BikeBiz Bicycle and cycling retail news
One of the key dates in the outdoor retail calendar – the Outdoor Trade Show – is taking place this week at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, with more exhibitors than ever.
Now in its sixth year, the show has approximately 132 exhibitors lined up for the 2011 show, which takes place from September 26th to 28th.
Exhibitors this year include some names familiar to the bike trade, as well as plenty who aren’t. First time OTS exhibitors include Bergans of Norway, Alt- Berg and global brand Timberland. ActSmart and Anatom have returned in
2011 after a year away from OTS, while the roll call of returning brands upping their stand space include Karrimor Special Forces, Design Go, UKD and SealSkinz.
Show organiser Marta Williams told BikeBiz: “We have already booked 132 exhibitors for this year so we will hope to grow visitor numbers as well.”
Originally set up by the trade, for the trade, demand for the event has seen it grow from humble beginnings. Back in 2006 the Outdoor Trade Show had 46 exhibitors and 621 visitors. Last year’s successful show saw 120 exhibitors and 1,427 visitors.
The OTS’ location has proved a key factor in the growing popularity of the show, according to Williams.
“The show has always been at Stoneleigh Park. There is a combination of factors to choose Stoneleigh Park – as a small venue we are able to keep costs down which are passed onto exhibitors making it a very cost effective show.
“The location in the Midlands makes it very convenient for travelling and it is well served by road, rail and is close to Coventry and Birmingham airports. The staff at Stoneleigh Park are excellent and make the running of the exhibition go very smoothly, which has been praised by exhibitors and visitors.”
Show organiser MCS can be contacted on 0161 980 7242. www.outdoortradeshow.com
