx smart trainers connect all year long.” company employs nearly 200 key strategic areas, and I am manufacturers indoor bike wirelessly to popular training Koos Tacx, CEO of Tacx, associates, who will become part of confident for the future. trainers, tools and accessories, apps to help cyclists get more from added: “We are excited to have the global Garmin team. The changes we’ve made to as well as indoor training their workouts, as well as the Tacx the support of a technology leader To further leverage the growing our organisation will enable software and applications. software/training app that offers like Garmin. With Garmin’s market for indoor bike trainers, us to drive category-specific Tacx is best known for training plans, data analysis, films extensive R&D capabilities and Tacx is currently undergoing a strategies and take a more its innovative line of indoor of scenery all over the globe, live global distribution network, we capital investment project to expand holistic view of the market. smart trainers, including the opponents and much more. look forward to working together its R&D and production capacity. I’m excited to work with my highly-regarded NEO 2 and the Cliff Pemble, Garmin president to further enhance our indoor The completion of this new Management Team to revolutionary NEO Bike, that and CEO, said: “Tacx brings an training products and technologies, acquisition, which is subject to drive growth across measures speed, power and cadence. entirely new product category to and bring them to cyclists around customary conditions, is expected to the region.” Offering a highly realistic and Garmin’s fitness portfolio that the world.” occur in Q2 2019. Financial terms of accurate ride simulation, Tacx expands our reach into the indoor A vertically-integrated company the acquisition will not be released.

@SportsInsightUK GEL MAX POWER

SUPER FIT UNDISPUTED UFC CHAMPION CONFIRMED FOR THE Anytime Fitness launches new gym design Anytime Fitness, the UK’s a huge step forward for the brand. BODYPOWER second largest private health The needs of fitness consumers club operator, has opened continue to evolve, and the new EXPERIENCE its first UK club with a new, layout will allow current and Jon ‘Bones’ Jones the modernised interior design. prospective franchisees to provide UFC current and two-time Anytime Fitness Croxley Park, members with highly-equipped, undisputed Light Heavyweight a two-floor 7,000 sq. ft. club in modern training facilities. The Champion will be making Hertfordshire, is the first UK club to brand has put members at the heart his first visit to the UK’s adopt the exciting new layout, which of the new design proposition, biggest fitness event The is part of a wider global strategy continuing to create welcoming BodyPower Experience. from Anytime Fitness to enhance facilities with inclusive and non- Hosted at the NEC, the experience for its members. intimidating atmospheres.” Birmingham on May 10-12, The new design will see clubs While all clubs are encouraged Jones will be in attendance split into various training zones to create their own bespoke alongside two of his key with an open-plan layout, providing layout to suit the property and its sponsors Vanquish Clothing and a welcoming and contemporary audience, franchisees are provided GAT Sports Nutrition and will environment for its members. In with several ‘Brandatories’ join a stellar line up of athletes, line with the brand’s evolved look (mandatory brand standards) to fitness stars and over 100,000 and feel, the design changes are in ensure consistency across Anytime passionate fitness enthusiasts. response to the soaring popularity Fitness’ global portfolio. Visitors to the expo will be of functional training, a type of These are compulsory elements able to meet and greet the star, training that increases flexibility, that clubs must incorporate in their a wider UK rebrand for Anytime atmosphere that the brand have photo opportunities as co-ordination, balance and posture fit-out, including the use of certain Fitness, which has switched promotes within its clubs is key. well as listening and learning using a range of equipment materials, colours, graphics and its brand positioning from This has resulted in an updated from an all-time great in associated with daily activities. feature elements which contribute convenience to coaching. Following logo, encompassing a new ‘Let’s workshops and Q&As. The new club design will to creating a training environment an in-depth member survey, focus Make Healthy Happen’ positioning This announcement comes enhance the product Anytime that builds stronger relationships groups and consultation with statement, in place of the previous as the show diversifies into Fitness provides to today’s fitness among members, trainers and staff. its franchisee network, Anytime ‘Get To A Healthier Place’ tagline. the three core pillars of consumers, as well as helping to drive ‘Brandatories’ are located Fitness found that while the This will be complemented by a health and fitness; Fitness & down fit-out costs and contribute to a outside and inside the club so that convenience of its 24/7 clubs modernised and refined design Lifestyle, Sport & Performance more profitable business. both regular members and any remains a significant joining factor that reflects the new club look and and Aesthetics with an Stuart Broster, Anytime Fitness person walking on the street, can for over 160,000+ UK members, feel, including new iconography, aim to define fitness and be UK CEO, said: “We’re thrilled to be recognise an Anytime Fitness club, they stay longer for the overall colourways and fonts. representative of all fitness in driving change in the industry with even when the logo is not visible. experience and friendly support To find out more, visit www. the marketplace. our exciting new roll-out represents The new design layout is part of they receive; the community anytimefitness.co.uk/own-a-gym Steve Orton, BodyPower Managing Director said: “Jon is known globally, is a UFC superstar and embodies inov-8 partners with England rugby star James how we as an event want to represent fitness. MMA is Haskell joins the ranks one of the ultimate sports for Obstacle Course Racing conditioning and fitness. as the latest F45 studio “To have him at The World Championships BodyPower Experience franchisee in the UK showcases how we are evolving The Obstacle Course Racing World Championships are the expo and always look to returning to the UK – and inov-8 will once again be the official England Rugby International “I have always loved Bath as bring the best talent around the footwear brand. James Haskell is the latest a city, it’s rich in rugby history world to the UK. Working with The 2019 OCRWC will be held just outside London on October 10-13 sportsman to become an and has a young, fitness-focused GAT & Vanquish we can’t wait and will see more than 5,000 of the world’s best obstacle course racers official UK franchisee for demographic, which suits our for the expo and to welcome battle it out over muddy terrain and the sport’s finest obstacles. functional group training target audience and ambition”. Jon to Birmingham.” In addition to the 3k, 15k, team and charity competitions, the 2019 event brand, F45, with the recent Haskell’s new studio will With a number of sporting will also debut the much-anticipated 100 Meter Sprint Championships. opening of his studio in Bath. incorporate the unique F45 stars set to be confirmed for the Award-winning sports brand inov-8, whose footwear gives obstacle Following hot on the heels of equipment, including the latest show including boxers, MMA, course racers the world’s toughest grip, has been synonymous with the recent UK studio openings in innovation in patent protected CrossFit athletes and rugby sport for more than a decade. Oxford Circus, Vauxhall, Bristol fitness-based technology for players, BodyPower are taking “We are proud to once again be the official footwear brand of the OCR and Birmingham, F45 Bath will systemised delivery, increased great strides to bring the elite World Championships here on home soil in the UK. 2018 was a fantastic follow the same high intensity, motivation and measurement, of sport under one roof. experience for us, and we can’t wait to return this year,” said Michael circuit-based format that the as well as post-activity workout Another exciting addition Price, inov-8 Product & Marketing Director. brand has become synonymous for. reporting which results in an is the introduction and “Obstacle Course Racing is a sport on the up and attracts racers of all Short for Functional 45, enhanced customer experience. announcement of the UK's abilities. The world championships are, of course, the pinnacle of the F45 is the Australian fitness With an extensive range of 35 largest and most prestigious sport, where the toughest come to compete. This year, like in 2018 when phenomenon which has exploded high intensity group training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competition 8 of the top 10 male athletes at the championships wore inov-8 shoes, we across the globe, with over 1,300 programmes and the largest for the last decade. will bring the world’s toughest grip to the party.” franchises spanning across exercise bank of any gym in The BJJ British Open will Inaugurally staged in 2014, last year saw the championships held 36 countries, and a further 50 the world, no two classes are see over 1,500 athletes compete outside North America for the first time in its history, with racers from 65 locations set to open this year in ever the same, and deliver with three exhilarating days of countries taking part. Such was the success of the 2018 championships the UK alone. remarkable results. throws, tap outs and take downs! staged in Brentwood, Essex, that it will return there for 2019. Haskell said: “I first tried F45 Sessions are 45 minutes long Tickets are on sale now and Sandra Sawyer, Partnerships Director for Adventurey, who created in the USA when I was over there and are fun, fast-paced and have can be purchased from the event, said: “Conquering the technical obstacles at the OCRWC takes on holiday and found the circuit a strong community element www.bodypower.com/tickets more than mental and physical strength. It also requires multifunctional -based training really engaging to ensure users work to their footwear that can easily grip and glide over wet, muddy and slippery and fun. It’s all the kind of stuff I maximum, with constant surfaces while keeping feet protected and secure. would use to get fit for rugby, and support and guidance from world “It’s a true testament to inov-8’s revolutionary and superior lightweight, for the majority of people, regular class F45 coaches, including breathable and gripping footwear that we are teaming up with this F45 sessions are everything they Haskell himself, who will be industry icon again for the 2019 championships. Our athletes deserve the need to maintain and achieve good taking a number of F45 sessions best so that they can conquer the course and compete at a global level.” levels of fitness. I think people every month. Founded in 2003 and based in the UK’s Lake District fells and are crying out for an accessible, With over 35 F45 studios now mountains, inov-8 has been delivering the best grip in extreme sporting group-based fitness programme operating in the UK, the opening conditions for 15 years, working closely with athletes who push their that isn’t intimidating, and most of F45 Bath is a further indicator limits in running, CrossFit and obstacle course racing. importantly delivers amazing of the high speed growth of this In 2018, the brand became the first in the world to use graphene – the results. That is what F45 is all franchise phenomenon and their planet’s strongest material – in sports footwear, making their rubber about and why I am so delighted to position as leaders in the health outsoles 50% harder wearing, 50% more elastic and 50% stronger. be involved. and fitness market.

@SportsInsightUK 9 ISPO MUNICH POINTS THE INDUSTRY TOWARD THE FUTURE Another successful trade show draws visitors from across the globe

LECTURES AND GAMES WERE BROADCAST FROM THE NEW ESPORTS ARENA VIA AN OWN TWITCH CHANNEL

ISPO Munich, the world’s entire sports industry, particularly and production processes.” event, said: “It was a great race and an increase of five per cent over largest trade fair for sporting in terms of reaching young target Consumers are also increasingly the perfect way to start the year.” the previous year. The share of goods, had a successful groups. Digitalization plays a key demanding that products be made international exhibitors also set attendance total of about role here. in an environmentally conscious ISPO Munich in a record at 89 per cent (2018: 88 80,000 visitors. Stefan Herzog, General manner and be recyclable. numbers percent). The largest participant Even though the winter Secretary of the Association of Arne Strate, General Secretary Around 80,000 industry visitors groups by country were Germany, weather made it difficult for some German Sports Retailers, said: of the European Outdoor Group from 120 countries came to China, France, Great Britain, Italy, visitors to attend the fair, it also “Failing to think digitally is not (EOG), said: “The industry has an Munich (2018: 83,606). The Taiwan and the United States. brightened spirits in the 18 halls an option. The world is changing. opportunity to become trailblazers countries with the largest The next ISPO Munich will be of Messe München. In addition to Each of us must change, too. and to set standards before number of visitors (in this order) held from January 26-29, 2020, innovations in the areas of winter ISPO Munich offers specialist government regulators take matters were Italy, Austria, France, in Munich. sports, outdoor and fitness, the retailers everything they need to be into their own hands. Sustainability Switzerland, Great Britain and Other dates include Outdoor by industry learned how to remain competitive today and tomorrow.” has also become a business model.” the Russian Federation. ISPO from June 30 through July 3, attractive to consumers of the According to Herzog, new A total of 2,943 exhibitors 2019; ISPO Digitize on July 3 and 4, future. The issues of sustainability, platforms such as ISPO Digitize ISPO Munich Sports showcased their products and 2019; and ISPO Shanghai from July digitalization and, for the first time, are the ideal complement. Since its Week and Night Run innovations. This represents 5 to 7, 2019. eSports played a major role. premiere a year ago, ISPO Digitize For sports fans beyond the Klaus Dittrich, Chairman and has become the place to go for exhibition halls, the ISPO Munich FOCUS TOPIC SUSTAINABILITY—CONSUMERS CEO of Messe München, said: “ISPO manufacturers and retailers of Sports Week took place for the ARE DEMANDING MORE RESOURCE-EFFICIENT Munich showed there is a deep, sporting goods who want to learn second time: a joint initiative with AND RECYCLABLE PRODUCTS untapped pool of potential for the about digital products and services— sporting goods retailers, fitness brands and retailers of the sporting and, above all, visualize the potential partners and brands that is designed goods industry. This can fuel growth of digitalization. The next ISPO to fuel Munich’s passion for sports and, above all, energize the industry. Digitize Summit will be held on July with a large number of activities. We also successfully introduced the 3 and 4, 2019, in Munich. More than 170 events provide a area of eSports this year.” week’s worth of athletic excitement Talks and games were broadcast Sustainability is and fun for consumers. The highlight from the new eSports arena on the becoming a higher was the ISPO Munich Night Run fair’s own Twitch channel. More priority presented by BUFF on February 2, than 300,000 viewers over the past Dittrich said: “Each of us is an event that drew a record number three days clearly demonstrated responsible for our planet. The of about 650 participants. the range of eSport. This creates sporting goods industry can do its Florian Neuschwander, a a tremendous opportunity for the part by using sustainable materials professional runner who won the

ISPO Munich offers specialist retailers everything they need to be competitive today and tomorrow. “ Stefan Herzog, General Secretary of the Association of German Sports Retailers ”

www.sports-insight.co.uk GREAT THINGS NEVER HAPPEN IN COMFORT ZONES RUN. NEWS 11 DW Fitness First and Reebok partner F45 to shake up the female fitness space CONTINUE DW Fitness First and Reebok DW Fitness First’s 2019 Trend Danielle Peazer said: “Dancing importantly it’s fun, and the greater THEIR have joined forces to celebrate Report recently revealed that is the ultimate way to work out and the enjoyment of physical activity women in the fitness domain women still feel intimidated on the I’m excited to have been invited the more likely people are to turn it EUROPEAN and inspire positive exercise gym floor. The surge in popularity to help launch the collaboration into a habit. This collaboration habits amongst females. of online and at home workouts between Reebok and DW Fitness is one of the ways we at DW EXPANSION The partnership kicks off was also highlighted in the 2018 First. The Danielle Peazer Method Fitness First strive to bring our IN MOSCOW with the launch of Reebok brand Mintel Leisure Report which focuses on empowering women members new and engaging ways ambassador Danielle Peazer’s revealed that online workouts through exercise whist having fun to work out.” Following hot on the dance inspired workout series are most popular with 16-24-year- and getting fit. HIIT workouts have long been heels of their successful based on the ‘Danielle Peazer old women. “The series of workouts has been proven the most effective way of launch in in Ireland, Method’ – five free to stream The Danielle Peazer dance inspired by my training as a dancer working out, especially for the Switzerland, Netherlands, ten-minute confidence boosting inspired workout series has been and combines traditional HIIT time poor, no longer do gym goers Czech Republic and workouts enabling thousands of created to empower women to exercises alongside more stylised need to spend hours in the gym Finland, and reinforcing women across the UK to ‘train like make fitness part of their way of moves, designed to make you feel but instead opt for short and sharp their position as a global a dancer.’ life – on their own terms, either in great and keep your endorphins entertaining classes or workouts fitness provider, F45 Danielle Peazer, dancer and the comfort of their own home or flowing long after you finish.” which ensure that they continue to celebrates a new milestone Reebok ambassador, has created at the gym. Also for those women Tim Andrews, Head of Gym burn calories post session. in their European the bespoke workouts based on the who’re just starting out when it Floor Experience at DW Fitness Each workout also showcases expansion with the ‘Danielle Peazer Method’- offering Reebok’s Spring Summer 19 comes to exercising, the workouts First, said: “Dance is the perfect launch of a new site in women an alternative style of are designed to give them the mood enhancing activity, capsule collections, available Moscow, Russia. fitness programme which tones confidence to try something new combined with HIIT style training to purchase from DW Sports Luke Armstrong, Global the body in the same way as a in 2019. it raises the heart rate and releases in store and online Sales Director for F45, professional dancer. In a bid to make the workouts feel-good endorphins. Most www.dwsports.com/reebok said: “We are delighted to The workout series, developed as accessible as possible, women be opening a studio in the with DW Fitness First experts, across the UK will be able to access will roll out in five ten-minute the videos for free at home or in gym capital of Russia. We have segments from January to May via DW Fitness First’s channels worked tirelessly to create culminating in one 50-minute including the free CORE app and Digme Fitness acquires a truly innovative brand routine, which will be available via MTV. Whilst DW Fitness First and franchise model that to stream for free on multiple members will be able to take part in fitness studio Tribeca can flourish and grow in channels including DW Fitness the workouts via interactive screens Digme Fitness has completed the single site acquisition of Tribeca any country. Our goal is for First’s ‘CORE’ app and MTV. within the gyms. Studios, the New York inspired boutique fitness club located in the there to be an F45 studio heart of Ealing Broadway. in almost every corner Founded in June 2016 in southwest London, the boutique Digme worldwide, and with the Fitness brand has studios in Richmond, Moorgate, Blackfriars, Rathbone accelerated growth we Square and Oxford. The latest acquisition adds another core residential have seen in just four London neighbourhood and a large new member database to the Digme years, we are confident site portfolio. The combined business puts Digme at six studios, with five that we can make in central London. this happen.” The location of the new site is on The Mall in Ealing, just two minutes Now operating in 37 walk from Ealing Broadway station and the new Crossrail terminal which countries, F45 was born is expected to open later in 2019. in Australia in 2014 and Geoff Bamber, Digme’s chief executive and co-founder, said: “We are has since taken the world delighted to be joining forces with Tribeca. Our combined businesses will give by storm. Founded by us unparalleled scale and reach across London and balances our portfolio very former equities trader nicely between prime residential and commercial hubs of London. By joining Rob Deutsch who spotted the Digme group, Tribeca members will have access to many more studios a gap in the health and across London in places that they may work or visit for pleasure.” fitness market, F45 has TRIB3 announces urban Madrid launch Caoimhe Bamber, Digme co-founder, added: “I am thrilled to be fast become a global partnering with the team at Tribeca. Our two companies share many core fitness phenomenon values and they have created an incredible fitness community that will as part of international expansion with over 1,300 outlets fit really nicely with the culture at Digme. We are really excited about the Boutique studio brand strategy and demonstrates our worldwide. Designed by future together.” TRIB3 is setting the pace for ambitions to work with other Sport Scientists and Elite Hayley Balls, founder of Tribeca, said: "We are very excited to be international expansion as it investors and partners in major Athletes, F45's unique, joining the Digme family. Tribeca and Digme share many similarities announces its flagship Madrid cities across the globe.” team-based, high-intensity in our vision for the future of boutique fitness and we are great admirers launch, hot on the heels of its Rod Hill, TRIB3 President, who of Digme's team and track record of delivering incredible classes to interval training consist of success in the UK, China and is spearheading the company’s customers. Our plans for the future together are super exciting." 45-minute workouts which Russia, and with Helsinki international expansion, added: Digme offers a wide range of workouts for all levels. Offering indoor feature over 3,500 fun, opening aswell. “Our international roll out cycle and HIIT, in addition to Yoga in the Oxford studio, there is a range of functional and The Madrid launch is the first programme is now in full swing. different classes to help visitors achieve their goals, whether they want to efficient exercises and of two in the city, and precedes We have had a huge amount of get lost in the music and ride to the rhythm, track their fitness using data an extensive range of 35 TRIB3’s Barcelona studio re- interest from countries across or experience an exhilarating HIIT class. workout programmes. launching in March seeing the the globe interested in partnering The brand and trading at Tribeca will be unchanged in the short-term The global success of F45 brand embark on the next phase with us to develop TRIB3 across as the companies integrate. as a franchise network has of its international strategy. The multiple regions, and look encouraged many athletes, 4,000 ft studio,which will cater forward to announcing future personal trainers and for 42 workout stations at any one launches imminently.” entrepreneurs to become time, sits in the financial district Josep Viladot, CEO Holmes part of this innovative of Cuzco. Place Spain commented: “We are fitness movement due to Launched in partnership with delighted with the launch of the its relatively low start up health and fitness specialists flagship studio in Madrid which at Holmes Place, the store has had the very outset is confirming our and running costs, turn- over 7,000 sign ups since launching. research which suggested that the key set up and generous Kevin Yates, TRIB3 CEO, said: TRIB3 workout experience totally return on investment. “The launch of our flagship studio appeals to its target and is second In addition, F45 boasts in Madrid is a real game-changer to none!” an impressive array of for TRIB3. It sees us building on TRIB3 is a collective of Boutique ambassadors worldwide, the successes we’re experiencing Bootcamp HIIT training studios, including English Rugby in the UK especially and refining offering group programming and Union player, our model to suit a new market. It interaction through digital and James Haskell. forms a core part of our expansion performance monitor.

