STAG Review
Knight said: “We are looking to take the brand forward now. This will see us keep a focus on our core athletics range but also move into new areas and markets.
“For instance, we are the official UK licensee for the FABA fitness range.” Racket sport brand Head also admitted to getting lost in the mix, although not through any fault of its own, but rather due to tennis succumbing to a summer of higher-profile sporting events, such as the World Cup. Nonetheless, a spokesperson said: “It has been a steady show, and we’re helped by having four players from eight using our equipment at the ATP World Tour Finals.”
The STAG buying show wasn’t all about work though. There was the obligatory drinks reception in the evening of the first day, and there were also some jollities to be had during the show itself. Selsport managing director Roberto Forzoni got visitors involved with magic tricks on its stand, dart brand Winmau got some matches going using its new Blade 4 board and ball manufacturer Molten had a golden, stitch-free football, complete with decorative wooden stand, available as a competition prize.
The stitch-free range of footballs, as used at the last World Cup, was one of the things Molten’s stand prioritised as it looked to grab the attention of visitors. The brand also spoke of its forthcoming sponsorship deal covering balls supplied for the 2012 London Olympics Games, which it will soon start promoting through on-ball logos.
Archery brand Petron handed out toy sets to highlight its range of value-added products available through its Petron Fun line. In addition, a target board allowed visitors to try archery at the show, although only with toy darts. This acted as a means for Petron to engage retailers who may otherwise be put off archery as a product line to stock, according to Petron’s Sam Meadows.
Meadows said: “As a specialist brand, the STAG buying show is a good point of contact for us with retailers, who may be unsure if selling archery equipment is right for them. “We have three lines, Pro, Leisure and Fun, depending on how serious the retailer wants to take archery. This show has been a good opportunity to meet new people and talk to them to get them thinking about archery.” STAG buying show first-timer Exel Poles was another exhibitor on a mission to educate retailers to its products, which are designed for Nordic walking.
A spokesperson said Nordic walking has only recently become a recognised sport, but is picking up support fast. “This means we need to educate retailers,” the Exel Poles representative said.
Precision Training used the STAG buying show to launch its new range of Schmeichology goalkeeping gloves. The range has been designed in collaboration with professional goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel, son of the legendary Peter, who has been wearing them this season already.
Speaking to SGB Sports at the STAG buying show, Schmeichel said: “Precision Training worked with me to develop what I wanted in a glove, and the result has been brilliant.
“I’m wearing them now so they have to be comfortable. The results are delightful.”
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