ISPO Munich, the world’s largest sports trade show, ended on a high note. The snowy setting boosted interest in winter sports products, and filled the corridors during the four-day event. In addition to the latest winter sports equipment, 2,801 exhibitors showcased innovations and trends in the areas of outdoor and health & fitness. The focal point was increasing digitalization of the sporting goods industry, a topic that was explored in the new format ISPO Digitize.
Klaus Dittrich, Chairman and CEO of Messe München, says, “With ISPO Digitize, we have pointed the way to the future for the sporting goods industry and sports retailing. The next step will be to apply this positive momentum and to get more people excited about sports.”
The Digitize Area in Hall A4 provided a glimpse of the digital future. Representatives of sports retailing and the sporting goods industry had an opportunity to learn about digital solutions in product development, manufacture, marketing and sales. With the help of the Digital Readiness Check, they could see just how fit their own business is.
More than 84,000 industry visitors from 120 countries came to Munich, as compared with 86,841 in 2017. ISPO Munich enhanced its international character once again. The largest growth was produced (in this sequence) by Austria, Japan, Turkey, the Czech Republic, Great Britain and the U.S.
A total of 2,801 exhibitors (up 2% compared to 2017) showcased their products and innovations. The expanded hall concept was well received. Thomas Delago, Managing Director of Nitro Snowboards, says, “The new concept with the central aisle created a feeling of openness. We were able to reach retailers who are not so heavily involved in the snowboard business as a result. Products were not just simply displayed here. They were placed on center stage, and trends were showcased.”
ISPO Munich 2019 will have more exhibition space. The Munich trade fair center will open two new halls this year: C5 and C6. As a result, ISPO Munich will have a total of 18 halls starting in 2019. The sporting goods industry will profit from this expansion. Growth is expected to be generated primarily by the areas of outdoor, health & fitness and innovative textiles. The next ISPO Munich will be held from February 3rd to 6th, 2019.