SEPTEMBER 2018 £3.50

sportsSPORTS OUTDOOR CYCLING RUNNINGinsight FITNESS TRADE sports-insight.co.uk OUTDOOR CYCLING INTERVIEW

A NEW CHAPTER IS LIFE AFTER THE OLYMPICS BATTLING THROUGH OPENING P25 FOR SIR CHRIS P36 THE PAIN P45

These days, everyone could use an additional income So what better time to add embroidery to your business We believe that sport is essentially the pursuit of progress. To us, you are an essential part of this.

Find a partner in ISPO that will propel you towards reaching your business goals. ISPO ISPO ISPO OutDoor 365 days a year. Munich Beijing Shanghai by ISPO

Whether it’s a springboard for getting struggling startups off the ground or an international platform for global expansion, we create valuable connections for your clients. This is how we drive forward the evolution ISPO ISPO ISPO ISPO ISPO of sport, starting with your success. Brandnew Open Award Academy Digitize Innovation

ISPO ISPO ISPO ISPO Textrends Job Market .com Shop

ispo.com/about

ismuc19_Anz_Dachmarke_530x360_E.indd 1 28.08.18 10:37 We believe that sport is essentially the pursuit of progress. To us, you are an essential part of this.

Find a partner in ISPO that will propel you towards reaching your business goals. ISPO ISPO ISPO OutDoor 365 days a year. Munich Beijing Shanghai by ISPO

Whether it’s a springboard for getting struggling startups off the ground or an international platform for global expansion, we create valuable connections for your clients. This is how we drive forward the evolution ISPO ISPO ISPO ISPO ISPO of sport, starting with your success. Brandnew Open Award Academy Digitize Innovation

ISPO ISPO ISPO ISPO Textrends Job Market .com Shop

ispo.com/about

ismuc19_Anz_Dachmarke_530x360_E.indd 1 28.08.18 10:37 4

Editor: MARK HAYHURST Tel: 01206 508618 WELCOME The FA announces Email: [email protected] to this month's Sports Insight Advertising Manager: ­KEITH MARSHALL partnership with Mitre Tel: 01206 505947 Fax: 01206 500243. The FA has entered a three- balls each receiving a creative, Mitre to ensure our partnership Email: [email protected] year partnership with British bespoke new design. reaches its full potential.” Advertising Sales football brand, Mitre. The first Mitre ball will be used Sean Kavanagh, Director 21-23 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Rd, The agreement saw the at The FA Community Shield of Global Sports Marketing & Colchester, Essex CO2 8JY company become the official supported by McDonald’s Sponsorship at Mitre, added: football supplier across all FA Sunday, August 5. “Mitre is a leading football Group Advertising Competitions from the start of Mark Bullingham, The FA brand worldwide and like The Manager: SAM REUBIN Well that's it – the summer is over! the 2018/19 season. Group Commercial and Marketing FA, we’re proud of our heritage. Group Editor: The kids are back in school, the The partnership – due to run Director, said: “We are delighted We’re excited to announce our football season is back and cricketers FAE GILFILLAN through to 2020 – will see Mitre to announce this exciting new new partnership across all FA Tel: 01206 508615 are putting away their whites for Delta Max balls used across partnership with Mitre. We seek to competitions and are passionate another year. The Emirates FA Cup, The maintain the highest of standards about the game at all levels. Mitre Publisher: MATTHEW TUDOR So what do we forward to SSE Women’s FA Cup, The FA across all of our competitions, and continues to lead the way in Art Director: LEE WHITEFORD now – did I mention the football Women’s Super League, The FA it is fitting that we have chosen football development as we are season has started and hopefully lots Women’s Championship, The a manufacturer with a history of obsessed with everything related Advertisement Art of young, and not so young, players Buildbase FA Trophy and The excellence as our official football to ball technology. We’re delighted Director: KEVIN DENNIS need a whole host of kit. The rugby Buildbase FA Vase. The balls will supplier for the next three seasons. to be an Official Ball Supplier of Reproduction: Autumn internationals will soon display the respective competition We look forward to unveiling the The FA, which includes prestigious be upon us. And I am sure a lot of ACE PRE-PRESS. logo, with The Emirates FA Cup first new ball at the Community competitions such as The Emirates Tel: 01206 797541 runners and cyclists will be needing and The SSE Women’s FA Cup Shield and to working closely with FA Cup.” some winter equipment to get them Photography: through the dark months. CLIQQ PHOTOGRAPHY What else? Oh, this month's www.cliqq.co.uk edition of Sports Insight! Twitter: @CliQQphoto Find out why ET was such a big Accounts: SUE CARR. impact on a British Olympic and Tel: 01206 505903 cycling legend Sir Chris Hoy. Published by Maze Media (2000) Paul Sherratt takes a closer Limited, 21-23 Phoenix Court, look at the world's biggest sports Hawkins Rd, Colchester, Essex retailer – Decathlon. CO2 8JY While Tony James talks to UK All contents © Maze Media (2000) Ironman Triathlon Joe Limited. The views expressed in Skipper about his life and the this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort hurdles he overcame to be a is made to ensure the veracity and professional athlete. integrity of the companies, persons, products and services mentioned in Fiona Bugler investigates the this publication and details given revolution in endurance events and are believed to be accurate at the with how this growth equals great time of going to press. However, no responsibility or liability whatsoever opportunities for brands. can be accepted for any consequence I hope you enjoy September's or repercussion of responding to any information or advice edition of Sports Insight! 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. The official publication of the Sporting Goods Industry Association Sports Insight has a current 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).

@SportsInsightUK All the very latest in NEWS the sports industry... Business transformation delivers improving results for ASICS EMEA KNUT ARE Following the implementation of a new business structure across the EMEA region in 2018, ASICS has reported positive results in HØGBERG key strategic areas for the first half of 2018 with quarter-on-quarter growth after a difficult start to the year. NAMED ASICS radically transformed its business to enable sustained growth with a focus on building closer consumer connections, prioritising strategic business ODLO’S initiatives and becoming more responsive in a rapidly changing world. Results show that although consolidated net sales in EMEA for the first half NEW CEO of 2018 declined by three per cent, the second fiscal quarter saw an upward trend as the impact of the business transformation continues to develop in Knut Are Høgberg, key strategic areas; ASICS brand stores reported 11 per cent growth, ASICS currently the Chief Operating e-commerce a sales uplift of 50 per cent and increases in emerging markets Officer (COO) and Deputy through Russia (16 per cent]) and the Middle East (229 per cent). Chief Executive Officer, has Across ASICS’ core product categories, Men’s Running reported positive become ODLO’s next CEO. Polar appoints Olympic medallist growth of 13 per cent, Core Performance Sport Volleyball grew by 11 per He will replace Christophe Vicky Holland as sporting ambassador cent and Onitsuka Tiger (ASICS’ heritage lifestyle fashion brand) recorded Bézu who led the company standout results of 41 per cent. in its current turnaround. Polar, the leader in wearable access to highly accurate wearable In the first half of the year, ASICS successfully strengthened its brand Høgberg’s task is to continue sports and fitness technology, technology will allow me and my positioning by launching two major brand campaigns; ‘I MOVE ME’ for to strengthen ODLO within has announced that Olympic coach to analyse my all-important ASICS (sports performance) and ‘WHAT THE GEL’ for ASICSTIGER the current strategic medallist triathlete Vicky training sessions in even more (sports lifestyle) – building impactful connections with its target audience. direction and to blend the Holland will be a sporting detail. Ensuring I get the most out In the second quarter specifically, ASICS continued to deliver company’s continuous growth ambassador for the brand. of training as well as maximising impactful cross-channel marketing campaigns to drive growth across key with targeted value creation The partnership comes at recovery are both incredibly performance and lifestyle categories: and efficiency improvements. an exciting time for Vicky, who important and the support of the After almost three years, currently sits in second place data that Polar provides will be • In performance running, reaffirming its position as market leader with Christophe Bézu steps down in the overall World Triathlon valuable at a significant time in my the launch of the 25th edition of its flagship shoe, GEL-KAYANO, and the from his CEO position as Series (WTS) standings. It has career.” creation of a unique scientific experiment, ‘ASICS Blackout Track’, to test planned and returns to the proven to be a fantastic year in the As a household name in the connection between a runner’s body and mind. Board of Directors where he competition for Vicky, winning the triathlon world, Vicky will continue to serve as an • In successfully activating a unique partnership with The Walt Disney in Montreal this weekend to add will help educate aspiring Advising Director. Mr Bézu Company around the launch of Disney·Pixar Incredibles 2, getting families to victories in Edmonton and on athletes and fitness enthusiasts joined the Board of Directors to complete movement challenges and designing a limited-edition home soil in Leeds. She has the on the importance of using of ODLO Sports Holding AG in footwear range. chance to top the overall standings data effectively to improve February 2015. with just one event remaining, performance. • In as Novak Djokovic’s victory at Wimbledon put ASICS footwear In September 2015, he was the grand final in Gold Coast, Lucy Johnson, Marketing in the spotlight. delegated by the Board to take over the position of CEO Australia which takes place from Director at Polar, added: “Vicky • In lifestyle through a collaboration with retail partner FOOTPATROL and an 12-16 September. is a fantastic ambassador to lead the Group through iconic event during Paris Fashion Week to celebrate the popular GEL-SAGA a transition phase and to Vicky also has her eyes set on for Polar, an athlete who has shoe as well as projects with renowned fashion designer Kiko Kostadinov. another Olympic cycle where she worked tirelessly to reach the return it to growth. Under hopes to improve on her Bronze pinnacle of her sport. She will be Christophe's leadership the Alistair Cameron, CEO of ASICS EMEA, said “We are encouraged by ODLO brand was successfully medal at the Rio Olympic Games a great inspiration to both fellow the positive developments starting to take effect following our business in 2016. triathletes and wider fitness fans brought back to its sports- transformation at the start of this year. After a tough start to 2018, the driven roots and to sustainable “Monitoring and tracking your and we’re excited to be working second quarter started to show positive signs of growth in key areas as data is vital as an athlete and with her at an exciting time for growth. By creating a new we shipped company-record levels. These results support our optimistic vision focusing on innovation I’m delighted to be partnering both Vicky personally and Polar as outlook as we look to make up lost ground on a slow first quarter." with Polar,” said Vicky. “Having a brand.” and performance, as well as modernizing the business model, Bézu has set the foundation for further success. Activewear brand LNDR wins Knut Are Høgberg (45), joined ODLO in 2015 as Chief trademark case against Nike Operating Officer and has many years of experience Premium activewear brand, prominently on social media, in live in strategic management LNDR won its trademark dispute events, merchandising giveaways and operations execution. against global sportswear giant, and in-store displays. The TV advert After graduating from Nike, over its use of “LDNR” in for the campaign included the the Norwegian School of its recent advertising campaign. likes of Sir Mo Farah, Harry Kane The judgement from the and Skepta (seen wearing a t-shirt Management, Høgberg began Intellectual Property Enterprise emblazoned with 'LDNR'). his professional career at the Court means that Nike cannot Joanna Turner, founder of East Boston Consulting Group in use the term “LDNR” again. It had London based LNDR, said: “Nike’s 1996 primarily serving their been doing so in its “Nothing beats campaign gained a huge amount Consumer Practice. a Londoner” campaign, which of exposure very quickly. From In 2007 he moved away from management consulting the judgement found to be an our point of view, it was educating not a situation you imagine you will judgement awarding a permanent to become Chief Financial infringement of LNDR’s trademarks. the public that ‘LDNR’ was either ever have to take on. We are both injunction preventing Nike from Officer of the Norwegian LNDR successfully argued that a Nike trademark, or that there pleased and relieved that the judge using the term LDNR in future. outdoor workwear and its brand name was distinctive as was a collaboration between our saw things the same way as we did." Osborne Clarke's of IP sportswear brand Helly a trade mark, and that consumers two brands. We felt that we had no Leading law firm, Osborne Clarke, Disputes in the UK, Arty Rajendra, Hansen. As CFO, Høgberg had would be confused into thinking choice, but to protect our brand and acted for LNDR, successfully moving said: “Typically, these cases a leading role in the strategic Nike were collaborating with LNDR. identity, and the trademarks that from the initial claim to a judgement would take 12-18 months. We are and operational turnaround Nike had conducted a trademark support them, which are critical in just six months. The case started absolutely delighted with the result. of the company. search six months before launching to our continued growth.“We at the end of January this year, when It was a brave decision to sue a From 2013 he served as and knew about LNDR's trademarks, work very hard to create the best Nike first launched the “Nothing company as big as Nike. However, Helly Hansen Chief Operating but went ahead with using 'LDNR' premium, high-quality products in beats a Londoner” campaign. LNDR has a growing reputation and Officer and Global Retail regardless. In some cases, actually the market, and confusion of our LNDR quickly obtained an as a premium brand it could not sit Director, partly based in the using the registered trademark products or brand with Nike would interim injunction in March by and let Nike damage it.” headquarters in Oslo and symbol next to their ‘LDNR’ Nike logo. be extremely damaging. preventing Nike from using the Nike have not yet indicated partly in the North American When the campaign launched “It was not an easy decision to go LDNR term until the trial. This has whether they intend to apply for hub in Seattle, Washington. in January 2018 the term was used up against a giant like Nike, and it is now been followed by the recent permission to appeal.

www.sports-insight.co.uk THE NATIONAL RUNNING SHOW IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE...

...WILL BE JOINING US AT THE 2019 SHOW! We are already 85% sold out on an exhibition hall twice the size, attracting the biggest brands in running, as well as over 20,000 tickets booked with new speakers, workshops, a second theatre, and Paula Radcliffe as keynote speaker.

Join us at The National Running Show, NEC Birmingham 19th - 20th January 2019 to showcase your brand and products to our actively engaged running community.

For more information about the show and how to be a part of it, contact [email protected] or [email protected]

nationalrunningshow nationalrunshow nationalrunningshow PR AGENCY ONE SCORES HUSBAND AND WIFE OWNERS EMMA AND SIMON WRIGHT CUT WITH THE RIBBON ON ANYTIME FITNESS’ Parkwood Leisure partner 150TH CLUB IN PAIGNTON – THEIR DECATHLON FIRST CLUB OPENING. with Badminton England APPOINTMENT

Parkwood Leisure is joining the ever-growing list of Official Manchester-based PR Leisure Partners of Badminton England as part of the Discover Agency One has been Badminton strategy. appointed by one of the world’s The latest move will see badminton carry a priority sport status biggest sports retailers. within Parkwood Leisure’s diverse portfolio of leisure venues across The consumer and B2B England, increasing the availability of court time for the near million agency has been briefed to monthly recreational players and Badminton England members. increase brand awareness, Whilst the Official Leisure Partner arrangement with a national as part of a major marketing remit is new for 2018, Badminton England and Parkwood Leisure have drive to raise Decathlon’s had a long-standing working relationship. brand awareness and store The four-year agreement, running through to 2022, will also benefit footfall in the UK. the thriving badminton club network and local league organisers through Founded in 1976 in Lille, Anytime Fitness opens enhanced block booking terms and access. Parkwood Leisure can gain France, Decathlon has stores all support by increasing opportunities for all abilities and demographics within over the world. Decathlon UK the communities they are based in, a value they are very passionate about. launched in 1999 and now has 150th UK Club Julia Strong, Director of Development and Competition for 42 UK stores selling a variety of Anytime Fitness is celebrating objective of becoming the largest Badminton England, said: “Working closely with key national leisure , clothing and its 150th location in the UK fitness club operator in the UK operators is so important to our future growth and success. Supporting accessories perfect for those following the latest club and we look forward to celebrating the development of our sport at grass roots level is fundamental to our who want to get active or excel opening in Paignton. their next milestone.” new strategy, Discover Badminton, and the partnership with Parkwood their performance. The landmark comes eight years Stuart Broster, Anytime Fitness Leisure is a significant move forward for English badminton; for clubs, The omni-channel campaign after Anytime Fitness opened its UK CEO, added: “Reaching this players, members of both organisations and communities.” spans everything from first UK club in Bristol in 2010, milestone is a notable moment Ian King, National Partnerships Lead for Parkwood Leisure, said: headline-grabbing brand showcasing its impressive growth as for Anytime Fitness in the UK. “We are proud to be working with Badminton England to help drive building campaigns and hard- the second largest private health club The rapid expansion since we participation across all age and demographic groups. This new agreement working product press office, operator in the UK and earning the opened our first UK club in 2010 is has not only cemented our relationship that has been in place for a number to employer brand activity. title of Fastest Growing Franchise testament to the hard work that’s of years but also gives the opportunity to develop some new and exciting Omni-channel PR activity for ten years in a row, (IHRSA). been going on across the country. badminton products into our diverse leisure centre programmes.” will not only target securing The growth has been fuelled by “The fitness industry has media coverage in some of the popularity among members who changed dramatically and we’re IAN KING, AREA MANAGER, UK’s leading titles, but will appreciate the community centric always assessing and evolving PARKWOOD LEISURE, AND NICK also drive the search visibility RIMMER, HEAD OF DEVELOPMENT, clubs as well as the lucrative the way we do things to react to BADMINTON ENGLAND of Decathlon’s UK website, to return on investment enjoyed by this ever-changing landscape. increase its brand awareness franchisees, with over 60 per cent Entrepreneurial spirit is rife and non-branded search of the Anytime Fitness network in the UK and it’s incredibly rankings. owning multiple clubs. satisfying to be able to give so many PR Agency One has also been Chuck Runyon, Anytime Fitness ambitious people the platform briefed to carry out extensive CEO and founder, said: “We’re to run successful and profitable evaluation of Decathlon’s delighted that the UK has opened businesses.” marketing activity in the its 150th Anytime Fitness club. The achievement will be marked UK, using the agency’s The rate of growth showcases the with a celebration at the latest club award-winning proprietary commercial strength of the brand in Paignton, with Anytime Fitness evaluation system, OneEval. as well as the commitment of its Support Office staff attending a James Crawford, managing franchisees. We know the team special event alongside the club’s director at PR Agency One here are working hard to fulfil their staff and new members. said: “We are thrilled to be helping them gain greater brand awareness and store footfall in the UK, increase sales and help them become Avery Dennison sign global deal with FC Barcelona the UK’s leading sports retailer.” to supply names and numbers for team jerseys Philippe Rebelo, UK marketing director at Avery Dennison has been named for fans to buy. to retail outlets. RFID enhances the Dennison increase sustainability Decathlon, said: “PR Agency as the global licensee supplier Rubén Benseny, Licensing and speed and efficiency in which retailers efforts even further. They will One demonstrated a clear of FC Barcelona’s name and Merchandising Director at FC can manage their stock levels, produce tens of millions of names understanding of not only what numbers shirt customisation in Barcelona, said: “We fully trust in reducing out of stock situations. and numbers for the club over the we as a business are trying to a four-year deal to 2022. Avery Dennison to partner with Nikita Jayasuriya added: “The next four years, and the new products achieve within this territory, but Having previously supplied names FC Barcelona on our global plan RFID technology we use to package are already producing 47 per cent less how to use PR to achieve this. and numbers for the football club in growth and on the development on our products is a game changer in polyester waste in the FC Barcelona “What’s more, they are the Iberia region, Avery Dennison the new products to connect our the sports supply industry and can production process and taking experienced in demonstrating will now supply product globally for final consumer. Avery Dennison really help increase retail revenue. ownership of the recycling process by the impact of the work they FC Barcelona, establishing them has demonstrated their capabilities The time from which products are batching more items onto the carrier have done, which is invaluable further as a leading supplier across to cover the market and to create supplied from our factories to a and shipping less to the customer. for the marketing team here a number of professional sports new embellishments with new store for purchase is also reduced Find out more about Avery when presenting back the leagues, teams, clubs and federations. technologies that afford us to up the dramatically, so fans can have the Dennison, their new F.C. Barcelona results of our successes to Avery Dennison products include partnership to a global level.” name and number of a new player on products and how they're leading other territories. They also names, numbers, crests, woven Nikita Jayasuriya, Global Director their shirt within hours.” innovation in green alternatives have proven experience labels and speciality trims, and they and Head of Team Sport at Avery The global partnership with to production, by visiting sport. working with both bricks and are already providers for a number Dennison, said: “We are proud to FC Barcelona will also see Avery averydennison.com of the top clubs in La Liga and 90 per partner with FC Barcelona, one of mortar and online retailers cent of clubs in the Premier League. the biggest clubs in world football. and household name brands to Additionally, over 80 per cent of We offer a first class service with transform their reputations.” the national team jerseys worn speed and high quality products, PR Agency One is one of by teams in Russia this summer specifically tailored for the players Manchester’s biggest PR featured Avery Dennison products, and fans. This includes numbers on agencies. Its team of 22 offers ranging from team crests to brand the back of player jerseys that have a range of award-winning protection elements. an aerated enhancement to ensure services including consumer The bespoke F.C. Barcelona range they are extra breathable, which can and B2B PR, reputation of products will be sold on sport. help improve player performance.” management, link building averydennison.com to distributors Avery Dennison has optimised PR, design, SEO, PPC, web and retailers, who will sell the its service levels and processes by development and digital official name and numbers of FC using its unique RFID technology marketing. Barcelona in retail stores worldwide to facilitate the tracking of products

