BikeBiz Bicycle and cycling retail news
Interbike 2012, in its last year at Sands Expo, Las Vegas, saw record numbers attend the show with significant increases over 2011.
Total attendance was 25,536, compared to 23,270 in 2011 – an increase of 2,266 or approximately 10 per cent.
Total number of physical retail store locations (store count) was 4,160, compared to 3,975 in 2011 resulting in an increase of 185 or approximately five per cent. Attendance from buyers – comprising of retail buyers distributors and importers – increased six per cent over 2011 numbers.
“To say we’re pleased with the 2012 show is an understatement,” said Interbike MD Pat Hus. “Our goal was to create an ideal environment where decision makers can get educated on 2013 product, learn new business practices through our seminars and panel discussions, network and ultimately conduct the business of cycling among the best and the brightest in our industry – and I believe we accomplished that goal.”
Square footage taken up by exhibitors increased too, up from 290,000 sq ft in 2011 to 317,000 this year.
The OutDoor demo also saw its largest ever attendance at OutDoor Demo; with a ten per cent increase over 2011 – when rain on the second day affected attendance.
Other show highlights included over 60 educational seminars, tech clinics and panel discussions and Interbike’s first Industry Breakfast. More than 250 new exhibitors showcased product in The LAB Live, while the Interbike Media Center streamed more than 20 interviews with cycle industry head honchos.
In 2013 Interbike will take place at Mandalay Bay Convention Centre in Las Vegas, again starting with the OutDoor Demo in Boulder City, NV on September 16-17th, 2013, followed by the Interbike Expo from September 18-20th, 2013.
