Despite controversy, OR will head back to Salt Lake City
24/03/2022
In 2017, the twice-yearly show left Utah after 20 years in protest of Utah’s officials' plans to challenge the National Monument designations, which were reinstated by President Biden in October 2021.
In January, the Conservation Alliance and Outdoor Alliance, which includes several large brands, expressed concern about moving back, with Patagonia CEO Ryan Gellert saying its position was that the show belongs in a state whose top officials value public lands.
However, Outdoor Retailer organisers have now said they are going back to Salt Lake City “with a commitment to effecting meaningful change”.
Show director Marisa Nicholson said: “It would be wrong for us to leave the way we did and simply go back as if nothing happened. In reality, leaving after 2017 has not brought the change we had hoped for, so we will push back, not pull back. We firmly believe that staying engaged and collectively contributing to the ongoing discussion, no matter how difficult, is far more constructive.”
The show will commit revenue to support outdoor recreation and protect public lands in Utah; will form a Business with Purpose initiative to bring outdoor recreation leaders and industry stakeholders together for biannual meetings; and provide increased opportunities for discussions, educational activities and volunteer projects.
Nicholson added: “We’re incredibly grateful to Denver for nourishing these passions and embracing our amazing community. We’ll gather in Colorado once more this June to reconnect in person, enhance relationships, and celebrate our milestone anniversary.
“As we plan for the coming years back in Salt Lake City and County, we move forward with the same optimism and values that have always guided our industry, and we’re ready to explore endless opportunities to help our industry grow. We are excited about what the future holds for Outdoor Retailer.”
Share this story:
