China: Outdoor industry ‘pulls together’ as growth slows
Growth in the outdoor industry in China has slowed, but that has enabled the sector to develop a community feel, according to the head of OutDoor.
Stefan Reisinger made the comments as the Asia Outdoor trade show celebrated its 10th anniversary, welcoming 19,002 visitors and 612 exhibitors to Shanghai.
He said: "Overall growth in the outdoor sector in China has slowed over the past two or three years, but that has meant that the most important Chinese brands have pulled together, committing themselves to using this show as a single platform to put on a magnificent presentation of everything outdoor.
“That is truly bringing the whole industry together. We have been able to build a real community over the last 10 years, and that is one major element of our success with the show here.”
The first China Outdoor Association (COA) Summit was held during the show. “COA uses this platform to pass on new knowledge, exchange experience, strengthen cooperation and brighten the future of the outdoor industry,” said its chairman, Sheng Faqiang. Topics included Chinese outdoor brands’ strategy for the future, the future of brick-and-mortar outdoor stores and the design of sports events.
This year, 26 products from 22 brands won the Asia Outdoor Industry Award (pictured), among them 13 products from Chinese brands.
Over 1,700 runners too part in the night race at Purple Mountain, which was organised by Asia Outdoor and Sanfo and sponsored by Northland.
