Sports insight INTERVIEW ANALYSIS

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Sports insight INTERVIEW ANALYSIS
GOLA page man_SPORTS INSIGHT 11/03/2020 14:07 Page 1
Sports insight INTERVIEW ANALYSIS
3
 WELCOME Isbjörn of Sweden                                                                                                                               OSCAR FLORES (LEFT) AND YAMILA ADELCADER
                                                                                                                                                                     FROM SALGADO WITH BERNARD
 to this month's Sports Insight
                                          reduces E-Commerce
                                          returns by fifty per cent
                                          With the help of an AI                 incorrect sizes. Isbjörn’s new
                                          Chatbot named Bernard,                 friend Bernard now plays a crucial
                                          truly sustainable children’s           part in the company’s commitment
                                          clothing brand Isbjörn of              to reducing returns, waste and
                                          Sweden has managed to reduce           energy.
                                          its web returns by 50 per cent            CEO Maria Frykman said: “For
                                          since October 2019. Bernard            Isbjörn as a brand, it is essential we
                                          was originally developed by            are able to offer a truly sustainable
 It’s a worrying time for                 social media agency Salgado and        solution even in our own web
 retailers. If times weren’t              Facebook, choosing Isbjörn as a        shop. Reducing the number of
 hard enough the coronavirus              pilot for the unique AI robot.         returns has been one of the goals
 COVID-19 will, no doubt,                    Bernard has successfully            we set ourselves early on, but the
 have a major impact on the               guided customers through               question was just how? Now we’ve
 industry.                                various sizes and garments,            done it with creative help from our
    The threat of the virus               making the decision-making             talented Swedish partner Salgado,
 has already led to Nike and              process straightforward and            located in Uppsala, who has a keen
 Patagonia, in the US, and                more accurate, hence minimizing        interest in AI. The next step is for     open up our web shop for the             “It’s exciting to also congratulate
 Columbia, in Europe, to close            unnecessary returns. Not trying        Isbjörn to develop Bernard to also       first time in the US. By providing     the team behind Bernard - Oscar
 stores to help prevent its spread.       on clothing prior to buying online     cover our international markets,         this fun yet clear solution to our     Flores and Yamila Abdelcader from
    We have already seen major            has been a major problem for           by letting Bernard attend a crash        consumers, we will significantly       Salgado - for the nomination of our
 sporting events being cancelled,         consumers, with many ordering          course in English.                       reduce freight and inventory           Chatbot Bernard for Gold M of the
 postponed or suspended. The              several different sizes of the same       “Our International expansion          handling, which is a huge bonus for    Year in the Digital Solution of the
 final weekend of the Six Nations         garment and then returning the         continues this May when we will          the environment.                       Year category.”
 saw no games played, elite
 football in England has been
 suspended until April 3, at the

                                            FESPA 2020 events postponed
                                                                                                                                                                   Editor: MARK HAYHURST
 least, the 2020 Virgin Money                                                                                                                                      Tel: 01206 508618
 London Marathon has been                                                                                                                                          Email: mark@sports-insight.co.uk
 postponed until October 4, and
 Euro 2020 has been put back to             In light of the rapidly                  Based on feedback from               with the primary objective of            Advertising Manager:
 2021.                                      evolving situation                    exhibitors, FESPA will now              safeguarding the health and              KEITH MARSHALL
    With the postponement of                regarding COVID-19 in                 seek to reschedule the events           wellbeing of exhibitors and              Tel: 01206 505947
 the 2020 London, Brighton                  mainland Europe, and in               for a later date, precise timing        visitors.                                Email: keith@sports-insight.co.uk
 and Manchester Marathons,                  close dialogue with its               and venue still to be determined           “However, in light of the             Advertising Sales
 the media coverage which puts              national Associations and             based on venue availability.            recent spread of the virus in            21-23 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Rd,
 running at the forefront of                exhibitors, FESPA has taken              FESPA CEO Neil Felton                specific areas of mainland               Colchester, Essex CO2 8JY
 customers’ minds at this time              the decision to postpone              said: “Our actions with regard          Europe, we have consulted
 of year has disappeared. If you            FESPA Global Print Expo               to COVID-19 – including the             with our stakeholders and have           Group Advertising
 want to get your message out               2020, European Sign Expo              pre-emptive action taken in             concluded that it is in the best         Manager: SAM REUBIN
 please contact us on 01206                 2020 and Sportswear Pro               February regarding exhibiting           interests of our community to            Publisher: MATTHEW TUDOR
 505947 or keith@sports-insight.            2020, originally scheduled            companies from China – have             defer the events to a later date.”
 co.uk to see how we can help.              to take place at IFEMA                been informed by guidance                  FESPA will provide an update          Art Director: LEE WHITEFORD
    I hope you enjoy reading this           Madrid from March 24-27,              from the relevant international         regarding revised event dates in         MS TYPESETTING AND DESIGN
 issue!                                     2020.                                 and national authorities,               due course.
                                                                                                                                                                   Photography:
                                                                                                                                                                   CLIQQ PHOTOGRAPHY
                                                                                                                                                                   www.cliqq.co.uk
Warwickshire unveil new bamboo mix material for playing shirts                                                                                                     Twitter: @CliQQphoto

                                                                                                                                                                   Accounts: SUE CARR
Warwickshire County Cricket                                                      have previously talked about               In addition to the playing             Tel: 01206 505903
Club has agreed a new three-                                                     our ambitions to be the most             shirts and sweaters, the replica
year Official Kit Supplier                                                       sustainable cricket club and venue       shirts will be made from the             Published by Maze Media (2000)
partnership with PlayerLayer,                                                    in the country and working with          same bamboo material.                    Limited, 21-23 Phoenix Court,
which will see both of its                                                       PlayerLayer to create our new              Roderick Bradley, Co-                  Hawkins Rd, Colchester, Essex
limited overs playing kits                                                       bamboo kits takes us a step closer       Founder and Marketing                    CO2 8JY
made from a more sustainable                                                     to this goal.                            Director, said: “We believe              All contents © Maze Media (2000)
                                                                                                                                                                   Limited. The views expressed in
material derived from bamboo.                                                       “As part of the development,          that sport can drive change              this magazine are not necessarily
   In a first for professional cricket,                                          several members of our playing           and this is a perfect example.           those of the publisher. Every effort
the material used in the shirts and       polyester, with the full designs and   squad have tested the material to        Warwickshire CCC have a                  is made to ensure the veracity and
                                                                                                                                                                   integrity of the companies, persons,
sweaters worn by Warwickshire             new sponsors set to be unveiled        highlight its capabilities in a high-    global reach and will show how           products and services mentioned in
in the Royal London Cup and               closer to the 2020 season.             performance environment, with all        cricket can send a message far           this publication and details given
                                                                                                                                                                   are believed to be accurate at the
by Birmingham Bears in the                  Ben Seifas, Commercial               subsequent feedback confirming           beyond sport. This project is            time of going to press. However, no
Vitality Blast will contain a 50 per      Partnerships Manager at                that it is a very comfortable and        just the start of things to come         responsibility or liability whatsoever
                                                                                                                                                                   can be accepted for any consequence
cent bamboo charcoal mix with             Warwickshire CCC, said: “We            durable material.”                       with our partnership.”                   or repercussion of responding
                                                                                                                                                                   to any information or advice
                                                                                                                                                                   given or inferred. No part of this