www.sports-insight.co.uk 12

Virgin Galactic unveils Under Armour as exclusive partner to create next generation spacewear and astronaut performance program Virgin Galactic has announced control operatives, each member Under Armour as its Exclusive of the Virgin Galactic team will be Technical Spacewear Partner wearing Under Armour apparel to create a next generation specifically chosen to enhance of spacewear and astronaut performance and to provide a performance programs. tangible sense of shared purpose. This exciting and exclusive As Under Armour crafts the THE PHA collaboration brings together Virgin Galactic collection, it Virgin Galactic’s mission to make draws inspiration from its strong GROUP RICHARD BRANSON AND FOUNDER OF commercial space travel a reality, heritage of innovative performance UNDER ARMOUR, KEVIN PLANK REVIEW HANDED UK with Under Armour’s expertise in solutions for some of the world’s top SKETCHES OF THE SPACESUIT IN NEW YORK. technical apparel and footwear, athletes. Under Armour will mimic PR BRIEF BY ensuring that astronaut customers the holistic approach it takes with will inspire confidence through more pleased when Kevin and his DRYROBE and staff are fully equipped to those individuals and in addition comfort and practicality without talented teams stepped up to the maximise personal performance in to apparel will design programs for compromising the natural desire of considerable task of creating a range The leading provider of a new age of space exploration. astronaut physical preparation and every Virgin Galactic astronaut both of space apparel and performance change robes, dryrobe, has The US brand, famed for recovery with a focus on enhancing to feel good and look good during programs for Virgin Galactic. appointed The PHA Group performance through technical mobility, strength, fitness, nutrition, this unparalleled life experience. “Our partnership is built on the to provide PR support for its innovation, is designing and and sleep. The full range of apparel and firm foundations of shared values growing UK business. fabricating space suits for Virgin Flying to space will be a profound footwear is set to be revealed later and it will be an absolute privilege As the world's warmest and Galactic passengers and pilots, experience for Virgin Galactic this year, ahead of Richard Branson’s to wear an Under Armour astronaut most advanced change robe, representing a unique commission astronauts. After a thrilling high inaugural commercial flight. space suit on Virgin Galactic’s dryrobe keeps people warm that demanded personal acceleration, rocket-powered, Richard Branson said: “I have inaugural commercial space flight.” whilst changing outdoors. performance enhancement vertical ascent in SpaceShipTwo followed Under Armour’s progress Kevin Plank, CEO, Under Armour, The idea for the dryrobe was through a complex blend of safety, at more than three times the speed through a personal friendship said: “Working with Sir Richard and born from necessity and is the utility, comfort and style. of sound, passengers will be able with its CEO, Kevin Plank and Virgin Galactic is an opportunity brainchild of Devon-based The partnership will also see to leave their seats and experience via the great relationships it has of a lifetime, one that has the entire surfer Gideon Bright. Under Armour create uniforms for the freedom of weightlessness established over the years with Under Armour team across the world Since selling the first Virgin Galactic’s world-class team at while marvelling at spectacular, life various Virgin companies. I’ve loved excited. This is a great opportunity product online in December Spaceport America in New Mexico. changing views of planet Earth from its determination to push technical to test our innovation at the highest 2010, dryrobe has become a Whether engineers, astronaut the black sky of space. The custom- boundaries in order to improve level and continue to push the limits familiar sight around the UK's trainers and hosts, or mission fitted Under Armour spacesuits performance, so could not have been of human performance.” best surf spots and it can be seen on the back of the best international athletes to kids New free Mobile Devices in Swimming at the local training ground. From humble beginnings, Lessons resource now available dryrobe has become an Swim England and the Institute of Swimming have created a international business with free online resource, ‘Mobile Devices in Swimming Lessons’, to world-renowned partners support the growing trend towards mobile devices and apps being including Red Bull, Go Pro used by teachers to manage Learn to Swim programmes. and Adidas. Rebecca Cox, Managing Director of the Institute of Swimming said: Tom Inskip, Associate “Online technology in the leisure sector is increasingly replacing the Director at The PHA Group, traditional clipboard and pen. This free interactive resource provides said: “We are delighted to be swimming teachers with guidance on how to use mobile devices safely and working with dryrobe and effectively, to take registers and mark pupils’ progress. It also gives tips on showcasing their product to how to use the data collated to manage expectations and discuss progress the national media.” with the parents/carers of swimmers.” Jo Lee, Head of Marketing Katy Butterfield, Area Sports Development Manager at Places Leisure at dryrobe, added: “We’re said: “I love this Continued Professional Development (CPD) tool. It’s excited to be working with pitched just right and has all the relevant information. I think it’s one of the The PHA Group. This is a best online CPD’s the Institute of Swimming has created, they are really great opportunity for the embracing the technology evolution and safeguarding its users.” benefits of dryrobe to be seen You can access the Mobile Devices in Swimming Lessons resource for by a wider audience.” free at https://www.swimming.org/ios/course/1278 OPRO announce partnership with the Catalans Dragons

OPRO, the world’s largest the 12 Super League teams, in Medical Services, said: “The manufacturer of the most addition to England Rugby League, Catalans Dragons are extremely technically advanced who oversee the sport of rugby happy to have started a mouthguard, have entered league in England. partnership with OPRO, their an official partnership with With the new season under way reputation for excellent product Rugby League team, the as of last week, David Allen, quality and customer care made Catalans Dragons. OPRO CEO, said: “We’re delighted it an easy choice. In a sport as Based in Perpignan, France, to be the official mouthguard physical as rugby league it was and as the only non-English side to provider to such a decorated list of essential for us to find a close play in the top tier of the English teams that compete in the Super fitting and well-designed guard Super League, the Dragons became League. As last year’s Challenge for our players to wear for the first non-British team to win Cup winners, the Catalans games and training. We have the Challenge Cup last year since Dragons are a fantastic team to be that with OPRO.” its inception in 1896. working with. OPRO have longstanding As their official mouthguard “Since winning the French partnerships with over 50 provider, OPRO will supply elite Rugby League Championship in world class sporting level mouthguards to the men’s 2005 and joining the English associations, including the and women’s senior squads, as Super League, they’ve set out likes of England Rugby, well as reserves and junior teams. their stall as one of the best sides New Zealand Rugby, Australia With this new partnership, in Europe and one we’re proud Rugby, England Boxing, and OPRO are now the official to partner with.” the Ultimate Fighting mouthguard partner of nine of Rob Parkinson, Head of Championship (UFC).

@SportsInsightUK NEWS 13

Beachbody appoints POWERLEAGUE NINE ELMS Brandnation to handle UK IS NOW PR and influencer marketing OPEN Beachbody, the global fitness brand, has appointed Brandnation The Powerleague Nine to handle the PR and influencer marketing for its new Elms site has now opened apparel collection. Brandnation’s work will begin with immediate effect with a brief its doors to the public! to help Beachbody build upon its worldwide success within the home Sporting brand new workout category. The London-based agency will create increased five and seven-a-side side brand awareness and drive sales of Beachbody’s performance apparel pitches with bespoke turf through an integrated PR strategy. They will also be responsible for and on-pitch cameras, the executing influencer programmes to engage the target consumer. Powerleague club also Beachbody’s new technical gym apparel is designed to meet the features a state of the art needs of all, from everyday fitness enthusiasts to elite athletes. digital skill zone, clubhouse Beachbody offers performance-driven designs in three categories; Leading architects in wellbeing and rooftop views of London Core, Performance and Intent. to enjoy as you play. Core is the brand’s entry level gym offering for lower intensity and leisure design unveil the next On-hand to open the Nine workouts, Performance is constructed with technical fabrics to take Elms club to the public was your workout to the next level, while Intent is a luxury range tested by evolution in boutique gym design Arsenal and England legend the science department at Waind Gohil + Potter with wellbeing as activity. Ray Parlour, who met local renowned sports institution Architects have transformed a The stylish workout spaces residents for a Q&A session. Loughborough University to former storage space to create are reflective of current lifestyle, Powerleague CEO, help consumers smash their their second state-of-the-art fitness and nutrition trends Christian Rose, said: “We personal bests. gym in Knightsbridge, London. giving gym goers a progressive yet are delighted to open our Across the collection, the The architects are at the relaxed atmosphere with curated doors at Nine Elms. The garments feature a number forefront of gym design for the and flexible spaces allowing for state of the art facilities at of game changing health and fitness industry and classes that can easily be tailored the new Powerleague club fabric innovations including have already created a number according to instructor, intensity really cement our place as Nilit Innergy technology, of dynamic award winning and level. The result is a sociable the leader in small sided a nylon fibre designed lifestyle workout spaces in the destination that supports a healthy football and bring state of enhance muscle stimulation UK and are currently working on lifestyle within an inclusive yet the art tech to consumer and relieve muscle fatigue, further models. bespoke environment. football. We’re focused on SORBTEK and drirelease This is their second project Phil Waind, Director with bringing community spirit both of which ensure top for the gym operator Core Waind Gohil+ Potter said: “As to the local areas, and really level moisture management. Collective, the boutique pay as millennials socialise at the gym, feel that the new Nine The collection will be rather than at the bar, and exercise you go fitness brand offering Elms facilities will deliver stocked on Activinstinct clients a variety range of group, is becoming widely understood this for the local Battersea online and available to buy instructor-led sessions including as routinely necessary to survive residents and businesses.” from the February 2019. TRX, HIIT (High Intensity the metropolis, fitness spaces are Powerleague Nine Elms Mary Killingworth, Interval Training), Power Yoga taking on a new social and physical caters for all your football Managing Director at and Spinning. Their first acclaimed importance contributing to our and league requirements, as Brandnation, said: “We’re gym was opened in 2016 in wellness. This next gym for Core delighted to be working with London’s High Street Kensington. Collective has allowed us to evolve well as corporate events and the brand team at Beachbody. Located on Pavilion Road, the new spaces to support mindfulness kids’ parties, with pitches for “The brand already Knightsbridge site boasts a yoga during exercise and social hire and additional games has a strong proposition and TRX studio as well as a 1,100 sq interaction before and after. Key is including Zorb Football, within the health and ft space for specific high intensity to enhance people’s experience of Nerf Parties and more. fitness market and now classes. The design developed the gym and as vital component of will be looking to improve in collaboration with lighting their wellness.” it through a range of designer Stileman lighting uses Phil Waind will be speaking innovative and premium lighting effects with a variety of about the Future of Gym Design products and we can’t materials including timber, steel, along with founder of Core wait to get started on concrete and brass to enhance the Collective, Jason de Savary at spreading the word to social and workout experience in Elevate 19 at Excel London on target consumers.” the gym, which is as much to do May 8-9, 2019. Grenade named National Great British Entrepreneur of the Year Grenade picked up a top award at low carb, low sugar products, brand even more in 2019. I can’t wait to see what Grenade Following the regional the sixth annual NatWest Great including bars, shakes and spreads. “Throughout the year and does next.” competition, 58 winners were British Entrepreneur Awards. Based in Solihull, Grenade now beyond, we will continue to The NatWest Great British selected to represent their regions Alan and Juliet Barratt, the employs more than 60 staff, and promote our snacking revolution Entrepreneur Awards involved including Birmingham, Cardiff, husband and wife co-founders of retails in more than 80 countries campaign, helping people make 3,000 applications and more than Edinburgh, London, Manchester at active nutrition brand Grenade, around the world. healthier food choices as part of 400 shortlisted entrepreneurs. the national finals. were named the National Great On the win,Grenade CEO Alan an active lifestyle. We are also British Entrepreneur of the Barratt, said: “It’s an honour to planning to expand Grenade’s Year for 2018. This follows their be named National Great British presence on the global stage, regional wins for Birmingham Entrepreneur of the Year. Since supported by the opening of our in the categories ‘Great British launching Grenade in the midst new offices in Dubai.” Entrepreneur of the Year’ and of the recession, we have had Francesca James, co-founder ‘Scale-Up Entrepreneur of the to overcome several significant of the NatWest Great British Year’ at the regional finals in challenges. The award is the Entrepreneur Awards, said: November 2018. result of years of hard work and “Alan and Juliet join a fantastic The couple trademarked the dedication, and this award is a group of entrepreneurs who brand in 2006 and launched their vindication of the efforts that the have been named Great British first product in 2010. Shortly after team and Juliet and I have put in. Entrepreneur of the Year, and launching they were left with just “This year’s competition in both they’re thoroughly deserving of £27 in the company account but the regional and national awards the title. They are truly amazing have since built Grenade into a was fierce, and it’s a privilege to entrepreneurs, and have that added business valued at £72 million in have been named among such unique bond of going through this 2017 by majority shareholders prominent entrepreneurs. We’re journey as husband and wife. Lion Capital. Alan and Juliet have now looking forward to building on “What they have achieved so far created a wide range of high protein, Grenade’s success and growing the is nothing short of remarkable, and

www.sports-insight.co.uk 14 Barefoot running is going from strength to strength Ten years on from Chris space at the National Running Mcdougall’s book “Born to Show in January this year and Run”, how is the barefoot were once again inundated with running phenomenon in 2019? all types of runners wanting to try Who better to ask than Vibram on a pair of Vibram FiveFingers. UK’s Managing Director, Vibram offered an interactive Chris Wilson. customer experience where they He said: “Put very simply the could try on the shoes on different interest in Vibram FiveFingers and surfaces to experience at first hand barefoot style running appears to the immediate ground feedback be as strong as ever with UK sales through the soles of their feet. of the Vibram FiveFingers range up They were then encouraged over 80 per cent in 2018 on 2017, to have a go on the treadmill but this only tells part of the story.” to consider how the Vibram After a hugely successful event FiveFingers shoes changed their in 2018, Vibram took double the gait and their running style. Chris added: “The response was VIBRAM UK SALES MANAGER DAN HUME WITH SOME OF THE NEW massively positive. We continue AUTUMN 2019 STYLES to be delighted by the number of customers wanting to try FiveFingers for the first time and by the response of the seasoned barefoot runners to the latest Vibram styles.” Vibram also had a very successful fair at ISPO in Munich before returning to the UK where Vibram UK would welcome all from the publication of “Born to transition gradually. Accordingly they will exhibit at the Scottish, sports and outdoor retailers Run” that the barefoot running they have printed a small, handy Cycling, Running and Outdoor to come and visit them on the phenomenon is alive, well and in transition booklet and Vibram UK Pursuits Show (SCROPS) in Vibram stands to see the buzz for good hands with Vibram UK. encourage all their retail partners Glasgow, London Marathon and themselves. In addition, Vibram However, Vibram UK advise all to go through this with their Elite/Elevate shows in London and will be exhibiting at the trade only those making the transition from customers and give them a free Body Power at the NEC. As in 2018 Outdoor Show in Manchester, in cushioned to minimalist, barefoot copy. In addition Vibram UK sales Vibram UK expect a very strong July, and the Moda Show, at the style running, even if they are manager Dan Hume will be pleased response at all these exhibitions. NEC in August. only using Vibram FiveFingers to visit all stockists to offer retail Though these are retail shows, It appears that ten years on as part of their training regime, to staff training.

www.sports-insight.co.uk

16 Bannatyne signs Pretty Green partners with Australian fitness three-year deal sensation Sam Wood PrettyGreen has entered a strategic commercial partnership with Gympass with Sam Wood, founder of 28 by Sam Wood, to launch his successful home workout, nutrition and well-being program to Bannatyne Health Clubs has “Gympass works with a number UK consumers. Having appointed PrettyGreen as his UK sport solidified its partnership with of top companies across the and lifestyle agency and commercial partners in the UK, Sam EAMON LLOYD (LEFT), HEAD OF Gympass, the market leader country, providing an excellent PARTNERSHIPS AT GYMPASS, AND is in London to officially launch the programme that focuses opportunity for us to reach and ADRIAN WORSLEY, NATIONAL around short and effective 28 minute workouts and meal in corporate fitness sales, by OPERATIONS MANAGER AT signing a three-year deal. engage a new audience. Over the BANNATYNE HEALTH CLUBS, SHAKE planning delivered through an easy-to-use website and The new deal follows a past year, Gympass has proven itself ON THE GYMPASS-BANNATYNE DEAL. fitness app. successful 12-month existing as the perfect partner for getting Having seen incredible feedback from parents who use the 28 partnership. The agreement will more inactive people into our of clubs for another three years. programme in Australia, Sam will be engaging with UK influencers see Gympass continuing to work clubs. We are excited to evolve this It is our goal to defeat inactivity and media to communicate the benefits the 28 programme can have with Bannatyne to bring new partnership, working with Gympass and improve the level of physical for busy health-conscious parents in the UK looking to improve their members from their network of for another three years and working activity throughout the country. overall wellbeing. businesses to the entire estate closely with our Corporate Sales “Being able to offer access to The Australian personal trainer, fitness expert, author, gym of 72 clubs. The relationship has team to ensure we deliver the most the full 72 Bannatyne clubs to our owner, and TV personality started the online training and nutrition successfully brought a significant effective strategy possible.” corporate members, and thus help program in Australia in 2016. The programme aims to show that real incremental increase in corporate Gympass has partnerships with them find a convenient facility transformation is possible with just 28 minutes of exercise a day, members to date, leveraging some of the UK's largest employers, close to their home or office, is a healthy eating and genuine support. Since its launch, over 120,000 Gympass’ postcode technology to including Aviva, Rolls Royce and huge step towards this goal.” people have joined the program, losing a combined weight of over pair subscribers with clubs close to Thames Water. Employees will gain The deal with Gympass extends 32,000 stones. both home and work. The company access to Bannatyne Health Clubs, beyond the platform with a host Sam Wood said: “PrettyGreen’s experience of launching and estimates another 6,000 members amongst other fitness providers, at of live wellness events planned. growing brands such as Under Armour in the UK market combined to join over the next three years. a minimum discount of 50 per cent, Bannatyne employees will regularly with their sport and lifestyle credentials make them the perfect UK Adrian Worsley, National helping to encourage them to get be invited into the offices of Gympass’ partner for 28. I’m really excited to be in the UK for the launch of 28 by Operations Manager at Bannatyne active and build long-term habits. corporate clients to run fitness Sam Wood and to show more Brits how it can help improve people’s Health Clubs, said: “Our relationship Eamon Lloyd, Head of classes and health checks, while wellbeing and fitness.” with Gympass has proven to be Partnerships at Gympass, said: Gympass plans to hold wellbeing Lucy Mart, PrettyGreen's Sport and Lifestyle Business Director, extremely successful over the past “We are really excited to be events, such as breakfast workouts, at said: “We’re really excited to be partnering with Sam and his team to year, showing considerable uplift solidifying our partnership with Bannatayne Clubs to encourage more drive the UK launch strategy which will see 28 by Sam Wood become in revenue and attendance at our Bannatyne Health Clubs, offering employees to try the facilities in a safe a recognised and respected online training, nutrition and mind facilities from corporate members. access to their extensive range and supported environment. programme in 2019.”

www.sports-insight.co.uk INTERVIEW 17

A PACKAWAY SUCCESS AND A NEW FOCUS ON THE COAST Gareth Stewart, operations director at Target Dry, talks to Mark Hayhurst about the company, the future of Mac in a Sac and new brand Lighthouse

Can you tell us the coastal leisurewear market that was of Lighthouse has changed our What can we expect merchandised store and history of the company? much more buoyant. company profile considerably. We from your company in poor service. Established in 1987, Target Dry is a The brand still focuses around still service the outdoor market but the next 12 months? Belfast-based textiles company that creating technical outdoor apparel Lighthouse has allowed us to change We have some exciting new What services and specialises in the design of technical and maintains a strong emphasis the market in which we operate. We products coming for both the support do you offer outdoor apparel. Since its inception on design, quality and value, but have diversified the Mac in a Sac Lighthouse and Mac in a Sac retailers who stock there has always been a strong the products themselves are now offer, so the range is not just focused brands. With Lighthouse we are your product? emphasis on great design, quality and aiming more towards the coastal on waterproofs. Diversifying into diversifying our offer every season We try to make our range as value for money and, to this day, that leisurewear market. products such as the Polar RDS Down and we’re introducing our first RDS appealing and attractive to is still central to the company's ethos. The last three years has seen jacket has made Mac in a Sac much Down jacket to the range later this retailers as possible. We design and In the mid-90’s Mac in a Sac was the company turnover grow by just more of an all year round brand. year. At OutDoor by Ispo, in June, develop bespoke stands for both introduced to the range and fast over 40 per cent, largely due to the we will also be showcasing our most the Mac in a Sac and Lighthouse became a best seller. Initially, Mac growth of the Mac in a Sac brand What inspires you to exciting Mac in a Sac range to date - ranges and make them available to in a Sac was a Target Dry product and the successful introduction create new products, so we’re really excited about that. our retailers. Branded hangers and but in 2004 a decision was taken to of Lighthouse. how do you develop POS are also available to ensure the separate the two brands and Mac them and bring them to How has the outdoor brands can be well merchandised in a Sac became a brand in its own How is your company the market? market changed in the in store. We also have a team of right. Today Mac in a Sac is one of developing and growing? I think it’s a combination of two last five years? sales representatives and agents the most internationally recognised The focus of our business has things. One, if you don’t develop new I think the outdoor market is now visiting stores and showcasing our packaway brands and is sold in over been largely based on developing product you won’t be here in two much more discount driven. Many new collections and no minimums 40 countries around the world. export markets for Mac in a Sac, or three years. You’re only as good brands have been going direct for placing orders. Target Dry as a brand continued expanding the Mac in a Sac offer as your last range! I’ve been with to retail and together with the to grow throughout the 1990s and and establishing Lighthouse within the company for over 14 years and multiples the outdoor market is What trends do you early 2000s, but over the last ten the UK and Ireland. Lighthouse has the retail landscape has changed much tougher place to operate in predict will be popular years as the retail landscape has allowed us to target a completely dramatically in that time. Many that it was five years ago. in the coming year? dramatically changed, growth new demographic with the UK and big companies have been and gone Within the Lighthouse range we has been much more difficult. As Ireland and we are now starting to and if it has taught me one thing What advice would you think that there is still a trend for multiples started to dominate the explore export territories for this it is that you can't take anything offer to retailers? the rubberised jackets. We have outdoor market within the UK brand as well. E-commerce is also for granted. No matter how big or Diversify your products so your four rubberised styles in Lighthouse and many brands started opening an area for growth and within the established you are it can all unravel shop has something unique to offer. range in the S/S19 range. We also up own brand stores, it was clear next five years, we hope to grow very quickly if you take your eye of Far too often, I think, retailers feel there is still a big demand for that the future of the Target Dry that side of the business so that it the ball, so making sure our range are offering the same brands and Down, so you’ll see evidence of that brand was going to be limited, so represents a much larger proportion is strong and competitively priced products to the customer. Also, in both our collections as well. We Lighthouse was introduced to take of the companies overall turnover. every season is essential. get the right staff. If your staff are have a reversible Down jacket and the company in a new direction. Two, we have pride in what we knowledgeable and well trained gilet in the Mac in a Sac range and a Lighthouse, as a brand, was Have there been any do and that continually drives us to then your customer experience ladies' Down jacket in the Lighthouse primarily developed to help the recent developments want to do better. There is a lot of will be much better. I think this range called Lara. All of our Down company move from an outdoor that have changed your great clothing brands out there at is particularly important for jackets use RDS certified Down, so its market that was becoming company’s profile? the moment and we want to be one smaller independents, because you ethically sourced, and ensures no live increasingly difficult into the Yes, I think the introduction of them. can no longer afford to have a badly plucking and it is also fully traceable. “ No matter how big or established you are it can all unravel very quickly if you take your eye of the ball, so making sure our range is strong and competitively priced every season is essential ” www.sports-insight.co.uk 18 INTERVIEW

ROCKING THE KINESIOLOGY TAPE MARKET Simon Bunyard, director at RockTape, talks to Mark Hayhurst about the brand and their plans for the future

Can you tell us the them and bring them to we attend an event or a trade show attend more events, we post more required. This might be as simple history of the company? the market? there is a new competitor. Many on social media, we engage more as providing content for online RockTape is a US company that We pride ourselves on listening to do not stand the course and do not with our customers and we make blogs, social media or competition was set up in California in 2009. We our customers and our network of realise how important it is to have ourselves as easy to work with as prizes. Historically supporting subsequently brought RockTape to Rock Docs (medical professionals a quality product and resonant we possibly can for retailers. retailers at events with staff and the UK and sold our first roll of tape who have attended one of our brand. I also think retailers We also understand how POS has always been a huge hit. at the 2011 Brighton Marathon. We courses). Rock Docs are dealing now appreciate how important important having a quality were then very fortunate to have with patients day in day out and ‘Accessories’ are. Once they were product is. While price is How can a new the 2012 London Olympics on our feed back what would help them to an afterthought, now they are very important, customers want and customer open an doorstep which really kick started get people moving better. Likewise, much front of mind. appreciate value and in our case account? our business. we listen to our Rockstars (brand that means being the stickiest and Simply email katie@rocktape. ambassadors) who know exactly What do you feel has stretchiest kinesiology tape on co.uk or call the office on 01206- How is your company what is relevant and required to been the company's the market. That is why everyone 615-464 for information on developing and growing? perform at your peak. greatest success? from pro teams to injured retirees pricing, terms and the marketing RockTape has grown year on We have seen from some of I think we have successfully choose RockTape! support available. year since we started. Initially our competitors that if you sit built up a network of customers we started servicing professional still then you go backwards, so who are proud to use and be What advice would you How important is athletes and teams who already we plan on keeping moving in the associated with RockTape. We offer to retailers? social media and brand understood the benefits of right direction! have professional sports people, Continue to realise the importance ambassadors to you? kinesiology tape, it then filtered medical professionals and weekend of accessories. Accessories offer We have always been very active down to medical professionals and What can we expect warriors alike regularly posting a great opportunity to add some on social and love to interact fitness enthusiasts and now we are from your company in about us on their social media. additional income to a more with our customers, likewise our stocked across retail, both sports the next 12 months? Customers taking the time and considered purchase like a running retailers. The number of mentions and pharmacy alike. More of the same! We just enjoyed having the inclination to do this is shoe or set of headphones. Be sure we receive from people who As we have developed, we have a record month of sales for the pretty inspiring. to utilise all of the online assets have purchased our products is added different products to our business in January which is We also have retailers saying that brands such as RockTape have something we always get a kick out range, including Protective Gear typically a quiet month! We have to us that customers think that available when listing products on of, when that stops we know we are (e.g. knee sleeves, shin guards), some new products coming out and kinesiology tape is RockTape, in your websites. in trouble! Mobility (e.g. balls, bands) and will continue to keep things fresh the same vein as vacuum cleaners With regard to Brand Massage Tools (e.g. Rockblades), and interesting for our customers and Hoover - that is pretty cool! What services and Ambassadors, we think the smaller but the key philosophy remains - and retailers. support do you offer more authentic influencers work helping people to move more and To what do you retailers who stock best. People tend to see through move better. How has the market attribute your success? your product? sponsored posts and are a lot more changed in the last I think we have always made We are happy to tailor support aware of this. We like people who What inspires you to five years? a point of doing more than our packages to suit customer’s needs. would use our products regardless. create new products, The market is even more competitors and exceeding our We are a flexible and agile business If they have ten thousand followers how do you develop competitive than ever. Every time customer’s expectations. We and can work with retailers as then even better! “ I think we have successfully built up a network of customers who are proud to use and be associated with RockTape. ”

@SportsInsightUK RETAIL 19 REDUCE CUSTOMER INJURY AND BOOST SALES Dan Gray, marketing director Enertor, talks about how best to maximise your insole upsell

nsoles – did you know they good shock absorbing insole. for 2019 and your clients will thank are one of the easiest ways With so many clients looking for you for introducing them to the for you to drive increased decent footwear to minimise their category. There are multiple leading Irevenue and profit for 2019? If you risk of injury and improve their independent running and sports sell footwear, whether it is trainers, results, an insole offers so much, but shops that achieve insole sales boots or cycling shoes, your clients it is recommended so little. with over 75 per cent of their will almost always benefit from an The revenue opportunity is footware purchases. insole, that’s why they are already a simple, with clients spending Obviously, we recommend $3 Billion industry and growing fast. £60 plus on footwear an insole at Enertor, with their state of the art Take a look at the standard approximately £25 that will last shock absorbing technology and insoles in leading brand football three times as long as the trainer their pedigree of providing insoles to boots or trainers, they are typically itself is simple common sense for the world elite athletes from multiple flat, thin and likely to deteriorate the client and their body, and for Tour De France winners, Olympic quicker than the trainer itself. you and your revenue. Imagine Champions including Usain Bolt and A properly designed insole with adding approximately £10 profit as the only shock absorbing insole to leading impact technology has for every footwear item you sold be mandated by the British Military been independently proven to help in 2019, the numbers soon add up, after their testing. reduce injuries. In sport we protect and really these insoles should be Independent tests have shown arms, teeth, head, shins but people worn in all shoes, so once they feel that over 90 per cent of people saw rarely think about feet even though the instant benefit of a true insole, improvements in injuries/pain Independent tests have shown this is where 95 per cent of impact they’ll come back for more. Set after wearing Enertor. (UK “ occurs. Whether it’s running, yourself a target to sell an insole independent study Jan 2017). that over 90 per cent of people saw walking, playing football or tennis with 50 per cent of all shoe sales For more information visit improvements in injuries/pain after almost everybody can benefit from a and you’ll be on to a sure winner www.enertor.com wearing Enertor ”

www.sports-insight.co.uk 20

sportsThe place to source all yourhub products and services

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

V – Trail 2.0 The 401 USA 2020 Gola Active Represent New for 2019, V- Trail 2.0 is the ultimate minimalist trail running shoe. The Megagrip Challenge Vortex Pro something different The 401 Challenge, Ben Smith, will be Run relentlessly with the Gola Active Blaze Wear's superb range of Heated sole provides supreme grip in wet and dry taking on his next challenge. Running 1,310 Vortex Pro. This running trainer features Clothing and Sports Heat Therapy products and features the 3D Cocoon technology. miles and cycling 17,000 miles through a breathable and lightweight open weave deliver heat where and when it's needed. The This disperses the impact of sharp rocks America. This challenge will see him run a hexagon mesh upper. The rubber print Sports Heat Therapy range offers targeted, without compromising the ground feedback marathon in every state capital and cycle provides targeted support and no sew deep penetrating, soothing heat that eases associated with Vibram FiveFingers. to the next capital. Get involved with this comfort, Vortex Pro has been designed with pain and provides relief for conditions Lightweight, grip, barefoot feel, strong amazing journey to raise money for two a high density open cell in-sock for added ranging from sports injuries to muscle and durable. fantastic charities. rebound and shock absorption. strain. All stock is available in the UK. 'Feel the Heat'

01702 530656 07392 978408 01706 212512 0845 475 7510 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.charlesbirch.com www.the401challenge.co.uk www.gola.co.uk www.blazewear.com

Functional Enertor shock- Precision Fusion Odlo Cooling Stories Odlo develops running gear that keeps Comfortable Supports absorbing insoles Lite Football runners fresh and provides them with Juzo have been manufacturing some of the As used by elite athletes from Premier One ball for both training and matches. an easygoing look at the same time – and highest quality knitted medical devices since League footballers, Tour De France winners Machine stitched construction. Textured clothing that feels good automatically 1912 and are experts in what they do. They to Olympic Champions, including Usain Bolt. TPU outer shell. PU sealing at seams for increases performance and motivation. are launching their outstanding orthopaedic Proven to reduce injury via its unique shock high level of resistance to water absorption. For the Spring/Summer 2019 Collection, support range for the UK sports retail market absorbing technology. Tested and used by 3.5mm EVA backing. In-line with FAI Player Odlo adds Linencool to their portfolio of and are actively seeking stockists. Contact the British Military. Replaces the low quality development plan. Available in size 5 in three cooling technologies. them today for details. EVA insoles, every shoe should weights: 290gms/320gms/370gms. Purchase have Enertor! today from Reydon Sports!

