Surf Expo, the premier watersports and coastal lifestyle tradeshow wrapped up its summer show at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando. With more than 730 exhibiting brands participating, the event served as the industry launchpad for retailers to discover new and innovative product lines breaking for summer 2024 and beyond.
“Our summer show was a resounding success with solid attendance from both buyers and exhibitors,” says Roy Turner, Emerald Senior Vice President and Surf Expo Show Director. “Our pre-registration numbers were up from last year with onsite attendance in line with 2022. The show floor was steady with activity from qualified buyers. Buyers were eager to see the latest products and trends, and exhibitors were happy to connect with customers.”
Surf Expo continues to evolve its product assortment spanning from surfboards and wetsuits to paddleboards and kayaks. There were also exhibits on surf apparel, swimwear, footwear, coastal gifts, beachwear, gifts and accessories, as well as technical apparel, gear and accessories extending into fishing, camping and hiking.
The summer marketplace facilitated an opportunity for the watersports and beach lifestyle industry to come together and network. The show continues to be a driving platform for buyers and brands to connect in person, create exclusive collaborations and collections, learn about new products and trends and do business.
“I continue to come to Surf Expo because there are always so many brands to see,” says Laurel Jones, owner, Swimwear Solutions, Kansas City, MO. “I appreciate being able to discover new brands and experiment with new styles.”
“Surf Expo reminds us why we love what we do, and that the outdoor/surf industry is one of the best in the world,” says Reese O’Toole, founder, Joycoast. “I authentically enjoy networking and showcasing our sustainable product designs to our retail partners here, and it is always a blast!”
“When I tell you the show could not have been any better, I’m not kidding,” adds Laci Hewett, CEO, Saltwater Boys Company. “We connected with some industry giants that we look forward to collaborating with on future projects and we also wrote orders with luxury resorts and boutiques that we only dreamed we could grace their doors.”
To add to the excitement on the show floor, Surf Expo announced its inaugural Surf Expo Awards, a new awards program to honor product excellence in the watersports and coastal lifestyle industries.
“There are so many brands creating great products in our industry, we wanted to celebrate and recognize their achievements,” adds Turner.
Brands will have until November 17 to submit nominations. Winners will be selected by a judging panel consisting of experienced industry executives and the Surf Expo staff. Finalists will be announced Dec. 15, and the winners will be revealed during the January 2024 event.
Surf Expo featured a full schedule of events to keep attendees busy including learning labs presented by Board Retailers Association, fashion shows and happy hours.
Surf Expo will return January 10-12, 2024, to the Orange County Convention Center’s West Concourse. Find out more about attending, exhibiting, sponsorships or other opportunities at surfexpo.com.
We, at Board Retailers Association, strongly encourage you to attend this massively important trade show. The new product ideas and business strategies that can be identified at the various educational seminars, networking forums, exhibitors booths and special events can make the difference between a normal or down season and a significant up season for your shop and enable you to recharge your battery and motivation. If you have never attended or it has been a while since you attended the show, be sure to email doug@boardretailers.com to inquire about possibly receiving free lodging at the January Show. You can learn more about Surf Expo and register by clicking the following link: https://boardretailers.org/surf-expo/ – Doug Works, Executive Director of BRA
If you are not yet a BRA Retail Member, you can easily opt in to either Regular (no cost) or Distinguished ($100/yr.) Membership via this super simple join form