Industry: STAG Review
Road to Recovery?
After a tough trading year, the STAG buying show was an ideal place to assess the future prospects for the sports trade industry.
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vibrant atmosphere was noticeable at the STAG buying show at the Four Pillars Hotel, Cotswold Water Park on 20 and 21 November. Over 200 retailers visited the sixty seven STAG suppliers which included Mizuno, Samurai, Joma, Dita, Zoggs and many others. Despite an undoubtedly tough trading year, reports from suppliers and retailers alike were generally positive and the hope is that 2012 is shaping up to be a better year for the sporting goods industry. STAG Managing Director Ricky Chandler was delighted with the success of the event and the vibes he received were generally positive with signs of a recovery looking likely for the industry moving forward into next year. “We booked 200 retailers and the vast majority turned up. The atmosphere has certainly been more upbeat than last year. Suppliers have been realistic about the tough economic conditions but with good business being done throughout the 2 days, signs are that we are on the road to recovery.”
When speaking to suppliers whilst walking the floor, the general consensus was indeed for an optimistic future for the Sports and Outdoor industry.
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www.sgb-sports.com
Darts company Harrows has reported positive feedback from its new product range. Robert Pringle of Harrows commented how the new Diva and Ice ranges, launched in July, are proving to be a hit with retailers and sales at STAG suggest a healthy 2012 for the Hertfordshire based company.
Similarly, Michael Bloom of Top to Toe believes trading is definitely improving. “Trading was very quiet through May, June and July but the last few months have picked up. Indications coming from sales at STAG, and with the upcoming Olympics, have been positive. I am hopeful for a profitable 2012.”
Footwear specialists Vivo Barefoot informed
SGB that the company had experienced 500% growth in the last year. Mark Collins of Vivo Barefoot said “The future of Vivo Barefoot is really promising. We have done solid business throughout the show - especially on Sunday. Trade shows are a high percentage of the business we do in the UK.”
Retro also seemed to be the order of the day from some of the suppliers at STAG. Hummel, the Danish sports supplier used the show to exhibit a series of retro products with their range of ‘old- Gschool stars’ football boots collection
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tar attraction at the STAG buying show was the appearance of former England manager Graham Taylor who has been a brand ambassador for Precision Training since 2006. Speaking to SGB, Graham said; “Grass roots sport is something I am very passionate in and my role involves trying to encourage more children and adults to partake in physical activity. From David Beckham to Jonny Wilkinson, all the top sports stars have started off in grass roots sport so to put something back into the heart of the sport is a role I am continuing to relish.”
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