07376 058789 01473 831384 [email protected] 07581741799 [email protected] [email protected] 0115 938 6444 [email protected] www.juzo.co.uk www.enertor.com www.reydonsports.com Odlo.com

@SportsInsightUK 21 sports insight selects Hoka One One Mach 2 The first Mach boasted the Hoka One One trio of benefits: maximum cushion and super responsiveness in a surprisingly lightweight package. The Mach 2 goes a step further with its PROFLY midsole. That’s a PROFLY midsole made with rubberized foam, which makes for an even lighter and more resilient ride. And it uses an engineered, breathable mesh upper atop the responsive, stable package. www.hokaoneone.eu

Arena Powerfin Pro Comfyballs Cotton d3 Drinks bottles 197 Ankle Brace These are the fins all professional swimmers 20oz/600ml drinks bottle, comes in eight Helps to prevent ankle injuries, Boxers colours blue, orange, clear, pink, red, black, including high and low ankle sprains have been waiting for. Their innovative The cotton boxer is the perfect daily boxer. green and purple. Has a leak proof valve, as well as recovery. design features a sloping surface and Made of delicious, soft combed cotton which rubber grip and an asymmetrical design Low friction flexible hinge for unrestricted hydrodynamic slits in the top to allow you to provides maximum quality. The result of which makes it easier to hold and use when range of motion and superior support. swim with a faster leg kick and better control. this is a fabric that is extremely soft, while in the gym etc. SRP £5.99. Anatomical stirrup design aligns foot and The open heel ensures the best possible ankle increasing its durability. ankle. Customised fit with adjustable upper flexibility allowing faster upwards notion For you, this means that you will be and lower strap for. Fits left or right. and a more powerful downward leg kick. comfortable throughout the whole day! Arena UK – Officially distributed in UK by Comfyballs UK - officially distributed in UK Solo Sports. by Solo Sports.

01582 670100 015396 22322 015396 22322 07970766816 [email protected] www.solosports.co.uk www.comfyballs.co.uk [email protected] www.d3tape.com www.mcdavid.eu

Keep Rockin Braces Mouthguard TOKO Edge Tuner Winmau Plasma RockTape is the world’s best kinesiology The Shock Doctor Braces mouthguard: tape. It can be used to treat sports and offering essential protection for athletes with World Cup Dartboard Light Electronic precision Ski/Snowboard edge Brighter by Design - discreet, lightweight non-sports injuries, including shin splints, braces, is specifically designed to conform grinder for tuning side edges quickly and and unforgettable light performance. plantar fasciitis, runner’s knee and back to upper brace brackets for instant comfort professionally. It gives edges a World Cup Dynamic light delivery right where you pain. Stretchier, stickier and stronger than and prevention from lacerations. Made finish. Easy to use – Grinders simple to need it - no side glare. Intuitive fit for any the competition, RockTape is preferred with 100 per cent medical-grade silicone, it replace – Adjustable angle settings. Toko - dartboard, with no stress failure. by athletes and medical professionals adapts to changes in mouth structure as teeth Officially distributed in UK by Solo Sports. throughout the world. adjust. RRP £19.99 American Association of Orthodontists approved.

07816 898557 01582 670100 015396 22322 01656 767042 [email protected] [email protected] www.solosports.co.uk [email protected] www.rocktape.co.uk www.shockdoctor.co.uk https://winmau.com

www.sports-insight.co.uk 22

sportsThe place to source all yourhub products and services

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

AfterShokz Trekz Onto the trails Mac in a Sac - Upping the Tempo The Superior 4.0 takes an already lightweight, For a run in parks, on pavements or Air fast trail shoe and makes it even lighter. With Packable Performance meandering paths the new Tempo (2 pack) AfterShokz are the only official headphones the new Altra Quantic midsole, new MaxTrac With Mac in a Sac you can stock packable is a great choice for your first 5k or for the chosen by England Athletics. Nothing in/on/ sticky rubber on the outsole, rounded heel performance outerwear in your retail space hard miles training longer distances. over your ears. Their open ear design makes and seamless upper it is made to fly down with ease. The brand, already known for its The minimal level cushioning, soft it safer for running, cycling and driving. the trail with ease and speed. Also features a quality packable outwear, offers an extremely polyester and durable heel and toe are key Trekz Air are about 3cm smaller than Trekz removable StoneGuard. popular product range to retail with attractive features of this new style for 2019. Titanium. Bone conduction technology mark-ups and one of the most functional POS Technical and affordable. delivers music through your cheekbones and display stands in outdoor retail. Become a your ears remain completely open to hear stockist today. Stock packable performance ambient sounds. outerwear with ease.

01606 558428 0161 366 5020 028 9079 0588 0161 366 5020 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.pinpointce.co.uk www.altrafootwear.co.uk www.macinasac.com www.hillysocks.com

Reusch Prisma Liverpool Signature Be Unstoppable Saucony Switchback Runners are emerging from winter training. Pro R3 Football Big races are on the horizon. Spring and ISO This official Liverpool football features the Dial-in, log out. The new Switchback The Prisma Pro R3 features the newly summer are where PBs are set, and are a signatures of the current 2018-19 squad. A 32 ISO. Saucony have partnered with BOA developed R3 – Mega Solid palm specially peak time for running. The new Marathon panel size 5 ball in a striking metallic silver Technology, to take their dial lacing developed for artificial and hard surfaces. collection of seamless tees and twin shorts finish. Suitable for use on artificial turf or system and combine it with their ISOFIT In a striking new black/red colourway, the with lots of pockets help keep you going. And grass, our best-selling product is available construction to create a game-changing fit Pro version also includes an additional going. And going. Kit for the long run. Duraguard patch. Other gloves in the range from stock. experience that quickly and easily hugs your also offer the R3 palm giving the perfect foot. The new Switchback ISO launches combination of durability and grip. March 2019.

0161 439 4383 01969 625300 0161 366 5020 0800 2061491 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.reusch.com www.footballsouvenirs.net www.ronhill.com www.saucony.com

@SportsInsightUK 23 sports insight selects Polar M430 Polar M430 measures your heart rate from the wrist easily, accurately and reliably. It also tracks your pace, distance and altitude with the integrated GPS. When you run indoors, Polar M430 tracks pace and distance from your wrist movements. Polar Fitness Test with wrist-based heart rate tests your fitness level anytime, anywhere — no straps needed. www.polar.com

361-STRATA 2 Bullet & Bone Superior Comfort Warm Up Sports Moderate stability shoe designed to provide New Bullet & Bone is a world first. CEP Sleeves have a perfect anatomical fit protective comfort and support mile after It offers breakthrough, precision to prevent pressure points and chafing. The Bra Shoreline Cropped layering top with supportive fit and mile. It features breathable engineered mesh skincare tailored to sports and fitness special blend of polyamide and spandex racer back. Supremely soft and seamless with open toe box design. Externally the and comprises potent, natural ingredients provides excellent heat and moisture in dare2b's sweat-wicking BODY fabric. Fitz-Rite midfoot utilizes a distinct overlay that aid marginal gains. Four premium management to quickly wick away sweat. Stretchy and odour absorbing. Ribbed pattern to hold the foot secure. It also includes products help preparation, performance There’s no uncomfortable wet feeling or skin detailing for a secure feel. A layering staple a QU!KFOAM crash pad which assists in and recovery and contain a power trio of irritation when you sweat and the gentle for mountain hikes or flows at home. Quick guiding the foot through the gait cycle. While Maca, Magnesium and Jasmine. compression supports recovery after sports. drying, removable pads and Racer back design the QU!K Flex forefoot engineering provides for natural and balanced toe off and enhances ground contact for better acceleration.

[email protected] www.361europe.com/en/ www.cepsports.co.uk www.dare2b.com www.bulletandbone.com

Foot Glide Anti On Running Pants Be part of the Stance Slanted Tab Versatile pockets and zips keep the Push yourself to another level with Slanted blister balm elements out and important things in. adventure Tab, a running sock designed for maximal Protect your feet and toes against rubbing Set sail for the greatest adventure of your life Secondary ankle-zippers and uniquely comfort and support. They feature a that causes blisters, chafing, raw skin and with the SKECHERS x One Piece collection! designed knee-mesh means these pants reflective logo for increased visibility, hot spots. The advanced formula is a dry, The SKECHERS D'Lites 2 - One Piece shoe can be changed to match the season breathable performance mesh, lightweight invisible, non-greasy barrier. Stay active, is a special limited edition of the D'Lites 2 or run. Details in the design. terry select cushioning, left/right engineered pain free. The Original Anti Blister Stick. - Sweet Monster shoe with colourways and arch support, reinforced toe and heel as well decorations inspired by characters from the as FEEL360 technology. They consist of 66 best selling manga of all time, One Piece. per cent nylon, 24 per cent polyester, six per cent combed cotton and four per cent elastane.

www.bodyglide.com www.on-running.com www.skechers.com https://stance.eu.com

www.sports-insight.co.uk Think Soccer, BUY ® SAMBA All our new products are now in stock and available for you to buy.

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Thirty years and still going strong Liz Hearmon, Marketing Manager at Jordan Fitness, talks about the brand and their plans for the future

Can you tell us the history growth rate at 2.6 per cent (IHRSA research what works and what How has the market to improve logistics and product of the company? 2018), we’ve matched its steady doesn’t, considering concepts from changed in the last availability and our genuine The 80s saw a big fitness boom growth due to our focus on logistics around the world. five years? passion, professionalism and with the likes of Jane Fonda and and enhanced customer service. We closely review target The latest IHRSA report (2017) focus on customer relationship the aerobics circuit. Neil Jordan With several team members markets and develop ideas and shows global revenue has increased management allows us to remain at was an advocate for fitness, having relevant experience in concept sketches that would meet by 2.6 per cent in the fitness the forefront of our industry. particularly martial arts and leisure management, sports their needs. Building in CAD industry. With 200,000 more boxing. His passion eventually performance and personal training, allows us to test health and safety, clubs serving 162 million members What trends do you led to side-lining his sales job at we offer integral support to the and user testing allows us to refine in 2018 there is no sign of the predict will be popular Vauxhall and opening up his own experts in their field, adding value our ideas. fitness industry slowing down. in the coming year? gym in the evenings, in a barn on throughout our partnerships. Our team are passionate about How consumers buy into fitness With companies like Les Mills his family’s farm. It was hard work Hatton Boxing, Norwich City design and materials as well as is rapidly changing. Streaming and Pendleton setting the trend doing both jobs so although he Football Club, Energie Fitness, fitness and it’s that combination workouts has led to more growth for fitness in the home, we’ll see continued a full-time job, he moved Pure Gym and Anytime Fitness, that allows us to build durable, long in home fitness, especially from far more consumers consider if to a nutrition company to embrace alongside international trade lasting products, some with up to Millennials, which has led to their gym membership works for the sector and learn best practice, suppliers, form just some of the five years warranty (2019 Urethane an increase in online retailers them. We foresee many moving ultimately gaining contacts he’d exclusive relationships we hold Classic Dumbbells/Barbells). benefiting from the demand for next their fitness regime into the home, utilise in the years to come. within the industry. day delivery. There is still potential to better suit their lifestyle. This Running his own gym, Neil What can we expect growth estimated from baby offers retailers an opportunity to noticed the pitfalls and missing Have there been any from your company in boomers, with incentives to get fit push functional equipment such as opportunities in the sector. He recent developments the next 12 months? and retain their health, offering an medicine balls, sandbags and free- started cutting and welding to that have changed your In 2019, we celebrate 30 years of opportunity for high street shops weights, to help support consumers make his own equipment, and this company’s profile? Jordan Fitness. It’s a big year for and specialists to benefit. with their fitness journey. was the moment other gym owners The rise of Boutique and Personal us. You’ll see a refreshed brand, started requesting Neil’s help in Training gyms has certainly which aligns a refreshed energy, as What do you feel has What are you currently helping them to start up gyms energised the industry. Instagram we enter a new decade headed up been the company's working on? New and source new and refurbished has massively increased the by our Managing Director, Zak Pitt greatest success? / To launches, etc? equipment. From here, Neil appeal of functional training to and founder Neil Jordan. what do you attribute Our new HIIT Bench will be a big partnered with many companies the masses, from bootcamps to This is the year we’ll ‘HIIT’ your success? ‘HIIT’ this year, as home gym users including Technogym, and for 30 fitness holidays and this has all more of the world, with more Our success and growth have look to have an all in one storage more years he’s been scaling up the led to continuing demand for our premium quality fitness solutions. genuinely come as a result of the and functional fitness space in business to the Jordan Fitness we products and services. Internally We’ve already partnered with a hard work of the team. Our trade their home. This multi-functional know today. this has led to a renewed focus major distributor in India, for team have built up effective reseller bench provides storage for two on product design with 2019 2019, and are heavily expanding affiliations which has allowed us to kettlebells, two 12kg set of chrome How is your company seeing some brand-new gym our Middle East partnerships, enter many markets, enabling us dumbbells (2kg increments), developing and growing? equipment launches. adding to our UK and EU to expand our international reach. resistance bands and a medicine Jordan Fitness has seen continued, distributor relationships. Our direct team have developed ball so, whether a PT or individual steady growth since our official What inspires you to In terms of new products, this relationships with major operators user, they have everything they incorporation in 1996. Sourcing create new products, year you’ll see the launch of our including Energie and Anytime and need for a hard core HIIT workout, great value, quality products from how do you develop new HIIT Bench, HIIT Rig and a newly awarded Pure Gym, which all in one small space. a mix of UK and international them and bring them to host of new storage solutions to allows us to build on our UK and manufacturers has always been at the market? help gyms really utilise and make international growth. Strategically How can a new customer the heart of what we do. We’re not Looking at existing products, we the most of their space. we have worked together as a team open an account? in it for quick wins but to deliver Simple, give us a call on quality advice and functional 01553 763285 or email fitness equipment, consistently. We foresee many moving their fitness regime [email protected] and With the fitness industry global “ we’ll set you up with an account. into the home, to better suit their lifestyle ” www.sports-insight.co.uk 26 Prudential to partner with Six Day to host inaugural track cycling event in Hong Kong Hong Kong’s burgeoning cycling and points race formats. James Durbin, Chief Executive scene received a welcome Madison Sports Group have Officer of Madison Sport Group, boost with the announcement reinvented six-day cycling – a said “We are delighted to announce participation to the event, said, “I’m PRURide Six Day Hong that PRURide Six Day Hong traditional form of track cycling that the Six Day Series will be thrilled to be asked to participate in Kong is a UCI (Union Cycliste Kong is set to make its debut first raced in 1878 – with cutting- making its Asian debut in Hong the inaugural PRURide Six Day Hong Internationale) Classified – Class at Hong Kong Velodrome Park edge, world class presentation and Kong this March. Through a Kong. It’s a great addition to Hong 1 event and is sanctioned by the from 8 to 10 March 2019. entertainment. With lights down combination of its on-track action Kong’s cycling calendar and from an Cycling Association of Hong Prudential will be the title and music turned up, the house DJ and off-track entertainment, Six athlete’s perspective, it will be a great Kong. Tickets are priced from sponsor as the international cycling keeps the party atmosphere going Day presents track-cycling in a way opportunity for Hong Kong’s cyclists HKD 240 to HKD 380 and are series Six Day extends its footprint throughout the racing in a way not that has never been seen before, to compete against the world’s best in available starting today. For into Asia, with the Hong Kong previously seen at Hong Kong’s appealing to sports fans, cycling our home city. Hopefully the home- more information on PRURide stopover joining established events velodrome. The London-based sports enthusiasts and event-goers alike. advantage will play its part!” Six Day Hong Kong, please visit in six other cities across three promoter has revolutionised the The series has become synonymous TK Yeung, Commissioner for pruridesixday.hk, or visit www. continents. PRURide Six Day Hong 140-year old sport, and created the with sport, entertainment and Sports, Home Affairs Bureau, sixday.com to learn more about Kong will be the fifth race in the world’s first Six Day Series in 2016. the stars of the future. With its said, “The Home Affairs Bureau the Six Day Series.In addition to seven-stop 2018/19 series which Riders from The Cycling reputation as one of the world’s welcomes the Six Day Series the action taking place inside the started in London last October and Association of Hong Kong will most vibrant and energetic cities, to Hong Kong. Cycling is a velodrome, PRURide Six Day Hong ends in Brisbane in April 2019. participate alongside international Hong Kong is brilliantly suited popular sport in Hong Kong Kong will also feature a free Family PRURide Six Day Hong Kong Olympic gold medallists and to staging a Six Day event. We’re and our athletes have enjoyed Fun Ride on Saturday and Sunday will feature the world’s best male, household names; and with UCI looking forward to it.” notable success in international (9 -10 March), offering fun and female and junior riders who will ranking points, counting towards Derek Yung, Chief Executive competitions in recent years. We games for seasoned cyclists and descend on Hong Kong in March Olympic qualification, up for grabs, Officer of Prudential Hong Kong look forward to seeing the world’s budding stars of all ages. for an action-packed, three-day spectators can look forward to Limited, said, “We are excited top track riders compete in yet PRURide Six Day Hong event, set to include all the usual witnessing the world's best compete with the sponsorship opportunity another international showcase Kong is a UCI (Union Cycliste Six Day track racing formats which in Hong Kong in a party atmosphere. as it aligns with Prudential’s event in the city of Hong Kong Internationale) Classified – Class will be presented in a spectacular Led by Olympic and world commitment to inspiring and which will help to inspire future 1 event and is sanctioned by the arena environment. The racing will championship medallist Sarah encouraging a healthy and active generations of cyclists.” Cycling Association of Hong include the Madison, time trials, Lee Wai Sze and Asian Games lifestyle in Hong Kong. PRURide In addition to the action taking Kong. Tickets are priced from team eliminations, scratch races Champions Leung Chun-wing and Six Day Hong Kong is a new and place inside the velodrome, HKD 240 to HKD 380 and are Cheung King-lok, Hong Kong’s exciting international event that will PRURide Six Day Hong Kong will available starting today. For track cyclists have enjoyed notable bring sports enthusiasts and families also feature a free Family Fun Ride more information on PRURide BERYL WINS success on the international stage together through a spectacular on Saturday and Sunday (9 -10 Six Day Hong Kong, please visit 2019 IF DESIGN in recent years. They will relish showcase of sporting excellence by March), offering fun and games for pruridesixday.hk, or visit www. the opportunity to test themselves the best track cyclists in the world.” seasoned cyclists and budding stars sixday.com to learn more about the AWARD against the world’s elite. Sarah Lee, who has confirmed her of all ages. Six Day Series. London-based cycling technology company, Beryl, has been announced the winner of this year’s iF Design Award, a world- Fizik partners with the Transcontinental renowned design prize. The winning product, Burner Brake, won in the Race and new Trans Pyrenees Race Product discipline, under the so we are very proud to be part of Sports category. The team Leading performance cycling between the controls, planning into its 1,500km total distance. this,” says fizik’s Brand Director at Beryl were honoured to shoes and saddles brand their own strategy of riding, Its route will take participants Luca Mathia Bertoncello. receive the award from the fizik has sponsored the 2019 sleeping and refuelling, and carry from the Bay of Biscay through the “The Transcontinental Race world’s oldest independent Transcontinental Race, all their own equipment such as beautiful yet punishing scenery in and the new Trans Pyrenees Race design organization, starting July in Bulgaria, and clothing and spares – they can buy the Pyrenees to the Cap de Creus represent Mike Hall’s legacy. Hannover-based iF the all-new Trans Pyrenees food and drink – along the way. and back again. Mike was a close friend of mine International Forum Race, starting at the Bay of The previous six editions have “We are delighted to have fizik and to be able to support this race Design GmbH. Biscay in October. started in either the UK or Belgium on board with us this year for both and its participating riders is an Beryl’s Burner Brake, a fizik is well known and highly to finish, anywhere between seven the Transcontinental Race and our honour for us.” rear bike light, won over respected for regular success in and ten days later, in Greece or new Trans Pyrenees adventure”, A new event created by Lost the 67-member jury, made top-level road racing, being the Turkey. They have each featured says Anna Hashlock, President of Dot, the organizers of The up of independent experts saddle and shoes winner of the last between 3,000 and 4,000km event organizer Lost Dot. Transcontinental Race is the Trans from all over the world. It Tour de France and UCI World distance with between 30,000 and “fizik joins our partner group of Pyrenees Race. Sharing the same stood out thanks to its casing Championships Road Race. 45,000m total ascent. The 2019 high profile, quality brands who principles as the original event, the design and bespoke braking fizik’s sponsorship of this route is flipped, as the seventh reflect our values and ambitions. first edition of the Trans Pyrenees algorithm. Due to the prestige event is a clear indication of the edition starts in Burgas, Bulgaria The fact that they truly believe in Race – starting 4th October 2019 – of the award, the competition intention to provide top quality on 26/27 July and runs East-West, providing the very best possible is self-supported endurance riding was intense: over 6,400 gear in terms of design, comfort to finish in Brest, France. cycling products to help athletes over a shorter distance but with entries were submitted from and performance to the endurance The Transcontinental and Trans perform to their maximum sits highly challenging climbing packed 50 countries in hopes of athletes who push themselves to Pyrenees Races are a tribute to well with us.” receiving the seal of quality. the very limit day after day. the late Mike Hall, an exceptional Daniel Barnes, Design The Transcontinental Race is endurance athlete and founder of Director at Beryl, said: “This is an ultra-distance endurance cycle the Transcontinental Race. Mike an achievement we are really race across Europe, competed was involved in a fatal accident in proud of. We set out to build every year by a select group of March 2017 and it’s testament to the best brake-light product self-supported riders. It is widely his irrepressibly positive spirit that on the market, and winning regarded as one of the world's he remains a huge inspiration to the iF award shows that our toughest endurance cycle races. the endurance racing community. design has been recognised Competitors in the Preparations for the 2019 at the highest level. Beryl has Transcontinental Race do not edition will now start in earnest always been known for its follow a set course for the entire as riders discovered last week innovative bike lights, and we route: there are fixed start and end whether they have been successful want to continue that legacy points with mandatory control in their applications to ride. while striving to improve points along the way. All travel “fizik has long been an admirer every year.” must be by bike and riders must of the Transcontinental Race, its work out their own optimum route ethos, its athletes and its character,

