Outdoor Industry Association

BOULDER, CO --(Ammoland.com)- Outdoor Industry Association® (OIA) announced today that it is expanding its popular Outdoor University® program in 2012, quadrupling the number of live webinars it offers while also providing access to more recorded sessions on its Web site.

Outdoor University develops educational training and professional development sessions on topics relevant to retailers, manufacturers, and suppliers in the outdoor industry. In 2012, in addition to live sessions at Outdoor Retailer, Outdoor University is offering webinars—as frequently as twice weekly—on topics ranging from retail innovation, research, sustainability, best practices, trade and supply chains, and other issues the outdoor recreation industry faces.

OIA is expanding its educational opportunities in response to member demand and to provide resources to help outdoor recreation companies improve business processes and grow sales. Led by industry experts and business influencers, Outdoor University sessions give participants the option to join workshops and online discussions, or access recorded curriculum online, on-demand. Sessions are free for OIA members and available for a nominal fee to nonmembers.

“We are in a unique position to provide broad knowledge and information outdoor recreation companies need to solve key challenges and achieve business success,” said LaRae Marsik, vice president of business intelligence for OIA. “Our 2012 sessions cover a broad range of topics. These are valuable resources, yet we recognize that our members face time and resource constraints. By offering recorded sessions online, we are creating a valuable knowledge platform our members can access when they have time.”

New this year, Outdoor University is recording most of its live sessions—in addition to webinars—to provide members with greater access to OIA’s educational resources.

Outdoor University will present seven live sessions at Outdoor Retailer Winter Market this week. Topics range from the challenges of producing products in America, establishing and maintaining business credit, how to attract investment dollars, and supply-chain sustainability issues.

In addition, a live session February 7 at the University of Colorado will feature Patagonia CEO Casey Sheahan, discussing the challenges and opportunities he faces in running one of the most socially responsible companies in the world. Sheahan will demonstrate how Patagonia’s growth accelerated even faster when it brought total awareness to the full spectrum of its real-world impacts and extreme transparency to its daily operations.

OIA usually announces Outdoor University sessions two months in advance. For more information about Outdoor University and upcoming opportunities, visit outdoorindustry.org/events.outdooruniversity.php.

Outdoor Industry Association
Based in Boulder, Colorado, Outdoor Industry Association is the leading trade association for the outdoor industry and the title sponsor of Outdoor Retailer. OIA supports the growth and success of more than 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives, and retailers of outdoor recreation apparel, footwear, equipment, and services. For more information go to outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.

Weather Tempers Outdoor Retail December Sales Growth

Outdoor Industry Association

Boulder, CO --(Ammoland.com)- Outdoor Industry Association released its December OIA VantagePoint Monthly Trend Report, which reveals that outdoor product sales grew 5.3 percent to $2.20 billion in the five-week fiscal month of December.

The sales growth was tempered however by mounting concern over the impact of unseasonably warm and dry weather across much of the U.S.

November was the fifth warmest in 50 years and December was the warmest in North America since 2006 and the driest since 2001, according to Planalytics, a leading global provider of business weather intelligence. Snowfalls were the lowest since 1999, cutting into sales of seasonal products, including winter sports apparel, footwear and equipment.

“Unseasonable weather is once again the topic of fevered discussion, as everyone from specialty shops to department stores to family footwear stores is singing the weather blues,” said James Hartford, Chief Market Analyst at SportsOneSource Group.

“However, the outdoor apparel business is still getting a lift from the specialty and fashion side of the market. Those consumers ‘want’ to spend even as the middle- and lower-end of the market struggle with the impact of weather on the ‘need’ to purchase winter product.”

Outdoor Footwear sales dipped 1.9 percent to $408.7 million in the fiscal month of December, with results at retail hurt by a sagging winter boots business. Winter boots surrendered market share to the still-strong Barefoot Running and Minimalist Running categories, which in December combined to represent 13.9 percent of all Outdoor Footwear sales, up from 7.1 percent in December 2010.

December sales growth for Outdoor Hardgoods fell short of the year-to-date trend, up 1.8 percent to $577.3 million in the channels tracked by SportScanInfo for OIA VantagePoint. As in Outdoor Apparel, sales for the month were strongest at the beginning and the end of the period, with flat sales growth in between. Snow Sports product sales were challenged the most, down nearly 15 percent overall, with some key categories like Snow Shoes down by nearly a third versus December 2010.

Outdoor Apparel sales were a bright spot, up 9.8 percent to $1.22 billion. Apparel sales grew nicely in specialty outdoor channels, up 14.8 percent in December, as nearly one-third of all Outdoor Apparel was sold through specialty channels. The Internet channel posted the strongest increase in Outdoor Apparel sales for the month, up 44.5 percent.

“Looking forward, reports indicates that some outdoor retailers may take Spring 2012 deliveries early, pulling February shipments into January where possible,” noted Hartford. “Vendors are working with key chain and specialty retailers to work through the inventory overhang. We are nearly past the point of full recovery at this point of the season and any shift back to normal weather patterns will only help vendors and retailers minimize the impact and liquidate product faster at lower prices and smaller margins.”

OIA members can access the OIA VantagePoint monthly trend report for December 2011 by logging in to outdoorindustry.org/vantagepoint.

OIA VantagePoint is the first and only full market point-of-sale data view built specifically for Outdoor Industry Association members. OIA VantagePoint provides comprehensive visibility into the outdoor marketplace by tracking weekly point‐of‐sale data from over 10,000 retail doors and websites carrying outdoor products, including over 350 outdoor specialty locations.

About Outdoor Industry Association
Based in Boulder, Colorado, Outdoor Industry Association is the leading trade association for the outdoor industry and the title sponsor of Outdoor Retailer. OIA supports the growth and success of more than 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers of outdoor recreation apparel, footwear, equipment and services. For more information about OIA go to outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.

About The SportsOneSource Group
The SportsOneSource Group is a full service market research company delivering solutions through consumer insight research, retail insight research and retail point‐of‐sale trending and analysis. The company provides the most reliable, timely and comprehensive sports and outdoor industry information available in the market today. SportScanInfo is a SportsOneSource technology platform developed to compile, aggregate and disseminate aggregated retail point‐of‐sale information. SportsOneSource also publishes the Sports Executive Weekly and The B.O.S.S. Report executive newsletters, along with the SGB, SGD TEAM Business and SGB Performance print publications and their related online, e‐mail and digital products. For more information about The SportsOneSource Group call 704.987.3450 or go to SportsOneSource.com.

Outdoor Industry Association

BOULDER, COLO. --(Ammoland.com)- Celebrating the rejuvenation and spirit that inspires so many people to embrace the active outdoor lifestyle, the OIA Outdoor Inspiration Awards presented by adidas Outdoor today announced the four winners voted to receive 2012 honors.

The winners of the 2012 OIA Outdoor Inspiration Awards presented by adidas Outdoor are:

• Erik Weihenmayer – PERSON
• National Outdoor Leadership School – GROUP
• Nantahala Outdoor Center – COMPANY
• The North Face – COMPANY

The OIA Outdoor Inspiration Awards presented by adidas Outdoor recognize those who inspire others to appreciate and recreate in the outdoors, and the 2012 winners were selected from hundreds of moving stories of inspirational efforts from all over the world.

Erik Weihenmayer became an accomplished mountain climber, paraglider and skier, despite losing his vision at the age of 13 with the belief that, disabled or not, you should always live your life as if there are no limits. Alongside Erik as finalists in the People category are Marilyn Price, Founding Director, Trips for Kids and Rebecca Cohen, Author of 15 Minutes Outside: 365 Ways to get out of the House and Connect with your Kids.

National Outdoor Leadership School, the 2012 Group winner, is a non-profit group that has educated more than 200,000 students in wilderness skills and leadership, operating on the firm belief that positive, ethical leaders change the world. Paradox Sports, an organization that helps the physically disabled to participate in human-powered outdoor sports, and Skirt Sport’s Kick Start Personal Motivator program, which pairs women with barriers to fitness with female mentors to help them train for their first 5K race, were also named finalists in the Group category out of a highly competitive field of nominations.

Since it first opened as a small rafting company on the banks of the Nantahala River, Small Company category winner Nantahala Outdoor Center has worked to inspire and encourage people of all ages and backgrounds to get outside, be active, and improve their lifestyles by enjoying the outdoors. Additional finalists, selected from dozens of nominations in the category, included Boardworks, a company that strives to make stand-up paddle more fun for more people, and Nevado Mountain Adventures, which offers consumers the opportunity to try new ski gear on their own terms at special demos at the nation’s resorts.