www.sports-insight.co.uk 88 STANCE ANNOUNCES BILLY VUNIPOLA AS BRAND Football reveals AMBASSADOR Stance, the innovative new UEFA Champions sock brand offering a range of technical performance socks, welcomes international rugby League Official Match Ball player Billy Vunipola as its new adidas Football has revealed the new official match ball for the Punk & Poet in a deal that will 2018/19 UEFA Champions League. see him represent and develop In a bold departure from previous years, the colouring of the ball has the brand’s training category. been inverted, with white stars and an innovative blue graphic print. An England and Saracens The new official match ball is designed to highlight the iconic UEFA professional rugby player, Billy Champions League stars. The white star panels contrast with a blue will train in Stance socks. With graphic print covering the rest of the ball. The colour is based on the 50 international caps and 200 official UEFA Champions League blue. The stars have a glossy finish, club appearances to his name, F45 goes for global domination making them stand out even further against the matte finish of the blue performance matters game in, F45 is strengthening its growing interest in group exercise, hexagon panels. The graphic print is designed to represent the blur of game out. position as the fastest growing by offering a turn-key business constant motion, perfect for a ball that will be used in the fast-paced The Stance brand represents global fitness franchise with its opportunity to entrepreneurs football of the UEFA Champions League. expression and embraces the plans to reach 1,500 franchises across the globe.” The ball features the latest adidas performance technology to ensure the spirit of individuality. Stance worldwide by the end of 2018. Positioned by Deutsch as best players in the world can perform Punks & Poets are those who Short for Functional 45, F45 “the Apple store of the health at their best during the UEFA dare to be true to themselves. was born in Australia in 2014, and fitness ”, F45 is Champions League. An outer texture Freethinking, brave, and and has since taken the rest of the setting the benchmark for coating - consistent across all adidas passionate, Billy does things his world by storm with a growing fitness and functional training. UEFA Champions League Official own way and lives by his own presence in over 35 countries. Revolutionising boutique Match Balls – offers secure grip and rules making him an authentic Founded by former equities trader fitness and group exercise, F45 complete control while the thermally extension of the Stance family. Rob Deutsch who spotted a gap in has successfully created an bonded star panels provide a seamless Billy Vunipola said:“It’s the health and fitness market, F45 entirely new fitness concept surface for an improved first touch. great to be welcomed into the has fast become a global fitness with an extensive range of 29 It will be available to purchase Punk & Poet family and to phenomenon, with its most recent high-intensity, group training from adidas.com and retail stores represent a brand so aligned franchise openings in China, programmes, each lasting 45 across the globe. with my approach to life. I’ve Finland, Czech Republic, Taiwan, minutes and promising to burn always been a fan of Stance, Lebanon and Israel. In addition, between 750-1,000 calories per their performance socks are F45 will also be opening franchises session. Sessions are suitable for well as a countdown to your rest turn-key set up and generous unlike any others I have worn imminently in Germany, further all ages and fitness levels, ensuring period as you progress through return on investment. F45 also before and an essential part of reinforcing their global presence. individuals are able to workout at the circuit. Sessions are always boast a remarkable array of brand my every day kit. The quality Deutsch said: “We are their own pace whilst being able fast-paced and offer a community ambassadors worldwide, including and technology that goes into overwhelmed by the global reaction to challenge themselves to achieve culture to ensure members work to internationally renowned athlete them is incredible.” to F45 and the rate in which the phenomenal results. their maximum alongside constant and professional English rugby Changing the face of brand has grown over the past The sessions incorporate the support and guidance from the player, James Haskell. Haskell performance socks with four years. F45 has successfully latest innovation in fitness-based professional F45 coaches. boasted that he found the circuits high quality technology and managed to bridge the gap between technology to provide systemised The global success of F45 as a at F45 to be “engaging and fun” unconventional aesthetics, the personal training and gyms, while delivery, which helps to enhance franchise network has encouraged and saw a lot of similarities to Stance brand pursues the ‘The developing a user-friendly group motivation and overall results. many athletes, personal trainers his exercise for rugby games. Uncommon Thread,’ creating exercise concept, which is both This includes television screens and entrepreneurs to become Haskell will be launching two of performance socks specific to engaging and sociable. With F45, which are purposefully placed part of this innovative fitness his own franchises to join dozens running, biking, training, , we have tapped into the rise of overhead, providing an instructive movement due to its relatively of international athletes who have outdoor and snowsports. exercise participation and the demonstration of each move, as low start-up and running costs, already partnered with F45. As part of his role as a Stance Punk & Poet, Billy will be personally involved in On and is fantastic developing the men’s training The National Running Show 2019 welcomes news for our visitors who will be collection. able to try on the latest products Rich Philip, Director of Up & Running, On and Hoka One One and chat to expert advisors at the Marketing at Stance, said: show. These highly-respected “It’s awesome to have Billy The organisers of the award- running brands. Their extensive runners for producing running brands will join a first-class line-up onboard and to help represent winning National Running running retail experience coupled shoes with extra-thick midsoles of exhibitors, partners, charities, the Uncover the Uncommon Show have announced that Up with their expertise in all things and minimum weight. Created sponsors and speakers for two days campaign. United by their & Running, On and Hoka One running makes Up & Running a to make running easier, the in an inspiring, running-focused uniqueness, each of our Punks One will be joining the 2019 perfect inclusion for The National brand’s original, highest-cushion environment, and we can’t wait to & Poets are true originals in event on January 19-20 at Running Show. models are now complemented welcome everyone under one roof.” their field and unafraid to Birmingham’s NEC. Swiss running brand On, based by a complete range of shoes that Intersport, and push the boundaries - Billy Up & Running will also be in Zurich, is one of the fastest guarantee stability and encourage ASICS have already confirmed their is no exception. Embodying showcasing Ronhill, Hilly, Altra, growing running brands globally. an efficient stride. presence at The National Running the Stance ethos for self- and Polar at the show. It has one simple mission: put The presence of such top-level Show 2019, as well as Ronhill, expression and originality both The addition of these high- the fun into run. The brand has brands reflects the undeniable Hilly, Altra, Saucony and Polar. A on and off the pitch we can’t profile names will come as won international awards for its importance of The National superb line-up of speakers has also think of a better ambassador welcome news to the many revolutionary shoes for runners, Running Show for the UK’s running been announced, with British long- for our Training category.” thousands of runners set to its patented technology combining industry. It is the only non-race distance runner Paula Radcliffe attend the second staging of this the benefits of a soft training affiliated event of its kind to gather MBE speaking on Sunday, January innovative expo in the new year. shoe and a firm racing shoe. The everyone under one roof, from 20, and opening day two of the After the overwhelming success distinct shoe design features On’s sports brands and retailers to show. Jo Pavey MBE, Roger Black of the inaugural show in 2018, the ‘Clouds’ – hollow pods that stretch nutrition experts, race organisers, MBE and Iwan Thomas MBE have organisers committed to an even back on impact to cushion the communities and expert speakers. been confirmed for Day one. bigger and better event in 2019 and landing, then lock to form the solid For runners of all abilities and Anyone wishing to become they are certainly fulfilling their foundation required for a powerful interests it is a must-attend event, an exhibitor or partner of The promise of bringing together many push-off. On will be bringing their perfectly timed so they can plan National Running Show 2019 more big names in running. latest Clouds to The National their race calendar, nutrition, kit and should contact Mike Seaman Specialist running retailer Up Running Show so that visitors can tech preferences pre-race season. directly by email, at mike@ & Running will be returning to experience the unique sensation of Mike Seaman, MD of The nationalrunningshow.com or The National Running Show for running on Clouds for themselves. National Running Show, said: Rebecca Richardson at rebecca@ the second consecutive year. Up California-based premium “We promised a comprehensive breatheunity.com & Running has been supporting running shoe company Hoka One representation of the very best Go to nationalrunningshow.com runners across the UK for over One also returns to The National running brands for The National for further details and tickets, like 25 years, with a network of Running Show for a second year. Running Show 2019 and are proud the Facebook page and follow @ stores supplying running shoes, Founded in 2009, Hoka One One to be well on the way to achieving nationalrunshow #runshow19 on clothes and accessories from key has gained huge popularity among this. The addition of Up & Running, Twitter and Instagram.

@SportsInsightUK NEWS 9 WallJAM is the Real deal as tech Dyaco UK appoints Scott breakthrough agrees world tour Burrows to strengthen A UK-based tech breakthrough also receive an email from coaching wall, showing that they can rise to retail proposition has secured a place among the staff with training drills specially the physical challenge and that they elite of sport activations after designed to focus on their area of have the competitive spirit to beat Global fitness manufacturer signing an agreement with Real improvement. not only their best scores but also Dyaco has made another Madrid World of Football. WallJAM, the brainchild of sport that of their peers. exciting addition to its UK WallJam, the innovative rebound tech entrepreneur Tim Worboys, “Player engagement through team with the appointment of wall, will star in a five-year global has attracted the attention of a gamification is the key to driving Scott Burrows as Retail and tour which will take the world number of major players in global social competition in sport and Trade Sales Manager. famous brand to 15 cities across sport and has been utilised in bringing out the competitive spirit Scott will work closely with the globe in a stunning pavilion activations for Nissan, Carabao in us all. This agreement provides Dyaco’s retail and commercial which has been designed as a mini and adidas, while teams such as the a great shop window for WallJAM trade customers and will Bernabeu Stadium. New York Red Bulls and now Real across the globe and we look forward spearhead the launch of the new The tour launched on June 9 Madrid World of Football have to entering new markets attracting Kombat, Strength and Accessory at the Melbourne Museum Plaza, also put it at the centre of their fan new licensees.” retail products under the UFC Australia. engagement strategy. brand. He will report to UK Sales Forming a core element in ‘The Visitors to the experience are Director, Andy Loughray. World of Football Skills Arena,’ asked to immerse themselves in the Scott joins following two WallJAM has been designed spirit, passion and legacy of the club years as UK Sales Manager at to allow fans to enjoy a truly with an interactive journey through Escape Fitness and over ten years as UK Sales and Marketing Manager at interactive physical experience, 116 years of history. It features the Bodypower Sports (Fitness Superstore). During his time there, he oversaw giving them the opportunity to pit greatest moments which led to 13 the opening of ten physical retail stores across the UK and developed their skills directly against European Club Championships, industry-leading knowledge of the retail distribution of fitness products. their heroes. 33 La Liga titles and a host of other Scott said: “I’m very happy to be joining the team at Dyaco UK and am Participants are able to play in a awards which are being displayed looking forward to working closely with our retail and trade customers to bank of one of five WallJAM zones for the first time outside Madrid. offer the highest level of sales and support in the industry. We have a great and the fully immersive experience Tim said: “We are delighted to range of high quality products across our portfolio of brands and it’s exciting will allow them to set their own underline the place of WallJAM on to be bringing fitness equipment from a globally renowned brand such as personal best score, compete against a global stage and that we have been UFC to market.” other players and see how they recognised by arguably the greatest Scott’s appointment follows the recent additions of Dan Hodge, Paul compare against the first team stars. brand in world football who, with Warrillow and Adam Rogers to Dyaco UK’s sales team. In addition to the competitive more than 600 million fans globally, UFC is one of many exciting brands in Dyaco’s retail portfolio which play in the ‘Come Play Interactive are keen for their supporters to take also currently encompasses Spirit Fitness and Sole Fitness. The Dyaco Zone,’ participants are also given on our challenge. commercial range of products includes Spirit Fitness, gym80, UFC and top tips from first team stars on “It is our aim to see as many Johnny G by Spirit. how to improve their skills – they people of all ages engaged with the

www.sports-insight.co.uk 10

OPRO PARTNERS WITH USA Excitement at Wooden Spoon partnership RUGBY OPRO has announced a new inspirational figures, will aim to exciting partnership. It will be great across the UK and Ireland through OPRO has announced a new partnership with Wooden reach heights of over 6,500 metres, to see players wearing Wooden the power of rugby.” partnership with USA Rugby. Spoon, the children’s charity of far beyond the normal Everest Base Spoon branded mouthguards and For more information on OPRO Ahead of the Rugby rugby that aims to transform Camp location. the funds generated will have a big visit www.opromouthguards.com World Cup Sevens 2018 in the lives of children and young With over 20 years’ experience, impact in supporting our mission For more information on San Francisco, OPRO, as people with a disability or OPRO is dedicated to bringing to positively transform the lives of Wooden Spoon and the LMAX the official mouthguard facing disadvantage through leading technology and safety to children and young people with a Exchange Everest Rugby Challenge partner for USA Rugby, will the power of rugby. athletes at all levels of sport and disability or facing disadvantage visit www.woodenspoon.org.uk be supplying the Men’s and The three-year deal will see OPRO is the official mouthguard partner Women’s national teams with show their support for a dual world of over 60 teams, including USA specially designed USA Rugby record attempt to stage the highest Rugby, England Rugby, England branded mouthguards, which altitude full contact men’s game of Rugby League, Australia Rugby and will also be made available rugby sevens and highest altitude New Zealand Rugby. for purchase to USA Rugby mixed gender game of touch rugby Wooden Spoon’s record attempt members and fans. in April 2019, by providing bespoke comes just three years after they Mark Griffin, USA Rugby mouthguards to all the players. raised over £200,000 sending Commercial Director and As part of the deal, OPRO will challengers to the North Pole in a former Eagle, said: “We are launch specially licenced Wooden successful world record attempt very excited for this multi- Spoon branded mouthguards, with to play the northernmost game of year partnership with OPRO. £10 from every mouthguard sold rugby. With safety and quality directly contributing to a £200,000 Speaking on the partnership and care at the core of our game fundraising target in an effort to challenge, OPRO Chief Executive development and high- change the lives of some 36,000 Officer, David Allen said: “The performance efforts, OPRO children and young people through work that Wooden Spoon do represents the best of both. We various projects. All products will to change the lives of so many look forward to working with be available online. children and young people through them to support our sevens As part of the 24-day LMAX the power of rugby is incredible – and 15s athletes and the USA Exchange Everest Rugby we’re excited to be a part of that as Rugby community as a whole.” Challenge, rugby stars and team they take on this incredible feat.” Running through captains Andy Gomarsall, Ollie Sarah Webb, CEO of Wooden 2021, OPRO will provide Phillips, Shane Williams and Spoon, added: “We are delighted mouthguards to the senior Tamara Taylor, alongside other to be working with OPRO on this men’s and women’s teams for both the 15s and sevens sides, as well as making their mouthguards available to Immedia works with JD grassroots programs ensuring Samba Sports go 'Premier players at all levels have the Sports To Launch Music best protection for their teeth. League' with Burnley FC All products will be available online and through And Entertainment Samba Sports, the Lancashire-based goals manufacturer have OPRO’s global network of signed an exclusive agreement to be the ‘Official Supplier of retailers. Platform JD-X goals and training equipment’ to the Barclays Premier League With over 20 years’ team Burnley FC. Multichannel instore and and features on new products, all experience, OPRO is Alongside their fantastic range of UPVC goalposts, Samba are digital production company available to view inside the app. dedicated to bringing leading pleased to introduce for the first time their own collection of Infiniti Immedia, is working with JD Bruno Brookes, CEO, Immedia, technology and safety to match and training footballs, goalkeeping gloves, training accessories Sports to create a multi-stream said: “Live entertainment channels athletes at all levels of sport and medical bags. music entertainment platform, offer an incredible way for brands, and is the official mouthguard George Metcalfe, managing director, said: “We are delighted to JD-X, available to customers in- facing the dual threat of declining partner of over 60 teams, associate our company with Burnley Football Club, as a ‘local business’ store and via its mobile app. advertising response rates and the including England Rugby, in the East Lancashire area we feel it’s a huge feather in our cap that JD-X is a 24 hr music and increase in ad blocking technologies, Australia Rugby, New the club has chosen Samba Sports to be their goals and training aids entertainment service, part of a to establish unique connections with Zealand Rugby, American partner, and we look forward to continue to grow a strong and healthy larger programme of added benefits consumers that deliver excellent Youth Football and the UFC. relationship in the years to come.” designed to enhance the experience experiences and business results. Dr Anthony Lovat BDS, If you require any further information, please contact the Samba of JD consumers. This includes JD Sports, on top of being one of our OPRO chairman and founder, Sales office on 01282-860077 or email [email protected] unlimited next day delivery, priority leading retailers, is now one of our said: “We are excited to access to exclusive events, early newest media owners.” partner up with one of the product launch access and other The music and entertainment most successful nations on money-can’t-buy experiences. platform is currently being rolled the World Rugby Sevens JD-X offers a main Live channel out in all of its UK stores. Immedia Series. At OPRO, providing featuring DJs, guest artists and other provides language specific the most comfortable, interesting and relevant content, channels on a global basis and there best fitting and reliable plus 20 other bespoke streams with are plans for JD-X to be available mouthguards is our passion. specific playlists to cover genres in other European countries “We are also delighted and trends. The JD-X Live channel including Ireland, France, Belgium, to show support for the focuses on the biggest tracks right Spain, Portugal, Germany, Italy, continued growth of the now with the JD audience. Core Netherlands, Sweden, Denmark game in the US, by providing artists include Drake, Ramz, Mabel, and Finland. mouthguards to talent at the Stormzy, Anne-Marie, Calvin Harris, The JD-X entertainment grassroots level.” J Hus, Dua Lipa, Post Malone and platform was delivered by Kendrick Lamar. Immedia’s DreamStream X The 21 channels focus on technology, a global platform genres and activities popular which enables brands to launch with the JD audience, such as UK and develop custom music Reppin’ – featuring tracks from and entertainment channels, the stars of the UK Grime and RnB amplifying cultural values and scenes. There are other playlists other interactive communications. to listen to when in the gym or Immedia’s exclusive high- out running. JD-X also provides quality content streaming content relevant to consumer platform provides brands with the interests including sport, clubs, opportunity to take owned media gaming, gigs, relaxation and TV. channels and to convert them into JD-X also features videos, for entertainment and engagement example the latest content from JD channels that can deliver increased Sports including celeb exclusives commercial return.

@SportsInsightUK XXXXXXXXX

NEWS 11 INTERSPORT 2.0 driving the business forward Mark Hayhurst talks to Intersport UK Ltd general manager Neil Venables about the roll-out of their new concept stores and the future direction of the company

share with not only the existing Nike has already stated this as how we categorise all of the stores; of work that needs to be done but membership but entrepreneurs part of their future strategy – it’s the layout and the merchandising. that’s also where we don’t have to be and Intersport International focused on doing business directly The intention is that we will so led by the big brands.” Corporation (IIC) members.” with consumers and cutting out the achieve substantive data to say And after a year in the job, what Collating the data to form middleman. they are a specialist in a sport or a has Neil taken from it and what is he information that will be useful for Neil said: “We have factored that multispecialist. looking for going forward? the membership is key and Neil in but collaboration with brands “Once we have that data then He said: “To understand where is hoping that they will be able to is at the heart of what our future we will be able to provide better we are, understand our market deliver on this quickly. plan will look like for Intersport UK assortments for the members going share, understand the opportunity He added: “I’d like to think we and Ireland. If you don’t have the forward. And, linked to that, we which comes from IIC and 2.0, and can consolidate at least across the support of the brands, especially the have to have specialist brands for all of the support I am looking to get post back-to-school period. We major brands, then you won’t have those specialist members, catering from IIC to build a more relevant can compare the stores that have a plan. for the specialist consumer. and right Intersport for this opened, trading period/average “Intersport, as part of the overall “That’s also part of the clustering marketplace. “ I believe there is a selling rate/conversion rate/what IIC and Intersport by market, exercise, whether they’re more market opportunity and that’s what categories they’re selling and will still have a relationship with of a tennis specialist or a excites me about coming into this subsequently across those five Nike and adidas. Coming from a specialist etc, making sure we’re role. It’s taken me a year to build stores, identify what they can learn suppliers’ side, the challenges are offering the right three or four a plan. At the end of this year we new concept, a new way of from each other and analyse how what the Brands want in terms brands to work with them at the want to go into 2019 developing the doing business – Intersport their results compare to the other of how they’re presented and the best terms and with an aligned members, the retail experiences and UK are aiming to revamp Intersport 2.0 Concept stores in assortments that need to be taken. I marketing campaign. There’s a lot the services we offer.” storesA and collect valuable data. Western Europe. can see there will come a time when Neil Venables, Intersport UK Ltd “Then we can see what we are not there will a reduced supply to the general manager, has been in his doing and how and where we can independents and that this could role for just over a year, before that improve. Because it is still a new be an opportunity for Intersport he had 20 years’ experience within format, we want to look to make as part of future planning and in the Adidas group, working in the sure its absolutely working to collaboration with Nike et al. commercial sales team as a senior the full. “What I understand is that we director on both Adidas and . “But for Jarrold Intersport, have to become more verticalised as He was tasked with driving interestingly, from a European an operation. We need to take in the next stage of the strategic point of view they want to get a more central deliveries and we development for the Intersport UK weekly report as they see that as a need to agree the assortments and Ireland group. bit more of a unique city location with the likes of Nike and adidas. A main thrust of this develop- and, because they are embedded in I have tried to be very open and ment are the new Intersport 2.0 their local community footprint, transparent with all the suppliers. concept stores. The fist English they want to see what their sales I’ve said come in and discuss how version opened in the Jarrold store, uplift looks like, particularly in a we find the right way to work and Norwich, in July. really tough market like the UK. how we grow.” Neil said: “It’s going really well, This market is probably the hardest And this again brings Intersport We’ve opened our first England 2.0 in Western Europe due to online back to compiling data and ensuring store in Norwich. We have just being mature and consumers well what is best for the member stores. opened another in Arklow, used to internet shopping. We are Neil added: “And equally, we as Ireland, bringing the total to five, far ahead of all the other markets on a team will audit and go through which, from where we are in the that alone.” market and across all over Europe, What does have some retailers is a really good place to be. Now worried is the prospect of brands it’s about how you combine all the becoming retailers and not offering results from these stores and share their products in smaller stock them with the other members. They quantities. can then see, from an investment point of view, that it can pay for itself. And that’s where we are now – still in the pilot and analysis phase. It’s a good 19 weeks of planning for each store – so they’re not just going to pop up in a short space of time.” And it is Intersport’s aim to persuade their members to invest in their stores and, for those that are willing, upgrade using elements of the 2.0 Concept, or to the full Concept store format. Neil said: “I am not lost on the fact that to create new stores in this current high street climate is a big ask. But Jarrold Intersport can actually be a good test case. It’s a city location, and if the P&L stacks up and justifies itself financially – then it’s a good case study to

