Slide, which is organised by the Snowsport Industries of Great Britain (SIGB), has reported a rise in visitor figures after a number of years of diminishing numbers. The trade show, which plays an important role in the UK snowsport industry, and specifically for snowsport and actionsport retailers, welcomed brands and manufacturers to the International Centre in Telford from 24-26 January to showcase next season’s products.
Running ahead of the European actionsport trade show ISPO, the importance of Slide has increased for the UK industry, and the show is the first time both retailers and media can see previews of next winter’s products. This makes for a productive show, with UK retailers making key buying decisions before heading to ISPO and the on-snow SIGB Ski Test which takes place from 5–9 March in Kühtai, Austria.
With the UK industry currently buoyed by the weak pound meaning the price of snowsports hardware and software lower in the UK than in Europe, coupled with outstanding performances at world-class level for British skiers and snowboarders, there was a positive energy around Slide. And despite the prospect of having to increase prices next season due to the uncertainty caused by Brexit, the mood remained optimistic and there was continued support of the SIGB campaign Go UK Buy UK, aimed at encouraging consumers to buy in the UK.
“We are delighted that visitor figures for Slide are up and that the downward trend has been arrested” said Slide organiser Lesley Back. “Feedback from exhibitors has been positive, with many of them reporting three busy days of back-to-back meetings. Slide has an important role to play in the UK snowsport industry, and will continue as a key fixture in the industry calendar.”