Large Company winner The North Face pushes the boundaries of innovation and design so that outdoor enthusiasts can push the boundaries of exploration, all while committing itself to protecting and preserving outdoor playgrounds and engaging communities in outdoor efforts. KEEN, recognized for their light-hearted “Recess is Back” campaign, and Merrell, with their welcome encouragement of outdoor adventures, were also named finalists in this category.

Hundreds of business and outdoor leaders will gather at the Capitol Theatre in Salt Lake City during the evening of Friday, January 20, 2012, at Outdoor Retailer Winter Market, one of the largest annual gatherings of outdoor-involved companies, to recognize each of these inspiring influencers affecting outdoor recreation today. World-renowned mountaineer Reinhold Messner and 2011 International Federation of Sport Climbing World Champion Sasha DiGiulian will act as the official emcees of the OIA Outdoor Inspiration Awards ceremony, and share their motivations and how they “pay it forward.” For more information on the OIA Outdoor Inspiration Awards celebration, visit www.outdoorindustry.org/inspire.

Outdoor Industry Association
Based in Boulder, CO, Outdoor Industry Association® is the leading trade association for the outdoor industry and the title sponsor of Outdoor Retailer. OIA supports the growth and success of more than 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers of outdoor recreation apparel, footwear, equipment and services. For more information go to outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353

adidas Outdoor
adidas Outdoor is the athletic brand in the outdoors. The company’s founder, Adi Dassler, designed equipment solutions for athletes that improved their performance. adidas Outdoor began in the 1970’s with the creation of the first light trekking shoe for climbing legend Reinhold Messner for his first Everest ascent without oxygen in 1978. That tradition continues today with products influenced by Messner and Alexander and Thomas Huber, the extraordinary brothers who consistently inspire the climbing community with their bold adventures in a unique style that is light and fast.

Outdoor Industry Association

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, Calif. --(Ammoland.com)- Although still six weeks away, Outdoor Retailer Winter Market’s more than 100 new exhibitors and nearly 900 returning exhibitors, are preparing for the industry’s leading business-to-business wintersports event bringing more extensive product categories, new technology and a better attendee experience.

Building on back-to-back record breaking show footprint*, the footprint for Winter Market has already eclipsed last year’s total by more than 25,000 net-sold square feet. The expanded show floor will be busy with an expected 7,000 retail attendees.
OR Winter Market

“While retailers are in the throes of early season sales and a very busy holiday season, outdoor brands are pulling together their newest technology, best products and most compelling sales programs to introduce at Outdoor Retailer,” said Kenji Haroutunian, Outdoor Retailer show director. “Kicking off the New Year at Outdoor Retailer is a great opportunity to absorb ‘big picture’ product trends, gain industry intelligence and recharge professional connections. We’re looking forward to another awesome show.”

Retailers looking to get their hands on the latest wintersports gear at the All Mountain Demo will be thrilled by the world class conditions at Solitude Mountain Resort and the latest gear from more than 40 elite wintersports brands.

Salomon will be making the most of its time with dealers, outfitting demo attendees with a new backcountry binding mounted on a updated version of its most popular all mountain ski.

“Historically OR is not an alpine hardgoods show for us, rather, for unveiling our newest innovation in backcountry skiing products. This year, however, OR is that perfect place,” said Salomon Alpine Brand Manager Jenny Naftulin. “In addition to what we will show at the on-snow demo, we’ve significantly added on to our booth indoors to include a showcase area for the new bindings, alpine boots, helmet line and a new women’s powder ski.”

Ongoing advances in eco-minded technology means retailers will see a wider range of product offerings from distributor, Liberty Mountain. Four hundred square feet of the company’s recently expanded booth will be dedicated to representing new eco-minded sleeping bags, backpacks and more from Vaude .

Additional space also proves valuable for brands interested in providing a very specific brand experience and merchandising ideas for retailers. The expanded Smartwool booth will include a new lounge area, a wall made from Colorado beetle-kill trees with green glass embedded throughout, a “tufted” fabric wall made from Merino wool and a gallery-style garment display to help colors and patterns stand out from the crowd.

“At the heart of our brand is this joyfulness that can be found when friends gather together outside and create memories. The additional space helps bring the brand personality to life and lets each of our product categories shine,” said Jennifer Wilkinson, Smartwool global visual marketing specialist.

These exhibiting brands join a long line of core outdoor manufacturers who are exhibiting at the All Mountain Demo and Outdoor Retailer Winter Market. The extensive list of exhibiting brands is available here.

For more information on how to participate as an exhibitor, contact Outdoor Retailer Sales Manager Marisa Nicholson at marisa.nicholson@nielsen.com or 949-226-5760. Retailers and trade members of the outdoor industry interested in registering for Winter Market can review registration requirements here.

* Net-sold square feet for Winter Market 2011 was 351,251. This number represents the highest net-sold, square feet for Winter Market since its inception in 1989.

About Outdoor Retailer
Outdoor Retailer (OR), produced by Nielsen Expositions of San Juan Capistrano, Calif., is a full-service trade show company that creates, markets and produces high-quality expos and educational conferences. OR is the leading outdoor industry business-to-business event management company, bringing together manufacturers, retailers, industry advocates and media to conduct the business of outdoor recreation. Now celebrating more than 25 years of successful events, Outdoor Retailer gathers approximately 40,000 attendees on a semi-annual basis for its Winter and Summer Market shows.

Preview the future of the outdoor industry at the Outdoor Retailer Winter Market, which will bring the best of winter product offerings to Salt Lake City at the All Mountain Demo from January 18, 2012 and the trade show from January 19-22, 2012.

Outdoor Industry Association

Boulder, CO --(Ammoland.com)- Outdoor Industry Association released its October OIA VantagePoint Monthly Trend Report, which reveals that outdoor product sales in October grew 7.0 percent to $735.3 million.

Wintery blasts brought snow and cold to many parts of the country, boosting early season sales of outdoor apparel and hardgoods.

Year‐to‐date outdoor product sales were up 6.3 percent to $7.7 billion for the nine‐month fiscal retail period running February through October.

“While retailers in the broader market may attribute some seasonal sales trends to inclement weather, outdoor product retailers rely on the first real sign of winter to get the seasonal business moving,” said LaRae Marsik, Vice President Business Intelligence at OIA.

“For example, sales of Outdoor Apparel spiked during the last week of October as consumers bought winter outerwear then wore it out the door.”

Independent Outdoor Specialty posted a 10.0 percent increase in sales and Outdoor Chain Specialty posted 13.2 percent growth for the month. The Internet channel also was up 16.4 percent for the October period. The solid increase in sales was in sharp contrast to — and in part a result of — the double‐digit declines posted by the outdoor product market in the 2010 October period.

Outdoor Apparel sales increased 8.4 percent to $298.6 million for the month of October. Apparel started the month with solid mid‐single digit growth but really picked up at the end of the month as winter threatened much of the U.S. Several flash winter storms brought the “buy now, wear now” consumer into stores, which helped reverse the negative results in October 2010 when Outdoor Apparel sales were down 7.0 percent.

Sales of Outdoor Footwear improved 8.4 percent to $150.8 million. The October growth rate, hurt by declines in the Independent Outdoor Specialty, Department Store and Family Footwear channels, fell below the year‐to‐date growth trend for the first time since June 2011.

Outdoor Hardgoods sales posted solid growth in fiscal October, up 4.7 percent to $275.9 million. Early snow in several parts of the country, including in the Rockies, had an expected and desirable effect on Snow Sports product sales within the Hardgoods category. Sales of overall Snow Sports products were up 9.1 percent for the month, and were up more than 32 percent in the combined outdoor specialty channels, the destination of choice for the dedicated winter sports athlete that reacts to the first hint of a seasonal weather shift to pursue their passion for the outdoors. The other chain and volume channels generally see bigger gains when the winter trends are more widespread and tend to affect consumers’ everyday lifestyle.

“Looking ahead to the holidays, outdoor product sales will be influenced by where and when snow and cold weather arrives in earnest for the season,” said Marsik.

“Bargain-hunters will find that most retailers finished the season last year with fairly clean inventories so there is little product for early promotions. With Christmas Eve falling on a Saturday this year, cost-conscious consumers may wait until the very last minute to land a discount on their chosen outdoor product gifts.”

OIA members can access the OIA VantagePoint™ monthly trend report for October 2011 by logging in to outdoorindustry.org/vantagepoint.

OIA VantagePoint is the first and only full market point-of-sale data view built specifically for Outdoor Industry Association members. OIA VantagePoint™ provides comprehensive visibility into the outdoor marketplace by tracking weekly point‐of‐sale data from over 10,000 retail doors and websites carrying outdoor products, including over 350 outdoor specialty locations.