@SportsInsightUK cycling hub : www.sports-insight.co.uk Sports Insight @Cyclinginsightuk @SportsInsightHub The place to source all your products and services

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www.sports-insight.co.uk@SportsInsightUK 28 I AM SPARTACUS Known throughout the cycling world as one of the sport’s most competitive, and successful, riders, Fabian Cancellara talks to Jake Taylor about life on the road, his victory-laden career, and just what it takes – both inside and outside of sport – to be a champion.

s fans of Roger Federer not in the right place.” His races, he will no doubt attest, when declared, were always the Classics. Swiss sportsmen get I am humble; I have my feet on the ground. I just followed From Paris-Roubaix, to Milan- good,A they get very good. Athletes “ San Remo, E3 Harelbeke, and, of Federer’s calibre are rare, but my dreams and my goals and what I wanted to achieve. of course, the Strade Bianche, cyclist Fabian Cancellara is one ” Cancellara’s domination of the pro who can certainly claim to Classics took him across Europe match his compatriot’s individual my dreams and my goals and what I ride alongside specialist sprinter Classic Races. It was a career shift during his four years with CSC. efforts in his respective sport. wanted to achieve.” Alessandro Petacchi, at a time that would see him claim the first Now entering the third year of his Nicknamed ‘Spartacus’ for Even so, Cancellara’s when the Italian was very much at of numerous Classic victories at retirement, and it certainly appears his gladiatorial physique and achievements speak for the top of his game. Paris-Roubaix in 2006, the first that he will avoid the scandalous unwillingness to shy away themselves, and remain even more “In Maipei I learned about Swiss rider since Heri Suter to headlines that have claimed many of from seemingly uphill struggle, impressive given his rocky start winning together,” nods do so. Incredibly, however, the his fellow former-pros, from Lance Cancellara, like his ancient in the professional sport. At just Cancellara. “But at Fassa Bortolo, move from trial trials to Classics Armstrong to Jan Ullrich, even if namesake, knew all about the nineteen years old, he rode as a Petacchi was the hard man, he was born as much out of a lack of he admits that he is not yet fully triumph of victory. The Wohlen stagiare for Maipei Quick-Step – was like the general. For him it incentive on Cancellara’s part as it comfortable with his post-racing life. bei Bern-born biker’s 15-year one of the strongest teams in the was more 'we ride, we go, we don't was his boundless natural talent. “It took me years to become career began as a time-triallist world at the time. But within two need to talk a lot, we don't think, “I have won almost everything a good bike rider, this will take and led to him clinching the World seasons, Maipei had folded. we don't need to be spoiled, let's on time trials, but it's such an years as well,” he says. “The Championships a staggering four “Of course, it was hard but on the just go.' He was a guy who wanted intense sport, and mentally when transformation is an individual times, as well as ten National other hand the journey continues,” to race. He was not the person to you train and suffer,” he admits. one. I don't say I am suffering, Championships, and two Olympic Cancellara says of the premature take care of equipment, he wasn't “The more I won the less I had the that's not right, but I'm still gold medals. end of his career with Maipei. particularly interested in team feeling of motivation to continue working on that transformation. I “Winning bike races is the one “We looked for the best sporting spirit, everything went through doing it! Instead of training twice think with what I am now dealing thing, but I don't think it is the only possibility to continue, myself him: he was the commander.” per week, I trained once and then with over the last two years it is a way to become a champion,” the and my manager, and my results His tenure with Petacchi was, maybe not even once a week, and I whole new life experience. 37-year-old muses. “You need to during the two years in Maipei had to Cancellara, one of the three became a bit lazier – but still I won. “I definitely like it, I don't miss deal with everything around that, been not so bad, I had been making key steps to his becoming the But then I thought 'this is not how racing, I don't cry about how I and everything afterwards, and progression, and had got some nice champion cyclist the sport knows it's supposed to be.' So, later on, I am not racing any more, there is when major changes are made, the results with a young team. today. In “the balance from Maipei switched, and I didn't focus any nothing that I am sad about. I am champion needs to handle that - “The next step was there to make, where we won together, to the more on time trialling and I got my a really happy person, I stopped in what is a champion? Only winning and I chose the route with Fassa way Petacchi commanded, and motivation back.” 2016 after a gold medal - what more once title, or handling everything, Bortolo, and we had a great three then a different stage again with Such candidness is typical of do I want? I haven't won some or keeping a certain level? I don't years and I had discovered a new Team CSC,” under Bjarne Riis, Cancellara, who admits a move into things, but I stopped at my peak, say I'm a champion, this is other way of riding and I had definitely Cancellara become “a better person the Grand Tours, though “talked and that was part of my dream, to people to say, this is a story told become a better bike rider.” as much as a better bike rider.” about” in his formative Maipei stop at my peak and leave when the about me. I am humble; I have my Those years at the ‘Silver Team’ With CSC, Cancellara also years, never materialised because choice was in my hands and not a feet on the ground. I just followed also gave Cancellara a chance to moved seamlessly from trials to physically and mentally he “was contract issue, or a results issue.”

@SportsInsightUK INTERVIEW 29

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Sports Insight Ad.indd 1 07/12/2018 17:02 RETAIL 31

ANOTHER YEAR... ANOTHER ISPO Paul Sherratt, of Solutions for Sport, reviews his latest ISPO trip

ISPO Munich, the world’s ISPO MUNICH cash tied up/lead times etc. However, steady flow of new activities and is concerned, team sports are a key largest trade fair for sporting MANUFACTURING AND this can easily be overcome. trends emerge. economic factor, bringing in profit SUPPLIERS goods. And once the first few shipments This segment has always been the all year round and thus, whilst this 85,000 visitors from 120 Suppliers from China, Taiwan, have come in the process becomes true heartbeat of the show in my eyes. area arguably lacks the presence of countries. 18 exhibition halls of Pakistan, Hong Kong, India and easier and easier. some of the major European players the Messe München showcasing a further afield arrive with their THE OUTDOOR SEGMENT it does cover football, hockey, varied wares. CONTINUES TO BE ONE OF plethora of sporting goods. Brands ISPO MUNICH TRENDS, floorball, basketball, tennis, table Many simply fill their 30kg airline THE FOCAL POINTS AT ISPO big and small. INNOVATION AND INDUSTRY MUNICH tennis, badminton, volleyball, or ice baggage allocation with as many SERVICES For more than 40 years Alongside the Snowsports segment hockey and more. samples as they can (usually just a ISPO Munich has consistently Its not just the sourcing halls this area represents the largest small representation) and sit within strengthened its leading position: where I have noticed a wider range brand offer with everything ISPO MUNICH VISION their 3x3m shell scheme waiting to It is a global platform for the of customers and more footfall. from ultra-light cookers and At ISPO Munich, Vision is home to either meet existing customers or to industry and a popular meeting Perhaps the most exciting SUP (stand-up paddle) boards to the world of premium sportswear. tempt new customers. place for sports business addition to ISPO Munich's range: climbing skins for touring skis and Professionals and retailers can (By the way if you are ever professionals from all over the the "Trends, Innovation & Industry multi-functional, all season jackets feast their eyes on next season’s looking for a bargain hang around world, driving innovation and Services" segment in the new Hall on display, retailers and members collections in the premium clothing these halls on Wednesday afternoon hosting exciting events. C6 offers a glimpse into the future of the press can explore the broad segment in Hall B1. and see what you can pick up. I've of the sports industry. spectrum of the industry in the seen locals walking off the show This year's crowd-pullers were Outdoor halls. History with anything from treadmills to the successful competition ISPO There were some this year that suggested that numbers were down I first started coming here in the snowboards as its cheaper for many Brandnew Digital, the esports ISPO MUNICH HEALTH AND mid-nineties – perhaps this year suppliers to sell or give away these arena, providers of digital solutions FITNESS and, indeed, at certain times this did was even my silver anniversary! items on the last day than it is to and services around the entire A booming health and fitness sector feel the case. Over time my reasons to visit ship them home) product value chain as well as the allows ISPO Munich to present Perhaps Brexit kept some away, might have changed yet the show For me this area continues unique training and innovation a credible and innovative health a large dump of snow delayed many still remains a cornerstone of to thrive. platforms: the sportmas Retail Lab fair that shows trends within this arriving on the opening Sunday, and my domestic and international The trend of brands becoming and the ISPO Academy. segment, which covers wearables, the challenging European economy business effort and a place to retailers and retailers becoming This, of course, allows the shows running, urban fitness, and body may have had an impact. reflect and plan. brands makes this area more and organises to continue to attract and mind. But ISPO, as a group, continues A place to connect with contacts, more appealing even for the new blood to the show but it can to thrive with Fairs in Beijing and past and present. smaller businesses. also throw up some interesting ISPO MUNICH URBAN. Shanghai and a new Outdoors A place to look at new Add the fact that many suppliers new trends. As a relatively new area of focus how this summer adding to the opportunities and revisit some old are prepared to offer smaller and ISPO Munich is attempting to global offer. encounters. small Minimum Order Quantities ISPO MUNICH SNOWSPORTS develop and nurture this category Its easy sometimes to reflect A place to “check in” with the (MOQ's) and it is now easier than Spread across five halls, this developing its new Urban exhibition on business challenges in our sporting good community. ever for a retailer to fill some segment reveals the changing area where sport meets fashion domestic market and lose site of A place to (maybe) find the next product range holes with high face of the winter sports sector, in an exclusive special exhibition the bigger picture. new thing. margin own label lines. as the boundaries between skiing, called Urban Lab. ISPO is a great time to remove Of course there is an element of snowboarding, sledding, cross- oneself from those thoughts and The show is effectively split into risk – trust in the supply chain is country skiing, and winter hiking ISPO MUNICH TEAMSPORTS plan for the year ahead. six segments: critical – and an element of hassle/ become more blurred, and a As far as the sporting goods industry I'll see you there next year! “ Over time my reasons to visit might have changed yet the show still remains a cornerstone of my domestic and international business effort and a place to reflect and plan. ” www.sports-insight.co.uk There is a perfect outdoor for everyone. OutDoor by ISPO 2019— for the first time in Munich. ispo.com/outdoor

Europe’s biggest outdoor trade show in Munich: June 30–July 3, 2019 June 28–July 1, 2020 June 20–June 23, 2021