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Sports insight INTERVIEW ANALYSIS
NEWSFIBO
                                Sir Alastair Cook launches
                                                             All the very latest in the
                                                             sports industry...
  COLOGNE
POSTPONED                       Gray-Nicolls Legacy Programme
 TO SECOND                      Internationally-renowned
                                cricket bat manufacturer
                                                                      every individual player that
                                                                      scores an international century
HALF OF THE                     Gray-Nicolls has launched a
                                new initiative to help make
                                                                      will be able to nominate a school
                                                                      to receive £250 worth of Gray-
                                their business become more
   YEAR                         environmentally sustainable.
                                                                      Nicolls cricket kit.
                                                                          Cook said: “It’s amazing to
                                   The Gray-Nicolls Tree Legacy       be involved with the launch
    FIBO, the world's largest   Programme will see a new              of this campaign. It’s growing
    trade show for fitness,     willow tree planted for every         willow for a game I’ve always
      wellness and health,      international century scored          played, for a brand I’ve always
      planned to be held in     by a Gray-Nicolls ambassador,         used, so I’m very excited about
 April in Cologne, has been     with a further tree of any species    it. As we become more aware
  postponed to the second       planted locally to off-set the loss   of the need to look after the
  half of the year due to the   of the willow when harvested for      planet, sustainability initiatives
 developments concerning        bats in around 20 years’ time.        like this one are going to be
            Covid-19.              The Tree Legacy Programme          absolutely crucial.”
      Silke Frank, Portfolio    began on February 21, 2020,               Nick Wilton, Brand Manager
     Director, FIBO Global      when former England captain           of Gray-Nicolls, added: “We
     Fitness Events, said:      and Gray-Nicolls legend               are really excited to launch
    “This is not a decision     Sir Alastair Cook visited             this latest initiative as Gray-      Programme will be equally              by Gray-Nicolls players –
    we have taken lightly;      Robertsbridge – the home of the       Nicolls moves towards a more         impactful as we look to improve        Dom Sibley and Aaron Finch
  our customers, partners       brand – to plant 33 willow trees –    sustainable future. We had           sustainability, reduce waste and       – and those trees, along with
       and the FIBO team        one for each of his Test centuries.   amazing success with our Off-        protect our environment.”              any other scored in 2020,
   worked incredibly hard          Not only will two trees be         Cuts project earlier this year,        So far this year there have          will be planted in February
  on this event. While it is    planted after each century, but       and we are sure the Tree Legacy      been two scorers of 100 or more        2021.
disappointing to postpone,
   it is imperative that we

                                HOKA ONE ONE launches a
      prioritise the health
    and safety of everyone
       involved. Our goal
    remains to provide the

                                new category outside of footwear
   best customer value for
everyone attending FIBO.“
       Reed Exhibitions as
     the organiser of FIBO
   trusts that the decision     HOKA ONE ONE is launching             athletes of all types to feel like   provides both, so everyone can         has been incorporated into the
   to postpone the show to      its first-ever apparel line,          they can fly, and that mission       feel ready to take on the world – or   function of the new apparel line:
 the second half of the year    designed for athletes to enjoy        frequently leads us to break new     fly over it.”                          runners, walkers, fitness-seekers
    ensures that the FIBO       for both fitness pursuits and         ground in creating products that        The HOKA apparel and                and outdoor adventurers of all
    continues to serve the      everyday wear.                        will outperform the competition.     accessory lines were designed          levels will find their perfect fit in
    fitness industry in the        Runners, walkers, fitness          Our new apparel line includes        based on extensive consumer            HOKA apparel.
secure and safe conditions      enthusiasts and outdoor               previously unseen designs            feedback. A survey sent out by            Additionally, the new apparel
needed. The FIBO team will      adventurers will be able to           meant to meet the unique                  HOKA in 2018, which received      line is an opportunity to continue
communicate closely with        dress head-to-toe in HOKA with        needs of the HOKA                            nearly 4,000 responses,        making environmental strides,
  customers and partners        the new collection, available         consumer. Equally                              found consumers              and to help HOKA progress on
  over the coming weeks to      online-only at hokaoneone.eu.         important, we                                    desired apparel that       its journey toward sustainability.
  keep the world of Global      The 27-piece collection features      believe no athlete                               was simultaneously         For instance, the Unisex Puffy
     Fitness moving in the      running and fitness staples –         should have to                                    high-performing and       Jacket insulation is made with
    right direction during      including performance tops,           choose between                                    accommodating of          PrimaLoft which contains 100
   this difficult period and    tights, woven shorts, socks and       technology                                        every type of athlete.    per cent postconsumer recycled
   is looking together with     hats, plus many other styles          designed for high-                                  This inclusive          content.
    Cologne Messe for the       – which are designed with             level performance                                approach, already             While all performance tops are
 best available dates in the    industry-leading technology to        and a comfortable fit                            a pillar of HOKA           made with Polartec Power Dry
    second half of the year.    maximise both performance and         and feel. This new                                       performance        fabric, which consist of at least 50
      FIBO hosts more than      comfort.                              collection                                                   footwear,      per cent recycled fibres.
 1,000 exhibitors and circa        Additionally, the line-up                                                                                         Additionally, all performance
  145,000 visitors from 135     includes bold, unexpected new                                                                                     tops, tights, sports bras and
   countries every year in      pieces designed to solve everyday                                                                                 women’s shorts incorporate
            Cologne.            problems for all athletes:                                                                                        recycled raw materials. The
                                the versatile Performance                                                                                        all-new apparel and accessory
                                Sleeve top and comfortably-                                                                                       collections from HOKA will be
                                fitting yet secure-at-the-waist                                                                                   showcased in the brand’s first-
                                Women’s Performance Utility                                                                                       ever print catalogue, which will
                                Shirt, for instance, will fill                                                                                    reach consumers by mail later
                                previously uninhabited niches                                                                                     this month and will feature
                                in the athlete’s wardrobe. The                                                                                    HOKA footwear and apparel.
                                collection also includes lifestyle                                                                                   Made from recycled paper,
                                pieces for casual wear, such as                                                                                   the catalogue will showcase full
                                an ultra-soft Lifestyle Tee, a                                                                                    head-to-toe looks by HOKA and
                                structured-fitting Hoodie, and a                                                                                  serve as an inspirational, coffee
                                casual hat, as well as the Unisex                                                                                 tablestyle photo essay showcasing
                                Puffy jacket, which launched                                                                                      athletes of all types chasing and
                                earlier this year.                                                                                                meeting their goals in HOKA
                                   Wendy Yang, President of                                                                                       products. The full apparel and
                                HOKA ONE ONE, said: “Our                                                                                          accessory lines will be available at
                                mission at HOKA is to empower                                                                                     hokaoneone.eu