About Outdoor Industry Association
Outdoor Industry Association® is the leading trade association for the outdoor industry and the title sponsor of Outdoor Retailer. OIA supports the growth and success of more than 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers of outdoor recreation apparel, footwear, equipment and services. For more information about OIA go to outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.

About The SportsOneSource Group
The SportsOneSource Group is a full service market research company delivering solutions through consumer insight research, retail insight research and retail point‐of‐sale trending and analysis. The company provides the most reliable, timely and comprehensive sports and outdoor industry information available in the market today. SportScanInfo is a SportsOneSource technology platform developed to compile, aggregate and disseminate aggregated retail point‐of‐sale information. SportsOneSource also publishes the Sports Executive Weekly and The B.O.S.S. Report executive newsletters, along with the SGB, SGD TEAM Business and SGB Performance print publications and their related online, e‐mail and digital products. For more information about The SportsOneSource Group call 704.987.3450 or go to SportsOneSource.com.

Outdoor Industry Association

Washington, DC --(Ammoland.com)- A group of ten young adult leaders from across the United States are in Washington, D.C. this week to champion outdoor issues.

Including full funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund, increased outdoor opportunities in schools, easier access to the outdoors for underserved communities and perhaps most of all – a permanent seat at the ‘adult’ table where decisions about youth and protections for the outdoors are made.

These Outdoor Nation Ambassadors and other youth leaders will meet with high-level administration officials from the White House, Department of Interior and Congress. The Ambassadors represent thousands of outdoor enthusiasts that are part of Outdoor Nation, the youth-led movement championing the outdoors.

“We are proud to empower young adults and allow their voices to be heard,” said Chris Fanning, the executive director of The Outdoor Foundation, the organization that oversees Outdoor Nation.

“If policy-makers in Washington listen to these innovative, passionate youth leaders, we will be more successful in reconnecting young people to the outdoors, reversing America’s catastrophic inactivity crisis and protecting our outdoor heritage, which belongs to the next generation.”

Outdoor Nation’s “Take Action” Week in Washington is part of a larger effort bringing Americans to the nation’s capital to voice support for the outdoors. Outdoor Nation Ambassadors will discuss with policy-makers Interior Secretary Ken Salazar’s new America’s Great Outdoors initiative along with specific issues such as the Land and Water Conservation Fund, the designation of new monuments and other protections for public lands, and increased support for federal programs that reconnect youth and the outdoors.

“Our generation can organize and mobilize like no other generation in history,” said Outdoor Nation Ambassador Kimberly Banzhaf from Colorado. “I am joining with thousands of other young leaders to focus our passion, energy and creative spirit on the important outdoor issues that have been tossed aside, especially during the nation’s economic downturn.”

Outdoor Nation “Take Action” Week continues the momentum of the 2011 Summer Youth Summits, which brought young leaders together in a weekend forum to address the growing disconnect between youth and the outdoors. During each regional Summit, young people discussed regional outdoor issues and brainstormed project ideas that strengthen America’s connection to its outdoor spaces.

From September 20 to 22, Ambassadors will meet with Secretary Salazar, White House representatives from the Council on Environmental Quality and Members of Congress. In addition, Outdoor Nation leaders will meet with top officials from National Park Service, USDA Forest Service, US Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation.

Outdoor Nation Ambassador Juan Herrera from California will also participate in a briefing for Capitol Hill on Thursday, September 22, with Senator Mark Udall (D-CO), Congressman Ron Kind (D-WI) and corporate and nonprofit members from the Outdoor Alliance for Kids Coalition. The panelists will outline the benefits of connecting youth and the outdoors, including health and economic benefits.

Outdoor Nation is an initiative of The Outdoor Foundation and was founded with initial support from The North Face, Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation, The REI Foundation, The Conservation Fund and the National Park Service.

Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2011 Open Air Demo

Outdoor Industry Association

SALT LAKE CITY, UT --(Ammoland.com)- Close to 2,000 attendees, including 20 percent more retailers than last year, tested the latest outdoor gear on the water and trails at Jordanelle State Park in Park City, Utah on Wednesday, August 3 at the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market Open Air Demo (OAD).

A record-breaking 153 exhibitors (over 200 brands) showed retailers a sneak peek of next year’s paddlesports, endurance sports, cycling, fly-fishing, footwear, camping, apparel, and other outdoor equipment and accessories.

Attendees participated in events like It’s A Shore Thing Trail Run, Paddle/Pedal Challenge, Sustainable Living Roadshow, GPS Treasure Hunt, Fly Fishing competition and the chance to set a world record by paddling the largest SUP (stand up paddleboarding) board with SUPzilla.

“This is an outstanding event and a great location for it; it’s absolutely beautiful out here. We’re seeing a lot of retailers and a lot of people interested in paddling and growing the excitement and enthusiasm for the sport (SUP). It’s clear that when people try this sport they become interested in buying what we’re selling, so it’s an incredibly important thing for us to be able to get people on the water.” Huntley Dornan, Surftech President/CEO

“We’re reaching a lot of new customers here we wouldn’t have anticipated. People are walking by saying ‘Hey, I’m interested in a bike,’ and some of these people are wobbling out of here, but they’re getting excited and taking an interest in bikes again. I think it’s really important to be involved in this event.” Dennis Holliday, Raleigh America Utah/Nevada Territory Manager

“I think the show stepped it up this year, there’s definitely more brands here at the lake, which makes it really nice. The touchy-feely, that’s what you want. The Salt Palace is nice, but I can’t ride a paddleboard down the hallway. Even if a product I see here doesn’t fit into my niche and I don’t carry it, I can try it and tell other people about it.” Wayne Bair, Search Gear, Dan Diego, Ca.

“It’s so important to be at this event, because you never really know unless you do it. You can get out there and try things and compare and see what’s new. It’s nice to be able to test products back-to-back and do an apples-to-apples comparison. I think everybody you need to see is here.” Wes Morrison, Kittredge Sports, Mammoth Lakes, Calif.

Attendees now head to the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City for Summer Market 2011, four days of business education, events, networking and finalizing buying decisions.

For photos of Outdoor Retailer Summer Market (including Open Air Demo) and the most recent show happenings, visit www.facebook.com/outdoorretailer or www.twitter.com/outdoorretailer and #orshow.

Photo: Thirty paddlers bring “SUPzilla” to shore during the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market open Air Demo. The enormous board built by C4Waterman established a new world record for the largest standup paddleboard.

About Outdoor Retailer
Outdoor Retailer (OR) brings together retailers, manufacturers, industry advocates and media to conduct the business of outdoor recreation through trade shows, product demo events and web-based business solutions. Produced by Nielsen Expositions and based in San Juan Capistrano, California, Outdoor Retailer also provides and promotes retailer education, advocacy, responsibility and critical face-to-face business initiatives within the outdoor industry.

Now celebrating 30 years, Outdoor Retailer (www.outdoorretailer.com) connects approximately 40,000 attendees on a semi-annual basis for its Summer and Winter Market shows, and thousands more through its year-round online resources and platforms.

Outdoor Industry Association

Boulder, CO --(Ammoland.com)- Outdoor Industry Association announced today the newly elected 2011-2012 board of directors. The board also elected its new officers including incoming Chair, Will Manzer, CEO of Eastern Mountain Sports.

“It is an honor to serve as chair of the OIA Board,” said Manzer. “After serving the last seven years on the board, I feel we have seen real traction in growing the industry. I look forward to working with my fellow board members and continuing that progress.”

Chosen by the membership, the OIA board consists of 18 voting members and 10 appointed non-voting members, who may serve up to two consecutive, three-year terms. In addition, this year, the outgoing chair Dan Templin, CFO at VF Outdoor Inc. exercised his right to appoint a one-term second vice chair.

As his first responsibility as the incoming chair, Manzer will award Peter Metcalf, co-founder, CEO, president and chairman of Black Diamond Equipment, with the rarely presented OIA Chairman’s Award for his unprecedented leadership, commitment and inspiration during service to the OIA board.

“For our industry, Peter has been both guiding light and driving force,” said Manzer. “As an OIA board member, Peter helped us find our economic voice and set a high standard for active engagement. Whether in the field, the board room or the halls of Capitol Hill, Peter represents our industry with unparalleled passion and we are grateful for his service.”

Newly elected voting members include:

• Carolyn Brodsky, President, Sterling Rope
• Fred Clark, CEO, Thule
• Bob Holding, Co-Founder, Waypoint Outdoor
• Gordon Seabury, CEO, Horny Toad
• Brian Unmacht, EVP, REI
• Zohar Ziv, COO, Deckers Outdoor Corp.

