European Sporting Goods Federation opens its doors to retailers
31/10/2014
Founded in the early 1960s, FESI is the representative body for the sporting goods sector in Europe. FESI engages with European political institutions, along with other European authorities and bodies that are stakeholders in the industry.
Membership had been limited to sporting goods manufacturers and national associations.
FESI president Luca Businaro said: “The decision to invite retailers to join FESI was a significant step and was only taken after much planning and debate. Our organisation seeks to represent the sporting goods sector at all levels within Europe and it was the view of the board that we will be able to do that more effectively with the added input of retailers. There is more overlap between suppliers and retailers than ever before and when dealing with European institutions, our industry is certainly going to be better served by us all working together.
“It is great news that Foot Locker Europe is leading the way and I believe that the election of its CEO, Lew Kimble, to our board will send a signal to the whole sector that FESI is truly inclusive and representative of the sporting goods industry in Europe.”
Also at the general assembly, FESI appointed Nike’s Guiherme Athia as vice-president and formally accepted the newly created Turkish federation, Spor Markalari Dernegi (SMD), as a member.
In addition, delegates agreed the need to increase investment in lobbying and communications activities.
The European Outdoor Group announced a similar move this year – welcoming retailers for the first time.
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