#OutDoorByISPO

ismuc19_Anz_OutDoor_210x297_Katalog_E.indd 1 10.01.19 08:45 33 outdoor insight in association with Changes for Osprey Europe Rob Wylie has announced that Layne Rigney, President of fantastic opportunity to lead he will leave the business at the end Osprey Packs Inc. said: “Everyone such an iconic brand as Osprey. of March 2019 after 16 years at the at Osprey would like to thank Rob I am extremely excited about the helm, passing the reins to Jonathan for the outstanding 16 years spent future of our company, taking the Petty, currently Marketing Director, nurturing the Osprey brand in baton from such a well-respected who is appointed as its new Europe. He has built the brand and industry leader as Rob Wylie, and Managing Director for Europe. business from scratch to its current building upon the incredibly strong Commenting on his decision, Rob position as the number one pack foundations the Osprey brand has Wylie said “It’s been my privilege to brand in Europe, a remarkable across Europe. work with some truly great people at achievement. His legacy will be “Our dynamic teams are Osprey. Building the team alongside long-lasting, having developed committed more than ever to JONATHAN PETTY building the brand and company has an exceptional team, a high strengthening relationships been the most rewarding aspect of performance culture, and above all with our retailers, deepening Market-leading pack brand my 16 years. based on having fun. We wish him engagement with consumers, and MAMMUT WINS Osprey Packs Inc. has “Along the way we’ve shared every happiness in the future.” further enhancing our market THREE ISPO completed the acquisition of mostly ups and occasionally some Following the announcement of leading position”.” Osprey Europe Ltd. downs, but regardless we always Jonathan Petty as its new Managing Sales Director Tom Entwistle AWARDS Established by Rob Wylie in tried to enjoy the journey together. Director for Europe, Layne Rigney takes a newly created role of VP Mammut has won three 2003, Osprey Europe has become a For me that journey now comes said: “I am delighted to appoint Sales and Product EMEA. ISPO Awards for product key player in the European Outdoor to an end, but I’m sure with such Jonathan who brings over 20 years’ After over a decade at Osprey innovations in the outdoor market, operating in over 30 solid foundations the growth and experience in the Outdoor industry. Europe, Entwistle said: “It’s a huge and snow sports categories countries, and now the number one opportunities will continue to flow He has an outstanding track record of privilege to work with the product at the world's largest pack brand. for Osprey across Europe.” success in senior commercial roles at and people at Osprey, I’m looking multi-segment trade fair Patagonia, Salomon and Montane. forward to applying an even greater ISPO Munich. “As Marketing Director, he focus on our closest retail partners The SOTA HS Hooded Vango scoops customer satisfaction has transformed Osprey Europe and the development of product to Jacket from the Skiing marketing over the last two years. I catalyse our continued growth.” collection was awarded as awards for third year running am confident that Jonathan, along The Sales Team has been further Product of the Year in the with our talented management strengthened with a new Head category snowsports by team, will continue to drive of Sales, Luke Barton, who held the international jury. In our business forward. Rob and senior Sales positions at The North the outdoor category, the Jonathan will work together on the Face and Wolverine. In addition, Photics HS Thermo Hooded transition over the coming months, Christoph Schwer is appointed Jacket and the Trion Spine 50 with Jonathan commencing his new Sales Manager for Germany, received Winner Awards. role on 1st April 2019.” joining the team after eight years The roots of the Swiss Jonathan Petty said: “It is a at Columbia. outdoor company go back to 1862, when a rope maker Columbia Sportswear to open new opened a rope factory in a small Swiss town. Since then, European flagship store on Carnaby Street innovation and progress have been the driving forces Columbia Sportswear will open Addy Williams, Senior Retail at Mammut. Today, the Leading outdoor equipment manufacturer Vango, has won the its flagship European store in Portfolio Manager at Shaftesbury, mountaineering brand has coveted ‘Best Backpacker Tents Award’ at The Camping and early 2019, located on London’s said: “The new, flagship store for a leading role in the outdoor Caravanning Club’s Tent Owner Satisfaction Awards for the iconic Carnaby Street. Columbia Sportswear will be a third year in a row. The store will offer 2,465 sq. great addition to Carnaby, and the market and is constantly The award was presented at a star-studded industry dinner at The ft. (230 sq. m) of premium retail brand’s innovative technology and developing its products Midland Hotel, in Manchester, on January 17, hosted by TV presenter space, over two levels, showcasing community initiatives will make together with the athletes of and Camping and Caravanning Club President, Julia Bradbury. the very best of Columbia’s range - the store a must-visit for 2019. the Mammut Pro Team. The Tent Ownership Satisfaction Awards results are collated from the from innovative, technical outdoor “The influential retailer is the Adrian Margelist, Chief Camping and Caravanning Club’s annual tent survey, which measures gear, to casual, outdoor-inspired perfect fit for this premium retail Creative Officer der Mammut ownership satisfaction based on information supplied freely by customers. collections drawn from Columbia’s unit on iconic Carnaby Street, Sports Group AG, said: “We The best backpacking award looked at tents that are designed to be rich heritage - perfect for customers sitting alongside other global, are very proud of winning carried by individuals on walking (or cycling) trips. Ease of use was ranked shopping for the high street or flagship brands.” awards for these three highly by customers – in terms of carrying, packing away and pitching – as their next outdoor adventure. More products – especially the well as a low pack weight and tent performance in adverse conditions. information will be made available SOTA HS Hooded Jacket Vango received a 91 per cent satisfaction score for its trekking and before the store opening. as Product of the Year. The backpacking tent ranges, demonstrating the high quality and practicality Matthieu Schegg, Vice President products convince with their of its products. and General Manager, EMEA, innovative technologies Rob Birrell, marketing director, said: “The Tent Owner Satisfaction Columbia, said: “Announcing the and the use of the latest Awards are judged entirely on feedback from thousands of Camping arrival of our London flagship store materials. Winning such and Caravanning Club members and customers who use our products is another milestone for Columbia awards encourages us regularly. It is a brilliant opportunity for them to tell us what they really just a year after celebrating our 80th to continue to invest in think about our products, so we are delighted to know that our trekking anniversary. London is a world- the development of new tents are performing well and meeting the needs of our customers." renowned shopping city and we look technologies and materials In addition to winning in the Backpacker Tent category, the Scottish forward to engaging with the city’s to provide unforgettable outdoor equipment manufacturer was highly commended in four other active consumers and global visitors, outdoor experiences to categories, including ‘Best Budget Tent’, ‘Best Premium Tent’, ‘Best sharing Columbia’s rich heritage and mountain enthusiasts around Weekender tent’ and ‘Best Traditional Poled Tent’. innovative products.” the world.”

www.sports-insight.co.uk 34

OUTDOOR BY ISPO GATHERS PACE WITH STRONG SUPPORT FROM THE INDUSTRY Huge demand sees eight halls come into play for the debut of the trade show in Munich

undreds of exhibitors proves the relevance of OutDoor by demand. The individual segments OutDoor by ISPO relies on OutDays bring outdoor have already signed up for ISPO. Together we can cultivate a are likely to be presented in the strategic collaborations with feeling to the city OutDoor by ISPO. global outdoor mindset, based on eastern part of the exhibition renowned industry players. With In order to also reach end HThe OutDoor by ISPO trade fair our research results from before, grounds at the Riem site. the Adventure Travel & Trade consumers during the fair, will be held in Munich from June and drive the industry forward.” The main outdoor activities will Association (ATTA), it has gained OutDoor by ISPO is organizing 30 to July 3 for the first time. The An overview of all brands and be located in the first hall directly an international association for the Munich OutDays. In cooperation concept, presented last year, has manufacturers that have already after the entrance, while Outdoor+ travel segment as a partner. with retailers and other partners been met with great approval in registered for the inaugural and cross-industry topics will be Its partner in the bicycle sector based in Munich, numerous events the industry. About 700 OutDoor by ISPO event is available presented in adjacent halls. is ExtraEnergy. As an industry will be staged in the city to transfer international exhibitors have on their website. Applications can Markus Hefter, Exhibition Group gathering for kayaking, canoeing the dynamics and enthusiasm for already registered for the event still be submitted. Director for OutDoor by ISPO, said: and stand-up paddling, the five months before its debut. “This also helps us to convey the PADDLEexpo will contribute its sport from the trade fair halls to New partnerships with important Integration of new idea that the new outdoor mindset expertise at the Paddlesport Village. the city centre. Specialist shops multipliers are strengthening the segments is developing and growing out of the and the entire city will become the network. Visitors can look forward For many consumers, activities original core group.” stage for brands, their products, Simplified access for and athletes. to a new hall design that offers such as water sports, mountain Hall C6 provides direct access international retailers to the open-air area, and is used In addition to talks and movie a platform for both classic and biking, or trail running have long The OutDoor by ISPO fair remains as an exhibition and test area. screenings, the people of Munich new outdoor activities alike. With been part of the outdoor concept reserved for trade visitors. In order The atrium between the halls, as can look forward to exclusive specific measures for retailers and complement traditional to make it easier for international well as the park directly adjoining course offerings and trial offers. and consumers, the new outdoor activities such as hiking and retailers to attend the fair, the the exhibition grounds with the mindset will be transported to all climbing. OutDoor by ISPO is “Altogether to Munich” program Riemer See lake, invites people target groups. embracing this development was created. A country-specific OutDoor by ISPO as to relax before or after their visit In addition to the trade fair, with the integration of the online platform enables brands and year-round platform to the trade fair. A camping and OutDoor by ISPO offers a year- Outdoor+ segment. distributors to invite their trading In addition to the leading annual glamping site, which has been round industry platform based on Opening up to industries beyond partners simply and efficiently, trade fair, OutDoor by ISPO is specially set up, is also within the digital and analogue offerings the outdoor sector (i.e. cross- manage appointments, and offering for the first time a far- walking distance. of the ISPO network. industry) enables inspiration and network in the run-up to the trade reaching, year-round platform for The halls themselves are Klaus Dittrich, Chairman and valuable transfers of knowledge fair, all at the click of a mouse. the entire outdoor community, self-contained worlds of CEO of Messe München, said: from other areas: the focus is “Altogether to Munich” is currently based on the ecosystem of the experience. Wide central aisles, “A lot has happened in the last particularly on environmental available in six languages for ISPO network. It includes analogue complemented by a number of seven months since our launch technologies as well as digital sports retailers from Great Britain, and digital B2B and B2C services cross aisles, facilitate orientation conference. In close cooperation trading and technology solutions. Italy, Austria, Spain, Poland, that run globally along the entire and help visitors to gain a quick with the European Outdoor But there are also points of Switzerland, and Scandinavia. value chain. overview. Thanks to an open Group and the industry, we have contact in printed and organic The price structure of OutDoor The contents of OutDoor by ISPO design with sufficient space and identified new target groups and electronics as well as the real estate by ISPO also places visitors from are extended to the end consumer opportunities for discussions, the growth potential, further developed and logistics industry, which can specialist trade in the foreground all year round, thus increasing entire hall becomes an inspiring the concept of OutDoor by ISPO be used to tap previously unused and offers discounted admission the international relevance and communication hub. Focus areas accordingly and fleshed it out.” growth potential. In order to prices. A standard retailer day reach of the outdoor industry For this purpose, a dedicated transfer relevant topics to the take visitors deeper into highlight ticket booked online costs 17 euros. beyond the duration of the trade advisory board has been established, outdoor industry, the ISPO team is topics and serve as show areas for Bookings made on site will cost fair. Brands and manufacturers which meets at regular intervals. drawing on the leading trade fairs presentations and events. 24 euros. Accordingly, the four- can communicate their messages The acceptance in the industry in Messe München’s portfolio. day ticket will cost 24 or 39 euros. independently of the exhibition is reflected in the figures. About Forward-looking During the fair, retailers can dates. Retailers as well as 700 exhibitors from 36 countries New hall concept strategic partnerships expect a comprehensive program consumers receive information have already registered. They The six halls originally planned For the integration of new of talks and forums with new from the industry 365 days a year include Adidas Outdoor, Arc’teryx, for the inaugural event have since topics and establishment of approaches, solutions, and ideas and the opportunity to get involved Birkenstock, Black Diamond, become eight due to the huge new long-term business models, for points of sale. Fjällräven, Jack Wolfskin, Keen, themselves. All offers are tailored to Mountain Equipment, Patagonia, specific target groups of the outdoor PrimaLoft, Scott, and Vaude. Arne The internationality of this current line-up of exhibitors industry. Thus, among other things, Strate, General Secretary of the the well-known ISPO Award will be “ transformed into its own outdoor- European Outdoor Group (EOG), proves the relevance of OutDoor by ISPO.” Arne Strate, said: “The internationality of specific concept under the name this current line-up of exhibitors General Secretary of the European Outdoor Group (EOG) ” “Outstanding Outdoor.”

@SportsInsightUK OUTDOOR INSIGHT Camping Recycled pledges support to Scottish Mountain Rescue Glasgow-based recycling ensuring that they can continue to initiative, Camping Recycled, provide such a valuable service to LA SPORTIVA has pledged to donate one per the Scottish community.” cent of its profits to Scottish Scottish Mountain Rescue is a AND WL Mountain Rescue as part of an registered charity providing support ongoing partnership. to volunteer mountain rescue GORE The funds raised will help teams since 1965. With over 1,000 support the charity’s efforts to volunteers and the Scottish Cave COMBINE provide a world class rescue Rescue members, the charity delivers service in Scotland’s Mountains a much needed and valued rescue TO EQUIP and remote communities. response 24/7, 365 days a year. SCOTTISH Launched in 2008 by leading Kev Mitchell, Vice-Chair at outdoor equipment manufacturer Scottish Mountain Rescue said: AVALANCHE Vango, Camping Recycled is “Our volunteers work in challenging a project that is committed to and often hostile environments TEAMS minimising waste by giving outdoor in all mountainous terrain across kit a second life. Whether it's a highly experienced team strip off to take great pride in extending the Scotland any day, any hour, any Scottish Avalanche production sample, a display model every component that can be used life of products that would have weather. We depend wholly on Information Service (SAIS) or a broken item, the team do again and those parts are used to otherwise gone to waste. donations to maintain our world forecasters are staying everything they can to get second repair other products – so nothing “When looking for a charity to class service and the support dry and comfortable hand tents, awnings, rucksacks is wasted. partner with this year, Scottish pledged by the Camping Recycled this winter, through a and equipment, back into saleable Rob Birrell, Vango Marketing Mountain Rescue was top of our team will undoubtedly help us collaboration between La condition so that they can be used Director, said: “We are passionate list. The charity does an incredible to offer the best possible rescue Sportiva and WL Gore. again for new adventures. about getting people outdoors and job keeping outdoor enthusiasts service to all who need them.” SAIS is the main source Camping Recycled was one of creating a sustainable future for safe throughout Scotland and, For more information on of avalanche information the first initiatives to refurbish the next generation, which is why like us, the team are committed to Scottish Mountain Rescue or to for people venturing onto and sell used gear that would we founded our Camping Recycled helping people enjoy the outdoors donate, visit the Scottish Mountain the Scottish hills, compiling have otherwise gone to landfill. If initiative. Ten years on, our team safely. We hope that our donations Rescue website: daily hazard forecasts for products are beyond repair, the is bigger than ever and continues will be able to go some way to www.scottishmountainrescue.org the most popular areas throughout the winter season, and generating over 3,000 website visits on a busy winter’s day. Its Isbjörn of Sweden forecasters are out every day, in all conditions, reporting observations on unveils new branding snow stability, accumulation and assessing the current Premium outdoor children’s it has to offer.” avalanche hazard. clothing and accessories Maria continued: “As well as La Sportiva, through manufacturer, Isbjörn of designing durable yet stylish UK distributor Lyon Sweden, revealed a new outdoor wear, the environment will Equipment, is supporting brand image at the ISPO Show always be at the top of our agenda, SAIS as a brand partner in Munich. from the materials we use to in conjunction with WL Symbolising both empowerment features such as grow cuffs, which MIKAELA SHIFFRIN. Gore to supply mountain and enjoyment for young can add 3cm to sleeves and legs PHOTO CREDIT: STEVE EARL PHOTOGRAPHY footwear to team members. outdoor enthusiasts, Isbjörn’s on a garment. All our products are Simon Tulley, from Lyon new logo features a happy Polar designed with longevity in mind so Smartwool Launches into New Year with Equipment, said: “It’s Bear (Isbjörn in Swedish) who they can be passed down to younger the nature of the job that encompasses freedom, unity, siblings, cousins and friends. When World Cup Champion Mikaela Shiffrin SAIS forecasters need to Nordic nature, positive energy and you buy Isbjörn, you’re making the stay comfortable in cold, Smartwool is launching into the New Year with a new partnership love for the planet. best choice for your child and the damp and often technical with World Cup champion alpine skier Mikaela Shiffrin. The new image represents planet they play on.” mountain situations. We’re Shiffrin signed a three-year contract to exclusively wear Smartwool the true brand values of Isbjörn The new branding will be pleased that in choosing socks as she races and breaks records on the World Cup circuit. and its passionate team, who rolled out from the Autumn La Sportiva boots they can Shiffrin is a two-time Olympic gold medallist and the current two- have continuously been on a Winter 2019/20 season, featuring be sure they will remain time reigning Overall World Cup champion. She has won 54 World Cup mission to make the most durable, on stylish yet informative secure and comfortable in races, including 37 World Cup slalom wins. She is the first skier, male high-performance clothing and hangtags, as well as being clearly this important work.” or female, to win all six ski racing disciplines: slalom, giant slalom, accessories for children of all visible on the new range of clothing Matthew Davis, R&D downhill, super-G, combined, and the most recently added, parallel ages, while protecting the and accessories. Associate, WL Gore & slalom. She’s predicted to win more races and more championships environment by using the most Associates added: “GORE than any other skier in history. And, Mikaela is just getting started. sustainable materials. continues to support and Scott Bowers, Smartwool vice president of marketing and sales, said: Maria Frykman Forsberg, work closely alongside “Mikaela is crushing what is possible in ski racing and to do so she demands CEO of Isbjörn of Sweden, said: SAIS ensuring our pinnacle the most innovative, high performing equipment available. This includes “Children are our future and I’ve GORE-TEX products are socks that are the critical interface between her feet, boots and her skis. never understood why they should suitably tested in real world “She is an incredible athlete with a great future ahead. We could not compromise on any adult gear environmental conditions.” be more proud to welcome her to the Smartwool family. As athletes when it comes to performance. Mark Diggins, SAIS demand the very best in their equipment selection Smartwool is This is why Camilla and I set up the coordinator, said: “The thrilled at the opportunity to develop a ski sock with technical benefits company in the first place. team spends approximately specific to Mikaela’s requirements.” “Isbjörn is very much a lifestyle 680 days in the mountains Mikaela will collaborate with the Smartwool product development brand and our aim is to inspire as each winter, in challenging team to create Mikaela Shiffrin exclusive socks to add to the company’s many families and their children and serious conditions. PhD Pro performance sock category. The PhD Pro Mikaela edition will to experience enjoyment in the Good clothing and be available this fall for the 2019-20 ski racing season. outdoors, with the reassurance that equipment allow us to carry Shiffrin said: “I’m already in love with Smartwool socks and have been they are protected, safe and also out our job with confidence, wearing them for years. Socks are a core component of my racing gear. helping the environment. We want and we are therefore very High performance socks make my high performance ski boots fit perfectly. to empower and inspire and our grateful to have the support Now, I’m excited to co-develop my own Smartwool PhD Pro ski sock.” new brand identify clearly depicts of La Sportiva through This partnership deepens Smartwool’s relationship with the US Ski that the outdoors is inclusive and Lyon Equipment.” Team, which it has sponsored for nearly two decades. every child should experience what