Newly appointed non-voting members include:

• Travis Campbell, President & CEO, Far Bank Enterprises
• Mark Taylor, Amer Sports
• Andy Vecchione, Polartec

Continuing to serve on the board are:

• Sutton Bacon, President & CEO, Nantahala Outdoors
• Tom Barney, CEO, Osprey
• Todd Bradley, Co-Founder, C4 Waterman
• Peter Bragdon, Senior Vice President of Legal and Corporate Affairs, Columbia Sportswear Company
• Mark Bryden, Vice President and General Manager, The Timberland Company
• Darren Bush, Owner, Rutabaga Paddlesports
• Estelle DeMuesy, President, Title Nine Sports
• David Kulow, Owner, All Terrain (Rosemont Ventures, Inc.)
• David Labistour, CEO Mountain Equipment Co-op
• David Loechner, Senior Vice President, Nielsen Business Media
• Will Manzer, CEO, Eastern Mountain Sports, Chair
• Ed McAlister, Owner, River Sports Outfitters
• Jennifer Mull, CEO, Backwoods Equipment
• Casey Sheahan, CEO, Patagonia
• Steve Shuster, W. L. Gore, Gore Enterprise Communications
• Bill Sweasy, Chairman & CEO, Red Wing Shoe Company
• Dan Templin, CFO, VF Outdoor Inc. (Past Chair)
• Sue Rechner, President, CEO and Director, Confluence Watersports
• Kim Walker, Founder & President, outdoor DIVAS
• Jim Zwiers, President, Wolverine Outdoor Group, Wolverine World Wide Inc.

The board also elected the following people to serve as board officers:

• Will Manzer, CEO, Eastern Mountain Sports, Chair (pictured)
• Brian Unmacht, EVP, REI, Vice Chair
• Bill Sweasy, CEO, Red Wing Shoe Company, Vice Chair
• Zohar Ziv, COO, Deckers Outdoor Corporation, Treasurer
• Jennifer Mull, CEO, Backwoods Equipment, Secretary

The OIA Board of Directors responsibilities are to develop policies, procedures and regulations for the operation of OIA; to monitor OIA’s financial health, programs and overall performance; to develop, maintain and approve a long-term strategic plan that prepares the industry and association for the future; and to provide the OIA president with the resources to meet the needs of OIA members.

About Outdoor Industry Association
Based in Boulder, CO, Outdoor Industry Association is the leading trade association for the outdoor industry and the title sponsor of Outdoor Retailer. OIA supports the growth and success of more than 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers of outdoor recreation apparel, footwear, equipment and services. For more information go to outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.

Outdoor Industry Association

BOULDER, CO --(Ammoland.com)- Representative Dave Reichert (R-WA) and Representative Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) have introduced the United States Optimal Use of Trade to Develop Outerwear and Outdoor Recreation (“U.S. OUTDOOR”) Act in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) applauded the introduction and thanked Congressman Reichert and Congressman Blumenauer for their tireless efforts to get this important legislation introduced.

The U.S. OUTDOOR Act would create new classifications within the U.S Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) that are specific and unique to “recreational performance outerwear” – apparel used for hiking, fishing, hunting and other outdoor activities where protection from the elements is essential. The legislation would make imports under those classifications duty free, reflecting an International Trade Commission report that showed there is no commercially viable production of recreational performance outerwear in the United States.

The U.S. OUTDOOR Act is the top trade priority for OIA and represents several years of development by a broad spectrum of businesses in the outdoor industry and OIA, in conjunction with the American textile and apparel industry.

“The sale of performance outerwear for hiking, biking, skiing, snowboarding, paddling and other outdoor activities is a major driver of business for outdoor companies. The U.S. OUTDOOR Act helps encourage the development of innovative and affordable performance outerwear, which in turn supports the enjoyment of the outdoors by consumers,” said Matt Hyde, executive vice president of REI.

“We appreciate the leadership of Congressman Reichert and the other sponsors in supporting a vibrant and growing industry that benefits both the economy and the promotion of healthy, active outdoor activities.”

The U.S. OUTDOOR Act specifically addresses an unnecessary barrier to participation in outdoor activities by Americans. The disproportionately high tariffs assessed against recreational performance outerwear can add as much as 28 percent to its retail cost. This is supported by a recent study by The Outdoor Foundation, which found that among young adults ages 18 to 24, hesitation about spending money on gear and equipment is the third most cited reason limiting outdoor activities.

“We view today’s introduction of the U.S. OUTDOOR Act as a postive step for U.S. consumers and specialty retailers of outdoor products,” said Outdoor Research Vice President Clark Campbell. “As both an importer and domestic manufacturer of outdoor products, we endorse legislation that will lower our costs, allowing us to invest in new product innovations and employment opportunities at our headquarters in Seattle. We are grateful to Congressman Reichert for introducing the U.S. OUTDOOR Act and for his support of the outdoor industry.”

OIA is organizing several trips to Washington, D.C. to bring additional co-sponsors for the U.S. OUTDOOR Act in both the House and Senate and invite OIA members to participate in those meetings. OIA also encourages its outdoor companies to contact their members of Congress to request support for the legislation.

Outdoor Industry Association

BOULDER, CO --(Ammoland.com)- The 2011 Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) Friend of the Outdoor Industry Awards will be presented to Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) in recognition of their leadership in support of the active outdoor recreation industry.

The awards will be presented later today during the annual Outdoor Industry Association Capitol Summit in Washington, D.C.

“Senator Burr and Senator Wyden have demonstrated strong leadership on behalf of the outdoor recreation industry. They have both led significant legislation initiatives that ensure the growth of our nation’s recreation infrastructure and the health of the outdoor industry supply chain,” said Frank Hugelmeyer, president & CEO of OIA. “We are deeply thankful for their efforts.”

Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) is a member of the Senate Finance Committee where he is chair of the subcommittee on Trade, Customs and Global Competitiveness. He also serves on the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, where he chairs the Subcommittee on Public Lands and Forests. These two committee assignments make him a key and valued advocate for the OIA Policy Agenda on both trade and recreation issues.

Wyden is the lead sponsor of the OIA signature trade initiative, the U.S. OUTDOOR Act, legislation that would create distinct classifications for outdoor performance apparel, eliminate import tariffs on these products and use a portion of those duty savings to reinvest back in U.S.-based organizations that advance research into sustainable textile and apparel production.

On public lands and conservation, Senator Wyden, has been a vocal advocate in support of funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), the National Park Service and the Forest Legacy Program — all programs central to preserving public lands for recreation in America.

Wyden was a cosponsor of S. 2747, the Land and Water Conservation Authorization and Funding Act, legislation that would fully fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund. In advocating for passage of the bill, Senator Wyden recognized outdoor recreation as a huge “economic bonanza for our nation” during a speech on the Senate floor.

Peter Bragdon, general counsel at Columbia Sportswear, will present the award to Sen. Wyden at tonight’s Friend of the Outdoor Industry Awards reception on Capitol Hill.

“Senator Wyden’s leadership on trade issues will ensure the development of innovative products, make performance outerwear more affordable for consumers and will stimulate job growth in the outdoor recreation industry,” said Bragdon.

Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) is a member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources Committee, where he serves as Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on National Parks. In this role, he has proven to be an important Republican ally and leader in the fight for increased funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund.

In the 111th Congress, Senator Burr stepped forward as an unabashed champion of full funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund. Sen. Burr carried his support directly to Republican and Democratic leadership, authoring a letter that three of his Republican colleagues signed, stating:

“The LWCF has enjoyed strong bi-partisan support since it was authorized more than 45 years ago. Americans throughout the nation have enjoyed the national parks, forests and refuges that have benefited from the program, as well as state and local neighborhood parks in countless communities in every state. Hunting, fishing, camping, climbing, hiking, paddling, backcountry skiing, mountain biking, wildlife viewing and other activities contribute a total of $730 billion annually to the economy, supporting 6.5 million jobs and stimulating eight percent of all consumer spending according to the Outdoor Industry Foundation. Numerous conservation, sportsmen and industry groups support full and dedicated funding for this program.”

Sutton Bacon, CEO of Nantahala Outdoor Center will present the 2011 Friend of the Outdoor Industry Award to Senator Burr.

“Senator Burr worked tirelessly with OIA and the LWCF coalition through the fall and into the final days of the congressional session to advocate for full funding for LWCF to develop strategies to see it over the finish line. While the effort was ultimately unsuccessful, Senator Burr’s leadership made full funding for LWCF a bi-partisan issue and set us up to continue the fight,” said Bacon.

The Friend of the Outdoor Industry Award is presented annually to members of Congress and administration officials in recognition for their leadership in support of the active outdoor recreation industry.