                                                                            @SportsInsightUK
Sports insight INTERVIEW ANALYSIS
SPORTS INSIGHT ads_SPORTS INSIGHT 28/11/2019 10:19 Page 1
Sports insight INTERVIEW ANALYSIS
NEWS
6
                                                                                                               Sweat 2020 offers clear vision of
 MUC-OFF                            On becomes official                                                        how to succeed in boutique fitness
LAUNCHES
  RIDER                             footwear supplier to                                                       Sweat, the boutique fitness
                                                                                                               industry’s premier gathering,
 GLOVES                                                                                                        has kicked off ukactive’s

  Twenty-five years ago Muc-
                                    Team INEOS                                                                 2020 calendar with a sell-
                                                                                                               out crowd in East London.
                                                                                                                  More than 300 people were
 Off engineered the first ever                                                                                 in attendance to hear keynote
 bottle of bike-specific wash.                                                                                 speeches from Emma Barry,
  Since then, challenging the                                                                                  a founding member of Les
  status quo and creating the                                                                                  Mills International, Richard             importance and the power of a
 best products for those who                                                                                   Buchanan, Managing Director              clear defendable territory to give
    love riding on two wheels                                                                                  and Founder of The Clearing,             a brand the edge in attracting
  is what defines the Muc-Off                                                                                  and Richard Earney, Programme            and retaining customers.
   ethos. The same approach                                                                                    Director at Midtown Athletic.               And in the final keynote, Earney
        has been taken in the                                                                                     The event, supported by headline      told the audience that programmes,
    development of their new                                                                                   partner Technogym, offered               not classes, are the future of
 Rider Gloves; designed from                                                                                   insights to fitness operators            the boutique fitness sector. He
   the ground up for riders in                                                                                 and suppliers in what they               explained that programmes
       search of adventures.                                                                                   need to do in order to succeed           can create experiences by the
  Alex Trimnell, CEO at Muc-        On has entered a                     Business Development, said:           with their boutique offering.            music and lighting used as
  Off, said: “Our Rider Gloves      partnership with Team                “We are constantly looking at            The Old Truman Brewery                well as the high-fives customer
 were influenced by our drive       INEOS, whose staff                   ways to support our riders and        was bathed in neon pink light            get from their instructors.
    to create designs that are      and riders will wear On              staff with best-in-class products     as ukactive CEO Huw Edwards                 The presentations were
 both high-performance and          footwear for the entirety of         and with On we know that is           opened the day by announcing two         complemented by a series of
 aesthetically pleasing at the      2020 – benefiting from the           what we are getting.                  new reports from ukactive as part        thought-provoking panels and
             same time.”            comfort and performance of              “On are world leaders in           of its Business Intelligence service.    masterclasses which focused on
 The premium slip-on gloves         the Swiss-made shoes.                performance footwear and                 ‘Moving Communities’ will offer       expansion, branding investment,
       incorporate the finest          On has become the Official        already work with an impressive       quarterly analysis of the sector         creating a space, learning
       materials for comfort,       Footwear Supplier to Team            range of athletes across the          which builds on the success of           from mistakes, new audiences,
   durability and protection.       INEOS, who debuted in 2010 as        sporting world and we are proud       the annual Moving Communities            technology and aggregators.
 They are engineered using a        Sky Pro Cycling and compete          to be the latest edition to that      report. Launching in April, the             For the first time, every delegate
four-way breathable material        at cycling’s highest level in the    list. Having used On’s products       reports will look in greater detail at   of Sweat 2020 has been provided
       on the upper hand and        UCI WorldTour. The team,             through the 2019 season we            leisure trends and will be available     with exclusive access to the Sweat
perforated one-piece Clarino        which features star riders like      were keen to formalise our            exclusively to ukactive members.         Community within ukactive’s new
   material on the palm with        Chris Froome and Geraint             relationship with On and look            The second new report                 digital Communities of Learning
flexible neoprene slip on cuff.     Thomas, will be fully supported      forward to a successful 2020          will address one of the most             platform, where they will be able
   The ergonomic preformed          off the bike wearing the Cloud,      together.”                            controversial subjects in the            to access content from the day
      shape ensures a perfect       Cloudswift and Cloudflyer                                                  sector – the role of booking             and continue the conversation.
      fit while the integrated      models.                                                                    intermediaries, or aggregators.             Huw Edwards, CEO of ukactive,
     tech thread makes them            On the saddle, Team INEOS                                               Funded by Sport England,                 said: “This year’s focus on growth
    touch-screen compatible.        has won seven Tour de France                                               ukactive’s Research Institute            and expansion tied perfectly with
    They have added a thumb         titles across four riders and                                              will lead the first major                our announcement of two major
    overlay panel to increase       claimed ten Grand Tour                                                     independent assessment of the            new reports we are launching
 durability and rider comfort       victories. The team’s preferred                                            impact of aggregators in the             for members to better inform
    while microfibre is added       shoe is the unmistakable Cloud,                                            fitness and leisure market.              the crucial business decisions
    to the entire outer thumb       which has already been worn                                                   Sweat favourite Barry provided        made every day across the UK.
   for wiping away sweat and        by the team’s riders when stood                                            delegates with a fascinating insight        “And through our Communities
            snotty noses.           upon some of the most famous                                               into how to build a badass boutique      of Learning, we hope the
     The gloves come in three       race podiums.                                                              – the subject of her new book,           conversations and lessons
    designs: Black, Camo and           Dave Callan, Team INEOS’                                                which was launched over the event.       from this year’s Sweat will
    Bolt, all embellished with      Head of Partnerships and                                                      In the second keynote of the          continue to improve the sector.
     the iconic Muc-Off cross                                                                                  day, Buchanan spoke about the            and drive future agendas”
  and a silicone printed palm
    with ‘Ride of Die’ written
     across them in bold pink
     lettering; which not only
                                  Brandwave extend AMER group retainer with addition of Suunto
    looks great but also offers   Leading sports marketing                                                                                              event established an online
 the ultimate grip to bars and    agency, Brandwave is working                                                                                          reach of over 15 million with
 brake levers. Andrew Syme,       with global fitness and                                                                                               400 plus social media posts.
     Product Design Manager       smartwatch brand, Suunto.                                                                                             Massively exceeding any
    at Muc-Off, said: “Having        Adding the brand to its portfolio                                                                                  previous brand representation
 spent months of painstaking      of AMER Group brands including                                                                                        figures in the UK, the event
     research, design, testing    Salomon, who has been using                                                                                           found a perfect balance between
       and refinement, we’ve      Brandwave as its lead agency                                                                                          digital, physical and influencer
   achieved something we’re       for over seven years. As Suunto                                                                                       touchpoints. Redefining what
   immensely proud of.” The       launched into the smartwatch                                                                                          best practice looks like in
  Muc-Off Riders Gloves will      market with the development of                                                                                        a new age of launch events.
     be sold through all retail   the Suunto 7, the first smartwatch                                                                                    Sarina Pietrosanti, of Suunto
     channels with an RRP of      to integrate Google Wear OS, they                                                                                     UK Marketing, said: “As a
       £29.99/€34.99/$34.99       appointed Brandwave to deliver                                                                                        new brand to the smartwatch
                                  a globally recognised launch in                                                                                       market, we really wanted to
                                  London.                                                                                                               push boundaries and showcase
                                     Developing the campaign                                                                                            the Suunto brand in a way that
                                  #Suunto7LDN, Brandwave were            many activation touch-points in a        After sampling some of Finland’s      would excite this ‘new’ audience
                                  tasked with breaking the mould of      product experience evening.           finest food and drink, guests were       with a subtle nod to our Finnish
                                  a typical product launch. To deliver      Once guests had their new          joined by the inspirational John         heritage.
                                  a premium, exclusive experience        smartwatch, they were taken for       McAvoy. A strong advocate and               “Brandwave created an
                                  for UK influencers and media and       a run under the River Thames in       believer in sport being a catalyst for   excellent, thought out execution
                                  to affirm Suunto’s position in the     the Greenwich foot tunnel to test     positive change, guests were able        which helped us to engage and
                                  smartwatch world with mass reach.      its capabilities. The tunnel helped   to listen first hand to his incredible   excite influencers and media.
                                     In a vast collective of industry    to further convey key campaign        journey and story; from behind iron      This event created an amazing
                                  leading guests, over 50 media          messages, wrapped in a treescape      bars to Ironman.                         Suunto brand experience in
                                  and influencers were hosted at         graphic, immersing guests in a hint      With a packed event and multiple      London and achieved results
                                  the Suunto tech bus. The first of      of life outside of the city.          content creation touchpoints, the        that speak for themselves.”