www.sports-insight.co.uk HOUDINI’S 28NEW HOUDI FEATURES POLARTEC Open water swimwear brand partners POWER AIR Polartec’s brand new with historic Henley Swim Event revolutionary Power Air fabric is the centrepiece Founders of open water make it the Selkie Henley Classic. to Swedish outdoor brand swimwear brand Selkie Swim “It is great to see both the event Houdini Sportswear’s new co, Jeremy Laming and Tom and our swimwear brand grow Power Air Houdi. Kean, have partnered with The together and encourage people A next generation fleece Henley Classic Swim event to to get out there and brave the jacket which sheds five times further express their passion water. I am excited to see everyone fewer microfibres than other for open water swimming. involved this year and raise high-quality fleece and only Prior to the brand’s launch four awareness of an event so close to a fraction compared to years ago they focussed primarily my heart.” regular fleece. on open water swimming events The Selkie Henley Classic is a Swedish environmental before branching out into products 2.1 km endurance upstream river pioneer, Houdini Sportswear, that support their core principle. swimming challenge along one of the shares Polartec’s values of The Henley Classic Swim dates most beautiful stretches of the river. prioritising innovative ways back to July 1896, making it one of The dead straight course is to solve the environmental the oldest open water swimming highlighted by a laser from the crisis. This newest addition races in the world. start, which points all the way to the Houdini line is made Whilst open water swimming down the course into Henley. of new Polartec Power Air, events have been held on the Thames Since 2010, The Inman and Ovey the first fabric technology since the 1890s, in 2004, Jeremy Challenge Trophies have been engineered to reduce Laming and Tom Kean thought awarded to the fastest male and microfibre shedding. swimming the regatta at first light by female swimmers of the Henley Cotswold Outdoor partners with Gary Smith, Polartec themselves would be rebellious fun. Classic Swim and the Selkie team CEO, said: “Houdini shares After the first year of them are delighted to support this iconic TV presenter Julia Bradbury and our commitment to taking swimming alone, word got out open water swim. meaningful actions that amongst friends and family and by They aim to help grow the The Outdoor Guide improve the sustainability 2008 there was so much interest international event for the Cotswold Outdoor has entered about our natural surroundings of our products, supply chain that it became what is it today; The swimmers who travel far and wide a new partnership with TV have been admired by viewers and business practices. Henley Classic Swim. to compete for the oldest open presenter, avid walker and around the world for years. “As a completely new A decade later, Jeremy and Tom water trophies in the world. In the outdoor enthusiast Julia Julia Bradbury said: “I am way of making fabric, wanted to build a brand that best past it has been won by Olympians Bradbury, and the walking absolutely thrilled that The Polartec Power Air has the represented their love for open including Adrian Moorhouse, Greg website The Outdoor Guide. Outdoor Guide and I are teaming potential to be our most water swimming and their core White (who has won twice) and Along with the in-depth detail up with Cotswold Outdoor. It significant development adventurous principles and, with Karen Pickering. available on The Outdoor Guide, couldn't be more of a perfect since pioneering the process that, www.selkieswim.com was Incorporated into the Selkie Julia’s passionate and contagious partnership; we will work together to knit fabrics made of post- created. Now, Laming and Kean Henley Classic are the Varsity approach to enjoying the outdoors to inspire people to get outdoors consumer plastic bottles.” are merging both of their creations, Open Water Swim, and the School’s perfectly aligns with Cotswold and embrace the physical and By encapsulating lofted renaming the Henley Classic to the Cup – both hotly contested. There Outdoor’s brand DNA. Cotswold mental health benefits of spending fibres within a multi- Selkie Henley Classic. is also an Oxford versus Cambridge Outdoor has been helping time in green spaces. layered, continuous yarn Jeremy Laming, Co-Founder Alumni match and a mob match. people to endlessly explore with “We’ll be looking to engage fabric construction, this of Selkie Swim Co, said: “Tom The Selkie Henley Classic excellent products from the very the public with exciting projects revolutionary new platform and I never realised how big the takes place on June 30 at 4am and best brands and providing quality and motivate them to embrace offers advanced thermal Henley Classic would become and swimmers can sign up online to take expertise and advice born from beautiful spaces. I’m also looking efficiency that is proven to now feels like the perfect time to part: https://henleyswim.niftyentries. over 45 years of experience. forward to combining forces with shed five times less than partner it with our brand, Selkie, to com/Selkie-Henley-Classic-2019. Amongst a string of specialist such a trusted retailer that stocks other premium ‘mid-layer’ projects on- and off-screen, all of the fabulous brands that I weight fabrics. including co-founding the hugely have been wearing for many years. Jesper Danielsson, popular walking website The I’m very excited to get an exclusive Houdini design director, Outdoor Guide with her sister look at next season's new kit too!” said: “As we joined forces Gina, Julia is credited with Paul McDermott, Marketing and with Polartec to innovate the revamping Sunday night television Omnichannel Director at Cotswold next generation insulation alongside Matt Baker with the Outdoor, said: “We are delighted fabrics our intention BBC1 hit factual series Countryfile. to be working with Julia Bradbury was clear – to take on the She has recently hosted and The Outdoor Guide throughout issue of microfibres while Britain’s Best Walks and Britain’s 2019 and beyond. We know that simultaneously elevating Favourite Walks: Top 100 on people are happier outside and performance. The launch of ITV, for those with a love for together, we want to inspire and Power Air is a true milestone. the British Countryside. Her support people to actively enjoy the After intense ideation, R&D latest series launches soon outdoors by making it easy, fun and and field testing we can and combines her love for the exciting for everyone.” finally present the end-result Montane announce headline outdoors while shining a light on Together with Julia and – a next generation stretch conservation issues. Full details The Outdoor Guide, Cotswold insulation garment with sponsorship of Sheffield will be announced very shortly. Outdoor will be working hard superior layering comfort Julia’s passion for walking, her to support and strengthen the featuring an air-trapping Adventure Film Festival 2019 extensive knowledge of the best outdoors community through fabric strictly made places to explore and her dedication events and other projects soon to out of continuous In 2018 Montane attended Keswick and Kendal Mountain to protecting and raising awareness be announced. filament fibres.” Festivals. Off the back of their immense success Montane have Houdini has pledged to attend more grass-roots events in 2019, starting with been working on the Sheffield Adventure Film Festival. limiting fibre Montane are excited for the opportunity to engage with more release since passionate and informed customers. 2013 when Grass-roots events such as SHAFF have become an important part of their first Montane’s outreach activity due to the high quality of interactions with filament communities that are active and passionate about the outdoors. fibre Terry Stephenson, Head of Marketing, said: “By their very nature garment outdoors people are a discerning bunch, and rightly so; they need to was have unwavering confidence in their ability and their kit. We are looking launched. forward to deepening our relationship with them.” As part of their support of the festival, Montane will be showcasing new technical climbing products for both summer and winter seasons, and bringing sponsored climbers including Franco Cookson to be part of the festival programme.

@SportsInsightUK OUTDOOR INSIGHT

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

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www.sports-insight.co.uk@SportsInsightUK 38GORE WEAR 39 APPOINT FUSION Zone3 announced as official MEDIA AS UK PR AGENCY partner of Victory Swim

Leading sportswear The Channel and The Lake brand, GORE Wear, has Europe's leading and award- professional triathletes and open announced the appointment winning triathlon brand, water swimmers. The key to Zone3's of Fusion Media as its Zone3 has been announced success lies in sports technology, lab UK PR Agency. Using its as the official partner for the testing, listening to customers and position as a boutique agency 2019 Zone3 Victory Swims, in using their feedback to innovate and focused on endurance sport, support of the Felix Fund. further improve each product. Fusion will help GORE The Felix Fund is a charity Zone3 are providing award- Wear grow awareness and that supports bomb disposal and winning and high performance understanding of its products search personnel and their families swimming products for participants amongst British runners, with financial assistance and of Zone3 Victory Swims and cyclists, hikers and skiers. welfare support. exclusive promotions for supporters Founded in 1985, GORE The Zone3 Victory Swims of the events. Wear has long been are part of the Captain James The Zone3 Victory Swim The established as one of the Wadsworth Challenges, where Channel takes place between world’s leading sportswear participants push themselves to September 13-19, 2019. The Royal manufacturers. Part of W.L their limits through swimming, Navy will providing the support GORE & Associates, GORE running and cycling endurance boats for the swim. Wear develop innovative events. The swimming challenges Beforehand, the Zone3 Victory clothing for a wide range of consist of an epic swim across Swim The Lake takes place and promotions for supporters of the he was awarded the Conspicuous sports including running, the English Channel in on Thursday, September 5, at charity and challenges.” Gallantry Cross. Later this year, Capt. cycling, hiking and skiing. September, which will be Waterland Outdoor Pursuits near Previously just called the Victory Wadsworth will receive an MBE in Best known for its use completed by solo swimmers Cirencester, Gloucestershire. Swim, the event is the brainchild of recognition of both his role in the of the legendary GORE- and relay teams alike, and an Participants will swim 400m, 700m, Capt. James Wadsworth CGC. He military and his charitable work. TEX technology that has exhilarating open water swim. 1,500m or further if they want more said: “It is just incredible to have The Felix Fund provides both been used by the likes of Zone3 is one of the most of a challenge! such a prestigious brand on board tailored welfare support and NASA, the Company serves successful triathlon brands, Event co-ordinator at Zone3, for this event. Having the support of financial help. It also focuses on markets across the globe. continuously achieving the highest Adelaide Goodeve, said: “We are such an influential and established mental health issue and work to Priding themselves on industry reviews based on speed, delighted to be the official partner of organisation means the world to us.” prevent stress. developing some of the most comfort and innovation. The brand these amazingly worthy challenges. Capt. Wadsworth joined the army Take part in Zone3 Victory technically advanced active was built by athletes and for athletes We will be supporting swimmers in 1995 and worked in the Explosive Swim The Lake on 5 September clothing on the market, right from the very start, creating throughout their training with Ordnance Display (OED) unit and 5, 2019, by registering at https:// GORE Wear designers work products that are ideally suited for top advice from our ambassadors, completed tours of Northern Ireland, helmtickets.com/events/3168/ closely with some of the beginners, all the way through to providing participants with vital kit Afghanistan and Iraq. In 2008, victory-swim-the-lake best athletes in the world. Working with long term brand ambassador - and one of the most successful road bicycle racers of all time - Fabian Coast to coast: seven women from across Cancellara, GORE recently announced the launch of its new C7 bib-short range, the globe take on epic desert adventure employing a revolutionary A brand new documentary – included a real estate agent, a fact that the majority of the group them along every step of the epic new ‘central torso follows seven members of the mechanical engineer and a sports had never ran in the desert and four day adventure. From endless architecture’ technology. ASICS FrontRunner team as therapist. Ranging from non- some had not even ran a marathon. sand dunes to trekking through Fusion Media is tasked they complete an incredible professionals to top athletes, the The journey was no mean feat, completely unchartered terrain with helping GORE Wear coast to coast adventure. ASICS FrontRunner community with 27 degree desert heat causing – the 30 minute film captures the to engage with new and Crossing from Dubai to the are a collective of runners from havoc – especially for those who stunning natural beauty of UEA existing customers within Oman Coast in just four days, the across the globe who have come hadn’t ran in such dry conditions and Oman, as well as providing a the UK, as the number of runners completed an exhausting together to promote ASICS’ before and all but two of the candid insight into the camaraderie people taking up an active 180km – the equivalent of running philosophy of ‘A Sound Mind in runners had come from much and friendship of the team. lifestyle continues to grow four marathons in four days. a Sound Body’ (Anima sana in colder climates. As well as battling The group, who were within the region. Battling bustling cities, dangerous corpore sano). dehydration and heat exhaustion, representatives of the ASICS’ For over ten years, mountains and intense desert heat Despite having not run together the team also faced issues at the FrontRunner team, all used the London-based Fusion Media – the once in a lifetime experience and having varying abilities, the Oman border crossing and had the new ASICS GEL-FujiTrabuco has been focusing on PR and has been made into a short film, women all had the common goal of unenviable task of self-navigating 7 during the run. With the route Digital services for cycling which launched in February 17. conquering the harsh and unknown in foreign territory. springing many unforseen and endurance sports The group – which consisted terrains. Adding to the extreme Available to view in February obstacles, the GEL-FujiTrabuco brands. As a fully-integrated of seven different nationalities elements, the run was made even 17, the documentary follows the 7 played a vital role in helping the boutique agency, their from three separate continents more challenging by virtue of the journey of the runners – tracking team navigate their way through portfolio of clients includes the diverse terrains which brands like Strava, Red ranged from sand dunes to Bull, Evans Cycles, Wahoo, mountain pathways. Shimano and Brompton. ASICS FrontRunner Holly Their approach centres not Rush, said: “Running from Dubai only on increasing brand to Oman was an experience I will awareness, but solidifying never forget. I have been lucky brands’ positions in the enough to run in some amazing endurance sport marketplace. places all over the world but this Jürgen Kurapkat, Head of trip was an assault on the senses. European PR at GORE Wear We to had battle high temperatures said: “We are really pleased and unknown trails, but there to have started working with were so many new cultures to Fusion Media. experience as well. The desert As a boutique agency and mountains of UAE and Oman with expertise, passion and threw everything they had at us but enthusiasm for endurance we made it to the end!” sport, we feel that they are The upcoming ASICS perfectly positioned to help FrontRunner applications are GORE Wear communicate now open, where ASICS will authentically with new and begin its global search for 120 new existing audiences in the UK.” members. To apply, please go to asics.com/frontrunner

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THE GROWTH OF ENDURANCE RACING Fiona Bugler examines the growth and changing face of endurance events, explores some of the challenges and the opportunities for the wider sports industry and asks what’s the impact on the non-commercial governing bodies and grassroot clubs?

here was a time when running, triathlon, cycling and Insight, alongside this, there has ‘traditional’ sports to the so-called were listed under running club the local running club swimming communities aren’t been a rise in the wellness industry, ‘doorstep’ sports which has been or company, illustrating how measured out a route, focussed only on the sport, it’s and society-wide focus on self- driven by people’s lifestyles and running events are now part of the Tsent out some fliers, and very fast about lifestyle – self-development improvement. Entering races isn’t the growth of online training business world. runners (mainly men) gathered to and creating a healthier you. just about racing, in fact for many tools and communities,’ explains race each other, the goal was to see Athletes come in many different that’s the last thing on their mind, Craig Dews, CEO of Limelight A competitive culture how fast you could go and who you ages, shapes and sizes and the range it’s about taking part, raising money Sports Group, a company that for At the other end, more athletically- could beat. Standards were high, it of abilities is vast (as illustrated by for charity, feeling healthier, or the last 25 years has specialised focussed events such as was a serious business. a wide range of race finish times even getting a promotion. in mass participation events IRONMAN, appealing to high Now, it’s a different picture. The from 31 minutes to 2.5 hours in ‘There has also been a including most recently, working achieving competitive types, are business of running an endurance the Winter Run 10K). And as fundamental shift in the way with the London and Blenheim also thriving. IRONMAN was event is a big business, and the discussed in last month’s Sports people ‘consume’ sport away from Palace Triathlons, and the Etape famously bought for $650 million, Caledonia cycling event. by China’s richest man, Wang “As a result of this the number Jianlin, owner of the property of mass participation events to and entertainment conglomerate cater for the upsurge in demand has Dalian Wanda Group, in 2015. grown hugely. And the increase in Even though still male and ‘type-A’ female participation has also been dominated, emails from the a significant factor particularly company in January stated that 90 for running events but also per cent of their European races increasingly in other endurance for 2019 had sold out. No mean sports,” he adds. feat when you consider prices start Cycling, swimming, triathlon and from around £250 for 70.3 (half adventure racing have all drawn ironman distance) races, and £500 people in and satisfied a hunger for for the full distance. a challenge and a healthier lifestyle. In Running, Abbott who have a Mass participation events are strategic relationship with Wanda, widespread and well-populated, pledged to renew its sponsorship of held worldwide, and on almost The World Marathon Majors Series every weekend. February’s Winter in 2018. As well as taking running to Run 10K in London saw 18.5K a bigger global stage, just as Wanda finishers cross the line and entrants have with IRONMAN, Abbott have