Past recipients of the Friend of the Outdoor Industry Award include:

• 2010: Congressman Mike Castle (R-DE), Congressman Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) and Senator Jeff Bingaman (D-NM).
• 2009: Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Congressman Raul Grijalva (D-AZ)
• 2008: Senator Gordon Smith (R-OR), Representative Mark Udall (D-CO)
• 2007: Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne, Senator Lamar Alexander (R-TN). Senator Thomas Carper (D-DE), Senator Ken Salazar (D-CO)
• 2006: Senator Conrad Burns (R-MT), Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), Senator Judd Gregg (R-NH), Senator Ken Salazar (D-CO)
• 2005: Senator Lamar Alexander (R-TN) and Senator Mary Landrieu (D-LA)
• 2004: Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Representative Sherwood Boehlert (R-NY)
• 2003: Representative David Obey (D-WI), Representative Nancy Johnson (R-CT)
• 2002: Representative Norm Dicks (D-WA)
• 2001: Representative George Miller (D-CA), Senator Mike DeWine (R-OH)

About Outdoor Industry Association
Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a national trade association whose mission is to ensure the growth and success of the outdoor industry. OIA provides trade services for over 4000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers in the outdoor industry. OIA programs include representation in government/legislative affairs, market and social research, business-to-business services and youth outreach initiatives. Educational events include the annual Rendezvous, Outdoor University, and the Capitol Summit. Outdoor Industry Association is based in Boulder, Colorado, and is the title sponsor of the Outdoor Retailer tradeshows. For more information go to www.outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.

Outdoor Industry Association

BOULDER, CO --(Ammoland.com)- Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) announces the hire of I Ling Matthews-Thompson as vice president of communications. Thompson brings more than 14 years of experience in strategic communications, campaign marketing and public relations. She will officially join the OIA management team on April 18.

“We are excited to welcome I Ling to the OIA leadership team. Her extensive experience in working with high profile clients like the CDC, American Cancer Society, and Pfizer Inc., her gained knowledge at The Nature Conservancy, combined with her obvious passion for the active outdoor lifestyle will be a great asset to OIA and our members,” said OIA President and CEO Frank Hugelmeyer. “The outdoor industry has a tremendous story to tell, and we look forward to I Ling’s contribution to help us tell that story.”

I Ling Matthews-Thompson

Thompson comes to OIA from The Nature Conservancy, where she has held numerous marketing leadership positions where she was responsible for the marketing strategy and planning, media relations and communications, including director of marketing for the Conservancy’s North America priorities, as well as the director of field marketing covering the Southern region, global freshwater work, Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America.

Most recently, I Ling led the Conservancy’s communications response to the Gulf of Mexico oil spill. Prior to her seven years at the Conservancy, Thompson was an account supervisor and founding member of Porter Novelli’s Health Care and Social Marketing Practice in Atlanta, Ga., and worked as an account executive at Edelman Public Relations.

“The outdoor industry is poised to make a significant impact in the future of our society and the natural world,” said Thompson. “Everyone from youth to adults benefits from the experiences found in the outdoors. Outdoor Industry Association will play a significant role in making this happen, and I am thrilled to be a part of it.”

Thompson is a graduate of University of Georgia where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in public relations and received a Richard Yarbrough Public Relations Scholarship. A firm believer in the active outdoor lifestyle, Thompson is an avid mountain biker, adventure racer and professional spin instructor.

Outdoor Industry Association
Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a national trade association whose mission is to ensure the growth and success of the outdoor industry. OIA provides trade services for over 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers in the outdoor industry. OIA provides industry-defining resources and support in government/legislative affairs, market and social research, business‐to-business services and youth outreach initiatives. Ongoing education opportunities and strategic business workshops provided by OIA include the annual Rendezvous®, Outdoor University® sessions, and the Capitol Summit. Outdoor Industry Association is based in Boulder, Colorado, and is the title sponsor of the Outdoor Retailer tradeshows. For more information about OIA go to www.outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.

Outdoor Industry Association

BOULDER, CO --(Ammoland.com)- Following the earthquakes and tsunamis in Southeast Asia, the earthquake in Haiti, and the attacks on 9/11, the members of Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) responded with an amazing demonstration of support and provided critical supplies for emergency disaster relief.

OIA, working with AmeriCares, is once again calling on members to dig deep to support those areas devastated by earthquake and tsunami in Japan.

At this time, the Japanese government is not requesting external product and medical support. However, if you have local manufacturing facilities or affiliates in Japan and are interested in donating products in-country, AmeriCares can explore possibilities for matching what you have available with the current product needs, which include:

• Blankets
• Hygiene products
• Heating pads

To donate these urgently needed products from locations within Japan or to make a financial donation to the relief effort, contact Henna Viinikka at AmeriCares at 203.658.9526 or hviinikka@americares.org.

Due to the amazing response from the nation, AmeriCares is having trouble replying to everyone in a timely manner, but they will respond. OIA will continue to publish updated needs throughout the relief effort.

Outdoor Industry Association Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a national trade association whose mission is to ensure the growth and success of the outdoor industry. OIA provides trade services for over 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers in the outdoor industry. OIA provides industry-defining resources and support in government/legislative affairs, market and social research, business-to-business services and youth outreach initiatives. Ongoing education opportunities and strategic business workshops provided by OIA include the annual Rendezvous, Outdoor University sessions, and the Capitol Summit. Outdoor Industry Association is based in Boulder, Colorado, and is the title sponsor of the Outdoor Retailer tradeshows. For more information about OIA go to www.outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.

Outdoor Industry Association

BOULDER, COLO. --(Ammoland.com)- The outdoor industry has been recognized by GreenBiz.com for its leadership in advancing sustainable business practices in 2010 via the groundbreaking, collaboratively-developed OIA Eco Index product environmental footprinting tool.

As stated by Joel Makower, Chairman and Executive Editor of GreenBiz Group, “Transparency doesn’t come without a great deal of investigation and quantification, the metrics of which are still in their infancy. Those metrics took a leap forward, at least for one industry, with the emergence of the Eco Index.” He continues, “This is a terrific example of industry collaboration to solve collective challenges and get all players speaking the same language and using the same yardsticks.”

OIA launched the Eco Index in August and it is currently being piloted by more than 100 companies both within and beyond the outdoor industry.

The Eco Index was one of just ten stories selected by Makower — from a pool of over 2,000 published on GreenBiz.com in 2010 — as the year’s top significant developments in the world of sustainable business.

“Inclusion on this list is an honor and is a testament to the commitment the outdoor industry, specifically the OIA Eco Working Group, has shown to making significant improvement in environmental practices throughout the supply chain and around the world,” said Jill Dumain, Director of Environmental Strategy, Patagonia and Chair of the OIA Sustainability Advisory Council. “Our industry is being recognized for its thought leadership in the area of product sustainability, and the collaborative process used to build the Eco Index can be held up as a model for future initiatives.”

GreenBiz.com, the flagship website of GreenBiz Group, focuses on providing sustainability information and resources to companies of all sizes and promotes environmental responsibility as a way to support profitable business practices.

Read the full GreenBiz.com article here.

About Outdoor Industry Association
Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a national trade association whose mission is to ensure the growth and success of the outdoor industry. Over 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, and retailers of outdoor recreation equipment and services, as well as other related business entities, comprise OIA’s membership. For more information, go to www.outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.

Outdoor Industry Association

BOULDER, COLO. --(Ammoland.com)- Hundreds of business and outdoor leaders will gather during the evening of January 21, 2011, at Outdoor Retailer Winter Market to recognize the most inspiring influencers affecting outdoor recreation today, and one of their own inspirations, mountaineer Reinhold Messner, will be on hand to talk about his inspirations and to take part in the Award presentations.

Messner has written over 60 books about his own outdoor experiences and has traveled the world as a passionate outdoor ambassador. The OIA Outdoor Inspiration Awards presented by adidas Outdoor celebrates those who inspire people to appreciate and recreate in the outdoors, specifically groups, companies and individuals. The awards celebration, taking place Friday, January 21, 2011, at the Salt Palace in Salt Lake City from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m., is happening right in the heart of the Outdoor Retailer Winter Market trade show, one of the largest annual gatherings of outdoor-involved companies attracting thousands of participants from all over the globe.

“It is long overdue that we recognize the unsung heroes who encourage others to pursue the outdoor lifestyle,” said Frank Hugelmeyer, president and CEO of Outdoor Industry Association. “Reinhold Messner is arguably the most famous name in mountaineering history and we are delighted he is coming from halfway around the world to help us shine a light on those who are invigorating outdoor participation in any and all forms.”