www.sports-insight.co.uk 12 MIZUNO signs new long- APPOINTS PROMOTE term deal with swim PR TO DRIVE GRASSROOTS star Duncan Scott NETBALL Speedo has re-signed British talent Duncan Scott in a CAMPAIGN new long-term deal. Mizuno has appointed The new agreement was announced during a successful 2018 European specialist sports and Championships for Scott, where he has found success with gold in the fitness communications 200-metre freestyle and gold as part of the relay team in the 4 × 200-metre agency Promote PR to drive freestyle relay and a silver in the 100-metre freestyle. In one of the final awareness for its netball events of the Championships, Scott secured his third gold medal in the 4 x shoes with a nationwide 100-metre medley relay. #MakeTheSwap campaign. Scott said: “Having the support of the brand and experience of competing Over 1.4 million women in Speedo at my major meets, my partnership renewal with Speedo is and girls playing netball in Kesslers is crowned Best based on the desire for the right race wear to perform at my best and offer the UK, yet 70 per cent still maximum level of comfort. I’ve always seen Speedo as the top swimwear play in running shoes, which brand and as I want to achieve my best, I need to keep working with the best.” don’t provide the necessary Retail Display Designer 2018 Since joining the Speedo team as double Olympic medalist in 2017, Scott, support for the fast moving, Retail display specialist our achievements in retail design, the 21-year-old swimmer from Glasgow, has gone from strength to strength. dynamic game. The support, Kesslers has been awarded as we pride ourselves on being an In 2017, Scott won gold in the 4x200-metre freestyle relay and then silver in grip and durability of Best Retail Display Designer innovative and forward-thinking the 4x100- metre medley relay at the World Aquatics Championships. Mizuno’s netball shoes reduce 2018 in the second annual business that creates original yet Scott also demonstrated real dominance at the 2018 Commonwealth the likelihood of injuries, SME News Enterprise Awards functional displays that are also Games, where he won gold in the 100-metre freestyle in a time of 48.02 improve performance and for the Greater London region. appealing to shoppers.” seconds. He then went on to win four bronze medals at the Games: in the reduce the need to replace The 2018 Greater London Celebrating its 125th year 200-metre butterfly, 200-metre freestyle, 4x100-metre freestyle relay, and shoes so regularly. Enterprise Awards celebrate in business in 2018, Kesslers 4x200-metre freestyle relay, Along with traditional businesses that have achieved employs more than 175 staff and became the first Scottish media relations, Promote’s wide-spread success deserving of at its 130,000sqft high-tech athlete to win five medals at support will encompass recognition. They applaud small retail design and manufacturing the same Commonwealth partnership development, and medium sized companies facilities in Stratford, East Games. He added to his tally content creation and work whose efforts have yielded top- London. It seamlessly manages with a sixth medal when he with influencers. class products and services, each of its clients’ unique won silver in the 200-metre The Mizuno account acknowledging talented and merchandising requirements individual medley. will be headed by Promote hard-working teams in industries from start to finish, creating Rob Hicking, Brand PR CEO Sue Anstiss MBE, within London. The winners outstanding display solutions for Director at Speedo who said: “Our team at the are selected by a combination of a diverse portfolio of the world’s International, said: “Duncan agency include a number votes from SME News’ respected leading brands, including Hugo is one of the most inspiring of netballers, ex-players industry partners and its own Boss, Olivia Burton, L’Oréal, young British swimmers and parents of players, so rigorous in-house research. Yankee Candle, adidas, Marks & and an exceptional talent we completely understand Daniel Astarita, Sales and Spencer and Sainsbury’s. that has already achieved the benefit of playing in Marketing Director at Kesslers, The team is also adept at incredible success in his the correct shoes. We’re said: “We are proud to design harnessing market-leading career. We’re delighted to so pleased that Mizuno and manufacture retail display technology including Augmented continue our partnership chose us for this exciting solutions for world-renowned Reality, Virtual Reality, Near with Duncan as part of project, especially at such an brands here in East London. We Field Communication, Radio Team Speedo and support incredible time for netball, were therefore delighted to win Frequency Identification and IoT his exciting swimming with England winning Gold this award and to be recognised for enabled displays. journey.” at the Commonwealth Games and the World Cup taking place in Liverpool next NEW Matrix S-Force Performance Trainer proves hard to resist summer.” Graham Johnson, UK Matrix Fitness, the commercial workout data to help users measure performance at Wigan Warriors, said: November.” Marketing Manager at division of Johnson Health Tech, their improvement. “We have a reputation for hammering Mark added: “S-Force taps , added: is redefining athletic training S-Force has been scientifically kit with players around 120KG going brilliantly into the competitive “Promote were a natural and HIIT with the launch of its proven in an in-depth study by all out to build fitness gains. mindset of elite athletes. The choice for us with their S-Force Performance Trainer. a professional biomechanics “The S-Force arrived mid-season feedback in terms of power outputs breadth of experience in This unique cardio product consultant to progressively improve so rather than change up our training and distance is just what you need promoting sports brands, delivers scientifically-proven fast-twitch muscle fibres – the key of the squad to accommodate it, we when trying to condition and push coupled with their knowledge magnetic resistance training to to explosive athletic power and used it for recovery and rehab for elite athletes and get them where and connections in both elite challenge elite athletes and fitness performance. Validated testing our injured players. The low-impact they need to be. and grassroots sport. facility members in high-intensity, procedures revealed that the upright aspect was key to this but don’t “The S-Force really challenges “The agency’s passion low impact interval training on position targets the calves and be fooled: even an injured rugby our players – they can’t get a rhythm for sport is evident. It’s no the gym floor, in circuits and small hamstrings, while the acceleration league player will pack a punch on on it like a motorised treadmill or surprise that with almost group training. position focuses on the shins and equipment and it’s fair to say our stepper and the more they push, the 25 years specialising in this With S-Force, Matrix quads, building strength in the players have been smashing out more it pushes back. S-Force is truly field, their relationships with has mastered a smooth and muscles athletes need for explosive some seriously tough sessions on different, genuinely challenging and relevant media, influencers, quiet magnetic resistance motion drive-phase sprinting. S-Force. The initial results look will be an asset to athletes and gym event organisers and key system, specifically designed to Matt Pengelly, Managing great and it will definitely feature in members who want to take their associations are so very provide a high-intensity, low-impact Director Matrix UK, said: “S-Force our pre-season squad training from training up a few notches.” impressive.” workout. Magnetic resistance hits two major markets – athletic increases the harder the athlete performance and HIIT training – in works, creating challenging and one piece of kit making it versatile progressive workouts for everyone and valuable to fitness facilities. from beginners to elite athletes. “It can be used by individuals S-Force can be set to enhance following one of the pre-set athletic performance or deliver challenges, incorporated into a individual and group HIIT training. PT session or added into a group It has five resistance levels and is training circuit session. Completely pre-loaded with the exclusive Sprint unmotorized and flex-free, it can be 8 20-minute HIIT workout. Quick wheeled into place in moments to fit keys offer instant access to popular the facility space and usage.” training programs at the touch of a Matrix invited the renowned button and all activity is monitored Wigan Warriors Rugby League squad on the adjustable backlit console to put S-Force through its paces. making it easy to see complete Mark Bitcon, director of

www.sports-insight.co.uk Introducing the latest additions to the Koolpak Hot & Cold Therapy Range The professionals’ choice

With immediate treatment essential to help speed up recovery times the Koolpak range of sports injury products are perfect to help with the treatment of soft tissue injuries, sprains, bumps and bruises.

KoolBead Reusable Hot & Cold Pack new The KoolBead Reusable Hot & Cold Pack has a flexible gel bead technology which distributes the hot or cold temperature evenly to the injured area. Its ultra-soft velour backing provides superior patient comfort. • Perfect to be used for either hot or cold therapy • Use cold to reduce swelling, bruising and pain • When heated the pack is the perfect solution to relax stiff muscles and encourage blood flow to aid with healing

Heat & Kool Patchesf The Heat and Kool Patches provide powerful dual action heat or cooling therapy and pain relief. The direct to skin application provides up to 8 hours of continuous treatment.

Heat Patch • Increases blood flow to the UP TO affected area providing aid 8Hours DUAL ACTION with the healing process PAIN RELIEF • Penetrating heat helps relaxes stiff, sore and aching muscles helping to restore movement • Helps relieves neck, back, thigh, arm, calf and shoulder pain new

Kool Patch • Works by cooling the affected area to reduce swelling, bruising and pain • Ideal to help treat soft tissue injuries • Soft gel sheet is perfect for direct skin application

For more information and trade pricing please contact: Tel: 0800 180 4285 Email: [email protected] Or visit our website: www.koolpak.co.uk

Sports Insight Advert_July 2018.indd 1 19/07/2018 10:23 14 NEWS Canterbury unveils additions New Orangetheory Fitness to the 2018/2019 England Studio coming to Altrincham Rugby training kit range Orangetheory Fitness, the Orangetheory Fitness Midlands With many new businesses, and an Canterbury has revealed scientifically backed and fast- and Northern England, said: “We array of culture, cafes and restaurants the latest additions to the growing fitness franchise, are excited to bring Orangetheory in the area, there’s a wonderful 2018/2019 England Rugby will be opening a new studio Fitness to the Altrincham community feel to the town, training kit range. The new in Altrincham, Greater community and help members live which is perfect for our members. training kit will be worn by Manchester. healthier, more vibrant lives. Orangetheory Fitness Altrincham England men’s and women’s The Altrincham studio will “We can’t wait for Altrincham may be part of a globally successful players, coaches and team be located at 4 George Street, residents to become part of the brand, but this will very much be management, as they prepare Altrincham, with doors expected to Orangetheory family and start seeing Altrincham’s local studio and we’re for the Quilter Internationals in open in December 2018. This will results from the science-backed, looking forward to being a passionate November 2018. be the first studio to open in the UK high-energy workout, regardless of part of that community.” Featuring a directorie blue outside of London, and with at least fitness level.” Orangetheory Fitness launched visually impactful design, the second instalment of the training range 40 additional studios planned, the Adam Bowerman, Studio Manager its first studio in Fort Lauderdale, consists of performance apparel and accessories including training pants, brand will continue to grow across of Orangetheory Fitness Altrincham Florida, in March 2010, and has shorts, a hybrid jacket and a sports bag. Further additions to the range are Midlands and Northern England. said: “Launching our debut studio in transformed into one of the world’s due to launch over the coming months for all weather conditions. Alistair Firth, CEO of Altrincham is particularly exciting. top fitness franchises, with more Canterbury has designed a training range which puts form, function than 1,000 studios in 49 states and and fit first. The new kit features Thermoreg technology which creates an 18 countries. The 60-minute, five insulating layer that retains warmth while avoiding heat build-up in key zone heart-rate monitored interval areas, allowing your body to regulate its temperature. training concept combines a unique It also includes VapoDri technology, which is designed to wick moisture trifecta of science, coaching, and away from the body and maintain core temperature - allowing the wearer to technology to give members more to train harder for longer. their workout and beyond. The new training drop includes Canterbury’s new innovative Vaposhield For more information on drill top. The water repellent, quick drying top which offers zoned Altrincham Orangetheory Fitness, fabrication, provides both rain protection and breathability. Articulated including current vacancies for seams follow the contours of your body for supreme mobility and a low Sales Associates and Coaches, profile loop neck collar removes distraction. These carefully considered please contact us at careers@ design details allow you to train at your best whatever the weather orangetheoryfitness.co.uk. More conditions. The training kit reveal follows the launch of the latest brand information on Orangetheory Fitness campaign for Canterbury, ‘Own The Unexpected’ which is inspired by the is available on Orangetheory’s England team’s training techniques which enable the players to tackle the website. Follow Orangetheory unexpected head on during the game, using unstructured play to deliver Fitness Altrincham on Facebook and their best performance on match day. Instagram for the latest studio news.

www.sports-insight.co.uk XXXXXXXXX

NEWS 15

the social and economic contribution the industry makes and support our member businesses in fulfilling their potential. “The Federation team is devising a new strategy going forward combining its lobbying work on behalf of the sports industry with an exciting new phase in marketing and communications A vital aspect of our new strategy is to prioritise partnership working to maximise our visibility, strengthen our voice and represent our industry at the highest political levels. “Our member association, the Sporting Goods Industry Association (SGIA), forms a key part of our new focus on promoting participation in sport and the great benefits sport provides. There is no other industry body which speaks exclusively on this solely for the benefit of the UK sports industry and sports businesses.” The leading trade fair for sports professionals “Year on year ISPO proves itself as the leading trade fair for the sports sector,” said Mark. “The exhibition Book your place on the UK Trade Zone at has always been a highlight of the sporting industry calendar and will be integral to everything we do for Europe’s largest sports business exhibition: UK sporting goods. “Our exhibitors at the UK Trade Zone and those sports businesses we assist with Department for ISPO – MUNICH International Trade grants always give positive feedback about how ISPO enables them to make new The largest sporting goods trade fair in Europe – ISPO – is the contacts and deepen existing relationships in the sports business springboard into Europe and beyond. Last year, the four-day event world. “For our members and exhibitors, attracted over 2,700 exhibitors in 16 halls and 84,000 visitors from 120 ISPO is a crucial platform for showcasing their brand and countries to preview the latest trends in sporting goods worldwide. promoting their products. No other event provides them with access to an expert audience and such a high are either new to export or new to unlocking the economic growth of volume of visitors to their stand. It market. the sports industry in the UK, Europe enables them to gather feedback Businesses in the UK Trade Zone and worldwide,” said Mark. “So the on new products and strengthen will benefit from a high-quality FSPA and its member associations the brand of their established stand build and distinctive shell are embarking on a new phase with merchandise. scheme in a key position. The FSPA particular emphasis on campaigning “We’re looking forward to seeing also provide a range of support for increased promotion in sports, as many of our members as possible services leading up to the show and play and activity. there and to welcoming new throughout its duration, including “We see one of our primary roles businesses to ISPO.” marketing of the group at the event as influencing policy and effecting If you have any questions and in the UK and European trade social and political change in the regarding the exhibition, the UK press. UK and Europe on the issues which Trade Zone or applying for an export Practical support comes in the matter to the industries we represent. grant contact Jane Montgomery on form of an FSPA information stand, As the sector continues to evolve, it’s 02476 414 999 or email Wi-Fi, furniture package including crucial that we are here to champion [email protected] electrics, display panels and Join the UK Trade Zone “We work hard to ensure that carpeting and the services of a group The Federation of Sports and Play every one of our exhibitors attending freight forwarder. Associations (FSPA) represents the has the opportunity to present their The Federation also hosts a sporting industry in the UK with over products in the best way possible networking drinks reception on their 500 member businesses and is once so they get maximum exposure and stand where all UK exhibitors and again offering the chance to exhibit make the most of their presence at visitors are welcome to join them for with them in the UK Trade Zone. ISPO.” a drink. Mark Kirkup, FSPA Chief Mark said: “The UK Trade Zone at Executive, said: “ISPO Munich is the Apply for an ISPO has been an important aspect go-to event for the industry and, as export grant of our offer to sports businesses along ever, demand for exhibition space The FSPA works closely with the with our close links with Department is high – not just from our members Department for International Trade for International Trade meaning we who regularly join our UK Trade and eligible companies can apply for can assist with grants to attend.” Zone, but from new ones too. The an export grant through the FSPA. FSPA team are on-hand to assist You don’t have to exhibit with the Increased participation our exhibitors and support them in FSPA in their UK Trade Zone to in sports making the most of this key event in apply for a grant and priority will “The promotion of sports, activity the industry’s calendar. be given to those companies who and active lifestyles is the key to Our exhibitors at the UK Trade Zone and those sports businesses we assist with Department for International“ Trade grants always give positive feedback about how ISPO enables them to make new contacts and deepen existing relationships in the sports business world. ” MARK KIRKUP, FSPA CHIEF EXECUTIVE

www.sports-insight.co.uk 16

DO YOU EVEN LINK? Links have always been a massive Who’s winning and losing in ranking factor and can make all the difference to how far up a brand appears on Google. Consistently gaining new high-quality links can be the fitness equipment sector? great for business, however, high-link volumes without the quality could spell trouble ahead. Inside Online report rates websites on their online performance There are several sites with ‘high- quality, low-volume’ links; these Despite a 17 per cent decrease The annual study reveals the • Sweatband saw a 58 per cent drop include NordicTrack and Mirafit and in their visibility over the successes and shortcomings of each on the previous year but remained in Proform Fitness. past year, Fitness-Superstore website, highlighting where there is the top five Conversely, there are also sites remains top of their market, a room for improvement. with a high volume of poor quality new report has revealed. Other stand-out results from PUMPING SOCIAL POSTS links, such as Matrix Fitness, The Fitness Equipment Insight visibility include: Physio Room ranks as the most WattBike and Podium4Sport. Report, produced by digital searched-for brand per month, Consistently gaining a high quantity • Concept 2 recorded a huge 91 per marketing specialists Inside Online however, it is TechnoGym utilising of low-authority links highlights an cent increase as one of the few in the (insideonline.co.uk), ranks 45 of various platforms to engage with urgent need to address your off-site top ten to see an increase the leading websites within this followers by using bespoke hashtags reputation. competitive market according to • Seven of the top ten saw a drop in to set themselves apart from the Gemma Curtis, Inbound Content their online performance. their visibility year-on-year Facebook posts of competitors. Marketer, at Inside Online, said: The top five social scorers: “This competitive market has struggled to strive this year. Combine • TechnoGym are the top a landscape where department stores performers with an owned social usually end up on top with decreasing score of 957 high-scoring social brands hold visibility and a lack of real social • Fitness-Superstore and a higher following on Instagram, presence, and it’s clear to see why. GymEquipment are tied for second with Technogym having the highest “After Google’s latest algorithm place for monthly brand searches number of followers on the photo- update, they announced that sites with 18,100 based platform (78,400) compared should ‘remain focused on building to PhysioRoom (303). great content’. Powerhouse Fitness • Powerhouse Fitness and PhysioRoom has an impressive are ahead of the game with fantastic StrengthShop round out the top five number of brand searches (22,000), consideration content on their for social searches however, this hasn’t translated to category pages helping them to rank The social score considers followers their owned social score (90). Low on page one. and engaged conversations on all owned social scores are common “Physio Room are also gaining major social platforms. across the board, with the rest of the fantastic links with their resource Despite PhysioRoom’s top top five brands for monthly searches sections. Content could be the spot, StrengthShop and other all having the same issue. driving force of this market.”

of a Betfred Cup match against Cowdenbeath. Dunlop appoints Hearts chairwoman, Ann Budge, said: “This was another “impossible timetable” according to many, and Promote PR to support yet we managed to achieve it. We have to thank Carrick Sports and global relaunch SIS Grass for taking on the challenge and STRI for managing the process Dunlop International Europe Ltd has appointed specialist sports for us.” and fitness communications agency Promote PR to support the STRI’s project manager, Gordon brand’s global relaunch. Howat, said: “As is always the Following the acquisition of Dunlop Sports from Sports Direct by case with stadium reconstruction Sumitomo Rubber Industries (SRI) last year, the relaunch heralds an projects, the timeframe for delivery exciting new era for the tennis brand favoured by current world No6 and was tight, and access restrictions Wimbledon finalist Kevin Anderson. As well as Dunlop, SRI Sports owns proved challenging. However, the both and . club, STRI and Carrick Sports Promote’s support will encompass the creation of PR campaigns and worked in collaboration to overcome content to be utilised by markets across the globe to promote both new these issues, and in association with Dunlop products and a series of exciting partnerships to be announced. SIS Grass, have produced a terrific Jamie Douglas, International Marketing Director, Dunlop Sports, said: surface that Heart of Midlothian FC “It was clear on first meeting Promote that they not only have exceptional can be proud of. Everybody within pedigree in sport, but they also understood the key challenges we face the project team is delighted with in relaunching an iconic brand internationally. With their expertise what has been accomplished this and guidance, we are Hearts install new summer.” confident that we will STRI and Carrick Sports has communicate a strong state-of-the-art pitch also installed an ultramodern brand proposition in environmental monitoring system the global exposure Heart of Midlothian FC have STRI’s in-house design team - the first of its kind to be deployed we secure for our installed a new state-of-the- laid out the final schematic of the in any stadia. This means that new products and art hybrid pitch at Tynecastle pitch, to include undersoil heating, Tynecastle Park will benefit from partnerships.” Park. a new drainage system and a new the highest levels of monitoring Nasima Hussain, Hearts replaced their grass pitch irrigation system. After contractor and data analysis available in the MD at Promote PR, in February 2017 as a short-term interviews, Carrick Sports was world. Live moisture levels have added: “We are thrilled solution to pitch performance engaged by Hearts to undertake been positioned across the pitch to welcome Dunlop into problems. construction works, and SIS Grass which will automatically collect the growing portfolio This spring, senior club were brought in to install a hybrid data, including air temperature in of clients we support at management and the board reinforced pitch. the stadium and light levels for grass an international level. of directors took the decision Hearts commenced major pitch growth. Dunlop is a brand with to significantly invest in the reconstruction works immediately Ann Budge added: “STRI’s such a rich heritage Tynecastle playing surface. The after the final whistle was blown environmental monitoring system and the future looks club engaged STRI sport facility last season on 9 May. Work was will allow the grounds team at very exciting. We are specialists as designers and project undertaken during the close season, Tynecastle to ensure that the WIMBLEDON FINALIST KEVIN ANDERSON. delighted to be part of it.” IMAGE CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES. managers to oversee the entire with an extremely tight deadline for surface is maintained at the highest reconstruction. completion set for July 24, ahead standard.”