@SportsInsightUK EVENTS 41 introduced the World Marathon Challenges Majors Age Group World Rankings. “All industries that have And as well as the event organisers, experienced the levels of growth growth is found with associated seen in the endurance industry businesses such as ACTIVE. attract increased competition,” com, hosts of the world's largest says Dews. “That competition directory of sports and recreational should lead to a better product activities. They engage over 15 being created for the consumer. million participants on behalf But the industry has failed to of over 32,000 organisers, and acknowledge this and is now have a community of one million having to play catch up. New Facebook fans, and five million on business models need to evolve to their mailing list. replace the old sponsorship model, to mitigate for the increasing costs Tailored marketing and provide the participant with Like many players in the industry, the experience they are after.” in marketing terms, trailblazers As well these challenges, amongst are found in the industry of big running purists, there are some who endurance events. Limelight have are damning of mass participation, gathered data (working with data- which they see as a dumbing down driven agency Two Circles) from of the sport. Notable examples what Dews calls the ‘active world’ are UK marathon record holder so they can connect brands with Steve Jones who told Competitor collaboration between governing and very often reacted to what the says Dews. participants, and in doing this they magazine that ‘the industry is bodies, grassroots and mass customer wants, strategic planning “Endemic’ sport and health have re-shaped how brands work running the sport now, not the sport participation events where there is for taking the industry forward has related brands have for many with sporting events. running the industry’ and he added, mutual benefit. Mass participation been neglected. years benefited from partnering “Limelight has always tried to ‘starting and finishing a marathon events are often the entry (or re- “The mass participation industry with mass participation events. deliver the best possible event does not make you a marathoner.’ entry) point for participants into has known for some time that Organisers are constantly trying to experience for the participants Parkrun has spurred the a sport. The opportunity is there there is a need to engage younger increase their market share of this and their supporters, and we will growth of running and got more for clubs and governing bodies to and more diverse audiences and spend. However, that isn’t going continue to do so by looking at how people active, a national health support them on these first steps commercial brands (Nike being the to create sustained growth in the technology can help us personalise requirement, but, at the same time, and to then provide a next step to leading example) and event brands industry. This will require us to the mass participation experience. it’s all but obliterated local club their personal journey,” says Dews. such as Spartan and Music Run attract more mainstream brands But our key investments are in 5K races. Governing bodies such have had great success in appealing in innovative and creative ways. developing the effectiveness of our as Sport England have created Next steps to new audiences. The industry The days of selling rights for rate campaigns to deliver for brands – wonderful initiatives and provided As shown with investment in absolutely needs to be more card prices and different ‘tiers’ of how can they reach and add value to great insights with campaigns such IRONMAN and the marathon creative and strategic in developing sponsorship are dead. Partners their audiences, how can they have as This Girl Can, but participation majors, the market largely caters for new and existing events, but it is want relationships and assets based a long-term relationship and have in sport and events amongst the middle-aged, with cash to spare. challenging when the traditional on their needs not just the financial multiple positive experiences with women still needs to increase. However, it seems the industry has sponsorship model has collapsed, needs of the event organiser,” the brand?” he explains. “There should be more evolved with its current participants costs and competition are rising,” concludes Dews.

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OLD DOGS MUST LEARN NEW TRICKS Paul Clapham looks at ways of saving bricks and mortar retail

he business pages in quality governments, not just in the UK, Let’s take a swing at private There’s an awful lot of rubbish something humorous – if the outside newspapers make woeful seem almost designed to favour the equity groups. Around the turn talked about the solution to high is fun and interesting the customer reading in January for Amazons of this world against the of the millennium these were the street woes. I’ve put below what I will guess that the inside is too. Tretailers. This past Christmas has little guys. At the time of writing investors who took retail groups consider the best ideas I’ve seen. 7. Invest in employee training; poor reportedly been the worst since the Davos Summit has just finished: private, loaded them with debt and 1. Create retail theatre where you service loses more customers than 2008 when the recession began. here was an opportunity for heads then took the money (laughing all and your staff are the actors; to poor products. So is the high street on its last of governments to agree to change the way to the bank, natch). misquote Shakespeare, ‘all the high 8. Focus your website on bringing legs, indeed is retailing as a whole that collectively. Unless they kept it Senior management – directors street’s a stage’. people into your store; if you want dying a slow lingering death? You very quiet, nothing happened. – of large retailers might be argued 2. Government to be readier to allow online sales too, build a separate could interpret things that way, but At the same time British retailers as the worst sinners of all. The retail mergers (although I worry site dedicated to that. I think you’d be wrong to do so. have found themselves hammered football fans’ chant ‘you don’t know about the Asda/Sainsbury case) 9. Sign up for a customer loyalty Rather, what’s happening is major by business rates increases of what you’re doing’ applies here. 3. Do your best to avoid making scheme and persuade your change. Big retail chains are the the eye-popping order. Maybe Unfortunately, they don’t. They your store a trial space for commercial neighbours to do the ones which are suffering – BHS, somebody – the Federation of Small learned their trade decades ago and subsequent online purchase from same – if customers can pick up Toys R Us, House of Fraser and a Businesses, say – should be telling their skill-set is now so dated as to another business. loyalty points at three or more number of other big beasts with the country at large that this is be next to worthless. 4. Don’t chase the customer you venues on your street, they’ll come no doubt more to come. The major what’s closing shops. Personally I Right now you are probably want; instead satisfy the needs of to you. change is in consumer habits; haven’t seen or heard that message thinking, ‘hey, I’m a one site your existing broad customer 10. Every piece of marketing activity unfortunately a lot of retailers shouted as loud as it should be. sports retailer; what’s this got to base. This was a comment in the should be aimed at getting people haven’t changed their habits at all. Far too many shops, not enough do with me?’ Unfortunately, quite Times about where Marks and into your store; make it welcoming It’s normal to say that online homes. It’s generally recognised a lot. The decline of the big Spencer has repeatedly got things with a cup of tea or coffee sales are stealing an ever-larger that there is an over-supply of retail retailers has impacted on the whole wrong. It is very simply good (something they won’t get from a share of high street revenue and premises and not enough homes. of the high street. If the big players marketing practice. multiple); persuade your neighbours of course it’s true. But it’s not just To solve this, look at planning rules. close down entirely or close their 5. Keep the storefront well to do the same, as in point 9. Amazon and their customers who I live in Margate where there is a shop in your town it adversely maintained; even a hint of are threatening the high street street of homes many of which have affects the whole shopping scruffiness puts off people who And finally go shopping yourself! with tumbleweed. visibly been converted from shops. experience there. It’s not your fault are no advertisement for Too many retailers spend too little Start by looking at government, This could be done anywhere. Also, and you can do nothing about it but smartness themselves. time in competitors’ shops. This is both local and national. The people living in town centres make it will hit your passing trade hard 6. Have an A-board making today’s basic, free market research and you taxation policies of national them buzzy, lively and more secure. and hence your profitability. special offer or today’s new idea or can’t have too much of that. “ The major change is in consumer habits; unfortunately a lot of retailers haven’t changed their habits at all. ” www.sports-insight.co.uk 07/06/2018 11:59

ONE Dunlop Srixon Advert_Stockist_265x360mm.indd 2 MY SPORTING LIFE 45 A life of suffering to achieve success

day in this coming October it - McNamee says: “The truth was could change David David McNaMee talks to Tony James about his I knew it would be difficult to make McNamee’s life. That’s the Rio Olympics in my own right whenA he sets out to win what is Ironman ambitions and his career but the underlying issue was I no arguably the world’s toughest longer had the excitement athletics event - an eight-hour and drive to go to the Olympics ordeal in the sweltering heat of an that I once did. I realised I needed Hawaiian island for the Ironman to look elsewhere and see what elite triathlon championship of drives me. the world. “Making the jump was a logical For the last two years, McNamee step. I always knew I would finish has come third behind Germany’s my ITU career young. I had always Patrick Lange and for the 30-year- been drawn to Ironman and knew I old Scot this is simply not good would be much happier switching enough. “My whole life revolves to long course events.” around that one day in Hawaii,” he The following year, McNamee says. “Winning is the only option. won the Ironman UK race. “It “I don’t want to be second or was truly horrific - they picked third in the world. I want to be the the nastiest climbs and the whole best, no matter what, and I’ll do bike course was on rough country whatever it takes.” roads.” But the win qualified him Up to now it has meant rejecting for Kona where he got a creditable a lucrative career in accountancy, 11th place. moving to Spain from his beloved Last year, apart from getting Scotland and subjecting himself to his second Kona bronze medal, a six-hour a day relentless training McNamee finished second at IM routine of running, cycling and 70.3 in Barcelona and is now in swimming which is among the training for a race in April. Now most punishing in sport. based in Girona, Spain, McNamee So why did this Olympic- is ramping up his training towards standard athlete switch from the crucial months of August and orthodox triathlons to an event September, aiming to peak for the which seems to have all the championship in October. ingredients of unadulterated Much of his preparation focuses torture? Olympic triathletes swim on swimming. “This is the shortest 1.5 km, cycle 40 km and run 10km, section and is sometimes regarded while a full Ironman involves a as the poor relation of the triathlon, swim of 3.8km, an 180km cycle- but if you have a bad swim you are ride and a full-length marathon. race I was hooked.” Hoka One One sports marketing “I was lucky to train with already on the back foot. Neglect McNamee says it’s all about After gaining an accountancy manager Elizabeth Brown said: the very best,” he remembers. swimming and you’re making a suffering. “The long-suffering degree at university, McNamee “Our athletes continue to add “Training with the Brownlees big mistake.” of Ironman was more appealing was expected to become something immense credibility to the brand really motivated me to do well. McNamee admits it was a than the suffering of short-course in the City and his family were and our new line-up promises to But at the same time it can be wrench leaving Scotland and likes racing,” he says. “I’ve always been surprised but supportive when offer even more strength and depth frustrating when the two best to get back whenever possible but better when it’s long drawn-out he decided to become a across all disciplines this year.” athletes in the sport come from Scottish winters made training suffering. That’s what I excel at! professional athlete. With two world championship your country.” difficult. “I seemed to spend most “I am very interested in the “So long as it was what I wanted bronze medals, McNamee is So at 26, after the of my life travelling to foreign mental aspect of the sport because to do and could support myself quietly establishing himself as Commonweath games, McNamee training camps so it made sense to you are out there for so long in financially, they were happy,” he one of the greatest British male switched to elite Ironman locate to Spain. pretty awful conditions and your says. “It was hard at the beginning Ironman athletes. He has run sub triathlons, reckoned some of the “Training is going really well and brain goes to lots of different and but fortunately everything seems 2.50h marathons in all his four toughest ordeals in sport and it’s I feel I am a better athlete than I strange places. to be clicking into place.” Kona appearances and his 2018 not hard to see why. was last year. I know what I have “It’s a mental as well as a Now teamed up with running- time of 8.01.09 is third fastest in Held every autumn on Big to do: instead of running a 2.45 physical battle and you have a great shoe specialists Hoka One One, the race’s history. Island, Kallua-Kona, Hawaii, since marathon I have to get down to 2.41 sense of accomplishment when you McNamee says: “Having tested But when he suddenly left the 1978, the world championship or 2.42. If I can combine that with succeed. Ever since I changed to their shoes over the past months British triathlon programme at was originally dreamed up by US a good swim and a good run on the Ironman racing my passion for it it’s been incredible to feel my the end of 2014 after being tipped Navy commander John Collins, bike I should be in with a chance. has grown.” legs fresher than usual after a for a place in the Rio Olympics stationed in Hawaii, to settle an “Ironman is the ultimate tough McNamee’s family in Ayrshire hard workout. along with the Brownlee brothers, argument about whether runners, sport. If you come away saying: ‘I wasn’t particularly sporting, “Ironman is such a muscle- pundits were quick to point out he cyclists or swimmers were the was awful but I gave it everything’ although his dad ran a bit, and still related sport that it was great could be making a big mistake. fittest. “Whoever wins will be then you can walk away feeling does. The youngster entered a New to find shoes that were more After all, he had achieved half-a- called Ironman,” Collins said. proud. But if you quit then you will Year’s Day triathlon in Edinburgh. cushioned and felt faster than any dozen top ten finishes in the world Fifteen competitors started the always quit. “I wanted a new challenge and I have previously worn. This, with triathlon series and a seventh first race and 12 finished. Now “I want the world championship wanted to see what a triathlon the brand’s desire to continually place in the 2014 Commonwealth numbers are limited to 1,700. and nothing else will do. That’s was like. improve, has me looking forward to games despite a serious bike crash Looking back on his decision to what people will remember - not “The weather was below zero, the years ahead.” which damaged the tendons in his abandon his Olympic goal - and the who came third. You can’t get a but I loved it and from that first Welcoming McNamee on board, arm and hand. Lottery funding that accompanied better incentive than that.” “ I don’t want to be second or third in the world. I want to be the best, no matter what, and I’ll do whatever it takes. ”

www.sports-insight.co.uk 46 UNDER THE COUNTER A sideways look at the world of independent retailing Always check the cheques

ome blokes in the pub were a mound of merchandise including Nations Small Business Collections getting quite emotional about a set of Manchester United shirts, Corps, East India Branch. the government decision to three hockey-sticks, a cricket The House of Lords had also Sphase out cheques and eventually bat and the copy of Ole Gunnar expressed an interest and any day scrap them altogether. Solskjaer’s autobiography with the now Black Rod could be on his way to One chap said people had been teacup stain on the back. Kuala Lumpur on an aeroplane of the writing cheques for nearly 400 "That looks like a good sale," I Queen's Flight or even on a gunboat. years and it was part of our heritage, said and indeed the till was showing The chief accountant now like complaining about the next a healthy £376.50. Then I saw that returned to say that interest on the door neighbour's dog and trying to look on Norman's face which always loan was now increasing by £20 a swindle the taxman. sets the alarm bells ringing. day and that if Mr X didn't want his Another said he was “I hope you're not going to tell me house possessed and his belongings psychologically unable to remember you gave him credit," I said. I have auctioned in the street he might a PIN number. Credit cards were always told Norman that it's cash- consider paying up. for ever falling out of the hole in his only when dealing with middle-aged As the phone was now cut off, Mr trousers pocket but he never had men with blazers, centre partings X was presumably now spending that problem with a chequebook. and sandals worn with white socks. his time playing cricket with my bat Personally I have never liked And from my brief glimpse of or organising football matches in cheques. For me, cash has always Mr X as he scurried away with my he was speaking down a length any more pineapple-festooned my Manchester United shirts. He been king but I’m not averse to the merchandise, it looked as though he of plastic hosepipe. "Sorry not to cheques, it was obviously time for certainly wasn't replying to letters. odd postal order, either. had all three. have been in touch, old chum," Mr more dramatic action. I invented a That didn't stop me writing them. Also, you've got to be quite bright "Of course not," Norman X said. "There seems to have been chief accountant, who wrote a stern One evening as I was finishing a and have at least an O-level in said."What do you take me for?"I a misunderstanding at the bank, letter to Mr X to the address he letter to Mr X from Prince William, general science to carry out even a took a cheque. He did explain that but it's sorted now. I've moved to had unwisely put on the back of his my wife said:"There's that TV basic credit-card swindle, but any his bank-card had been struck by Sarawak, but I'm putting another previous cheque. programme about the High Court Tom, Dick or Harry can bounce a lightning this very morning, but I cheque in the post." When the chief accountant's bailiffs who seem to be able to get dud cheque. didn't see that as a problem." Sure enough, several weeks later a letters remained ignored, I money out of anybody? Why don't At least they can in our shop When Mr X's cheque bounced a cheque arrived. It was adorned with invented a financial director, a you let them have a go?" when my assistant Norman's week later I told Norman that it was birds of paradise and tropical fruit chief executive and finally a non- "If a letter from the the Duchess behind the counter - as I learned to a problem, particularly for him, as and was for £10. It cost me £3 to get it executive chairman. of Sussex does no good then I might," my cost when a certain Mr X did us he was now under suspended notice changed into sterling. Norman took No reply. Now getting into the I replied. But I still live in hope that over not so long ago. until the debt was repaid. one look at my face and obviously swing of things, I created the Crown a pineapple-decorated cheque will I'd only gone out for a piece of I heard nothing for six weeks. decided not to ask for reinstatement. Overseas Collection Service, the arrive from Mr X any time now. bread pudding and returned in time Then I had a phone call from I'm a patient man, but as the Foreign Office Financial Restraints If it doesn't, the Queen has to see Mr X leaving the shop under someone who sounded as though months passed with no sign of Department, and the United promised to ask him for a postal order.

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