“It’s a distinguished accomplishment to be recognized by others as an inspiration,” said Greg Thomsen, managing director for adidas Outdoor US, the sponsor behind the OIA Outdoor Inspiration Awards. “Though many of the nominees are not household names, their deeds speak volumes and we’re proud to help celebrate their success.”

Nominations for the OIA Outdoor Inspiration Awards, for exploratory guide groups to marathon creators and outdoor business stewards, are being accepted electronically at awards@outdoorindustry.org or via fax at 303.444.3284 until 6:00 p.m. ET on December 27, 2010. Nominations are grouped as follows:

* Person – employee, volunteer, customer, athlete, teacher, leader, etc. – one person who has motivated and inspired others to enjoy, participate in and support outdoor activities.
* Group – community, school, fund raising group, guide service, product development team, sales force – two or more who have come together to get great things done, and get even better things started.
* Company – companies can inspire us in much the same way as an individual or group through their dedication to outdoor efforts that have a commercial or business-oriented framework. All companies being considered need to be for-profit entities (i.e. retailer, manufacturer, supplier, etc.).

Winners will be selected by a panel of outdoor business and community leaders who are looking for personal stories of achievement, encouragement and insight that truly stand above the crowd. Only those nominations that comply with the submission requirements will be considered. Winners will be notified in early January 2011 with the formal awards celebration taking place on January 21, 2011 in Salt Lake City.

“Adidas has always drawn inspiration from athletes from around the world,” said Rolf Reinschmidt, global VP of adidas Outdoor, “and we are pleased to help support and recognize those who inspire us all to a greater understanding of the outdoor adventure.”

OIA members and Outdoor Retailer Winter Market show attendees need to RSVP to attend the OIA Inspiration Awards celebration by visiting www.outdoorindustry.org/inspiration/rsvp. Tickets to the awards celebration can also be picked up on-site at Outdoor Retailer Winter Market at the OIA booth, #56000.

Outdoor Industry Association
Outdoor Industry Association® (OIA) is a national trade association whose mission is to ensure the growth and success of the outdoor industry. OIA provides trade services for over 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers in the outdoor industry. OIA provides industry-defining resources and support in government/legislative affairs, market and social research, business‐to-business services and youth outreach initiatives. Ongoing education opportunities and strategic business workshops provided by OIA include the annual Rendezvous®, Outdoor University® sessions, and the Capitol Summit. Outdoor Industry Association is based in Boulder, Colorado, and is the title sponsor of the Outdoor Retailer tradeshows. For more information about OIA go to www.outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.

adidas Outdoor
adidas Outdoor is the athletic brand in the outdoors. The company’s founder, Adi Dassler, designed equipment solutions for athletes that improved their performance. adidas Outdoor began in the 1970’s with the creation of the first light trekking shoe for climbing legend Reinhold Messner for his first Everest ascent without oxygen in 1978. That tradition continues today with products influenced by Messner and Alexander and Thomas Huber, the extraordinary brothers who consistently inspire the climbing community with their bold adventures in a unique style that is light and fast.

Outdoor Industry Association

BOULDER, CO --(Ammoland.com)- John Mead, president of Adventure 16, is a business problem solver who combined his business objectives with a host of key vendors to make a stronger marketing stand branded together than they ever could have acting independently.

Join John on Wednesday, November 10, from 2:00 p.m. through 3:00 p.m. (MDT) to find out how he did it, how he got the vendors to come on board, and how they all work together to build a collective business model in the next Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) Outdoor University online workshop: How to Form a Key Vendor Marketing Alliance.

The Key Vendor Alliance program John and the A16 team created in 1997 set a new industry standard for the way retailers and their most meaningful vendors work together to build their brands in the eyes and minds customers. During the Outdoor University workshop, John will share systems and practices A16 has used to develop a synergistic marketing program with 11 of its key vendors. Attendees will learn how to create sustainable methodologies to effectively and efficiently leverage retail marketing messages alongside important vendor brands.

How to Form a Key Vendor Marketing Alliance is offered free to OIA members, EORA members and SNEWS® subscribers and for $99 for non-members. Pre-registration by Tuesday, November 9 is required. To find out more about John Mead and to sign up for the November 10 webinar, check out the full line-up of Outdoor University® sessions and presenters at www.outdoorindustry.org/ ou2010.

The Outdoor University education and training platform is made possible through the generous support of its sponsors: Outdoor Retailer, Adventure 16, Alpine Shop, BACKWOODS, Darby Communications, Midwest Mountaineering, Mountain Gear, outdoor DIVAS, Outdoor Retailer, Pemba Serves, Rock Creek Outfitters, Rutabaga, SNEWS®, What’s UP Public RR and Woolrich. OIA Outdoor University® is an affiliate of SNEWS® Retail College.

About Outdoor Industry Association
Outdoor Industry Association® (OIA) is a national trade association whose mission is to ensure the growth and success of the outdoor industry. OIA provides trade services for over 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers in the outdoor industry. OIA programs include representation in government/legislative affairs, market and social research, business-to-business services and youth outreach initiatives. Educational events include the annual Rendezvous®, Outdoor University®, and the Capitol Summit. Outdoor Industry Association is based in Boulder, Colorado, and is the title sponsor of the Outdoor Retailer tradeshows. For more information go to www.outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.

The Outdoor Foundation

Washington, DC --(Ammoland.com)- The Outdoor Foundation, an organization dedicated to inspiring and growing future generations of outdoor enthusiasts, today released its Outdoor Nation Special Report: Turning Insiders Out, a report dedicated to engaging new audiences to the outdoors.

With thousands of Outsiders represented in the Outdoor Nation community, Outdoornation.org conducted a survey on the importance of engaging new audiences to the outdoors – especially minorities and ‘Insiders’. The research aims to provide the best ideas for attracting new outdoor enthusiasts and members to Outdoor Nation.

Outsiders identified top ideas to include:

• Develop Key Partnerships by creating relationships with celebrities to engage new audiences making it relatable to their everyday life, and corporations by providing inexpensive outdoor gear that is easily attained by diverse audiences.
• Increase Diverse Communication, Marketing and Advertising by (1) create messaging, imagery and media that shows average people doing recreational activities and reduce the extreme athleticism, (2) increase multi-lingual messaging that speaks to diverse audiences, (3) increase or create ads targeting youth and youth-centric places (e.g., movie theaters, youth network television) and (4) showing that the outdoors is relatable – such as, fun versus routine exercise.
• Increase Peer-to-Peer Communications, Outsiders believed strongly in taking the advertising message in-person to schools and campuses therefore working to provide clubs, school presentations and mentorship programs that engage younger audiences.
• Create Free Incentives, Outsiders see the usefulness in advertising free incentives – in multiple languages – in order to engage minority groups. They believed that providing mentorship and gear subsidies/cooperation would be the most effective ways of reaching underserved populations.

“With effective key partnerships, media, imagery and messaging, we can grow the outdoor community and create opportunities that impact and increase youth empowerment, leadership and environmental stewardship,” says Chris Fanning, Executive Director of The Outdoor Foundation. “The major challenge we face is making the outdoors relatable. With the help of youth-led surveys and discussions, it is our hope that we will begin to shift the challenges into opportunities to help us grow the outdoor community.”

The Special Report Turning Insiders Out, a report dedicated to engaging new audiences, is an outcome of Outsider thoughts and opinions on how to spur a cultural shift to address the importance of diversity in the outdoors.

Research Outdoor Nation Inside Out Report

ABOUT THE OUTDOOR FOUNDATION
The Outdoor Foundationis a not-for-profit organization dedicated to inspiring and growing future generations of outdoor enthusiasts. Through ground-breaking research, action oriented convening and outreach and education programs, the Foundation works with partners to mobilize a major cultural shift that leads all Americans to the great outdoors. In 2010, the Foundation launched Outdoor Nation, a pioneering initiative that aims to empower youth to champion the outdoors on campuses and in communities across the United States. For more information visit: www.outdoorfoundation.org and www.outdoornation.org.

For additional information about The Outdoor Foundation’s Outdoor Nation Special Report, please contact Chris Fanning, Executive Director at: cfanning@outdoorfoundation.org.

Outdoor Industry Association

Boulder, CO –-(Ammoland.com)- After several months of solid growth, outdoor product retail sales growth slowed considerably in August, causing growing concern among outdoor retailers and manufacturers.

According to retail point-of-sale data compiled by SportScanInfo for OIA VantagePoint™, the Official Research of the Outdoor Industry, total outdoor product sales were up 0.9% in August to $816.8 million compared to $809.5 million for the comparable four-week period last year. Sales were driven primarily by growth in Outdoor Hardgoods in the Outdoor Chain Specialty, Internet and Discount/Mass channels, offset in part by declines in Outdoor Footwear and Outdoor Apparel.

