The European Outdoor Group (EOG) realised its goal of increasing exhibitors and visitors by 20%, along with achieving cost reductions was not going to be met even after urging for more industry support last month.
OutDoor 2025 was initially scheduled to take place from 19-21 May and was supposed to showcase brands from apparel, footwear, equipment, hardware, technology, ingredients and various other sectors.
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Patagonia, Aku, EXPED, Devold, DMM, Gore, ICEBUG, Helinox, Stubai, Kamik, Sympatex, Sea to Summit, KEEN, Meindl, LOWA, LEKI, Marmot, Nordisk, Mountain Equipment, Rab, YKK, and Gregory were among the confirmed exhibitors.
EOG director Christian Schneidermeier said: “Sometimes, courageous decisions are needed. But beyond being courageous, our decision not to hold OutDoor in 2025 is logical. Despite our best efforts – ranging from a new trade fair concept to thorough discussions and appeals – the number of registrations that we have received to date indicates that we will not achieve the goals set for OutDoor 2025.
“If we cannot meet these targets of 20% more exhibitors and visitors, I believe that not holding the trade fair this year brings us greater opportunities than risks. At the same time, we are also expanding our strategic partnership with Messe München to strengthen our future endeavours.”
In addition, Messe München has also seen recent changes in its organisation, with Harald Kirchschlager assuming the role of executive director strategy and development for the ISPO Group.
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By GlobalDataExhibition director Lena Haushofer expressed disappointment over the suspension of OutDoor 2025 but remains positive about ISPO Munich 2025, which is expected to provide a valuable platform for the outdoor community’s future challenges.
Haushofer said: “We are undeniably disappointed, as we invested considerable energy into developing and promoting the new concept for OutDoor 2025. Nonetheless, we are confident that ISPO Munich 2025 will serve as an effective platform for addressing the pressing and relevant future issues of the outdoor community, both for exhibitors and visitors, given the current circumstances.”
The focus will now be on integrating these aspects into the hall and conference designs. Registration for ISPO Munich 2025 is set to commence next week.
The EOG is embracing transformation in 2025, which also includes preparing for board member and presidential elections. Schneidermeier is set to formally join the EOG in March this year.
Christian Schneidermeier added: “We will use 2025 to conduct necessary analyses and develop all measures needed to get off to a flying start again in 2026 – with new names on the board, fresh ideas and compelling formats that will offer real added value for industry participants.”
The outdoor sector has always stressed the need for a global networking and knowledge-sharing platform.
In lieu of OutDoor 2025, two key opportunities will arise: the EOG’s support of the Sustainability Hub at ISPO 2025 and the planning of a “Sustainability Conference” around the original OutDoor dates, EOG and Messe München noted.
Kirchschlager and Schneidermeier extend an invitation to all outdoor industry players to engage in both events at ISPO 2025 for meaningful dialogue.
The EOG has welcomed new members throughout 2024, with its membership reaching a total of 144.