@SportsInsightUK

18 FITNESS Judging a book by its cover – get it right first time As consumers are becoming more spoilt for choice for fitness, making the right first impression has never been more important

esearch shows it takes just consider using technology to improve engaging for customers and aid in Charlotte Newton, Senior 4. Remember personal details of seven seconds for people motivation and keep their goals on discoverability process, so clients will Marketing Manager at MINDBODY customers for talking points to form a first impression track, meaning customers are more find your classes in fewer taps. EMEA said: “We know that our Rand with new studios and locations than likely going to rely on their customers want to spend more Leave a lasting popping up at a faster pace than ever phones and apps for inspiration.  New colour palette - defines time building relationships with the impression before, the pressure for businesses Therefore, your digital presence categories, so ‘fitness’ and ‘wellness’ people who walk through their door You wouldn’t expect a guest to leave to impress potential customers is should aim to inspire with plenty verticals stand out to users. and automating processes using your house without showing them greater than ever. of interesting content and a nicely software can help free up their time the door, so apply the same mentality With this in mind, the experts designed layout that reflects your On arrival from all their admin. Nowadays to your studio and appoint a‘Director at MINDBODY, a leading health brand. We know from speaking to our people are craving a sense of personal of Last Impressions’ (DOLI) to say and fitness business management What’s more, the survey findings customers that often the thing that connection, so the less time you can goodbye. This can be a front of house software, explain why it is so also revealed that customers value they struggle with most is finding the spend stuck in the office, the better!” staff or a trainer, just make sure great important to create a great first flexibility and variety in their fitness time between day-to-day admin and Heather Garrick, Marketing customer service is maintained right impression on your clients and routines, which emphasises the the general running of the business, Director at Triyoga, explains: “Our until the end. how, using research from their importance of an easy booking to spend valuable time with their mission at Triyoga is to uplift Catie Miller, founder of MINDBODY recent industry reports and existing processes to impress clients, customers and their team. Creating a everyone we serve. Our front of studio Xtend Barre, said: “We see our customer experiences. especially upon a first visit. seamless booking process either via house staff are the key to this sense studio as an extension of our client’s Here are three ways your listing a website or an app, can help free up of community, as they are usually homes, in terms of quality and comfort. Pre- arrival on the MINDBODY App can help to time usually reserved for admin to the first and last interaction that Our instructors work the front of Before setting foot in your studio or impress clients: provide excellent customer service our clients have when they visit the house too, which provides a seamless on a mat, a customer is likely to have instead. studio. Anything that we can do to experience by allowing them to interact already visited your website, scrolled  Rich business profile - allows users While technology should never lift the burden of admin is priceless! with as they enter the space through to through your social media channels to peek inside your studio. Show off fully replace the personal touch a MINDBODY has been a really useful taking their class, as well as receiving or explored your app. In fact, your business and add photos of your studio provides, it can certainly help tool for helping us to achieve this - for constructive feedback afterwards.” MINDBODY’s recent Insights Report location, services and staff to catch to enhance it. MINDBODY software example, by allowing people to self- Remind your customers how much showed that, whilst word of mouth your customer’s eye. We recommend streamlines day to day tasks onto check-in for classes if they require. you care, even after they’ve gone. is still the leading marketing channel you add a minimum of six photos to one easy-to-use platform, so studio This means our staff have more time MINDBODY has several marketing for business in the health and fitness show it off. owners and staff will ultimately have to have meaningful conversations retention tools, which can send industries, 22 per cent of people will more time to engage with clients in with clients who might need advice, targeted follow up emails or texts to a do an organic search online for your  Enhanced search – new filters a meaningful way – keeping them guidance, or special assistance.” new customer for you. It can also help business and 17 per cent will do so and category search icons are more coming back time and time again. Five top tips to impress your you convert a prospect to a new client because of advertising. Customers customers on arrival: with attractive intro offers to entice a won’t wait for a website to load, and second visit, and when booked through 1. Create a welcoming atmosphere the MINDBODY branded app, they will research shows half of site visitors using scents wait less than three seconds before be asked to feedback on their visit, so clicking off and going elsewhere, so 2. Pay extra attention to newbies - you can focus on always improving your it’s crucial that this experience is offer a tour if possible business. seamless from the start. For more information about 3. Provide complimentary products MINDBODY business software According to a consumer survey where possible, such as bottled water by MINDBODY with 2,000 UK solutions, please visit: https:// respondents, 15 per cent of people 5. Keep a clean and tidy environment uk.mindbodyonline.com/business

@SportsInsightUK NEWS 19

and instructional skills, the new the entry point and backbone of the qualification includes essential active leisure industry. This new EMD UK Launches Level 2 content for instructors to run their qualification will ensure instructors own successful businesses. The deliver group exercise at a high qualification also encompasses the level using skills learned through a Group Training Qualification soft skills needed to engage and retain comprehensive course combining participants such as understanding theoretical and practical learning and To meet the growing industry bootcamp and circuits) or Group industry, as well as personal behavioural change and barriers to assessment with valuable case study demand for a qualification Training (to Music) which adds on trainers and gym instructors keen to exercise along with delivering a great work.” that supports the diversity of the skills needed to plan and teach capitalise on the growing popularity customer experience.” EMD UK will be delivering the group exercise, EMD UK, the classes to the beat and phrase of the of group exercise by increasing Sarah Edmonds, Active IQ’s first Group Training qualification National Governing Body for music (such as Zumba or Les Mills their current knowledge and Director of Quality and Standards, in London with practical and Group Exercise, is launching a BODYATTACK). qualifications. said: “The Level 2 Group Training assessment days being held in new Level 2 ‘Group Training’ As well as an enriching experience Both qualifications will sit on the Qualification ensures specific, September and October: qualification this autumn. for instructors, the qualification has Regulated Qualification Framework tailored and fit-for-purpose training • 29 – 30 September Developed by EMD UK in been designed by EMD UK to provide and are mapped to the new CIMSPA for group exercise instructors. (practical modules) partnership with awarding body employers and participants with professional standards. They will Demand from operators and Active IQ and group training appropriately skilled instructors also be recognised by REPs. CIMSPA for more robust training • 6 – 7 October (practical modules) specialists who have extensive for an engaging group exercise Group exercise ranks consistently and rigorous assessment will • 20 – 21 October (assessment days) experience delivering group exercise experience. as one of the top five most popular be met by this new qualification and educating fitness professionals, Ross Perriam, CEO of EMD UK, exercise formats in the UK and which we believe will bring skilful Additional course dates are available the new qualification will provide said: “The current Level 2 Exercise its popularity continues to grow. group exercise instructors into the in October and November. To find an update to the original Level 2 to Music qualification was created Group exercise includes everything sector. Level 2 qualifications are out more visit http://www.emduk. Exercise to Music qualification. over thirty years ago and its content from challenging HIIT sessions, very important as they represent org.uk/ Industry feedback revealed that and course modules have remained bootcamps and studio cycling many employers feel there is a skill much the same despite a massive through to yoga, water fitness and gap around overall delivery of group evolution of the fitness industry. It barre classes. This growth looks set exercise and the old qualification no is really important that we regularly to continue, with EMD UK’s recent longer equips instructors with the review the educational needs of our Group Exercise Survey revealing an skills they need to deliver effective instructors and ensure we provide additional 3.76 million annual group and compelling group exercise them with the relevant skills and exercise participants in the UK since training. knowledge to meet the needs of 2016. Delivered exclusively by EMD operators and participants. As the Emma Forward, COO of EMD UK for the first six months, the people that inspire our nation to UK and contributor to the new qualification will give instructors get active, we must support their qualification, added: “EMD UK a dynamic and flexible learning professional development to ensure recognised the need to update the path, combining teaching units they continue to deliver a quality core group exercise qualification based on the type of group training experience across all styles.” and at the same time address they want to teach. Instructors Level 2 Group Training will the ever-evolving range of group can complete the ‘Group Training’ appeal to current fitness participants exercise formats on the market. In qualification (for classes like HIIT, considering a career in the fitness addition to comprehensive coaching

www.sports-insight.co.uk 20

sportsThe place to source all yourhub products and services

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

High Performance Arena Represent Asics Roadhawk FF 2

competition Powerfin Pro something different Redefining the essence of a lightweight Arena Powerfin Pro's innovative design Blaze Wear's superb range of Heated Clothing neutral running shoe, the ROADHAWK FF 2 swim suits features a sloping surface and hydrodynamic and Sports Heat Therapy products deliver The XPRESSO range of FINA approved swim introduces a new age of speed and pushes the slits in the top to allow you to swim with a heat where and when it's needed. The Sports suits for men and women by MP delivers boundaries once again. Its next generation faster leg kick and better control. The open Heat Therapy range offers targeted, deep the pinnacle of performance for racing and comes with a dynamic new FlyteFoam heel ensures the best possible ankle flexibility penetrating, soothing heat that eases pain and has stand out credentials at poolside. It is compound and new last, full contact outsole allowing faster upwards notion and a more provides relief for conditions ranging from now joined by the MPULSE line which and added support in the midfoot, combined powerful downward leg kick. Now available in sports injuries to muscle strain. All stock is offers excellent value compression and with seamless comfort and great durability. the colur gold. available in the UK. 'Feel the Heat' hydrodynamics, delivering streamlined racing technology on a budget.

01254 692200 01539 622322 0845 475 7510 01925 241041 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.michaelphelps.com www.solosports.co.uk www.blazewear.com www.asics.co.uk

Vibram Five Digitalize Winter Warrior Personalising Toe Socks Your Sales Performance Boxers clothing Featuring an arch compression design with aWorkbook is a multi-platform digital The Performance range sports quick drying Personalising outdoor wear and workwear flexible toe pockets. Coolmax technology catalogue and order taking app used by brands fabrics with strong breathability and wicking with Brother Embroidery Machines. has been integrated with the 200N knitting and distributors to digitalize their sales process capabilities. Incorporating the PackageFront, Providing customisation services allows you to enabling these socks to offer an excellent and deliver winning product presentations to designed for comfort by reducing heat transfer generate additional income for your business moisture management system, superior customers. Save time, eliminate errors and and restricting package movement. Winter from local businesses and outdoor hobbyists. breathability and faster drying times for a maximise sales with aWorkbook. Visit their a dual layer PackageFront, for The Brother PR1050X and the PR670E are nice snug, performance driven fit. Five Toes, website to see it in action and to request a demo. increased wind blocking effect, a tailored fit, ideal for adding logos and names to shirts, tops, Comfort, Performance, Moisture Management. incorporating flat-lock seams and supersoft jumpers, jackets, bags and more. oeko-tex certified fabrics.

01702 530656 01460 279744 01539 622322 0161 235 0344 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.brothersewing.co.uk www.charlesbirch.com aworkbook.com www.comfyballs.co.uk

@SportsInsightUK 21 sports insight selects Samba Runner Flat Markers Samba 5" small round rubber flat markers- set of 50 multi-coloured, comes with metal stand and carry bag. Samba's 5" markers come with none a non-slip backing- ideal for marking out play areas, sprint routines and training grids. Features include Indoor or outdoor use; Teaching positional skills; Sports and Athletic activities; Alternative to cones in windy conditions. www.sambasports.co.uk

Zenith 2 pushes See Me Run VOW Knee Support Compression The new Afterlight products from Ronhill Versatile Over Wrap (VOW) knee brace with the limits include this new highly reflective wind hinges provides injury prevention and recovery Ankle Sleeve Gola Active has exerted itself with the This sleeve features 3D Geo Ribbing resistant jacket, perfect for the cooler and with a supportive easy quick wrap-on design development of its new style, Push the limit for optimal ankle support. The seamless darker days ahead. Available in a variety of that can go over clothing, offering versatile with Zenith 2, this trainer features a high sleeve is incredibly lightweight and has a colours, from bold fluorescents to vibrant blues compression and fit. Top over wrap manages density open cell in-sock which provides added flat bottom cuff so that it can be worn during and purples. Pair these with the Afterlight long- muscle support and compression. Bottom over rebound and shock absorption. This Gola activity without discomfort. Perfect to wear sleeved t-shirts, and luxurious brush backed wrap isolates and stabilizes patella. Versatile Active trainer is constructed with a flat knit for recovery as well. Targeted support with Afterlight Tights or Afterlight Twin Shorts. over wrap design. upper providing stretch and support during comfort and mobility. your run, whilst a custom designed rubber outsole offers traction and durability.

01706 215512 0161 366 5020 01582 670100 01789 294442 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.gola.co.uk www.ronhill.com www.mcdavid.eu www.dmp.uk.com

Kinship by ODLO Soccer Reusch Prisma Aluminium 6’ x 4’ ODLO’s Kinship baselayer is designed with ventilation zones integrated right into the Supplement Range Pro R3 Folding Goal The use of pre-workout supplements has Brand new to the UK, Samba’s new Kinship graphic providing ventilation where The Prisma Pro R3 features the newly become increasingly popular. The aim of Aluminium football goalpost for all ages. needed. Constructed with a Merino wool and developed R3 – Mega Solid palm specially such products are to improve performance Can be used by professionals as a training Polyester blend, this baselayer offers natural developed for artificial and hard surfaces. by means of increasing alertness, motivation, aid or for recreational use in the garden or thermoregulation and fast drying qualities so In a striking new black/red colourway, the strength, endurance capacity, technical skill park. Under ten seconds to unfold and is new levels of performance can be reached. Pro version also includes an additional and decision making. Reydon Sports are now Duraguard patch. Other gloves in the range ready to play. Fits into the boot of most cars stocking Soccer Supplement, a high quality also offer the R3 palm giving the perfect when folded flat. Used on any surface, grass, range of pre-workout products. Buy TODAY! combination of durability and grip. artificial turf, sand, street, indoor floor etc.

07581741799 [email protected] 0161 439 4383 01282 860077 [email protected] 0115 938 6444 [email protected] [email protected] Odlo.com www.reydonsports.com www.reusch.com www.sambasports.co.uk

www.sports-insight.co.uk 22

sportsThe place to source all yourhub products and services

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

White Noise Woolpower Merino SuperFit All Sport X17 School Trainers Collection The best just got better! Exclusive new The NEW Optimum X17 School Trainers Clothing design takes mouthguard technology into feature an air mesh tongue for improved Running is one of the best ways to clear your Based in northern Sweden, Woolpower know the future. InVent design aids comfort and breathability and comfort, easy fastening mind and activate all the senses, like a warm all about how to keep warm in the cold. Their breathing. Easy, quick fit technology creates hook and loop straps and made from high- bath for the brain. It’s in honour of running's unique method of manufacturing produces a super custom mould and combines with an quality material. They have a synthetic outer meditative effects that Saucony bring you the merino base and mid layers that keep the integrated Gel fit liner and gel windows aiding material, mesh inner material and a flat type White Noise Collection. body warm and comfortable in the coldest of protection and comfort. Bio-Fit design, Low heel. Available in black and white and sizes temperatures and in the most challenging of temp fitting. Infant 10 to Snr 11. environments.

0800 206 1491 01576 490 100 01582 670100 01942497707 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.saucony.com www.outwearltd.co.uk www.shockdoctor.co.uk www.optimumsport.com

Mac In A Sac NEON Liverpool Signature Vulkan Supports Prism Force Shafts Light. Bright. Packable. Be seen in the highly The well-established Vulkan range of Introducing the spectacular Prism Force waterproof and breathable (7,000mm / Football neoprene supports help prevent and speed up range with a unique Force Grip Zone for This official Liverpool football features the 7,000gsm) MIAS NEON. With YKK water recovery from various injuries and conditions unrivalled control and accuracy. Prism signatures of the current 2018-19 squad. A 32 repellent zips, fully taped seams and concealed with a unique Aerotherm technology, helping Force’s pioneering design uses advanced panel size 5 ball in a striking metallic silver hood the NEON offers performance and users to keep doing what they love. polymers to achieve the ultimate style, finish. Suitable for use on artificial turf or lightweight packability. Offered to retail strength and durability. Includes our new grass. This best-selling product is available with attractive mark-ups and POS display light-weight Inox Steel Pro-Lock Shaft Rings from stock. stand. Become a stockist today. Light, bright, that secure any flights. Pioneering shafts for packable weatherproof performance. unrivalled control.

028 9079 0588 01969 625300 07984 327 832 01656 767042 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.macinasac.com www.footballsouvenirs.net vulkansupports.com www.winmau.com

@SportsInsightUK 23 sports insight selects FiveFingers V-Trail The essential tool for off road running. The 3.7mm rubber outsole in MEGAGRIP compound rubber, with specially designed lugs, provides outstanding grip in wet and dry conditions on all surfaces. The 3D Cocoon mesh technology, moulded into the sole, offers protection from sharp objects. www.charlesbirch.com

Boobuddy BAMA Sneaker SAFEJAWZ ATAK Breast Support Care Range Extro Series Grip Socks Boobuddy is a new wearable band for A range of four products providing SAFEJAWZ, at just a few years old as The simple concept which is revolutionising women who want additional support, complete care for sports footwear: 1 a company, is a brand that has become the sporting world, ATAK grip socks feature comfort and confidence during sports and Sneaker Clean – strong detergent for synonymous with sports protection draped a grid of grippy material which is designed to activities, particularly high-impact. The cleaning uppers and bumpers; 2 Sneaker in personality. They allow athletes to keep the foot locked firmly in place to avoid Boobuddy helps prevent excessive breast Care – foam conditioner to nourish suede showcase their personality in their sport, slipping and sliding when making quick and movement by adding more compression and fabric; 3 Sneaker Protect – spray to and bring out that #confidencewithin. sudden movements which also helps to to the top of the chest therefore reducing protect shoes from rain and stains.; 4 reduce blistering. vertical and lateral movement. Asset Sneaker Fresh – burst of spray kills smells protection for active women. and freshens shoes.

0779 329 2758 01702 530656 01922 453337 (+353) 93 22400 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.theboobuddy.com www.charlesbirch.com www.safejawz.com www.Atak.ie

Double Gel Zoo Sport New cartoon range Perfect mats for Optimum's Rugby ball range have launched Mouthguards Primal range the Emoji, Rainbow Twister, Cow and Croc Pilates d3’s entire mouth guard range are tested The new Zoo Sport Primal range, in navy and Align-Pilates are specialist in Pilates Studio designs to add to the already hugely popular and proven high quality products that are black, features a stylish range of polos, tees, Equipment which means this Pilates mat Cartoon/Character range. Available in sizes simply essential for contact sports like hoodies, shorts and track pants. Featuring dry perfectly balances size and weight offering Mini RRP£5.49, Midi RRP£7.49 and in MMA, , rugby, hockey, American fit breathable-fabric with a unique gel excellent cushioning and memory. Perfect sizes 3, 4 and 5 RRP£10.99. , the balls are in football, AFL even netball and . silicon logo. for Pilates matwork classes and any stock now and available to order today. The Range consists of seven colours in Pilates Studio. These mats are made from junior and senior - great value with a superior quality TPE material which is RRP £7.99. 100% recyclable, impermeable and hygienic whilst also being free-from PVC and Latex.

