When Messe München attracts the international sports industry to Munich from February 3 to 6 the focus will once again be on the major themes of the industry: digitalization and sustainability.
More than 2,800 exhibitors have announced their participation, and around 80,000 trade visitors are expected to come to see the new collections and innovations in the industry for the 2019-20 season. The major trends in the industry are already clear: sustainability in the area of products, digitization in the area of processes and sport, and a stronger focus on consumers, which is also reflected in the development of new consumer events during the fair.
More sustainable efforts
Many brands in the sports industry are now striving for greater sustainability. A great deal has happened in recent years, especially in the area of materials. A whole range of brands are presenting their new, sustainable innovations at the fair. The North Face has announced the new Futurelight fabric technology with which the brand wants to revolutionize the industry. PrimaLoft wants to introduce the first biodegradable synthetic fiber, PrimaLoft Bio. Also 3M/Thinsulate presents its new sustainability concept, as well as many others. Experts will be talking about current developments and the urgency of this topic at the “CSR Hub & Sustainability Kiosk” in Hall A4.
Expanding snow sports, climbing and esports
Enthusiasm for winter sports remains unbroken. In Germany, around 15 million people go skiing and snowboarding. Although many are critical about the future of winter sports due to climate change, skiing remains one of the main elements of the trade fair. The hall concept that was expanded in 2018 has been extended further with the redesigned Hall B5.
Climbing has developed rapidly in recent years, too, especially in urban metropolises with the emergence of more climbing halls. In 2020, the sport will become an Olympic discipline for the first time, which will even draw more attention to the sports. Also bouldering gets more and more attention with an urban scene very interested in sustainability and casual looks. Other booming markets are still running–which is becoming relevant for winter, too, and fitness.
Esports will be part of the fair for the first time. It will be shown at the Ispo Digitize platform in Hall C6. Among other things, a friendly match will be taking place between Bayern Ballers Gaming and the Ispo community. Experts will also be providing insights into the potential and growth market of this trend sport.
Digitalization becomes integrated
After the first Ispo Digitize summit in summer 2018, the concept has now been further developed as part of the trade fair. The interest in new digital possibilities, whether in retail, product development, sourcing, marketing or big data, is unbroken, as is the need for exchange. The Ispo Digitize Area is located in Hall C6, where highlights include testing VR glasses and exploring the store of the future. The Brandnew finalists–all start-ups who will be presenting themselves to a broad audience for the first time at the fair–will also be presenting numerous new ideas in the field of digital tools. The range will be rounded off with expert lectures at the Ispo Academy.
Consumer involvement
Since 2018, end consumers have also been able to take advantage of the trade fair: Ispo Munich Sports Week (February 2-9, 2019) brings the passion for sports to downtown Munich and invites sports enthusiasts to take part in and try out numerous events–supported by many retailers and brands.
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