“It’s a hopeful sign to see the Consumer Confidence Index up in August, but people are purchasing mostly items they consider necessities, with very little add-on shopping to bolster retail numbers,” said Frank Hugelmeyer, president and CEO of the Outdoor Industry Association.

“As an industry we’ve weathered the ups and downs of the economy fairly well, growing just under five percent thus far in 2010. Consumers recognize more and more that the outdoors is an easy, accessible and affordable draw where your activities and enjoyment don’t have to be tempered by your budget.”

Retailers described August as “unpredictable” and “schizophrenic” due to the vast disparity of sales trends from week to week.

Outdoor Footwear sales declined only slightly during the month, as increases in “barefoot” products, “minimalist” product and Approach Footwear were offset by declines in traditional outdoor categories like Technical Hiking. Outdoor Chain Specialty Retailers, Sporting Goods Retailers, and Department Stores all reported growth in footwear sales in August, with Independent Outdoor Specialty Retailers seeing Outdoor Footwear sales dip 0.2% for the month. One noteworthy item found that while Independent Outdoor Specialty Retailers posted the dip in Outdoor Footwear sales in August – a trend many see as a result of tighter inventories on hot limited-distribution product – sales of non-outdoor product through the channel actually increased in high-single-digits for the period.

Outdoor Apparel sales declined in the low-single-digits in August as back-to-school sales failed to materialize for many retailers. Outdoor Outerwear was a major driving force for retail sales during back-to-school in 2009, but this year sales in this category were down. Offsetting the declines in Outerwear, Women’s Activewear was up for the month, particularly Active Lifestyle Dresses, Skirts and Skorts.

The primary growth vehicle for outdoor industry sales in August was Outdoor Hardgoods. These categories were impacted by increasing participation trends in key outdoor activities like camping and hiking. In addition, more Americans are looking to National Parks and National Wilderness Areas for vacation opportunities and this shift is translating into gear sales. In particular, the Adventure Travel categories are beginning to spring back to life again following a prolonged down-turn following 9/11. Consumers are now more willing to invest in experiences and they are buying the equipment to support their travel adventures.

For a more in-depth discussion around August 2010 retail sales affecting outdoor industry businesses, Outdoor Industry Association will be hosting a webinar on Thursday, September 16 at 2pm (mountain). For more information and to register, visit http://www.outdoorindustry.org/vpwebinars.

OIA VantagePoint is the first and only full market point-of-sale data view built specifically for Outdoor Industry Association members. OIA VantagePoint provides comprehensive visibility into the outdoor marketplace by tracking weekly point-of-sale data from over 10,000 retail doors and websites carrying outdoor products, including over 350 outdoor specialty locations. In-depth sales information is available online within five days of the prior week close – a competitive advantage for businesses who can shift critical resources and react quickly to ever-changing consumer preferences.

About Outdoor Industry Association:
Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a national trade association whose mission is to ensure the growth and success of the outdoor industry. OIA provides trade services for over 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers in the outdoor industry. OIA provides industry defining resources and support in government/legislative affairs, market and social research, business-to-business services and youth outreach initiatives. Ongoing education opportunities and strategic business workshops provided by OIA include the annual Rendezvous, Outdoor University sessions, and the Capitol Summit. Outdoor Industry Association is based in Boulder, Colorado, and is the title sponsor of the Outdoor Retailer tradeshows. For more information about OIA go to www.outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.

About The SportsOneSource Group:
The SportsOneSource Group is a full service market research company delivering solutions through consumer insight research, retail insight research and retail point-of-sale trending and analysis. The company provides the most reliable, timely and comprehensive sports and outdoor industry information available in the market today. SportScanInfo is a SportsOneSource technology platform developed to compile, aggregate and disseminate aggregated retail point-of-sale information. SportsOneSource also publishes the Sports Executive Weekly and The B.O.S.S. Report executive newsletters, along with the SGB, SGD TEAM Business and Performance Sports Retailer print publications and their related online, e-mail and digital products. For more information about the SportsOneSource Group call 704.987.3450 or go to www.SportsOneSource.com .

Outdoor Industry Association

BOULDER, CO --(Ammoland.com)- Outdoor Industry Association is thrilled to announce that the House of Representatives passed a bill today that will grant full and guaranteed funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund.

The Consolidated Land, Energy, and Aquatic Resources Act of 2010(H.R. 3534) will dedicate $900 million each year to LWCF, the federal government’s main program for preserving open space and building and enhancing parks, trails and recreation infrastructure throughout the U.S. The House passed the bill by a vote of 209-192.

“OIA thanks every member of the House who voted for this bill and specifically recognizes Congressman Nick Rahall (D-WV) for his vision and commitment to achieving full and dedicated funding for LWCF,” said Frank Hugelmeyer, president of OIA.

LWCF has had a profound effect on the recreation landscape of this country. The federal land acquisition portion of the program is the key source of funds to purchase lands for national forests, national parks, national wildlife refuges, and the Bureau of Land Management. The Stateside program has funded over 41,000 projects including sports fields, outdoor recreation facilities and trails. LWCF dollars expand and improve opportunities for hiking, biking, paddling, climbing, backcountry skiing, camping, hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing and other outdoor recreation activities. The fund has helped to enhance iconic American landscapes like Yosemite National Park, the Grand Canyon, the Florida Everglades, and the Appalachian Trail.

A fully funded LWCF supports the outdoor recreation economy. Retail sales and travel expenses associated with activities like hiking, fishing, camping, climbing, mountain biking, river rafting, and wildlife viewing contribute $730 billion annually to the U.S. economy, supporting 6.5 million jobs across the U.S. and generating $88 billion in annual state and federal tax revenue

A healthy LWCF also supports conservation related jobs. A study by the University of Massachusetts found that every $1 million spent on LWCF projects and on national, state and local parks, creates more than 20 jobs on average.

“Securing full and dedicated funding for LWCF has been a priority issue for OIA and the outdoor industry for many years and today’s vote is historic step in realizing that vision. However, the work is not over. The focus now moves to the Senate which will debate a bill granting full funding for LWCF next week. We encourage our members to make sure your senators know how important this vote is to the outdoor recreation community,” said Amy Roberts, vice president of Government Affairs for OIA.

About Outdoor Industry Association
Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a national trade association whose mission is to ensure the growth and success of the outdoor industry. OIA provides trade services for over 4000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers in the outdoor industry. OIA programs include representation in government/legislative affairs, market and social research, business-to-business services and youth outreach initiatives. Educational events include the annual Rendezvous®, Outdoor University®, and the Capitol Summit. Outdoor Industry Association is based in Boulder, Colorado, and is the title sponsor of the Outdoor Retailer tradeshows. For more information go to www.outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.

Outdoor Industry Association

BOULDER, CO --(Ammoland.com)- Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) and The North Face today announced the industry breakfast in conjunction with the Outdoor Retailer trade show Tuesday, August 3, 2010 from 7:00 – 9:00 a.m. in the Salt Lake City Marriott Ballroom with special guests Secretary of the Interior, Ken Salazar and Nancy Sutley, Chair of the White House Council on Environmental Quality, scheduled to speak.

“Secretary Salazar created one of the nation’s foremost open space, trails and parks programs in Colorado and is dedicated to establishing a well-funded and robust conservation and recreation program at a federal level.” said Frank Hugelmeyer, president and CEO of OIA.

“Secretary Salazar’s leadership also ensured that the America’s Great Outdoors Initiative is a priority on President Obama’s agenda. A presidential focus on the importance of outdoor recreation is unique in recent history and an opportunity the outdoor industry needs to embrace and support with all our enthusiasm and bright ideas.”

Nancy Sutley, Chair of the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) serves as the principal environmental policy adviser to President Obama and is one of the principals leading President Obama’s Great Outdoors Initiative. Nancy has dedicated her life to environmental protection and formerly served President Clinton as a special assistant to the EPA Administrator in Washington, D.C.

“The North Face believes that a strong connection to the outdoors will lead to the protection of our natural landscapes and is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of explorers and conservationists,” said Steve Rendle, president of The North Face and VF Outdoor Americas.

“We are honored that Secretary Salazar and Chairwoman Sutley are joining us to share President Obama’s vision on how to ensure that the voice of youth and the outdoor recreation industry support the president’s vision for a 21st century conservation strategy.”

Please join us for this semi-annual event held at each Outdoor Retailer trade show. Space is limited; RSVP requested. Register here.