07970 766816 0113 253 0491 01942 497707 01386 425 925 [email protected] www.zoo-sport.co.uk [email protected] www.mad-hq.com www.d3tape.com [email protected] www.optimumsport.com

www.sports-insight.co.uk

OUTDOOR INSIGHT Friedrichshafen is launched Messe Friedrichshafen is approaches.” centre of our efforts, along with the of producing the grandest and most opening the next chapter in its Authentic, hands-on, key question: How can retailers sell ‘palatial’ stand are key criteria for outdoor story with a completely groundbreaking: the new claim at prices with which they can live or us. No brand need fear being under revised event concept. underlines the future direction of even survive? In an authentic setting represented. The aim is to create From Tuesday 17 to Thursday 19 OUTDOOR Friedrichshafen. with the right ambience and unique price stability within the sales September 2019, the organisers will Stefan Reisinger, Head of service, we are offering the real process but also to concentrate on be offering a new trade fair format Outdoor, said: “We are bringing industry players a new, old home by product advice and the community through OUTDOOR Friedrichshafen, a trade fair format to the outdoor Lake Constance. aspect of outdoor and less on digital which specifically shifts the focus market that is different in many “By scheduling the trade fair for visions from the large corporations,” onto the interests of specialist respects and is designed with a mid-September, we have consciously said Project Manager Dirk Heidrich retailers and offers innovative view towards maximum efficiency. selected a date for the event outside and announced a modular structure EARTHWELL opportunities for both brands and We are convinced that, despite the of the main sales season and the with ‘full-board’ at the trade fair for JOINS 2PURE manufacturers to take part. increase in online sales, there is no holiday period. Directed at visitors exhibitors’ staff and trade visitors. Klaus Wellmann, Chief Executive way of avoiding brick-and-mortar from the markets of Germany, Catering for exhibitors and trade PORTFOLIO Officer of Messe Friedrichshafen, retail – either in terms of sales Austria and Switzerland, the focus is visitors during the 2.5-day event 2Pure are bringing said: “For more than 25 years, and advice or community aspects. clearly on Europe’s most important is included. Large and differently Earthwell to the UK market, Friedrichshafen has been the home Innovative and product-driven outdoor sales regions.” designed lounge islands inside the a brand that makes premium and driving force of the outdoor brands devoted to the experts in the The exhibition team sees its halls will provide the central meeting quality stainless steel industry. Through our event trade as well as independent retail core group among the small and place for networking and catering. drinkware. OUTDOOR Friedrichshafen, we specialists represent the backbone of medium-size enterprises (SMEs) The premiere of OUTDOOR Earthwell’s goods are are now launching the next stage the industry. on the producer and specialist Friedrichshafen is taking place in made for active outdoor for a genuine and independent “Specialist retailers and the loyal retailer side. The main emphasis of 2019 from 17 to 19 September. It will adventurers, who play industry platform and adopting new brands that serve them are at the the product range lies particularly be opening its gates on the first day hard, push boundaries, and in the hardware segment from the of the trade fair from 12pm to 6pm place a high value on design, areas of mountaineering, camping and then from 9am to 6pm on the function, performance and and caravanning, water sports and following days. Access to the trade durability. the outdoor lifestyle – consequently, fair will be granted exclusively to the Recent news articles have the scheduling of OUTDOOR trade public. documented that in the UK, Friedrichshafen fits within a 2.5 billion coffee cups and timeframe when the specialist millions of single-use water retailers are just aiming to make bottles are thrown away each their final sales decisions on these year. Earthwell believes the products for the coming season. best way to combat single- Exhibiting companies will benefit use is to make superior especially from the innovative performing drinkware package offers, which, in addition to with versatile and highly the pure exhibition space, also include functional design so that the stand construction and catering. people won’t want to drink “A pragmatic approach to out of anything else. participation in the exhibition Blending eye-catching without the expensive competition aesthetics with high New multi-million-pound performance and quality Berghaus campaign will urge manufacturing, Earthwell incorporates numerous consumers that it’s time to get out Bollé collaborates with ski innovations: EarthGrip powder coating, TempLock Berghaus has revealed the first creative agency VCCP, uses a series champion Alexis Pinturault vacuum insulation, details of a multi-million-pound of playful and witty executions that ThermaGrid insulated caps, UK advertising campaign that urge consumers to escape from Bollé and winter sports have had he has beaten Jean-Claude Killy’s Kewler, Roaster, Woodie and will begin this September. the superficial circumstances that a close bond since 1960, when record and has become the French LoopD drinkware designs. The first wave will run until modern life imposes on them, to the brand launched its first ski skier with the highest number of Earthwell is a proud March 2019 and has a multi- the sublime canvas of the outdoors, goggles and started to equip top World Cup victories (46 podiums member of 1% for the million-pound media value. It with Berghaus as the brand that ski champions. including 21 wins). Planet and gives back to will be the biggest mainstream can take them on the journey. Since then, the brand has always Both the excellent relationship organisations taking steps to national campaign of its type that Following independent qualitative collaborated with a strong team of with the brand and the quality of make a positive impact in the the brand has ever undertaken and and quantitative testing, Berghaus top winter sports athletes seduced by Bollé’s products and technologies world. Earthwell pledges one will feature on multiple platforms, believes that ‘Time to Get Out’ the performance of the products and have led to this partnership. per cent of sales to protect including out of home, press, video will connect with and inspire Bollé’s unique spirit. Pinturault said: “I am truly happy wild places and restore on demand, digital radio and TV. consumers. Media planning is Following this long-lasting to start a collaboration with a brand natural environment. The creative executions will being managed by MediaCom in tradition of supporting Excellence, with such a strong history as Bollé. Simon Lock, 2pure Brand present consumers with the Manchester and brand advertising the brand is more than proud to I have known the brand for a long Manager, said: “2018 sees outdoors as an escape route will be supported by tactical trade announce its collaboration with time, and after trying the products I the launch of Earthwell onto from the stresses of modern life, marketing through strategic retail one of the best skiers in the world, really feel at ease with them. Either the global market, with the positioning Berghaus as the brand partners, with the campaign also Alexis Pinturault. in terms of look or performance, they team behind the brand having that can help them to get out. rolling out across Berghaus’ own The impressive French Champion perfectly fit my needs.” over 50 years experience as Advertising will go live across platforms. will compete for the next four seasons Gernot Trebsche, vice president product design and brand the UK on Monday, September Chris Tattersall, head of brand with Bollé ski goggles, ski helmets Adventure Protection, said: “We building specialists with 10, and will be the first phase of management at Berghaus, said: and sunglasses, joining a strong team couldn’t be happier to welcome Alexis comprehensive knowledge a sustained five-year marketing "This is the most ambitious and including his teammate in the French Pinturault to Bollé’s athlete team. It is and experience in the initiative to drive brand awareness large-scale advertising campaign National Team, Tessa Worley. a proud achievement for a brand to be hydration category. and business growth. in the history of Berghaus - we Alexis Pinturault’s name is more the choice of champions such as Anna “Earthwell produces high The new Berghaus campaign is believe that it’s bigger and bolder than well-known in the winter sports Veith, Tessa Worley, David Wise or performance stainless steel part of a major long-term marketing than anything else that consumers world: exceptionally versatile, the Pierre Vaultier, and a demonstration drinkware that are reusable, communications initiative, backed will have seen from an outdoor nicknamed “Beast” competes in that our products offer more than a recyclable and very relevant by investment from the brand’s brand in the UK and we’re very Slalom, Giant Slalom, Super G and promise – they can really be trusted, to the current social drives parent company, Pentland Brands. excited about its potential." Downhill, and achieved the third and at the highest level.” to minimise plastic use. The project has been informed The September launch of the new place in the World Cup Overall three Alexis Pinturault has already We believe Earthwell has by extensive insights and market Berghaus campaign will be marked times in a row (in 2014, 2015 and started to discuss with the team on a developed some of the best intelligence, that focus on the with an installation at the London 2016). Winning a silver medal in the pro model goggle project. performing bottles and cups changing consumer relationship Design Biennale in Somerset Combined event and a bronze medal He added: “This is quite new for with great shelf appeal and with the outdoors and what House, from September 4-23, which in the Giant Slalom in Korea, Alexis me and I am excited to participate in offer the UK market a great motivates people to participate in will showcase campaign messages Pinturault is one of the world’s the creation of a new product!” opportunity to grow sales in outdoor activities. that align with that event’s theme, top skiers. The champion has also This new product will be ideally this expanding category.” The campaign, developed with the ‘Emotional States’. broken another famous record: launched for Winter 2019-2020.

www.sports-insight.co.uk RECCO EXPANDS ITS REACH BY New speakers and EOS Networking EQUIPPING NEW Evening details announced The European Outdoor Group will underline the valuable interfaces SUMMER has added further speakers to the between both areas that will leverage, PRODUCTS already-strong line-up, as well as for example, user experience and announcing the venue and details safety outdoors, show potential The worldwide RECCO of the EOS ‘Networking Evening’. transfers from other branches and network is expanding as more Opening keynote speaker for the vision future perspectives. and more brands announce Summit and setting the scene for the Now a popular social event at the new products for summer conference is Internet and technology EOS, the Networking Evening is a 2019 that adopt RECCO rescue entrepreneur, John Straw (pictured), great opportunity to come together technology. Senior advisor to Mckinsey and Co with fellow delegates and unwind Based on technology to aid and IBM Watson IoT. John educates after the first day of the Summit. in avalanche rescue efforts, businesses on change and disruption Brought to you by the Summit’s RECCO is actively expanding and will present: Technology Main Sponsor, IWA, this year’s its offering to summer-oriented Disruption - running towards it or department at H&M Group, Nina presentation asks the questions; Networking Evening will take place activities such as mountain away from it? Everything you need to Shariati (pictured) drives the overall where does the fashion industry at the Slagthuset, Malmö. Less than biking, hiking, trail running, know! In a world where Consumer facing Transparency need to go next with its transparency 10 minutes’ walk from Malmö Live, paragliding, and alpinism. AI, IoT, Blockchain, Smart and will present: Importance of agenda? What is the role of the Battlehouse served as the city’s The RECCO Helicopter Contracts, Advanced Robotics and Consumer Facing Transparency and consumers in the equation, how slaughterhouse between 1904 and Detector enables rescuers Virtual Reality are all converging the Role of Tech. can brands empower consumers to 1969. It was transformed into a to search and scan large to create a wave of change for In the past years the demand become a force of positive change? theatre, conference, restaurant and areas from the air to locate consumers and businesses. John's for transparency from the fashion And what is the role of tech such as entertainment centre in 1992. This missing persons equipped session will highlight how it works in industry has increased drastically. Block chain and IoT? unusual venue will offer a unique with RECCO reflectors. The layman’s terms and the opportunities The fashion industry that has Marius Janta is Senior Project location for delegates to sample RECCO Helicopter Detector and disruption it will create. historically been known for its Manager for Research, Applications Swedish dishes alongside some was announced in 2015 In addition to his opening keynote, secrecy has been pushed by NGOs, and Business Development at WT musical entertainment. and has been undergoing John will present a break-out session governments and consumers to | Wearable Technologies and will Offering excellent value for extensive development and focussing on how the current wave of become more transparent. It has led present: The Future of Wearable money, an EOS place costs just 6550 implementation at heli bases technology will change the consumer to brands publishing their supplier Technologies in Outdoor. SEK + VAT (approx. €650). The in Switzerland, Italy, Sweden, market and businesses, as systemic list, signing transparency pledges; The outdoor market is booming EOS takes place September 19-20 and Norway. The technology changes in marketing catalyse the Bangladeshi accord and the and related industries are growing. 2018 at the Clarion Hotel & Congress is now in active service in new thinking on how to reach and UK Modern Slavery act. However, Wearable Technologies become Malmö Live, in Malmö Sweden. Zermatt and the Valais region influence consumers. the industry is far from solving its more intelligent, sophisticated and For further information about in Switzerland–as well as in the Transparency & Innovation challenges connected to workers’ miniaturised. With examples from the EOS visit the website: Dolomites and the Aosta Valley Business Expert in the sustainability rights and planetary barriers. Nina’s the eco-system, this break-out session www.europeanoutdoorsummit.com regions in Italy–with plans to expand to new regions. Adriano Favre, President Who’s winning and losing in the outdoor retail sector? of the rescue organization Soccorso Alpino Valdostano Following a six per cent The social score considers followers Conversely, there are also sites “Investing budget into PLAs and in Aosta Valley, said: “Each increase in their visibility over and engaged conversations on all with ‘low-quality, high-volume’ other paid search avenues could year we spend considerable the past year, Decathlon has major social platforms. links, such as Towsure, Outdoor be the best way to get to the top resources on rescue missions moved to the top of the market, Trespass has a high brand search Look, World of Camping, Gap Year of the page on specific key terms. looking for missing people. a new report has revealed. with 110,000; however, this hasn’t Travel and Winfield. Consistently According to a study by Merkle, The RECCO Helicopter The Outdoor Retailers Sector translated to their owned social gaining a high quantity of low- shopping ads now account for 60 Detector will be useful for those Report, produced by digital score (81), which explains why they authority links highlights an per cent of clicks on Google. missions. For us, lost hikers, marketing specialists Inside rank tenth overall. urgent need to address your “We loved Go Outdoors’ social mushroom pickers, etcetera, Online (insideonline.co.uk), ranks Similarly, however, Decathlon off-site reputation. channels which showed a variety in lower forest areas are a 48 of the leading websites within (550,000) had a high brand search Gemma Curtis, Inbound Content of content including videos, news frequent problem.” this competitive market according but recorded an owned score of 310, Marketer, at Inside Online, said: articles and product posts. They Product highlights to be to their online performance. while Cotswold scored 135,000 “It’s been a mostly successful also post engaging content such as unveiled featuring RECCO The annual study reveals the against 257. Snow & Rock has a year for Outdoor Retailer brands customer photos using hashtags reflectors include the Haglöfs successes and shortcomings of brand search score of 74,000 but concerning visibility. and competitions which encourage Grym Evo Jacket, a tough, each website, highlighting where owned social of 54 while Ellis “This digital landscape has a users to comment, like and share. technical, and environmentally there is room for improvement. Brigham recorded 40,500 against 60. lot of competition for keyword “Brands should focus on creating friendly three-layer shell Other stand-out results from search results with listings often content that invites a response if jacket. Mountain bikers will visibility include: Leaders of Links coming from fashion retailers and they want to improve their owned look forward to the POC • Snow & Rock (21 per cent) Links have always been an department stores. social scores.” TECTAL RACE SPIN, a helmet recorded the most significant important ranking factor and for enduro racing featuring increase among the top ten can make all the difference to a lightweight design. The • The top ten saw a majority record a how far up a brand appears on Tatonka Kings Peak RECCO is rise in their visibility year-on-year Google. Consistently gaining new a lightweight touring rucksack • Go Outdoors, Cotswold and high-quality links can be great Osprey launch The designed for backpacking and Mountain Warehouse saw a for business; however, high-link hiking. Paragliders will rejoice reduction in their previous years’ volumes without the quality could over the Skywalk CULT4 and visibility as Towsure dropped spell trouble ahead. Perfect Fit Digital RANGE X-ALPS2 harnesses, out of the top ten, replaced by Decathlon tops the links charts designed for performance and Absolute Snow with the highest average number comfort in the air. of links of high quality. Most of Pack Sizing App their links are going to product In addition to this wide The Stars of Social PackSizer 2.0 is an innovative new app which allows users to Go Outdoors leads the overall social images and dedicated store pages; range of upcoming outdoor measure and match their torso length to the correct pack from charts, coming in first place for both however, they do have a blog and products, leading brands such Osprey’s range using the camera on their mobile phone or tablet. as Ortovox, Grivel, Ferrino, brand searches per month but outside advice centre, ‘Sports Advice’, Having the correct pack size is essential for optimum fit and carry Montura, Bergans, Beal, of the top five for owned social scores, which covers every sport that they comfort and PackSizer 2.0 has been launched to allow users to size Boeri,Frauenschu are also led by Columbia Sportswear. cater to in their store. However, themselves easily and accurately. integrating RECCO technology The top five social scorers: these articles don’t seem to be In just three simple steps PackSizer 2.0 will use a full-length photo into their upcoming product • Go Outdoors is the top performer gaining many high-quality links and of yourself to provide you with your pack size. There is also an option to lines. with 673,000 monthly searches exists on a subdomain, rather than size yourself manually if you wish. • Decathlon, Mountain Warehouse, a subfolder, which could be losing Once users have received their pack size, they can browse all suitable Cotswold and Trespass rounded out valuable link equity. Osprey packs, filter packs by activity such as hiking, backpacking and the top five for searches per month There are several sites with travel, find out more about individual pack features and finally go • Columbia leads owned social ‘high-quality, low-volume’ links; through to the website to purchase the pack or find their nearest retailer. scores with Quechua, Salomon, these include Quechua, Ultimate PackSizer 2.0 also features a Resources centre which hosts Guides to help Mammut and Sportpursuit Outdoors, Columbia, Jack Wolfskin users choose the correct pack and learn how to prepare for adventures. making up the top five and Muck Boot Company.

@SportsInsightUK 27

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

ENO Fuse Tandem Satmap Active 20 Eurotrek Lite Waterproof The Active 20 is a significant advance in handheld sports Elevation Pro2 GPS devices. It is easy to use, sets new standards of dual Men's Walking Boots What happens when experts at the Austrian Mountain The Eurotrek Lite Waterproof walking boots for men touchscreen and button control, superb mapping and Rescue Service (AMRS) and ORTLIEB join forces to are ideal for light hiking. These men's waterproof leather best in class GPS performance, all combined within a develop an alpine backpack? One such development is the walking boots have a Dri-Tec waterproof and breathable robust platform. Call Burton McCall for local distributor. ORTLIEB Elevation Pro2, a streamlined, highly functional membrane to keep feet dry in wet conditions or when and waterproof alpine backpack that has what it takes for 0116 234 4646 walking through long wet grass. The removable moulded the highest of summits and performance specifications. [email protected] insole and compression moulded midsole with shank With a 42-litre payload, plus an additional four litres of www.burton-mccall.co.uk/brand/satmap/ provides underfoot cushioning comfort. A durable Multi- payload in a detachable, height-adjustable flap, various Directional Traction (MDT) rubber outsole provides grip attachment fixtures for ice axes, ropes and other gear, on varied terrain. you’ll be optimally equipped for your mountain tour. www.hi-tec.com 015396 24040 [email protected] lyon.co.uk

Snugpak RocketPak POLAR Down Jacket Trangia Multi-Fuel A serious rucksack for serious hikers, trekkers and A new and exciting piece coming to the Mac in a Sac military personnel. Designed primarily for versatility, range. Reversible and packable with RDS approved Burner The Trangia Multi-Fuel Burner is supplied with a fuel this rucksack offers three size options: a full 70 litre down. Their new POLAR jacket is available in various bottle, pump, service tool and two jet nipples. It can be capacity version; a 40 litre option created by removing colours and in men and women’s styles. Offered to retail used to burn a variety of fuels including White gas and the two 15 litre rocket pouches, leaving the 40 litre central with attractive mark-ups. Become a stockist today. Petrol, with the 0.32mm jet, plus kerosene or diesel compartment; or a handy 30 litre day sack created by Reversible, Packable, Down Jacket. with the 0.28mm jet. The burner is easily regulated coupling the two rocket pouches with the separately 028 9079 0588 once lit and the complete unit is supplied with it's own available ‘Snugpak Yoke’ - perfect for less strenuous days. [email protected] storage bag. Approximate burn time for 1 litre of water 01535 654 479 www.targetdry.com in still wind conditions using petrol as a fuel source - [email protected] five minutes. www.vango.co.uk