                                                                               @SportsInsightUK
Sports insight INTERVIEW ANALYSIS
TAYLORS page_SPORTS INSIGHT 12/03/2020 16:55 Page 1
Sports insight INTERVIEW ANALYSIS
D3 page_SPORTS INSIGHT 18/03/2020 09:26 Page 1
Sports insight INTERVIEW ANALYSIS
ANALYSIS
                                                                                                                                                                                  9

                     START UPS GALORE
                           Paul Sherratt, of Solutions for Sport, investigates the increasing
                                          number of sports-related start ups
Everywhere I look these days          garner $184.6 billion by 2020,       will guide important decisions     is being launched, and once this    and yet, even in this crowded
it seems that there are sports        registering a growth of 4.3 per      of product selection and           context is taken into account       market there is still room for
start ups.                            cent by 2020.                        brand identity. This can also      can have a huge influence on the    new brands , such as T1tan, to
   The global sportswear market         This is happening due to the       direct growth, as effectively      perception of a product and its     develop by creating product that
appears more popular now than         growing awareness of a healthy       providing for a selected group     success once released.              the end consumer can connect
ever before. From running to          and active lifestyle, and the        can build reputation and aid          It can have a significant        with. Strong and relevant social
yoga to weightlifting, there’s        popularity of fitness activities     acceptance of future ventures.     impact on word-of-mouth             content is the driver here rather
athletic clothing and activewear      such as aerobics, swimming,          After identifying the needs of     marketing: an invaluable form       than an endorsement strategy –
to suit every sport or activity out   running and yoga, and                the market comes developing a      of promotion and, again in the      something that the “traditional”
there. Start ups are increasingly     expectations are that the sports     quality, innovative product or     case of Gymshark, this was an       glove brands are still using but
edging their way into the market,     apparel market will continue to      service to cater to them.          incredibly powerful tool.           that is, perhaps, outdated.
taking a piece of the pie away        reach new highs going forward.          Niche companies provide
from big corporations and                                                  services tailored to small         Be different                        Direct to consumer
brands by catering to under-          Exploit the niche                    audiences. Once that specified     For all the ability to exploit      Without doubt the biggest
served consumer segments and          The cornerstone of much of this      market has been infiltrated        the niche and to be lucky from      development in recent times
offering one-of-a-kind athletic       growth is the ability of these       successfully, opportunities        a timing perspective, one key       is the ability for these start up
products.                             brands to exploit a niche.           for expansion can present          element that any new start          brands to reach new audiences
   Brands are exploiting niche           Gymshark, for example,            themselves: initially by           up must have is a point of          very quickly. Easy set up
opportunities in every sport and      arrived at a time where no           exploiting within that niche       difference.                         eCommerce solutions such as
looking at areas where, with the      brand was really “talking” to the    and eventually branching out.         A “Me To” brand has little       Shopify and the power of social
ability to exploit the long tail      gym-going, weightlifting, body-      Companies such as Gymshark         chance surviving in today's         media means that, if the previous
through social media and direct       conscious consumer. They were        serve emergent crowds and          market place as consumers are       elements discussed have been
to market strategies, perhaps         forced into more mainstream          have effectively shown that        incredibly savvy. There must be     addressed, connections with the
historically the rewards would        sporting goods brands such           a deep understanding of            a reason for the brand to exist     target end consumers can happen
have been too small to operate.       as Nike and adidas and, thus,        their customers’ needs and         and a solution being presented      quickly and aggressive growth
   The darling of the sportswear      Gymshark was able to provide         continuous innovation can          that is credible and compelling.    can follow.
sector is, without doubt,             a relevant and targeted apparel      translate into effective growth       If I relate the analogy to an       Any segments where
Gymshark who, at barely seven         solution directly for this niche     and be used in promotions to       area of sporting goods that         consumers are underserved will
years old, are in a rocket ship       audience.                            broaden their appeal.              I know particularly well -          undoubtedly see growth over the
growing out beyond £240m                 Their ability to then broaden                                        goalkeeping gloves - there has      coming years.
revenues in 2019 and pushing          the appeal into the wider health     Timing                             been an explosion of “brands”          The key for the budding
ever onwards to, perhaps,             and fitness market is now            There is little doubt that,        over the past few years driven,     entrepreneur is to find those
£1billion plus.                       allowing them to grow at the         whatever the brand and strategy,   not least, by the ease with which   areas, create a relevant and
   With many brands trying to         aggressive rate which they are.      timing (and some might say         gloves can be sourced in small      compelling brand and then target
be like Gymshark, only a few             As a business they understand     luck) can also play a huge part    quantities from (predominantly)     effectively.
are creating the buzz needed          that at the core of any successful   in product development and         Pakistan.                              Those that manage this will
to potentially have similar           business is the consumer.            launch. Companies must have           However, the result is a glut    continue to drive this aggressive
success, yet the global sports        Carefully selecting and              an understanding of the social     of bog standard, uninteresting,     start up culture and further fuel
apparel market is expected to         understanding that consumers         context into which their product   price point driven product,         the sports apparel market.

