The Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) announced its lineup of educational sessions and connection opportunities for the Outdoor Retailer Summer show in Salt Lake City, Utah, June 17-19. The lineup will specifically address critical and intersectional topics including market and consumer trends, sustainability, advocacy and participation.
“Our education sessions at Outdoor Retailer reflect the industry’s most pressing issues, empowering businesses to apply expert guidance, proven solutions and new skills to drive growth and catalyze positive change for the outdoor industry,” said OIA president, Kent Ebersole. “From addressing inclusivity barriers in the outdoors and leveraging data for business success to innovating sustainable products and advocating for cost-saving trade policies, our team will provide attendees with the strategies and insights needed to lead their brands into the future of the outdoors.”
On day one of the show, OIA research director, Kelly Davis, and Circana experts will explore Outdoor Retail Sales Trends, revealing forecasted trends for the year ahead and strategies for specialty retailers to leverage retail sales data to make informed decisions and drive revenue growth. In How to Comply with Sustainability Standards, attendees will learn how to navigate emerging regulations and compliance standards. During the session, Circularity and its Future in the Outdoor Industry, attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of circular business models, technologies and legislative implications. They’ll also learn actionable ways to align their business strategy to inclusive growth in the session Stories From Community Leaders: What It Takes to Build Outdoor Access for All.
The following day, OIA will release its 2024 Outdoor Participation Trends Report and delve into the latest trends in outdoor recreation participation, covering who’s doing what, when and how outdoors. In the session, The Essentials of Advocacy: Navigating Your Path to Impact, experts will lead an in-depth exploration of the policy landscape, why it’s relevant to outdoor businesses and how brands can drive change at scale. Workforce Trends for Emerging Brands will showcase innovative strategies that SMBs can utilize to recruit, retain and engage their employees. During Sustainable Business Innovation: Collaborating to Protect the Planet, attendees will learn how outdoor brands are coming together to address sustainability challenges and protect the outdoor experience upon which we all depend. Designed specifically for those new to trade policy, the session Trade Policy 101: Demystifying Supply Chain and Customs Compliance will provide attendees with the insight and tools needed to successfully navigate the world of international trade, including supply chain logistics, customs regulations and trade policy.
To view the complete lineup of OIA educational opportunities at this summer’s Outdoor Retailer show, visit OIA’s website. Interested attendees can register for the show here and join OIA to empower their businesses to lead the outdoor industry toward a sustainable and inclusive future.
