GREAT NECK, N.Y. (Sept. 8, 2016) - One running specialty retailer is attending The Running Event® (TRE) in Orlando this fall to meet vendors on a personal level.
Another plans to search for new innovative products to share with their customers.
Another running specialty retailer is most interested in networking with other store owners to learn best practices.
The Running Event, North America's largest running specialty conference and trade show held at the Orange County (Fla.) Convention Center, Nov. 29 to Dec. 2, offers a slate of educational programs, expert guest speakers, a trade show with over 250+ leading manufacturers, a training program for managers and staffers, and an Indie 5k race at Disney World EPCOT® Center - a run through one of the top tourist destinations on the planet.
But when it comes right down to it, attending TRE provides retailers with the market intelligence and tools they need to thrive in a rapidly changing retail environment.
Colin Peddie, owner of Marathon Sports, Waltham, Mass., has attended TRE for about a decade. "It's a melting pot of like-minded retailers under one roof. We have the ability to get in touch with existing and new products, it allows us to meet our vendors on a personal level, and also meet with our peers in the industry."
Over 12 Marathon Sports employees attended last year. The team arrived with specific goals they set in advance after researching the exhibitor list.
"We have specific questions lined up before we arrive," Peddie says. "Besides TRE serving as a team building opportunity for sales associates, the staff can learn from third party experts who provide a perspective other than the one they get listening to me all the time."
Michelle Allen, owner of iRunTexas in San Antonio, attends TRE for a number of reasons: "TRE helps us build relationships with vendors and retailers around the country; it helps us confirm that we are running our business the best we can.
"Attending keeps us accountable, current and cutting edge in the running industry, and keeps us connected with a community of like-minded people who are passionate about running," she says.
Allen suggests that buyers attending TRE, "Have a game plan for the trade show - set appointments to view the lines and work methodically through the aisles. Be sure to meet with some of the smaller vendors to perhaps find a new and unique product to bring back to your store."
Tim Rhodes, owner of Run For Your Life in Charlotte, N.C., praises TRE for providing his business with the market intelligence he needs to thrive.
"I learn something new every year and usually it's several things I learn. Retailers will share great information with you if you ask. Vendors are always willing to share where the industry is heading and how to benefit from trends. Vendors are innovative and showcase the new hot items and we are some of the first to see them and have an opportunity to buy and carry them."
Betsy Hughes, co-owner of Track Shack in Orlando, and host of the reception at her store on Nov. 28, says, "Believe me, 39 years ago when Track Shack opened its doors and until the age of the internet you only knew of other stores through reps and road races. TRE has given us the opportunity to network with other store owners, to learn 'best practices' and see the wonders of what running has become in the 2000's!"
She advises that retailers attending TRE, "try and do it all! The early morning runs, the breakfasts, the awards lunches and dinners are important, but also listen to the experts; attend the lectures and the sessions and of course the trade show. Pack a water bottle and PowerBar or snacks of your choice and just go for it."
For more information about TRE: Troy Leonard, show director, 352 624 1561, tleonard@formula4media.com ; Mark Sullivan, president, 646 319 7878, msullivan@formula4media.com, TheRunningEvent.com.
New for 2017 is the Sportstyle conference and trade show, June 14-16, 2017, including the IRRA Style Summit (IRRA members only), and a consumer expo on June 16 at the Ft. Lauderdale Convention Center. For more information about how to participate, contact Jeff Nott, :jnott@formula4media.com, 516 305 4711, SportStyle.com
Media on assignment can pre-register in advance by contacting Jeff Blumenfeld, Director of Communications, jeff@blumenfeldpr.com, 203 326 1200.
Formula4 Media, based in Great Neck, N.Y., established in 2005, also produces nine publications: Running Insight, Footwear Insight, Sports Insight, Outdoor Insight, Team Insight, Textile Insight, Trend Insight, Inside Insight, and Sportstyle.
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