               “The cornerstone of much of this growth is the ability of these brands to exploit a niche”
                                                                            www.sports-insight.co.uk
Sports insight INTERVIEW ANALYSIS
ROUSSELOT SI page_SPORTS INSIGHT 13/03/2020 09:57 Page 1
sports hub
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                                                The place to source all your products and services
                                  www.sports-insight.co.uk                    Sports Insight         @SportsInsightUK                  @SportsInsightHub

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    Gear Club custom                                    GRIP:SEVEN                              Shock Doctor 213                                   Saucony
        clothing                                         LaceBrace                              Supporter and Cup. Ideal for cricket,
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12
                                                                          sports insight selects
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      Club Headgear                                   Vibram                                            Re-invent.                                 Keep warm and
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    Available from Body Armour New              The new and improved V-TRAIN                   50 years ago, founder, Dr. Ron Hill, was at    The PULSAR Blizzard collection also comes
 Zealand. Branded as CCC for 30                2.0, the tool for all indoor training,           the centre of innovation, invention and       in ladies’ styles, ensuring everybody can feel
 years, Body Armour New Zealand is            martial arts and CrossFit. Good level            re-invention creating the benchmarks for         the benefits of this innovative collection
 now distributing the Ventilator and         of ground feel with toe articulation for         modern running kit. Their new Revive series      of thermal garments. Keeping you warm in
 Club Headgear together with their           great balance and upper construction                is the continuation of this story. Today      temperatures as low as -15°C, you can rest
 range of Vests and training aids. Stock    specifically designed for heavy training.           innovation must consider the planet, so        assured that these garments will keep you
 service with stock held in the UK and      Fitness, Balance, Strength, Powerlifting,          using eco-conscious, whisper light fabrics        warm and comfortable while you’re out
 freight free for orders over GBP 100.                        Running.                        created from recycled yarn, they’ve defined                  exercising in the cold.
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  Edition Packable                                    Arsenal FC                                       Sportwear                                        Anti-blister
    Waterproof                                        Hip Flask                                       EPOS system                                      running sock
 The packable Edition range from Mac        Every Gunners’ fan would love this stylish        Top to Toe has spent over 30 years perfecting     New for Spring ’20 is Hilly’s softest ever
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  10,000mm and Highly Breathable to                 badge and comes in a gift box.             goods retailers. While many EPOS systems        friction on the foot, while the Meryl Sport
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outdoor insight
FRESH news stories & everything Outdoors!
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HYPRO 1.2_SPORTS INSIGHT 10/02/2020 17:09 Page 1

TARGET DRY 1.2_SPORTS INSIGHT 10/09/2019 10:00 Page 1
OUTDOOR INSIGHT
                                                                                                                                                                                      15

Olympic medallist Keri-anne Payne signs on with dryrobe                                                                                                      SURFING
Dryrobe have announced two-                 Since retiring in 2017,
                                                                                                                                                          ENGLAND JUNIOR
time World Champion and                 Keri-anne has switched her                                                                                        TEAM GET FIRST
Olympic silver medallist Keri-          attention to swimming coaching.
anne Payne as their latest brand        Alongside her husband David                                                                                        EVER SPONSOR
ambassador.                             Carry, another former Olympic                                                                                          dryrobe, producers of the
   Having represented team GB           swimmer, the couple formed                                                                                             world’s most advanced
for 12 years, Keri-anne’s success       Triscape, a scheme to help                                                                                        change robe, have announced
helped to raise the profile of open     inspire more people to get into                                                                                        a new partnership with
water swimming in the UK and now        swimming.                                                                                                            Surfing England that sees
having teamed up with dryrobe,              Speaking about the new                                                                                            them become the official
she hopes to inspire more people        partnership with dryrobe, Keri-                                                                                   sponsor of the English Junior
to take the plunge and try it for       anne said: “My passion will                                                                                                    surf team.
themselves.                             always be in the open water and                                                                                           It is hoped to aid the
   Keri-anne’s credentials as a         I love finding new ways to enjoy                                                                                        development of young
first-class swimmer standout            it, especially in the cold! When                                                                                  English surfers, helping them
from just 15 years old when she         dryrobe asked me to join the                                                                                         reach their full potential.
broke the British junior 800-metre      team it was a no brainer because                                                                                        As the first time that the
freestyle record. In 2006, Keri-        it’s already an integral part of my                                                                                 England Juniors have had
anne switched her focus from the        routine and kit bag (and should                                                                                    their own sponsor, the team
pool to the open water, winning a       be part of every open water           thrilled to welcome Keri-anne         can’t wait for her to be a part         will now have access to top
silver medal for Great Britain in the   swimmers too!). I also really         to team dryrobe. Her passion          of. Everyone here is excited           level coaching, support staff
inaugural 10k Open Water Swim at        love how much time dryrobe            for open water swimming and           to be working with Keri-anne             and training plans as they
the 2008 Olympic Games. As well         are putting in to ensuring they       enthusiasm for getting people into    as she helps to inspire the           prepare to compete in events
as competing in both the 2012 and       remain sustainable with a range       the sport makes Keri-anne the         next generation of open water         throughout 2020 and beyond,
2016 Olympic Games, Keri-anne           of eco-friendly products.”            perfect fit for dryrobe. We’ve got    swimmers.”                               including the 2022 Youth
also went on to win World honours           dryrobe Founder and Director,     some really interesting projects         To find out more about              Olympics in Dakar, Senegal,
in the 10k both in 2009 and 2011.       Gideon Bright added: “I’m             lined up for this year that we        dryrobe, visit www.dryrobe.com          where Surfing will make its
                                                                                                                                                                         debut.
                                                                                                                                                                    To announce the
                                                                                                                                                           partnership, dryrobe joined

