New Outdoor Friedrichshafen takes shape, organisers highlight industry support

By

Barbara Santamaria

Published
Mar 8, 2019

Messe Friedrichshafen has revealed details of its new Outdoor Friedrichshafen format following the cancellation of its partnership with the European Outdoor Group last year.

The events venue, which had organised the Outdoor trade fair in collaboration with European Outdoor Group for several years, will continue to host an event for the industry now that EOG has decided to take its Outdoor brand to Messe Munich.

This week, Messe Friedrichshafen said the new Outdoor Friedrichshafen has been met with widespread support from the outdoor industry. “The completely new concept, with dedicated offers, full flexibility, committed efficiency, plus genuine and authentic themes and a fitting atmosphere, is being welcomed by many industry players,” said Klaus Wellmann, CEO Messe Friedrichshafen.

Taking place on 17-19 February, the new format will bring together a line-up of small and medium-sized manufacturers and specialist retailers from German-speaking countries to network and take orders for the 2020 season.

“We are completely rethinking the whole trade show idea from scratch. We firmly believe in bricks-and-mortar retail and are offering a down-to-earth platform for all companies who embody the outdoor spirit,” explained Head of Outdoor Stefan Reisinger.

"We are optimistic about the facts: brands are seeing that a successful trade show presence is possible with a modest budget and only minimal advance planning and that regional commercial representation can benefit instead of international management. Manufacturers are looking at how they can benefit from the new outdoor show format."

The new event will introduce a modular structure with complimentary catering for exhibitors, retailers and visitors. Dedicated lounge areas spread across the venue will provide meeting points for guests to network, eat and drink. Overall, the event will take place in Messe Friedrichshafen’s halls A6, A7, B4 and B5, as well as in the Foyer and Conference Centre.

Organisers said the show’s new date at the end of the main retail sales season and the renewed focus on the core outdoor hardware segment and German-speaking markets has also been well received by exhibitors.

A content programme will provide advice on a variety of topics, from marketing and merchandise management to pricing and store design, and two award categories have been included to celebrate the Best Retail company and Best Agency.