www.sports-insight.co.uk@SportsInsightUK 28 ISBJÖRN OF SWEDEN AMG Group strengthens Board of Directors One of the UK’s leading owners new role, Stephen, who has been role, Glenn will assist the board with Stephen Newlands, said: “We ADOPTS and distributors of outdoor, at the forefront of managing the the development of the company’s are delighted to expand our footwear and snow sports brands, business for 16 years, will oversee future strategies for growth. senior team and welcome our PRIMALOFT’S AMG Group, is strengthening its the company’s strategic direction After being with the business for new appointments. We are firmly 100% PCR Senior Leadership Team with a and ensure the business is set almost 28 years, Steve Craig will committed to driving the business series of internal promotions and up for success in an increasingly retire from his role as Commercial forward as we strive to expand into RECYCLED new appointments. competitive and challenging market. Director at the end of 2018. Shona new markets, and I am confident The announcement follows a Derek Bowen, Group Sales and Quigley, who joined the business that our latest appointments and INSULATION strong financial year for the Port Marketing Director, has been at the start of this year as Chief internal promotions will bolster Glasgow-based company. The promoted to the role of Managing Financial Officer, will take over from our already progressive team.” Premium sustainable re-structuring of AMG Group’s Director and will lead the company Steve on his retirement. Managing Director, Derek outdoor kids-wear brand, Senior Leadership Team is intended through its next phase of innovation Rob Birrell, 15 years with Bowen, added: “AMG Group has ISBJÖRN of Sweden, is one of to support continued expansion and growth. Derek joined the team AMG, and Head of Marketing, a deserved reputation as one of the first clothing manufacturers and drive forward the company’s in August 2017 with over 25 years’ has been promoted to the role of the leading manufacturers and to use PrimaLoft’s innovative growth plans. AMG Group, who’s experience in the outdoor and Marketing Director. Rob will have distributors of outdoor equipment. 100 per cent PCR insulation, portfolio includes Vango, F10 Series, footwear industries. His new role is overall responsibility for brand We have a tremendous opportunity made entirely from recycled Lichfield, Blacks of Greenock, to oversee all business operations strategy, marketing and creative to grow the business further and PET bottles, in its Autumn Rossignol, Trangia, Wayfayrer, and build revenue through the functions, driving awareness and continue to diversify into new Winter 2018/19 collection. Teko and Anatom, is a pioneer in development and implementation increased revenue. sectors, to match the demands and The Swedish brand, which has the marketplace, having developed of innovative brand strategies and Mike Wise is promoted to the high expectations of our customers. built its 15 year reputation on innovative products that incorporate product development. role of UK Sales Director. “AMG Group’s strong brand, mixing technical performance Vango Airbeam technology. Glenn Andrews will move from Also internally promoted, family values and innovative with using the most sustainable As part of the senior staff his current role as Product and Martin Jones will take on the outlook are aspects I have materials possible, will use changes, Stephen Newlands will Development Director to the role of role of Product Director after respected over many years, and I PrimaLoft Black Insulation 100 assume the role of CEO. In this non-executive Director. In his new having worked for the company’s am excited to be on board and part per cent PCR in its range from product development team for of the leadership team that will September 2018. over 15 years. Martin will lead the take these to the next level.” New products featuring the product category teams, delivering 100 per cent recycled insulation innovation through the conception will include the popular and launch of new products. Frost Lightweight Jacket and Jumpsuit, plus the new Stroller Bag, which won a Scandinavian Outdoor Award at the ISPO US outdoor industry sales declined show in Munich earlier this year. but growth opportunities exist This latest development further strengthens the Sales within the core US outdoor The NPD Group, said: “Brands partnership between industry spanning outdoor and products that help consumers the premium clothing equipment, apparel, footwear, on their travels are winning in manufacturer and materials and accessories were $18.9 a declining outdoor market, but science company, which already billion in the 12 months ending the industry has in some ways spans many years. Stay in touch in some of April 2018, a decline of four overlooked this trend, leaving Maria Frykman Forsberg, per cent over the prior year, additional growth opportunities founder and CEO of ISBJÖRN the toughest conditions according to global information on the table. Outdoor brands and retailers must do more to tap into of Sweden, said: “As we strive Global adventurer Jamie Ramsay believes that even in the harshest company The NPD Group. Despite this topline performance, this ongoing travel trend.” to make our products as of conditions you should be able to stay in contact. Growth areas in apparel sold sustainable as possible without The former city worker who left his job to take on 17,000km solo run pockets of growth in areas such within the core outdoor channels any impact on technical across the Americas. Starting in Canada, he headed south through the USA, as packs, outerwear, and certain suggest consumers’ affinity for performance, our collaboration Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, camping-related equipment and versatile products. Growing by three with PrimaLoft is integral to Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Chile and ended in Argentina. accessories suggests that adaptable per cent in the most recent 12 months our future ranges, designed Since then he has added a long list of adventures to his CV and has now products associated with travel, as and generating $3 billion in sales, to equip the adventurers of been sponsored Land Explore: The Outdoor phone. well as those tied to replenishment outerwear is the largest category tomorrow. As soon as we Jamie said: “I believe that your phone should be able to help you explore are bright spots within the core within the outdoor market. Tops, heard about the new 100 per more, plus be able to keep up with you outdoors, indoors, off-road or on track.” outdoor marketplace. the segment capturing the bulk of cent recycled insulation, we Built to survive the elements, the Explore has been created to help make Passenger traffic at the world’s outerwear sales, grew by four per had to incorporate it into our the most of the outdoors. 20 busiest airports is growing, as cent and that increase was primarily collection as soon as possible.” Jamie added: “Adventure seekers want practical tools that solve is attendance at national parks. driven by jackets and vests. Jochen Lagemann, Managing problems and are optimised to deal with the conditions - rain, snow, heat With more consumers on the move, Powell said: “Outerwear is a huge Director for PrimaLoft Europe or mud. The Explore is designed to keep working whatever conditions you outdoor market sales have grown chunk of the outdoor business. The & Asia, added: “As with many of face, from snow to boardroom, summit to sofa. Packed with the tools you for travel packs (plus five percent), long winter was the primary sales our brand partners, ISBJÖRN need to enjoy the outdoors, stay connected and live life to the fullest.” duffle bags (plus three per cent), driver in the first few months of of Sweden shares our values The Explore is stylish enough to accompany you during the everyday, but luggage (plus two per cent), and 2018, leaving inventories clean. The of sustainability and product durable enough to take the knocks. Waterproof and drop tested, it’s been fanny/waist packs ( plus nine per category is also faring well with its quality and durability. It’s built to withstand real life outdoors. The hikes when temperatures rise. The cent). Top-of-car components assortment of looks and brands, and important to pass on these rides when trails are muddy and the clouds roll in. The long chairlift rides to including cargo boxes and baskets its versatility as consumers prefer to values to a new generation of snowy peaks when temperatures drop well below zero. The Explore will be grew a combined eight per cent, invest in products that they can layer outdoor enthusiasts.” there working for you and dry boxes and bags increased or use in a variety of conditions.” The Explore features a 5” full HD Gorilla glass screen optimised for all sales by five per cent. Backpacking In camping-related equipment, conditions. Waterproof with wet finger tracking ensures functionality isn’t sleeping pads/mattresses grew products tied to replenishment have compromised when it’s snowing or raining and it’s also fully glove-friendly, sales by four percent, and trekking been growth drivers over the past meaning you can keep your hands warm, dry and protected from the pole pairs were up five per cent. year. While sales of recreation tents, elements while using the phone. Rooftop tents/awnings is a small but sleeping bags, and sleeping pads/ Extend the core functionality of the Explore with a range of add-on packs. growing segment of the market, with mattresses have declined, sales have Developed to give you more of what matters most; battery, connectivity, sales more than doubling in the past grown for tent vestibules and poles, detailed maps and the ability to securely attach the phone to your bike or bag. year. Sales of solar power products— by five per cent and four per cent, Each pack can be attached to the back of Explore while on the go, to providing connectivity for mobile respectively. Other segments that enhance any adventure and let you go further, and stay out longer. The phones, speakers, and so on—grew by have seen an uptick in sales include included Adventure Pack gives you better connectivity with a powerful GPS 34 per cent. In swimwear, women’s stoves, camp chairs, and toiletries. patch antenna and additional battery to nearly double your battery life. top and bottom separates both grew Powell added: “Through their Detailed premium topographic mapping with Skyline augmented reality sales by 15 per cent, while one-piece spending behaviour, consumers courtesy of the ViewRanger app is preloaded to enhance your understanding and two-piece sets experienced are demonstrating how they’re of your environment. You'll also get a case to keep your outdoor phone safe declines, suggesting consumers may Isbjorn Frost Light Weight Jacket devoting more of their time and carabiner to attach it to your bag or jacket for easy viewing. prefer to mix and match. with PrimaLoft 100 per cent and share of wallet towards Find out more at landroverexplore.com Matt Powell, vice president and recycled insulation senior industry advisor, Sports, experiences."

@SportsInsightUK POWER TO THE PEOPLE. ©2018 All Rights Reserved

MORA Enhanced

Gel-Fit Liner

Triple Layer Tech

Cohesive Inner Grid Updated Monocoque Chassis GEL MAX POWER WE’VE REFINED AND REDEFINED PROTECTION WITH IMPROVED COMFORT AND BETTER PERFORMANCE.

OFFICIAL MOUTHGUARD PARTNER of: [email protected] 01582 670100

WWW.SHOCKDOCTOR.CO.UK 30 RETAIL

are out of stock; we want to provide the exact date it is coming back to make the customer’s knowledge of Customer care is the our products just as good as ours. We have over 6,000 product lines and in the past have had out of stock issues. This has rapidly improved priority at Reydon Sports over the last year and we will continue to increase our impressive stockholding status. So when people Andy Griffin, marketing manager at Reydon Sports, tells us about log in to the website we want to give them every bit of information about their revamped website and their plans for the future that product, whatever they need, pricing, when it's coming back in, was just football and you had to sift how much we have in stock, images, through the whole category to find etc.” what you were looking for – now it's And with the new website, all defined properly by subcategory – the company's marketing is also it's a lot more helpful.” changing, Andy said: “The marketing The new website will bring for Reydon is now frequently changes to how Reydon Sports pointed to the website. Before, it was approached their business. primarily duplicating products out Andy added: “We are moving of the catalogue into an informative away from sales reps. We haven't eshot. But now I have an area on the cut it out completely, we still have website I can point people towards a customer care manager on the - so it's making my life a lot easier road. So we're trying to move more and our marketing is getting a lot towards the digital way of doing stronger. he UK's largest Sports Andy Griffin, Reydon Sports And Reydon Sports service to things. So far it is working really, “Also, unlike our print catalogue, Wholesale and Distribution marketing manager, explained the their customers hasn't changed really, well. The industry as a whole we are able to update the digital Company have redesigned changes to the new website. either. If a UK Mainland order is I think is going to be more digitally version at any time. If a product Ttheir website. He said: “When you logged in made on the website before 12pm, based and we're hoping to be the goes out of stock or becomes The reason why? To make it easier to the old website all you saw was it’s dispatched on the same day leaders of that.” discontinued, we have the ability to for the customers to access the goods a standard trade price, you never and will be delivered as quickly as And Reydon Sports have already simply update the catalogue PDF they want to buy. saw the price you actually paid for possible. seen a change following the launch and keep our customers updated Reydon Sports supply a vast range that product. Lots of enquiries were But what were the reasons for of the new website. Andy said: “We through every digital platform. of sporting goods and services to the being made so our main goal was redesigning the website in the first are seeing less phone calls and more So digitally, the website and the independent sports trade. to provide everything a customer place? Andy explains: “ The main traffic on the website so we’re very catalogue are both always up to date, Reydon have developed a wide needs to buy efficiently and easily reason for the redesign was the excited by this digital movement. always real time.” range of highly successful, in-house from Reydon. aesthetics - the old one was very That was the aim and it's working And with the move away from brands which include; Precision “When you log into the new old school, very boring and also so far.” reps on the road to the digital format (footballs, goalkeeping gloves and site you see the trade price, exact navigation around the site has been Reydon had two aims for the year it means that there is more ime to training aids), MANTIS (tennis, stock quantities, SRPs and most improved. and have already delivered on both deal with customers. squash and badminton), Fox TT importantly, the price you pay. We “The old site provided basic of them: “This year, especially, the Andy said: “We are improving (), Midwest (American still have a very strong telesales categories, whereas on the new B2B two things we wanted to achieve our customer care at HQ. So when sports) Swimtech (swimming team here at HQ, it just means site, we have enhanced navigation were a completely new catalogue anybody rings up, anybody here accessories), Dukes (cricket), and not now we have a stronger and more by adding in a huge number of sub- and the website redesign. Both have will be able to answer a customer's forgetting their hugely successfully efficient website platform that tells categories. So, in terms, of finding been successfully achieved and question, be able to help and put fitness brand UFE. In addition, they the customer almost everything a product – what the customer is we hope to keep enhancing these through an order. We are avoiding offer brands such as Bliz Eyewear, they need to know. The stock levels after – it's very easy to do so. So, for platforms as time goes on. Already passing the customer around , Fox 40, Speedo, Shock Doctor, are also shown in real time. It tells example, if you go to football you will we have customers using the new between different people, we are Wilson, Molten, Makura, and you exact stock quantities on every have sub categories such as boots, website that were not previously trying to get everybody here at HQ SmellWell, amongst many others. single item.” training equipment etc. Before it buying with us online. We've helping as much as we can. And now increased traffic and moved people we have the digital platform that away from the old platforms and are is the B2B website, we have much When you log into the new site you see the trade price, moving them to the new digital one. more time to work on improving our “ “Future plans for the website service, something we really pride exact stock quantities, SRPs and most importantly, include more information on the ourselves in. Our full focus now at the price you pay. ” rare occurrence when items that HQ is customer care.” @SportsInsightUK commerciAl QuAlitY studio eQuiPment

yoga / fitness / PiLates

ArrAnge A visit And discuss merchAndising solutions contact us:

[email protected] +44(0)1386425920 fitness-mad.com SPORTS INSIGHT 24_08_18.pdf 1 29/08/2018 11:14

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

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

Handlebar-Pack S V10 is Reinvented Ergon SM Sport Gel The ORTLIEB Handlebar-Pack S is a member of the The Santa Cruz V10 is the winningest bike in downhill compact class of bikepacker handlebar rolls. With a World Cup history. The V10's lower-link-driven, VPP Women's saddle An MTB comfort saddle especially for women length of only 40 cm, this waterproof handlebar roll is suspension sports 216mm of VPP travel—yet pedals out providing additional comfort thanks to its large gel the right selection for bikepackers with off-road drop of corners and down long motorway sections much more pads in the sitting area – for Tours, All-Mountain bars, road-bike handlebars or hybrid-bike handlebars. efficiently than you'd ever expect. The sixth generation and Enduro. Maximum relief in the sensitive genital Although this handlebar roll has a narrow width and is V10 features a flip chip to adjust the geometry to give you area. Sportive comfort padding, flat rear section and especially lightweight, it offers a payload of nine litres, a low and slack, and a lower and slacker setting: High: 64° freedom of movement in the typical moderately bent which means it gives you ample space for large-volume, headtube angle / 360mm bottom bracket height; Low: MTB position. Reduced-friction sliding flanks allow but lightweight items such as sleeping bags and sleeping 63.5° headtube angle / 353mm bottom bracket height. The quick changes of position. pads. The roll closures on both sides enable quick and shock rate has been tuned to be more linear and deliver convenient access while reliably keeping your stuff dry consistent damping throughout the travel. The front www.ergonbike.com even in the pouring rain. triangle and swingarm sport larger-diameter sections. The new frame benefits from a slightly longer reach to 015396 24040 suit evolving rider preferences. lyon.co.uk www.santacruzbicycles.com

Bontrager Garmin Edge Attack Water Shorts S-Works Dissident 1030 The Attack Water Shorts provide year round water If you push the limits of downhill speed and big air, the The unique black colourway provides an understated and wind protection. They feature TruSeal advanced S-Works Dissident is for you. That's because it's the - classy finish that complements any bike. Large 3.5” weather protection for a wide range of weather lightest, most-ventilated, and technically advanced clear display with highly sensitive touchscreen and conditions; Lightweight 3L waterproof breathable main carbon fibre full-face mountain bike helmet out there. To interactive mapping features. Optimised experience and body fabric; C6 DWR treated; Rider Attack Position help make sure of it, the 3D sculpted cheekpads and 4th additional functionality adds to the Full Garmin Edge patterning specific for MTB; Double button snap closure Dimension Cooling System keeps things airy in the heat, 1030 feature set. and internal waist adjustment; High-visibility reflective while the Carbon Matrix shell keeps it light enough for logos enhance visibility and Inseam: 14" all-day comfort. www.trekbikes.com uk.foxracing.com www.specialized.com

www.sports-insight.co.uk@SportsInsightUK 3634

PROTECTION, LIGHTNESS AND VENTILATION Marcel Kittel and Alex FOR YOUR EVERYDAY Dowsett to attend this RIDES year’s The Cycle Show The all new Strym is The Cycle Show is gearing up to be another great event with two of designed to deliver protection the biggest names in racing set to appear at the show. and comfort for your bike Team KATUSHA Alpecin’s lead sprinter, Marcel Kittel and British adventures. rider Alex Dowsett are the first riders announced and they will be The double in mold wheeling into the show on Saturday September 29 and Sunday September construction combines 30th respectively with Canyon Bikes. lightness and security while Marcel Kittel, one of the fastest sprinters in the world and with 19 Grand the 16 vents has been designed Tour stage wins to his name, is one of the most decorated German sprinters of to boost the ventilation all time and the only German to have worn every jersey at the Tour de France through the helmet. and Giro D’Italia. Alex Dowsett has remained a true time-trial specialist since Strym features the RSR 10 his formative year in the British Olympic Academy, and went on to win gold at Adjustable Retention System the Commonwealth Games in 2014, and break the hour record in May 2015. which offers micro-metic Taking place at the NEC Birmingham between 28th-30th September, regulations for a wraparound The Cycle Show will be the best place in the country to see, try and buy customized fit. The retention the latest 2019 bike models from the leading brands. With free test tracks system integrates seamlessly featuring the latest road bikes, MTBs, electric and kids bike, visitors will the airframe frontal padding, have the option to ‘try before they buy’ alongside benefiting from special Engineered to minimize show offers on the most innovative cycling gear, accessories and kit. the sweating process inside Visitors will be able to put their questions to Marcel and Alex when they the helmet, the Airframe appear on the Main Stage, and VIP ticket holders will have the opportunity frontal padding enhances to rub shoulders with both riders in the VIP Lounge for signings and photos. air circulation and sweat Iconic London bike brand Brompton evaporation. Strym comes appoints Fusion Media out with the bugstop padding beryl partners with BIXI Montréal to protect you from the bugs to give road users a safety boost Fusion Media, the PR and digital have appointed Fusion Media to while riding. agency for endurance sport, help us reach new audiences who has been appointed by London are experiencing the challenges The clean and compact BIXI Montréal, a public bike folding bike manufacturer of living or working in modern design is enriched by the sharing scheme in Montreal, Brompton Bicycle to handle the cities today. With the introduction stylish graphics that make Canada, has entered a partnership brand’s PR in the UK. of Brompton Electric we want to Strym a perfect choice for with beryl. The iconic Brompton folding enable more people to cycle; combat cyclists who want to give their The pilot project is aimed at bike has been handmade in London that hill on the way into work, ride best performances and come increasing safety for users by since 1975. Now, the company to the train station where before it out on top in competition, equipping bikes with their patented makes 45,000 bikes per year and is felt too far, enjoy the fun of the ride, style and value. high-performance Laserlight which the UK’s largest bike manufacturer. and to always arrive fresh!” The colors available are: has already been deployed across the Each bike is hand brazed by skilled Adam Tranter, Founder and Black Stealth, White Stealth, London Cycles bike share scheme. craftsman at their London factory. Director at Fusion Media, added: Dark Grey, Yellow Fluo, Black This new system will allow road Fusion Media’s brief focuses on “Brompton is a truly iconic British Pink Fluo, Red, Blue Orange users to anticipate cyclists in their engaging existing cycling audiences brand and their bikes have become and Blue Navy. blind spots or at crossings. This high- and reaching new urban consumers synonymous with urban and performance lighting system consists as the nation continues to take to commuter cycling in cities across of installing a laser that projects a two wheels. Fusion will be tasked the world. Their innovative design green bicycle symbol onto the road, five metres in front of the cyclist, providing with further promoting the new and superior build quality has taken better visibility for both the cyclist and the other road users sharing the road. Brompton Electric; Brompton’s the world by storm and it is difficult, An independent study by Transport Research Laboratory for Transport game-changing e-bike offering, in 2018, to complete a morning for London concluded that the Laserlight, installed on a fleet of 12,000 bikes, maintaining the iconic style and commute in any town or city helps to considerably reduce the dangers of blind spots around vehicles. "The quality craftsmanship of the without seeing many of their famous percentage of maximum visibility at night for bus drivers has improved 96.2 Brompton folding bike, but with the folding bikes. The team are very per cent with the beryl Laserlight. The percentage for other vehicles was 65 per added benefits of electric assistance. excited to take the brand to the next cent to 97 per cent for small trucks, 78 per cent to 83 per cent for dump trucks For over ten years, London- level and reach new audiences.” and 56 per cent to 65 per cent for cars," concluded the study. based Fusion Media has focused Brompton bikes are sold in 44 In recent years, Montreal has seen a spike in cyclist fatalities, with new on PR and digital for cycling and countries around the world and research finding that trucks have caused 20 per cent of cyclists deaths in the endurance sports. As a boutique over 80 per cent of production is city since 2005. The Canadian city has taken action to prevent these collisions agency, their specialist approach exported. One Brompton bike takes through the implementation of new bike lanes, and supplying their cycle hire has seen them grow a portfolio of 6.2 tonnes less carbon than a car to scheme with beryl’s advanced lighting system, Laserlight. The lights will be on clients that includes brands such make and 42 folded Brompton bikes 56 of BIXI’s bikes, showcasing the power of beryl’s technology. as Strava, where they work as the can be parked in the space it takes to At no extra cost to BIXI users, they will find themselves achieving up to 97 social network’s international PR park one car. per cent visibility in the blindspot of vehicles when cycling in the dark. agency, Red Bull, , The brand has 12 flagship Christian Vermette, CEO of BIXI Montréal said: “More than 20 per cent of Wahoo, and OVO Energy. Brompton Junction retail stores in the trips taken in Montreal are in the evening, and this number will reach more Carmen Byers, Head of cities across the world, including: than a million trips in 2018. These statistics have made us explore different Marketing at Brompton, said: “2018 London, Beijing, Tokyo, Milan, options to equip our bikes with a technology that will allow users to remain is a big year for Brompton having Kobe, Hamburg, Shanghai, safe on the roads. “So we were very interested in beryl's proposal to check just started the delivery of our first Amsterdam, Munich, Barcelona, out their technology, which has been approved by the Transport Research Electric bikes to customers. We Valencia and New York. Laboratory for Transport for London.