Montane secures Inverleith LLP investment                                                                                                                  the English Junior squad in
                                                                                                                                                          training at the Wave, Bristol,
                                                                                                                                                           to deliver their official Team
Montane, the UK outdoor                  JAKE DOXAT, MONTANE’S                                                                                                England dryrobe gear. In
clothing and accessories                 MANAGING DIRECTOR                                                                                                       developing the next
company founded over 25 years                                                                                                                               generation of elite English
ago, has received investment                                                                                                                                surfers, the Wave will be a
from Edinburgh-based                                                                                                                                           game-changing facility,
specialist consumer brand                                                                                                                                       allowing athletes and
investor Inverleith LLP, which                                                                                                                            coaches to perfect their skills
has secured a majority stake in                                                                                                                            and analyse performance in
the company.                                                                                                                                                 the state-of-the-art Wave
   Montane has established itself                                                                                                                                         pool.
as the leading European specialist                                                                                                                              Ben Powis, Commercial
brand of lightweight, breathable                                                                                                                           and Operations Director for
outdoor clothing and equipment                                                                                                                            Surfing England said: “It’s no
for fast-paced mountain sports.                                                                                                                                exaggeration to say our
Established in 1993, Montane                                                                                                                              partnership with dryrobe is a
focuses on serving committed                                                                                                                               game changer for the Junior
and highly active hillwalkers,                                                                                                                             team. We have our sights set
mountaineers, climbers and trail                                                                                                                              on the Dakar 2022 Youth
runners. Its range has steadily                                                                                                                              Olympics and the support
expanded to encompass a broad           the distribution of its specialist    new owner who recognises              continuing to contribute to            from dryrobe means we can
range of outerwear, mid and base        fast-paced mountain sport products    the strength of Montane’s             Montane’s growth as a Board           put structured training plans
layers, legwear, backpacks and          both in the UK and internationally,   differentiated position, who shares   Director.”                               in place, bring in top class
accessories for both men and            with a sharpened focus on product     the company’s values and beliefs         Following the majority sale to       coaching and support staff,
women, with its products sold both      development in this rapidly growing   and who has the consumer and          Inverleith LLP, after a period of     and take full advantage of the
in the UK and internationally.          market.                               commercial expertise to help steer    transition, Doxat will step back          amazing facilities at The
   It targets, specifically, the           Jake Doxat, Montane’s Managing     the company to its next level of      from the day-to-day management                       Wave.”
high-performance segments of            Director, said: “I am delighted to    growth.                               of the company, while remaining               dryrobe Founder and
the outdoor markets, with a focus       have secured Inverleith LLP as the       “I am confident that Montane       a minority shareholder, Board              Director Gideon Bright
on consumers who connect with           majority investor into Montane.       will continue its positive            Director and focusing on a new         added: “The pool of talent in
Montane’s ‘Further. Faster.’ mantra.    After over two decades at the         momentum under its new                role as a global brand ambassador       junior surfing right now is
   Montane prides itself on the         helm, it is time to hand over the     and complementary majority            for the company.                      amazing and we’re confident
quality and innovation of its high-     reins of Montane to a passionate      shareholder. I look forward to           Paul Skipworth, Inverleith          that backing this incredible
                                                                                                                                                                                             DRYROBE X SURFING ENGLAND. PICTURE CREDIT: TOM YOUNG

performance technical outdoor                                                                                       LLP Managing Partner, said: “I          team of surfers can make a
clothing and equipment. The                                                                                         am delighted to see Montane join         real difference in helping
company, based in Ashington                                                                                         the Inverleith family of consumer     them achieve their potential.
in the North of England, enjoys                                                                                     brands. Consumers in this area        The future of English surfing
endorsements from professionals                                                                                     are seeking brands with heritage,        is looking very bright and
within the fast-paced mountain                                                                                      authenticity and credibility;          we’re so proud to be a part of
sport environment, as well as                                                                                       brands that are both highly                            it.”
being the British Mountaineering                                                                                    functional, yet also attractively
Council’s recommended clothing                                                                                      designed. Montane fits these
and pack partner.                                                                                                   requirements as a company and
   The company is also headline                                                                                     brand that has been built steadily
sponsor of a number of globally                                                                                     over the last 25 years and has
recognised events such as the Tor                                                                                   become recognised and admired
des Géants, The Montane Lakeland                                                                                    within this environment. We look
100, The Montane Yukon Arctic                                                                                       forward to enabling an even wider
Ultra and The Montane Spine Race,                                                                                   audience to engage with Montane
some of the most challenging and                                                                                    in the UK and internationally,
famous ultra events in the world.                                                                                   helping them to fuel their passion
   The investment from Inverleith                                                                                   for outdoor sports with a ‘Further.
LLP will see the company expand                                                                                     Faster.’ mindset.”

                                                                              www.outdoor-insight.co.uk
                                                                               www.sports-insight.co.uk
IRONMAN page_SPORTS INSIGHT 21/02/2020 11:07 Page 1

                                                      New Spring/Summer
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OUTDOOR INSIGHT
                                                                                                                                                                                                    17

   PREPARATIONS ARE IN FULL SWING
          OutDoor by ISPO 2020: Significant improvement thanks to industry feedback

P
        reparations in Munich for the   concept in the run-up to the                                                     get an additional presentation           to sports retailers and buyers at
        second OutDoor by ISPO are      premiere, we sought close contact                                                opportunity in the adjacent hall.        no additional cost and also make
        in full progress. ISPO.com      with the industry at all levels, both                                            This way we create a connection          appointments on site directly in
talked to Markus Hefter, Exhibiton      through our Advisory Board and                                                   between inside and outside.              the system. The tool is currently
Group Director of OutDoor by            expanded network and through                                                                                              available in eight languages.
ISPO and ISPO Munich, about             our partner, the European Outdoor                                                How do you increase
feedback from the industry and          Group. All in all, the feedback for                                              the quality and                          Will visitors and
how this is being incorporated          the first event was very positive,                                               internationality of                      exhibitors again have
into the planning for 2020.             but of course - as with every                                                    the trade visitors?                      the opportunity to
   With 1,018 exhibitors and more       new project - there were also                                                    The quality of the trade visitors in     stay overnight at the
than 22,000 trade visitors, OutDoor     numerous suggestions for specific                                                2019 was very good. Over 80 per          camping site this year?
by ISPO 2019 celebrated a successful    improvements. We are very happy                                                  cent of the more than 22,000 visitors    Yes, this year we will again set
premiere in Munich. A new concept       about the varied feedback, because       MARKUS HEFTER, EXHIBITON GROUP
                                                                                 DIRECTOR ISPO MUNICH AND OUTDOOR
                                                                                                                         stated in the official visitor survey,   up a camping site within close
and an extensive supporting             only then do we know what moves          BY ISPO AT MESSE MÜNCHEN                conducted by Messe München,              proximity to the exhibition halls.
programme turned Europe's               people and how we can improve. We        IMAGE CREDIT: MESSE MÜNCHEN             that they had decision-making            In our eyes, it serves not only as an
largest outdoor trade fair into a       are now in the direct implementation                                             authority in their professional          alternative to a hotel, but also as a
comprehensive experience platform.      of the corresponding measures.           areas without reducing the beautiful,   capacity. In order to further increase   meeting place for the industry. The
   Eighty-seven per cent of all                                                  airy ambience. At the same time, we     the quality and quantity of the          proximity to the bathing lake in
visitors to OutDoor by ISPO 2019        What do the optimised                    promote a more even visitor flow.       visitors, and to make better use         Riemer Park was already very well
described their visit to the event as   hall layout and new                                                              of the potential of international        received last year. This summer,
"good" to "excellent" according to      planning of the outside                  Will the outdoor area                   distribution networks, we expanded       the trade fair campers can look
official market research conducted      area look like?                          and the atrium be used                  our “Altogether to Munich”               forward to additional and improved
by Messe München. Feedback from         The generous distribution of the         the same as last year?                  invitation and matchmaking tool.         gender-specific sanitary facilities,
the industry shows that OutDoor         exhibition space across nine halls       The location of the Outside             Our exhibitors can activate their        an optimised catering offer and
has arrived in Munich. The goal         and the outdoor exhibition area, the     Exhibition Area adjacent to Hall        own dealer network, subsidiaries or      extended green areas for tents.
for the second edition in 2020, to      very wide central aisles and open        B6 proved to be less than ideal.        distributors with just a few clicks      For a cosy end of the evening we
be held on June 28-July 1, is to        stand design provided the desired        The area was too much separated         via the online-based invitation          also set up a central fireplace. It is
optimise the format and improve it      relaxed marketplace atmosphere           from the main events in the halls       tool. With "Altogether to Munich",       expected that it will be possible to
in a customer-oriented manner.          last year. Subjectively, however,        and the outdoor feeling, with the       exhibitors may send four-day tickets     book the site from March onwards.
   Markus Hefter, Exhibition            some exhibitors were under the           exception of the evening events, did
Group Director of OutDoor by            impression that there were fewer         not really come up. Our new concept
ISPO and ISPO Munich, explains          visitors on the floor than actually      provides an integrated outdoor area
which specific adjustments the          attended. In addition, the flow of       in the atrium between the A and
industry can look forward to.           visitors in the C-halls of the site      B halls. This is then divided into
                                        was not entirely satisfying for us.      a relaxation zone, an activation
How did the industry                    For 2020, we are optimising the hall     zone and two party zones. A central
react to the premiere                   layout. We will only occupy the A        HangOut area is complemented by
of OutDoor by ISPO?                     and B halls with access to the atrium.   activity-based areas that encourage
Have you received any                   The central aisles will be made a        participation - for example with
direct feedback?                        little narrower. This means that we      the integration of slacklines.
As we had already done when             gain more exhibition space in each       Exhibitors who present themselves
developing the OutDoor by ISPO          hall and make better use of niche        in this area with their booking

                       “Our exhibitors can activate their own dealer network, subsidiaries or distributors
                                 with just a few clicks via the online-based invitation tool”

                                                                                 www.outdoor-insight.co.uk
                                                                                  www.sports-insight.co.uk
outdoor hub www.sports-insight.co.uk                      Sports Insight

                                     The place to source all your products and services
                                                                                                              @Outdoorinsightuk                  @SportsInsightHub

        Support steps                              New CamelBak Pivot                                   ODLO Fast & Light                                  Alipne Packable
          forward                                   Featuring recycled materials, the Roll Top
                                                    Pivot is made from 50 per cent repurposed
                                                                                                         Small and quick to pack, super light and
                                                                                                          extremely functional – Odlo’s outdoor
                                                                                                                                                             Down Gilet
   Launching now…the new Provision 4.                                                                                                                        This Packable Gilet is packed
                                                     materials! A stylish design and versatile             performance line FLI (Fast & Light)
 A mild-to-moderate guidance shoe and it                                                                                                                      with RDS certified Down and
                                                       features, it makes a great commuter             prepares outdoor enthusiasts for anything
 exemplifies technical support in running                                                                                                                  boasts a water repellent outer! The
                                                      backpack. It weighs just 340g yet offers        the weather throws at them while hitting the
  shoes through the dynamic arch feature,                                                                                                                   Alpine gilet is perfect for outdoor
                                                    space for everything you need including a           trail. Incredibly lightweight, the FLI 2.5L
Innovarch. Unique to Altra, Innovarch uses                                                                                                                 adventures, whatever the weather.
                                                     secure zippered essentials pocket and an         Jacket is the perfect packable companion for
proprioception to help slow down pronation                   expandable bottle pocket.                              outdoor adventures.
and neutralise your step cycle – this feature
   only engages when you need it without
      interrupting your natural stride.
            Embrace the space.
             0161 366 5020                                      0116 234 4611                                      07581741799                                     028 9079 0588
           sales@ronhill.com                          customer.services@burton-mccall.com                      James.Clark@odlo.com                             sales@targetdry.com
         www.altrafootwear.co.uk                            www.camelbak.co.uk                                       Odlo.com                                   www.macinasac.com

  A match for winter                                   Perfect for small                               Comfort, durability                                 Lightweight and
   The British Isles winter weather is no
    match for the Women’s Extrem 5000
                                                           families                                     and breathability                                    comfortable
                                                      The Portree 500 is an easy pitch, three-        The Frontier Women's Pant is an all-round,      The Gemini is a lightweight, and comfortable
 Vented Waterproof Jacket. Sleet, blizzards          poled tunnel tent that features a side entry     high performance Soft Shell pant for active      two-layer, HydroDRY jacket. It boasts mesh
 and driving rain, it’s a tough barrier for all,     door and full stand up height living space.        use on technical terrain. Combining 175g         and taffeta combination lining for active
  thanks to totally waterproof, three-layer          Clear windows allow light to pour into the          and 275g EXOLITE fabric these pants             comfort; grown on, fully adjustable hood
GORE-TEX, with reinforced areas to protect          spacious porch area, with Vango's lights out       offer comfort, durability and breathability    with a wired peak and roll away feature and a
the jacket from rock and rucksack abrasion.        bedroom area ensuring a darkened space for            when moving fast in alpine terrain. An       double storm flap over centre front zip. Other
    The adjustable hood is designed to fit          better sleep in the great outdoors. This tent     entirelyre-engineered fit block is combined     features include two hand pockets, hook and
comfortably over your head with or without         is perfect for small families, couples, friends,     with essential mountain features such as        loop tabbed inner pocket, adjustable cuffs
             a climbing helmet.                             weekend camps and festivals.               integrated venting pockets and reinforced              and drawcord adjustable hem.
                                                                                                                       kick strips.

            www.berghaus.com                                    www.vango.co.uk                           www.mountain-equipment.co.uk                           www.sprayway.com

                                                                                        @Outdoorinsightuk
OUTDOOR INSIGHT
                                                                                                                                                                                           19