@SportsInsightUK CYCLING INSIGHT

Raleigh picks up international web design awards Raleigh, has been awarded for its easy accessibility and The design enabled potential delighted it’s not gone unnoticed. best user experience design, well- designed website platform, buyers to find a store with complete “It’s important for us as a business best interface design and best simplifying the customer journey ease – supporting independent bike to remind ourselves that buying an interface innovation by CSS to help make purchasing an e-bike shops and connecting people at point e-bike is a complex purchase for a Design Awards (CSSDA). easier than ever. of purchase. lot of customers. Our ongoing aim 35TH CSS Design acknowledged CSSDA is an international web The new UI and UX importantly is to simplify this process through ANNIVERSARY Raleigh’s Motus website page design and development platform simplified the purchasing process education and connecting people at EDITION LAUNCH that works by putting a spotlight by providing simple, user-friendly their local shop – the human touch is on and celebrating those who push explanations of technical products still so important.” OF THE RALEIGH the limit of UI, UX, and innovative – overcoming the industry issue of a Raleigh's creative website AERO PRO BURNER development across the globe. lack of product education. design shows their initiative to get BMX Upon designing and building the Elliott Kirk, E-commerce everyone to get out and ride, and Raleigh Motus webpage, it was the Manager at Raleigh, said: their drive to be the leader in the Raleigh, the iconic British brand’s ambition to revolutionise “International recognition by e-bike market. cycling brand, is set to launch a the way e-bikes are sold. The page CCSDA is a huge achievement For more information visit www. 35th anniversary edition of the increased accessibility for customers for our digital team and the wider raleigh.co.uk/motus/ to see Raleigh’s Raleigh Aero Pro Burner BMX. to book a test ride, a factor proven business. The customer journey award-winning design and to explore Originally released in 1983, to be one of the key influences in the online and beyond has been a key the phenomenon about e-bike and the Raleigh Aero Pro Burner buying decision process. focus for Raleigh in 2018 and we’re book a test ride of your own. was the BMX of its day, selling many thousands of units to become one of the most successful BMXs of all time. Wahoo expands line of KICKR Enjoyed by 80s kids across the UK and beyond, the Smart Trainers and introduces Raleigh Aero Pro Burner was a high-end and award- the KICKR HEADWIND winning lightweight race Wahoo Fitness has announced a range of new products and machine built with the best updates, bolstering its ecosystem of indoor training equipment. components of its time. Unveiling a new version of the iconic KICKR smart trainer, the new The bike is a key player in wheel-off KICKR CORE trainer and the all-new KICKR HEADWIND the Raleigh Burner success Smart Fan, the innovative new products offer a complete range of story. The first edition of the connected devices to create the ultimate indoor riding experience. range was launched in the The new KICKR has been redesigned to drastically reduce both the previous year, becoming an sound amplification and pitch making it a virtually silent trainer; this instant success and kicking off creates an ideal indoor acoustic riding experience, especially for those a BMX boom. The demand was living in shared buildings or training at night. Other updates include a powered by the launch of the heavier flywheel that combines with real-time responsiveness and precise blockbuster film E.T. the same power measurements (up to 2,200 watts) to deliver the most realistic Zwift launches 2018 year which heavily featured a indoor riding experience yet. The new KICKR is available for sale now at BMX, propelling it to the top of wahoofitness.com and other leading retailers for a price of £999.99. Christmas wish lists that year. The Wahoo KICKR CORE features KICKR’s legendary flywheel World Championships Fast forward 35 years and technology, delivering accuracy and real ride feel not found in trainers parallels can be drawn in 2018 of its class. The KICKR CORE features a compact design, accurate as BMXs are back on the rise, power measurement and compatibility with a wide range of bikes and Innsbruck-Tirol course inspired by another American training platforms. KICKR CORE will be available for sale later this To celebrate the 2018 UCI Road World Championships in sci-fi hit, Stranger Things. summer for £699.99. Innsbruck-Tirol (Austria) will open and to celebrate, Zwift, the The 35th anniversary “We’re excited to be updating and expanding our indoor training lineup global online training platform for cyclists, has released its latest edition of the Raleigh Aero Pro with the new KICKR and KICKR CORE,” said Wahoo Founder and CEO course: Innsbruck – based on the route that will be used for this Burner retains its classic deep Chip Hawkins. “With these new KICKRs, we’re continuing to refine and year’s Austrian-based UCI Road World Championships. chrome frameset with black improve the experience of indoor training. The newest versions offer The 24km circuit is based on the ‘Olympic Lap’, which will be tackled finishing and components cyclists the quietest, most realistic ride feel we’ve ever created, while seven times during the Men's Elite Road Race and three times during the that still look as cool today as still maintaining compatibility with a wide range of gravel, cyclocross, Women's Elite Road Race. The focal point of the course is the 7.9km (5 they did in 1983. Every effort mountain, and road bikes ensuring that all athletes will be able to take miles) climb, with an average gradient of 5.9 per cent. has been taken by Raleigh to advantage of our newest KICKR lineup.” “We’ve been really excited about this new course since Zwift unveiled recreate this iconic bike with Complementing all KICKR smart trainers is the new KICKR plans earlier this year,” said Bradley McGee, Cycling Australia Technical the components still available HEADWIND Smart Fan, the first purpose-built, smart fan designed Director (Road). “Typically the first time our riders would get to see the today. specifically for the needs of indoor cyclists. By connecting with heart rate course would be when they arrive to race. Having the ability to train on the Just 550 individually and speed sensors, the new KICKR Headwind automatically delivers a course in Zwift is going be a huge benefit this year not only from a tactical numbered models of the realistic, powerful headwind (up to 30 mph) and simulates the air flow perspective, but it will serve as a huge confidence booster for the riders too.” Raleigh Aero Pro Burner are a cyclist feels when riding on the road. The KICKR HEADWIND is Iconic landmarks from the Tirol region are featured throughout the being released for this special compatible with all Wahoo smart training devices, integrates seamlessly course. These include the Kufstein Fortress, Ötztal Area 47 adventure anniversary – creating a hotly into Wahoo’s smart training ecosystem, and also pairs with third-party park, the Old Town of Rattenberg, the Swarovski Crystal Worlds and the anticipated launch. smart trainers. The KICKR HEADWIND will be priced at £199.99 and will Olympic Ski Jump in Innsbruck. Jason Boness, product be available this summer. “Zwift provides us with a terrific opportunity to bring Innsbruck- development manager at Chip Hawkins noted that with KICKR HEADWIND, cyclists will be able Tirol to a global audience and for the UCI Road World Championships Raleigh said: “The amazing to fully immerse themselves in the riding experience. “If you’re riding outside, Innsbruck-Tirol to live on far beyond September,” said Esther Wilhelm, thing about the Raleigh Aero the amount of wind you feel increases as you ride harder. With HEADWIND, Head of Communications of the Organising Committee in Innsbruck. Pro Burner is that it retains we can deliver that experience indoors, while also helping athletes to push “The region is a fantastic place for cyclists to visit and we hope that Zwift the same sense of fun and is harder by keeping them cool during workouts,” continued Hawkins. will help us give people their first taste and experience of what we have to just as cool as it was 35 years Both the new KICKR and KICKR CORE are compatible with Wahoo’s offer in the region.” ago. KICKR CLIMB Indoor Trainer Grade Simulator allowing cyclists to fully “Ensuring we could unveil the course in advance of the UCI Road World “This is one iconic bike that simulate outdoor rides while using virtual cycling platforms. Championships taking place was extremely important,” said Eric Min, so many people across the Zwift Co-Founder and CEO. “We have well over 200 professional riders country have fond memories on Zwift and these riders are always searching for new ways to achieve of from their childhoods – success, whether that be through different training techniques, better it’s quite special. We hope equipment or indeed, through intimate knowledge of a race course.” this anniversary launch will The new 2018 UCI Road World Championships Innsbruck-Tirol course inspire a new generation of will continue to feature on Zwift long after the Championships have Burner fans as well providing concluded in September this year, and while not everyone can win the the chance for existing right to wear the famous, coveted UCI Rainbow Jersey in real-life, cyclists fans to relive those special of the Zwift community can continue to dream. memories.” Cycling fans keen to follow the action at the 2018 UCI Road World The Raleigh Aero Pro Championships event itself can book tickets for the finish area now, Burner (£600) is available via available at: https://www.innsbruck-tirol2018.com/en/tickets. For more pre-registration now at information about the 2018 UCI Road World Championships, visit www. www.raleigh.co.uk innsbruck-tirol2018.com or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

www.sports-insight.co.uk 36 LIFE AFTER THE OLYMPICS From the time he first got on a bike to the day he looked back on a career laden with gold medals, Sir Chris Hoy had only one ambition: to win. But what happens when a professional whose life revolves around training and competition suddenly becomes an ex-Olympian asks Jake Taylor?

that I'm doing, and have been sit down and you have your own doing, rather than waiting to retire desk and name plate. And then and then think 'what now?',” he you look around the room...my jaw agrees. “You need to have a plan was on the floor. It hadn't sunk and a bit of variety. I never have in until I walked into that room the same week now. I used to have and I looked round and there was the same week, year after year, Martina Navratilova, Boris Becker, doing exactly the same time, and there's Mark Spitz, there's Nadia I enjoyed that. I loved having that Comaneci. focus and that one single objective. “They were my childhood heroes “But now that I'm retired it's and you're in the same room with nice to have that balance in my them. Not just in the same room life and to do lots of different as them, technically you're in the projects, wildly different things: same bracket as them because from writing kids' books for five to you're an Academy member too! To eight-year-olds to doing challenges be part of that group, it is definitely like hopefully riding across one of the lifetime achievements Antarctica on a bike soon. It's lots that I am most proud of, it is quite of different things, but the one astonishing. Anything I can do to thing that unifies them all together help, I love to get involved.” is hopefully inspiring people to For former pros like Hoy, this make the most of opportunities in kind of philanthropy has become their lives.” ever more important in recent As the figurehead of Team years. With government belts GB – a position exemplified by being continuously tightened, f there is one discipline his carrying of the national flag and green spaces and physical in particular that Great during the 2012 Olympic opening activities consistently under Britain has excelled at in ceremony at London – Hoy has threat, the backing of men Irecent years come the Olympic long used his reputation as a role and women who have turned Games, it’s cycling. With three model to champion the efforts of opportunity into success at an of our most decorated male young athletes hoping to emulate international level remains athletes having competed his achievements in the future. integral. in that particular sport, “I was lucky that there was a “You need the financial support, alongside a fair share of their BMX track - an outdoor one - in the of course, but it's nice to be able female counterparts, Britain park about a mile or so away from to raise that awareness through has quietly and efficiently my house, and I used to go there ex-professionals,” he nods. “To made themselves a force to be every weekend and just ride my be a Laureus Academy member is reckoned with on two wheels. bike all day and when it got dark a huge honour, and this is part of At the forefront of that charge I would come home,” he explains. the job if you like, or part of your was Chris Hoy. Over his career “Without that, I would never have responsibility when you become on the track, the Edinburgh- known about BMX, I would never an Academy member, you're born speedster notched up 11 have got into it. You have to have committing to try to improve the World Championships and six those facilities and opportunities world through sport. As Nelson Olympic golds, making him the there for kids – they do want to do Mandela said, ‘Sport has the power second most decorated Olympic these things they enjoy. It’s about to change the world’ and I totally cyclist in history – and securing providing those opportunities and agree with that on every level. It's a Hoy a place in the pantheon of finding the people who are willing universal language, you don't have British sporting greats, as well to give up their time and run these to know anything about the other as a knighthood to boot. bike before, and that was it I was a new breed of young cyclists who programs.” person you can just get involved But for Sir Chris, the initial hooked, I thought 'I really want can take advantage of the increased This understanding of his in a sport with them - you might impetus that kick-started to have a go at this'. I pestered my funding handed to the sport of the reliance on readily available not even know the same language! this dazzling career wasn’t parents after that, and they got me back of careers such as his, Jason training spaces in his youth is Sport can help people, it can give exactly grounded in reality, but a second-hand bike and my dad Kenny and Sir Bradley Wiggins. reflected in Hoy’s post-retirement them hope in their lives, it can rather came from an unlikely did it up and put BMX grips and Much has been made in recent charity work. One such example turn them around and give them Hollywood source. handles on it and that's really how I years regarding the transition is the Laureus Sport for Good something to focus on.” “Rather embarrassingly, I got started.” for ex-athletes from competition Foundation – of which Hoy is an Sir Chris Hoy is a Laureus was inspired to take up cycling Hoy retired in 2013, having seen to retirement, and for a man as ambassador. Academy Member. Laureus Sport by watching E.T.,” the 42-year- the sport of cycling transformed dedicated as Hoy the experience “When I got inducted at the for Good uses the power of sport to old reveals with a laugh. “I under his banner into Team GB’s could have been jarring had he not first Laureus event I went to it end violence, discrimination and watched E.T when I was six, biggest asset on the world stage. been prepared. was a bit like the UN,” he says. disadvantage. More information and I'd never seen a BMX He still serves as an inspiration for “There are a number of things “You walk into this room and you can be found at www.laureus.com

@SportsInsightUK INTERVIEW 37

I watched E.T when “I was six, and I'd never seen a BMX bike before, and that was it I was hooked, I thought 'I really want to have a go at this'. I pestered my parents after that, and they got me a second- hand bike and my dad did it up and put BMX grips and handles on it and that's really how I got started. ”

www.sports-insight.co.uk

RETAIL 39

In 1999 in France, after 23 years of uninterrupted growth, for the first time in its history its turnover per square metre fell. The diagnosis was simple: the policy of a single brand, Decathlon, strongly emphasised in all its stores, together with its dominance of the national market, created a monopolistic situation and a ‘Soviet-like’ brand. Whether on the beach, on the ski lift, while hiking in the forest, everyone wore Decathlon-branded products. Customers increasingly got the impression of a lack of choice. The response was to fundamentally abandon nearly 25 years of store brand policy, in France and abroad, and to move towards a portfolio of brands segmented by sport. In order to create these brands, it began with the observation that there were 60 sports under Decathlon’s roof. For each brand to reach critical mass and justify its overheads, a shortlist of 17 was drawn up, combined into seven finally. Then it was decided to increase this number, since modern sports are ‘tribes that cannot easily be brought under the same tent in the name of ‘critical mass” . Thus, for example, Dionysus separated into roller sports and running. Tennis and golf were also separated, having previously been united under the common brand Kinesis. DECATHLON – A LESSON IN These brands then became autonomous, decentralized business units, with dedicated teams with the objective being to turn them not into BRAND MANAGEMENT? labels on products, but forces for creative proposals at the best prices, and with an appeal to passionate Paul Sherratt, of Solutions for Sport, takes a closer look at the men and women. These business units and brands world's biggest sports retailer were then located close to where the sports are practiced, so that the have a confession. I've become This was a time when there was a internal teams can live them out, obsessed with the business core of regional and multiple sports and local opinion leaders can play a model of Decathlon. I've retailers serving the consumer with role in their creation: Triode by the Ifound myself being drawn to their global brands, and the perception of sea, Quench in the mountains. They stores -getting lost in their various many was that we simply wouldn't communicate independently of one “departments” being drawn to their have an appetite for these in house another. “brands”. brands - even though the product Its a strategy that plays Its a huge mindset shift for me was very strong and offered value out effectively in an in-store and one that, I believe, is also being for money. environment that is spacious and reflected in the minds of many UK In fact this assumption seemed uncluttered. consumers when it comes to their to be underlined, as Sports Direct Departments are clearly attitude towards this French import. embarked on their aggressive brand identified in the same way that I remember vividly when the acquisition strategy giving us those the brands associated with retailer first opened its doors in very brands that we desired but at the particular sports wrapped the UK back in 1999 in Surrey those prices that we demanded themselves around the proposition. Quays. 45,000 sqft of impressive Roll forward to 2018, and that Its compelling. Inviting. The retail space but much of it, as is the same Decathlon Surrey Quays breadth of product appeals to the companies core strategy, focussed store has just had a £14m revamp, weekend warrior as much as it does around the Decathlon Group own doubled in size and the French to the serious athlete. brands rather than the traditional retailer is now the largest sporting The Decathlon principle is clear - to In 2017, the group announced an sports brands that we had come to goods retailer in the world. “ increase of its turnover by four per recognise around that time. Decathlon now has 43 stores in reduce its main manufacturer brands and cent in like-for-like sales to 11 billion I remember because, both as the UK with plans for future store to develop its own brands euro. Web sales only accounted a member of the sporting goods openings already in the pipeline. for 4.5 per cent (up from 4.1%) but industry, and as a sportsman, I So whats changed? for example, own retailer brands Decathlon has become” a designer is a key area of focus for future was slightly snobbish about this Is there a lesson in brand have a poor reputation, and are all of brands that controls its own development. Main stream brands approach. management that we can learn here? considered ‘sub brands' . They do distribution. are being almost entirely phased out I think the trade attitude was Certainly few stores reveal as not allow for positioning of the store With over 20 brands and research leaving the in-house brands to drive very much that this model simply much about modern distribution or the loyalty generation through and development facilities all over the business forward. wouldn't work with the UK as Decathlon and the key role that attachment to the store. The France to develop the latest designs, Its an evolution that appears consumer. We, after all, had always its own brands play in its growth. situation is different in Europe and they continue to innovate with more and more acceptable to the UK demanded “authentic” brands. In one recent article, Anglo-Saxon Canada, where, very early in their dedicated product development market and is the antithesis of the Brands with heritage. A connection. academic research notes that the brand history, in house brands had a and design team for each sporting Sports Direct “Selfridges of Sport” A marketing story. Remember this share of shelf space given over to combative vocation: fighting not to category. strategy. was a time when Nike and adidas own brands among US retailers launch a price war, but to offer the The Decathlon principle is clear It remains to be seen how things where pushing aggressively into is less than among European consumer genuine value. - to reduce its main manufacturer will evolve in the future but, in the a market that was seeing sporting distributors (Crustiest al, 2006). This is the essence of the brands and to develop its own brands. meantime, don't be surprised if you goods becoming street wear. It is true that in the United States, Decathlon approach. But this wasn't originally the case. find me lost in the Oxford store!

www.sports-insight.co.uk 40

NEW EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR BRANDS In the last decade there’s been a revolution in endurance events, with a stream of new formats, new distances and new challenges emerging, all set to satisfy the hunger of the ever-growing tribe of ‘weekend warriors’ – and with this growth comes great opportunities for brands. Fiona Bugler reports.

aking part in events, and creating weekend or even week-long Direct sales and more! the world championships took “In Scandinavia they’ve managed challenges is ingrained festivals. New on the horizon are, The success of Red Bull’s Marketing place with 160 teams. “The tennis to tap into the mainstream market in our popular culture Rise – Snow, Music and Adventure has been identified as its ability to brand HEAD have sponsored the and don’t rely on triathlon,” explains Twith images of amateur athletes festival which combines Annie Mac create a buzz, and by being at places event since the beginning,” says Ian Clarke. “As well as the obvious in competition used across the Dj’ing with adventurous skiing, where they can directly sell their Clarke, Orca Brand Manager for the landscape, which is so suited to board in advertising, from financial yoga, and meditation in France’s product to their target market. UK and Ireland. But in the UK, Orca the sport, they also have a bigger companies such as Santander to coolest ski area, and yoga/fitness They’ve also mastered content are leading the way. The company range of events and distances, for mainstreamers like Spec Savers. weekends such as Balance, coming marketing with their customers whose origins are in triathlon are sprint right the way up to the ultra- Sport England’s This Girl Can to London in May 2019. And new happily sharing Red Bull tagged providing the full kit. “We’ve created distance. At Orca we see women as campaign, big corporations offering events from grit racing in cycling content of stunts and adventure the entire package,” says Clarke. a growth area, with more and more events and challenges to their to open water swims provide great on social media. Red Bull events “Wetsuits from entry level to elite, taking part in open water swimming staff, all reflect a growing trend to opportunities for the right brands to include Red Bull Quicksand where race belt, calf guards pull buoy, events with a preference for help amateur athletes enjoy the claim ownership of the event, create runners take on a mile of racing bungee cords and belts.” swimming and running to cycling.” experience of the event and notice products, sponsor or even create through sand, Red Bull Hardline, Until very recently competitors And although Orca aren’t creating the benefits they gain. We’re less their own event. the ‘toughest MTB downhill event’ in Swim Run were quite happy to their own events yet, the kit they concerned with how we look, it’s and Red Bull Timelaps, the world’s cut up their old wetsuit and drill provide, and sponsorship of the how we feel that counts, the bigger Marketing’s Innovators longest one-day cycling event.’ holes in a pair of trail shoes. This Brecca Swim Run Series means they healthy body, healthy mind picture is But what came first, it’s a chicken (Check out more at https://www. is what Chris Roberts and Matt can rightly position themselves as about self-development and success and egg question? Do the brand redbull.com/gb-en/events). Cox, did when they entered their thought leaders and experts in the in life and goes far beyond crossing create events to support their property company into their first field, and this is reflected in their the finish line. Sport, challenges, marketing strategy – or does the Swim-Run Brecca Swim Run event in 2017. content marketing strategy where goal-setting is in. consumer drive the change – or is it Swim Run is a good example of an The two seasoned triathletes were they provide a series of educational a combination of the two? Red Bull event/sport that didn’t exist until quick to notice how they were losing you tube videos. Opportunities for is the marketing trailblazer in this very recently and clever brands are the competitive edge in 2018’s race Brands field, not only do they publish their capitalising on this by providing by not owning the right kit, and for The State of the Market With this appetite for adventure, own magazines and run an online bespoke equipment, sponsoring next year they plan to invest in new Running still leads the way. for racing and for challenges, community, they also sponsor events events, and leading the way with wetsuit, pull buoy and bungee cords. With flagship mass participation marketing teams from both their customers loves, and even very shareable educational content. Swim Run still attracts a hardcore events, of parkrun and the London sports and non-sporting brands create and run their own events, The sport started in Scandinavia, elite group of athletes mainly from Marathon, it has easily spawned are finding innovative ways to all of which celebrate adventure, with ÖTILLÖ, meaning ‘island to a triathlon background but things enthusiastic followers in novelty make events work for them from endurance and a challenge. island’ in Swedish. In September could change. races such as tower and colour

@SportsInsightUK ANALYSIS 41

he went solo and launched his world. The advantage of pool-based What does the marathon swims venture with event compared to say running future hold? a goal of creating the ‘London where local road closures are Will we get event (and fund-raising) Marathon of swimming’. ‘‘The involved is that logistically it’s not fatigue? Is the market saturated? marathon swim distance captured complicated.” Loy has written a set Or is the growth in participation the public’s imagination when it of rules for the event and has created in adventure sport and challenges first appeared in the Olympics in his own unique challenge which he (as shown in Sport England’s 2018 2008. But although it is a growth hopes to replicate with the help of survey - https://www.sportengland. area, most recreational athletes big brands sponsorship. Innovations org/news-and-features/news/2018/ aren’t swimming outdoors. The include bringing tech into the pool march/22/figures-show-nations- public swimming pool remains the with each swimmer’s lap recorded, activity-levels/) a sign that we still place for ordinary swimmers to go to as well as their total time, and he want more from our leisure time. enjoy their sport,” he says. “Bringing points out that as the swimmers get Not to speak of the entire business the concept to the pool was the out of the water every 1K a story is of virtual challenges with apps such challenge – how could you make 200 being told. “The pictures we take as Zwift. For now, at least it seems laps of a 50M pool appealing?” share the swimmers' faces, smiling, that brands (and their marketing Loy decided to create a unique grimacing, however they might be, departments and industry of format. “Rather than swimming lap instead of a series of anonymous agencies) are set to continue to seek after lap we’ve devised the event so coloured hats – which helps to bring ways to engage their customer, not that the swimmer covers 1K splits. the event alive to participants telling just with their product – but with a They do this by swimming a lap of a a story of the challenge.” lifestyle, a dream, a challenge. ten-lane 50M pool, then moving into lap two, lap three, lap four and so on. It’s similar to the way triathlons are run in public pools. Once 1K is complete the swimmer gets out and starts again. It breaks the event up runs, and brands have jumped transformed in the summer months into ten laps.’ on opportunities. Cycling and with mountain bikes replacing swimming have further to go, with skis on gondolas and lifts. And Location, Location, Sport England’s annual Active swimming is set to see a big change, Location People survey showing almost too. The event (https://www. 283,000 fewer people swimming marathonswims.com) is being regularly, and 93,000 fewer people Reinventing Swimming held at the London 2012 Olympic cycling than in previous years. – the Marathon Swim and Paralympic Games – the However, this drop off does present Diccon Loy saw that swimming, as London Aquatics Centre, on an opportunity for resurgence in a sport, was underdeveloped when Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, in interest. Cycling has the benefit compared to other sports and he November 2018 and its looking like offering more types of bikes and saw a commercial opportunity. it’s going to be a sell-out. “The plan terrains to capitalise on, and Having ten years experience of the is to go global. Ten-lap pools are mountain biking has created a mass participation industry and found in Sydney, Singapore, Dubai sub-culture, with whole ski resorts in particular swimming events – in iconic locations all over the

www.sports-insight.co.uk Think Soccer, BUY THE UK’S No. 1 ® FOR GOALS

THE PLAYERS’ CHOICE Samba Sports has been designing and manufacturing goals since 1995. Samba freestanding goals are the preferred choice of professional clubs and grass SAMBA roots players around the world. All our new products are now in The stats are impressive: stock and available for you to buy. • To date we have supplied over 750,000 goals worldwide. • Over 60 types of goals supplied, including: FA standard Match Goals, Locking Goals, Futsal Goals, Soccer / Rugby Goals, Gaelic / Hurling Goals, Aluminium Folding Goals, Playfast Goals, Fun Goals, Pop Ups, Pugg Goals and Conversion Kits. • Goals can be used on any surface. • High impact uPVC and aluminium means our goals are strong, lightweight and portable. • Samba goals are sold into 20 countries around the world. • New PlayFast goal with Mitre fast fold joint, can be assembled in less than 60 seconds. • Full supply of accessories - nets, ground anchors, clips and pegs. • Made in the UK. • All our goals are independently tested every three years to comply with relevant Standards. • To comply with FA requirements Samba Sports carries the latest ISO standard (ISO9001:2015) and £5 million for both public and product liability insurance. This enables the company to comply with FA requirements and also enables them to sell into the schools, education and • 24 hour delivery professional football clubs. • £100 Minimum Carriage Paid Order • Dedicated Field and Telesales Team

For more information contact Samba on 01282 860077, [email protected] or contact your local sales representative.

Sales Manager – Jeff Tipler – [email protected] 01282860077 Sales Office – Sarah Bell – [email protected] – 01282860077 Sales North West/North East/Scotland – John Hornsby – [email protected] - 07831 351802 Sales Midlands/South of England – David Peel – [email protected] – 07716 169433 Sales Northern Ireland/ Republic of Ireland – David Sanderson – [email protected] – 07939 583876 RETAIL 43

REMEMBER YOU HAVE TO PROTECT WHAT IS YOURS Paul Clapham examines the issues of safeguarding your intellectual property

o just what is intellectual One may also assume that a lot of property rights from the creator If you are self-employed the marks, registered designs and property and why does it P45s were issued at Ford and its or previous owner; you have a problem goes away, although not patents. Trade marks are typically matter to a small business lawyers, marketing agencies etc. product that has a well known and entirely. You can have a contract for product names, logos, jingles Slike ours? Surely this is just Quite recently Apple had to pay established brand name. effectively forced upon you that and the like. Registered designs something for big rock stars like out over $100 million for a similar Intellectual property can be says that your product becomes over the appearance of a product Elton John and the mega-rich legal infringement. Once again you owned by more than one person. the property of your paymasters including the shape packaging business owners like Elon Musk. can but assume that a lot of heads It can also be owned by a business. and this is legal. Of course, you can colour scheme and overall No, sir, madam, this is for rolled. Even for the world’s first It can be sold or ownership refuse the contract but good luck appearance. Patents are right for everyone. You can take that quite trillion dollar company, $100 mill transferred to a new owner(s). I getting any work. inventions and products. That literally – pretty well everybody ain’t hay. have read, however, that agreeing a So you protect your intellectual could be anything from a brand new has created intellectual property at So what’s included? It’s valuation on intellectual property property. You do this in various machine, through a machine part some time and very few of us have actually quite a lot. In essence it is can be extremely difficult – it is by ways, some free, some not. Since to a box specially designed for its done anything to protect it, or even something which you create as a definition unique, which the seller free is everybody’s favourite price purpose as applied to one client of know why and how they should. unique thing. It has to have physical wants reflected in the price. we’ll start there. Copyright and mine. Making proper protection is form – an idea on its own is not I said above that almost design right are both automatic. You won’t be surprised to learn simply another form of insurance intellectual property. Basically you everybody has created intellectual The former covers written works, that this is not an instant process (yet another!). It is about stopping have to do some mental or physical property. That’s true but they art, photography, films, TV, music – nor should it be. It can take up to someone from stealing or copying work. The idea for a musical, won’t own it if the creation was and web content. six months, longer if your product is such as the following: the names brilliant though it might be, doesn’t done on work time. In that case Design right is more complex particularly complex. of your products or brands; your count – you have to write some the employer would own it, not the since it covers the shape of objects. Consider getting the help of an inventions (i.e your ideas turned lyrics and music. creator. If the creativity is done Some of this can be the sort of rat’s expert. Certainly find out what into reality) the design or look of You own intellectual property out of work time, it predictably nest that makes lawyers rich if two that would cost – it could save you your products; things you make, if any of the following applies: you becomes more complex, especially parties decide to fight. Approach sleepless nights and save money too produce or write. created something and it meets if the product created could be with care if you believe yourself in the long term. Start by looking Here’s an example: when Ford the requirements for copyright or deemed competitive with the cheated. Protection you have to at the IP Equip service to make launched the Sierra lawyers for a patent; you bought intellectual employer’s products. apply for and pay for includes trade clear what sort of intellectual a little known company called property you have. Consider Dutton, who made kit cars, came talking to a lawyer who specialises calling. In broad terms they said: You own intellectual property if any of the following in trademarks or patents; initial “Ahem did you not know or indeed applies:“ you created something and it meets the requirements consultation is usually free. Go to check that there is a car on the the British Library Business and market called the Dutton Sierra?” for copyright or a patent; you bought intellectual property IP Centre, Bloomsbury, London. The number of noughts on the rights from the creator or previous owner; you have a product There are local events addressing cheque appears to be a well kept IP – ask the British Library what’s secret but it would have been many. that has a well known and established brand name. ” available to you. www.sports-insight.co.uk 44 ADVICE Financial checklist for new business owners Michael Cope, Managing Director of Ellis Bates, a privately owned, independent financial planning company (IFA) offers advice for Business owners. As one of the longest established IFA firms operating in the UK, they provide independent and impartial advice to individuals, families and corporate clients.

unning a business is a full- Protect the people who Track your expenses carefully and enrolment pension scheme will even court action. A proactive scheme time occupation which drive your business be mindful of unnecessary expenses show your employees that you are will enable to you to comply with the can inevitably lead to some It’s true to say that any business and overlaps which could be avoided. fully prepared, and can therefore rules both now and in the future. Rfirms overlooking vital aspects of Financial demands are often endless contribute to their overall work is only as good as the people in it the financial planning process. If and every company has key people for a business owner, so it is critical satisfaction. Final thoughts you’re looking for some top tips to who are driving it forward. Many to monitor your outgoings and The minimum contribution levels Financial planning for your business manage your business’ finances, businesses recognise the need to conserve money where possible to for employers and employees are requires regular reviews, as your goals here is a simple checklist to get insure their company property, save for emergencies. due to increase in April so you should and financial situations are likely to you started. equipment and fixed assets. However, ensure you and your staff are fully change over time, as do the strategies they continually overlook their most Establish an auto- prepared for this. for managing your wealth. By following Explore business goals important assets, the people who enrolment pension Failure to fulfil your legal some of these tips you may avoid and personal goals in drive the business – a key employee, scheme obligations could see you face unnecessary conflict and get your equal measure Director or shareholder. Failure to comply with the workplace penalties including heavy fines and company’s finances healthy in 2018. There are many cases in which Protect the people who drive pension laws could see your company business goals and personal goals your business through key person in very hot water and as a small can clash and striking the right insurance. This is designed to business you must have a workplace balance between them is the key compensate your business for the pension in place by your staging date. to achieving in both aspects of financial loss brought about by the This date is set in law and is the date your life. death or critical illness of a key your automatic enrolment obligation As a business owner, you should employee. It can provide a valuable either came into effect or is due to make a conscious effort to establish cash injection to the business to aid come into effect. your personal goals in the same the potential loss of turnover and Within the legal requirements, way you put together your business provide funds to seek a new resource your responsibilities include enrolling plans and determine what can be where needed. those eligible employees who meet achieved in both the short and the the criteria into a workplace pension long term. Think carefully about Control your scheme and making minimum what success looks like to you as unnecessary expenses contributions towards it, otherwise well as determining what is possible No matter what your business, even known as automatic enrolment. As for you to achieve within your your best ideas will fail if they don’t well as making sure you are legally company’s budget. make a profit. compliant, a well-planned auto-

@SportsInsightUK MY SPORTING LIFE 45

What’s the attraction of an event which seems to have all the ingredients of unadulterated torture? Battling through the pain “I’m just trying to beat people,” says Skipper, surprised by the obviousness of the question. “That’s the main aim. I weigh them barrier to take the prize up. I know who my opposition is and their strengths and weaknesses, because that will affect how I Tony James talks to UK Ironman Triathlon champion approach the race. If I am confident I can beat them on the run I don’t have Joe Skipper about his life and the hurdles he overcame to to worry about distancing them on the bike. be a professional athlete “Winning is massive. I hate being beaten by anyone. If I was taking part f you want to be the best in the His UK championship success in “I trained at a local club and there the bike, I pushed myself hard and in a local running race it wouldn’t world in your sport there can July and top performances in other were lots of athletes who could beat managed to get into fifth place. Then feel any less important than some be no compromises. “The pain major events are finally bringing the me at swimming and running and I just couldn’t turn the pedals any massive international event.” Iand suffering in a race is nothing support every professional athlete I loved the challenge of keeping up more. I had nothing left to give and Strangely, once past the winning compared to failing to finish,” is how needs, including sponsorship from with them.” When he became British ended up lying down for half an hour post, the magic quickly fades. Joe Skipper puts it. “Winning is running-shoe specialists Hoka middle distance amateur champion in the desert! “It’s awesome to win but then it’s absolutely what it’s all about.” One One. the following year he began to “In fact that failure motivated me on to the next race. I’m not one to look At 30, Skipper is the current UK “I’ve been using Hoka shoes think about turning pro despite more than ever – I trained harder and back. Once a race is finished I think Ironman triathlon champion and the since 2016,” Skipper says. “I was just having completed a degree in pushed myself even harder in races. “That’s done. What’s next?’” country’s fastest Ironman. He is not paying for them myself back then sports management at Manchester I never again want to feel like I did Skipper’s guidelines for Ironman yet the best in the world but that’s so I am delighted to become a Hoka Metropolitan University. after Lanzarote.” success are simple:Train hard but something he plans to try to remedy ambassador and look forward to “I wanted to see if I could make There was another major consistently and expect to feel like in October at the world Ironman setting lots of fast times in Hoka it as a triathlete. I couldn’t afford motivation the following year – lack rubbish at some point in a race –it’s championships in Hawaii. He’s shoes.” to enter races as an amateur – you of money. “I was in America in 2015 just a phase so push through it. If it participated in the race twice before Skipper admits the transition from couldn’t win prize-money – so I took and funds started drying up. My focus really hurt, you’re probably going too and hopes it will be a case of third amateur to professional athlete can be the plunge. was on the Texas Ironman and failure fast. If it doesn’t hurt at all, you’re time lucky. far from easy. “To enable me to race and train to get a result could have ended with probably having a great day or not Skipper says he loves the “Winning prize-money is really more, I got the cheapest house I could me lining up at the job centre. I can’t going fast enough!” “brutality” of Ironman racing. It’s hard. The hardest time, mentally, is find in Manchester. It was in one of tell you what a motivation that was!” “I wouldn’t change anything in my reckoned among the toughest ordeals when you are trying to break through the toughest districts but it was near As a result, Skipper stormed through career so far but it certainly hasn’t in sport and it’s not hard to see why. and you are thinking: ’Am I wasting the swimming pool. We were burgled the field to become second in the been easy,” Skipper says. “There are Olympic triathletes swim 1.5km, my time here?’ during the night. It certainly wasn’t Texas race and claim the bike course probably others in the same situation cycle 40km and run 10km, while a “People have the image of pro the Ritz!” record. It also meant he had gathered and I say to them: Don’t give up. A full Ironman involves a 3.8km swim, athletes living the high life but I A job in Spain enabled Skipper to enough points to qualify for his first lifetime of regret is far worse than a a 180km cycle ride and a full-length remember in the early days having my train full-time with other athletes, Kona world championships, finishing couple of hard years. Self-belief goes marathon. bank card refused when paying for and was rewarded by third place in a creditable 13th. a long way.” An athlete’s Iife has not been easy shopping. I’ve never had any support that year’s UK Ironman triathlon and This year’s UK win in seven hours His most memorable performance for Skipper. On several occasions from a national governing body. What £2,000 worth of sponsorship. 53 minutes and 34 seconds, despite to date? “I beat my mate in a pizza- the struggle to make ends meet came I have had is a lot of support from my “It might not sound a lot but to me it an injured back, was seven minutes eating competition when I was 15. I close to forcing him from his sport. family and friends and a big belief that felt as though I had won the lottery! faster than his nearest rival and went through 17 slices and that was But with the support of his family and I can compete in the big races.” It enabled me to carry on for the 2014 confirmed his qualification for this tough.” We’re not certain that he sponsors, he battled on. Mad about sport for as long as he season.” year’s Kona race. was kidding. “You can feel you’re not getting can remember, Skipper, originally That was until that year’s anywhere while your friends are from Lowestoft, wanted to be a Lanzarote Ironman, which he still getting decent jobs and buying footballer “but I knew I was rubbish regards as one of the blackest days of The pain and suffering in a race houses. Mentally it’s hard to carry on. at it.” He started serious cycling at his career. “I felt physically terrible But if you have the support of people university and raced as an amateur “I all week. I hoped I would feel better “is nothing compared to failing to who are close to you telling you that did my first triathlon in 2010 because on race day but I didn’t. you can do it, that makes a massive I fancied the challenge,” “I had a rubbish swim and finish. Winning is absolutely what it’s difference.” he remembers. although not feeling too good on all about ” www.sports-insight.co.uk 46 UNDER THE COUNTER A sideways look at the world of independent retailing Health and fitness advice at the pub

id you know," my for blokes making appointments." returned to the table with a tray of assistant Norman said, "We're a family business," I drinks."When I went to a health club "that the UK health and said."And anyway where would the first machine they put me on was "Dfitness industry has a total market we put a health and fitness suite?" a respirator." value of £3.8 billion? And how much "I've thought about that," Norman "Exercise wouldn't be a problem of that is our shop getting? Not said. "If I keep my bike out on the for me if I had a different body to do it much, that's what." pavement and we move the kettle with. But I do like long walks - when "Oh, I don't know," I said. "We did into the toilet we could make quite they're taken by people I don't want once sell a pogo-stick to a one-legged a nice little display in that corner to see." man in 1984 although I admit we had where the Wayne Rooney poster "I'll know I'm really out of shape to give him his money back after he covers up the damp. It shouldn’t when I can't pull two supermarket ended up in casualty." be there anyway, now he’s done a trolleys apart," said a man in a cap "My point exactly," Norman runner to America.” who had appeared in a doorway with said."And also it's your turn to buy I could see things were getting out a dog. "Until then I take it easy. I was the crisps. Steak-and-onion flavour of hand so I employed some basic asked to run the London Marathon for me, please." diversionary tactics by suggesting but I had to turn it down. I've no We were in the pub having a swift we did a little market research. This experience organising something half after work and Norman was meant asking a few chaps in the pub "If God meant us to touch our toes conclusions and pushing his luck. that big." taking advantage of the convivial whether they kept fit and would they he would have put some fivers on the Not like me - I started a strict Eventually Norman, much to atmosphere to say things that he buy exercise gear if we stocked it? ground. As far as I can see, the only running programme yesterday and his chagrin, had to admit that I had wouldn't dare to mention in office "You better ask Roger", said one advantage of exercise is that you die I've only missed one day so far. proved to be pretty accurate about hours. cove, indicating a man in the corner healthier." "On the other hand, there can the public reaction to fitness and "Have you been into the big sports who was either asleep or dead. "He "That's right," said his mate who be problems in keeping fit,” the exercise in our neck of the woods. store by the bus station?" Norman thinks being part of the human was breaking into a sweat opening landlord said."My grandmother "They all deserve to have high said."They've got this health and race counts as exercise. He gets a pack of cards."Every time I get the started walking five miles a day cholesterol and get heart attacks fitness suite full of the latest gear exhausted winding up his watch and urge to exercise I sit down with a bag when she was 60. She's 97 now and at 50," he said."But at least my bike - elliptical cross-trainers, multi- his idea of a work-out is to sit in the of chips and wait until it goes away. I we don't know where the hell she is. won't have to stand out in the rain." gyms, computerised cardio workout bath, pull out the plug and fight the get quite enough exercise stumbling "You've got to be sensible about Perhaps one day I might admit monitors...the lot. current." around the house looking for my keeping fit - if you're going to try to Norman that while he was in the "They've got these fitness- "I get enough exercise lifting my glasses." cross-country running make sure gents I persuaded the chaps to tell trainers, girls in Lycra shorts feet when the wife is vacuuming," "Don't believe him," said the you start with a small country." a few relatively harmless porkies. and T-shirts who give you a said a bloke trying to summon up landlord who had been listening "The only reason I would take Pints all round and a packet of complementary fitness workout. enough energy to pull his darts out of from behind the bar."The only up jogging is so I could hear heavy Marmite crisps for the dog turned You could hardly get into the place the dartboard. exercise he gets is jumping to breathing again," said a man who out to be a pretty good investment.

@SportsInsightUK 07/06/2018 11:59

ONE Dunlop Srixon Advert_Stockist_265x360mm.indd 2 V-TRAIL Essential Footwear For Outdoor Running Performance

Contact Vibram’s UK distributor CHARLES BIRCH LTD Call: 01702 530656 Email: [email protected] www.charlesbirch.com