SPARTAN ENTERS TRAIL RUNNING                                                                                                                                     SNUGPAK
                                                                                                                                                              EMBRACES NEW
Spartan, the world’s leading                The inaugural Spartan UK                                                                                          MANUFACTURING
extreme wellness and                     trail season will unfold in some of
endurance brand, is entering             the nation's most breath-taking                                                                                        INITIATIVE
the UK trail running market              landscapes, beginning on June                                                                                             Snugpak, the UK’s leading
for the first time in its latest         21, 2020, at the Glanusk Estate, in                                                                                    sleeping bag and insulated
push to expand and innovate its          the heart of the Black Mountains,                                                                                          clothing manufacturer,
fitness footprint.                       fittingly followed by a 10k at                                                                                               has decided to take a
   For the 2020 season, Spartan          ‘Spartan’s UK home’, Marston                                                                                              radical new approach to
will host 10k and Half-Marathon          Lodge, on July 12. Each event will                                                                                       its operational practices.
trail events at two of its most scenic   feature stretches of rugged terrain                                                                                           This will result in an
venues; Glanusk Estate, Wales, and       and natural obstacles, such as river                                                                                      increase in productivity
Marston Lodge, Midlands.                 crossings, scrambles, log hops and                                                                                      and employee satisfaction
   Joe De Sena, Spartan Founder          technical single-track that define a                                                                                       across the board, while
and CEO, said: “Following the            traditional trail race. The races will                                                                                    also reducing Snugpak’s
successful 2019 launch of Spartan        coincide with Spartan’s Obstacle                                                                                               carbon footprint.
Trail in five countries, we’re excited   Course Race (OCR) race weekends,                                                                                            After several months of
to expand our experience and             bringing the electric atmosphere of                                                                                     successful trials, Snugpak
community by introducing the             the brand’s event festival to the trail                                                                                  is taking the progressive
growing sport of trail running to        running community.                                                                                                          step of embracing the
our event line-up in the UK. The            The UK trail launch follows                                                                                          opportunities provided by
ancient Spartans were known to           the recent announcement of                                                                                            working a four-day week. As
run on the mountainous trails of         the 2020 “Spartan Trail World                                                                                          a manufacturing company,
Sparta, so it’s a natural extension of   Championship,” a series of six            and Trail Lead, said: “As we         season couldn’t be more suited,        the traditional short day on
our brand as we work to motivate         trail running events across the           continue to grow as a brand, it is   offering spectacular views, varied       a Friday leads to a distinct
people everywhere to step outside        globe, which combine to cover             vital that we add more products      terrain and natural obstacles             drop in productivity, not
of their comfort zones and learn         four continents and a $270,000            to support this expansion and        in abundance. I look forward             to mention the extra costs
there’s no limit to what they can        USD prize purse. The series is            the decision to branch out into      to integrating the passionate           and environmental impact
achieve. Spartan Trail in the UK         part of the brand's bid to bring          the world of trail was an easy       community of trail runners into         of commuting, heating and
will provide a new opportunity for       new experiences to its racers and         one, with trail running’s values     our Spartan UK family, while          lighting for only part of a day.
existing racers while offering the       achieve its worldwide mission to          of transformation, resilience        also showcasing the epic sport of             With this in mind, and
trail running community an event         transform 100 million lives.              and self-belief aligning closely     trail and its endless physical and        backed up with evidence
like they have never experienced            Karl Allsop, Spartan UK and            with ours. The two venues that       mental benefits to our regular                of overall increased
before.”                                 Ireland Director of Production            feature in our inaugural trail       Spartans.”                               production and employee
                                                                                                                                                                 satisfaction, the company
                                                                                                                                                                will change working hours
                                                                                                                                                               to fall between 8am-5.30pm,

Vango announces eco-friendly camping                                                                                                                             Monday to Thursday, with
                                                                                                                                                                  effect from April 3, 2020.
                                                                                                                                                                       Darren Burrell, Sales

collaboration with the National Trust
                                                                                                                                                                     Director, said: “Based
                                                                                                                                                                      on independent and
                                                                                                                                                                      government studies,
                                                                                                                                                               including Sweden’s six-hour
Vango, the UK’s leading                                                                                                                                        workday experiments, many
camping and outdoor                                                                                                                                               companies in the UK and
equipment brand, and Europe’s                                                                                                                                 abroad are starting to rethink
largest conservation charity                                                                                                                                  the traditional working week,
are launching a recycled                                                                                                                                           to increase productivity
plastic camping collection,                                                                                                                                         and enhance employee
including eco-friendly                                                                                                                                               satisfaction through a
tents and sleeping bags.                                                                                                                                          better work-life balance.
    Made from a new Sentinel Eco                                                                                                                                    “Those companies which
fabric incorporating recycled                                                                                                                                   have already taken the leap
PET plastic bottles, salvaged from                                                                                                                            in reducing working hours or
waterways, streets and landfill,                                                                                                                                days have seen a reduction
the tents use a minimum of 69                                                                                                                                   in sick days, improved staff
plastic bottles for the three sleeper                                                                                                                         morale and increased output.
Devon tent, through to 302 plastic                                                                                                                             That’s certainly what we’ve
bottles for the six sleeper Antrim                                                                                                                            found during our trial period
    In the first year of release, it                                                                                                                               and what has ultimately
is projected that the National                                                                                                                                 convinced us of the business
Trust camping collection will                                                                                                                                  case, our team were never in
repurpose almost 295,000 PET                                                                                                                                  any doubt it was a great idea!”
plastic bottles. The sleeping bags                                                                                                                                  Disruption to customers
in the National Trust collection         Vango will contribute a minimum           introduces the opportunity for       Trust, added: “We are delighted to    will be minimal as most sales
feature a 100 per cent recycled          of £10,000 to the National Trust,         our sustainability conscious         have collaborated with Vango on         activity takes place earlier
filling made from used plastic           to help fund conservation projects        campers to use great kit which       this eco-friendly collection. We          in the week and the focus
bottles that are reprocessed and         in England, Wales and Northern            offers the trusted Vango             know that the more connected              on despatching orders by
turned into a polyester fill.            Ireland, so that future generations       performance while recycling          people feel with nature the              Thursday will be positive.
    Rarely seen in the industry,         can enjoy the places, we as a             some of the plastic bottle waste     more likely they are to care                There will be no facilities
the tents and sleeping bag are           nation, love to experience.               we see impacting our planet.         for it. Camping is probably the            to accept deliveries on a
patterned with a striking oak leaf          The industry leading collection           “The outdoors is vital, not       closest anyone can get to nature,          Friday (the last working
repeat print. Carved into the first      was launched at the Caravan,              just for our enjoyment, but to       therefore this collaboration was               Friday, March 27).
built property the charity took into     Camping and Motorhome Show                the future of our planet. That’s     an obvious one for us. Alongside
its care in 1896, Alfriston Clergy in    2020 at the NEC, Birmingham.              why this collaboration with the      offering supporters the chance
East Sussex, the oak leaf continues      Three tents, the Devon 300,               National Trust seemed fitting,       to buy these tents for their own
to be instantly recognisable, and an     Cumbria 500 and Antrim Air                to invest the time and effort into   adventures, we are also setting
obvious choice for the collection.       600XL, as well as two styles of           researching new ways of tent         up pre-pitch camping options in
    The collaboration with the           sleeping bag, the Gwent and               fabric construction aligned with     some of our National Trust tent
National Trust celebrates the            Surrey, featured at the NEC.              the need for all of us to be more    campsites. These include Wasdale
organisations’ shared passion for           Rob Birrell, Vango’s Marketing         environmentally conscious.”          in the Lake District, Dolaucothi
enjoying and caring for the great        Director said: “We are very excited          Clare Brown, Head of Brand        in Wales - the location of the only
outdoors. Through sales of the           to collaborate with the National          Licensing and Commercial             gold mine in the Trust’s care - and
National Trust camping collection,       Trust. This new collection                Development for the National         Highertown Farm in Cornwall.

                                                                                   www.outdoor-insight.co.uk
                                                                                    www.sports-insight.co.uk
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