Listen-in available, information:

• Where: Downtown Marriott Ballroom
• When: 8:15 a.m. MDT
• Maura Lansford, SOAR Communications, cell 817.929.8123

About Outdoor Industry Association
Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a national trade association whose mission is to ensure the growth and success of the outdoor industry. OIA provides trade services for over 4000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers in the outdoor industry. OIA programs include representation in government/legislative affairs, market and social research, business-to-business services and youth outreach initiatives. Educational events include the annual Rendezvous, Outdoor University®, and the Capitol Summit. Outdoor Industry Association is based in Boulder, Colorado, and is the title sponsor of the Outdoor Retailer tradeshows. For more information go to www.outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.

The North Face
The North Face, a division of VF Outdoor, Inc., was founded in 1968. Headquartered in San Leandro, California, the company offers the most technically advanced products in the market to accomplished climbers, mountaineers, snowsport athletes, endurance athletes, and explorers. The company’s products are sold in specialty mountaineering, backpacking, running, and snowsport retailers, premium-sporting goods retailers and major outdoor specialty retail chains.

Outdoor Industry Association

BOULDER, COLO. --(AmmoLand.com)- The Outdoor Industry Association’s Eco Working Group will hold informational sessions during Outdoor Retailer Summer Market in Salt Lake City, UT to introduce brands, designers and suppliers to the Beta Phase 1 version of the outdoor industry’s Eco Index and encourage participation in its pilot testing program this fall.

The Eco Index pilot program is open to all outdoor companies and will begin in late August 2010. Several workshops at OR will provide those interested with the necessary background and guidance on the pilot program: please RSVP at the Outdoor Industry Association events page. A series of webinars will also be held throughout the fall for pilot program participants.

Feedback will be gathered from pilot program participants via the Eco Index website as well as through the webinar series, with the Phase 1 Index scheduled for formal release in early 2011.

A first for the outdoor industry, the Eco Index is designed to help companies benchmark and measure their environmental footprint, allowing them to identify areas for improvement and make informed sourcing and product life cycle decisions. In development since 2007 by the Eco Working Group, a volunteer industry committee including more than 100 outdoor companies, the Eco Index tool encompasses guidelines, performance indicators, footprint metrics and a comparative scoring system against a six-stage lifecycle approach.

“Enhancing transparency within the supply chain and speeding the adoption of best business practices are two of our goals for the Eco Index initiative,” explained Amy Roberts, Vice President of Government Affairs, Outdoor Industry Association. “The Eco Index framework is modular, so companies can start small and work their way through it as they are able based on their level of knowledge and resources.”

The success of the outdoor industry is directly linked to the health of the planet and the continued existence of places to play outside. The industry has a responsibility to lead the charge toward implementing more sustainable business practices that protect the livelihood of the industry: the environment.

Suppliers, brands, and retailers alike are facing increasing pressure to reduce the impact of their products throughout the product life cycle. The Eco Index provides guidance, methodology, and tools for outdoor companies to assess their current practices and prioritize their efforts to implement more sustainable solutions. For outdoor retailers in particular, another challenge is wading through the wide variety of brand-specific sustainability measurement systems and labels currently in existence. The Eco Index will provide retailers with a common language to identify the environmental impacts of the products and brands they carry.

“I think so many companies want to do the right thing environmentally but not every company has the ability to understand what the right thing is.” remarked Jill Dumain, Director of Environmental Strategy at Patagonia and Chair of the Eco Working Group Advisory Council.

“We’ve been able to bring together the best minds and the best ideas and come up with an index that is really progressive and that everyone has agreed upon. Partners along the supply chain can work towards the same goal and change within the industry will happen at a quicker rate.”

The Eco Index initiative has been facilitated by Zero Waste Alliance (ZWA), a Portland, Oregon-based 501(c)(3) non-profit focused on developing standards, tools and practices that lead to a more sustainable future. The Portland Development Commission has provided critical financial support for the Eco Index. The Eco Index beta website, www.ecoindexbeta.org, has been developed by California-based SourceN and Oya Group.

About Outdoor Industry Association
Founded in 1989, Outdoor Industry Association® (OIA) is a national trade association whose mission is to ensure the growth and success of the outdoor industry. Over 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, and retailers of outdoor recreation equipment and services, as well as other related business entities, make up OIA’s membership. OIA programs include representation in government/legislative affairs, cutting-edge market research, member cost-saving benefits and outreach initiatives to grow participation in outdoor activities and promote healthier lifestyles. Educational events include the annual OIA Rendezvous®, Outdoor University®, and the Capitol Summit in Washington, D.C. Outdoor Industry Association is the exclusive endorser of the Outdoor Retailer tradeshow. For more information, go to www.outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.

Outdoor Industry Association

BOULDER, COLO. –-(Ammoland.com)- Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) celebrated the passage of the U.S. Manufacturing Enhancement Act of 2010, better known as the miscellaneous tariff bill, or MTB (H.R. 4380).

The legislation passed 378 – 43, with surprisingly bipartisan support from 249 Democrats and 129 Republicans. Most Republicans had been expected to vote against the legislation after direction from Minority Leader Boehner and House Ways and Means Ranking Member, Dave Camp of Michigan, but many chose to buck their party’s leadership and vote in favor of the bill.

OIA and its members were instrumental in getting the MTB passed, contacting dozens of House offices over the last several days encouraging votes in favor of this important legislation. The MTB contained several outdoor products, including extensions of several duty suspensions on waterproof breathable footwear that OIA guided to Congressional passage in 2006, ski and snowboard equipment and footwear and bicycle parts and accessories.

“OIA and our member companies are extremely pleased by today’s vote in the House,” said Frank Hugelmeyer, president and CEO of Outdoor Industry Association.

“The MTB has several provisions extending duty suspensions on footwear and other outdoor products that over the last three years have saved outdoor companies more than $21 million. Those savings have allowed companies to reinvest in their businesses, invest in innovation, expand employment opportunities and lower retail costs for their customers. In addition, the duty suspensions have actually increased exports of U.S made components for these outdoor products. This is a win for both American businesses and the outdoor consumer.”

Because many of the bills included in the U.S. Manufacturing Enhancement Act are extensions of previously enacted, but since expired tariff suspensions, the House passed MTB has a provision making it retroactive to January 1, 2010.

The U.S. Senate must now take up its version of the MTB and pass it for the tariff suspensions passed today to be enacted. OIA will continue to press the Senate for passage of the MTB as soon as possible and is encouraging the outdoor industry to contact their senators expressing support for the bill.

About Outdoor Industry Association
Founded in 1989, Outdoor Industry Association® (OIA) is a national trade association whose mission is to ensure the growth and success of the outdoor industry. Over 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, and retailers of outdoor recreation equipment and services, as well as other related business entities, make up OIA’s membership. OIA programs include representation in government/legislative affairs, cutting-edge market research, member cost-saving benefits and outreach initiatives to grow participation in outdoor activities and promote healthier lifestyles. Educational events include the annual OIA Rendezvous®, Outdoor University®, and the Capitol Summit in Washington, D.C. Outdoor Industry Association is the exclusive endorser of the Outdoor Retailer tradeshow. For more information, go to www.outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.

Outdoor Industry Association

Boulder, CO --(Ammoland.com)- On Wednesday, June 9, from 2:00 p.m. through 3:00 p.m. (MDT) Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) will present Branching Out Without Losing Your Roots, a live webinar presented by Jennifer Mull, president and CEO of Backwoods and OIA board member.

“Dance with the one that brung ya!” is a great, yet potentially fatal statement for a retailer. Concepts, core values, vendors and products – or roots – have all made a retailer “who they are today.” These roots are a retailer’s essence and have been critical keys to their success and should be honored. However, the “new and innovative” along with change in key areas of a business, are often absolutely required for long-term success. How a retailer balances these two “opposing” requirements can be the linchpin to their ultimate, and continued, growth and success.

In this 60-minute webinar, Mull will cover:

• Methods to evaluate what “roots” are really foundational vs. which “roots” died a long time ago or should be laid to rest.
• Once the foundational roots are identified – how to meld the old and new.
• Realizing the “grief” cycle as an underlying key factor in this process and how to move through it efficiently and effectively.

Branching Out Without Losing Your Roots is part of the 2010 OIA Outdoor University® online workshops which are offered free to OIA members and SNEWS subscribers and $99 per webinar for non-members. Pre-registration by Tuesday, June 8 is required.

For complete information on the Outdoor University program, speakers or to register, visit outdoorindustry.org/ou.

Outdoor University is made possible through the generous support of its sponsors: Adventure 16, Alpine Shop, Backwoods, Darby Communications, Midwest Mountaineering, Mountain Gear, outdoor DIVAS, Outdoor Retailer, Pemba Serves, Rock/Creek’s, Rutabaga, SNEWS, What’s Up Public Relations and Woolrich. OIA Outdoor Universit is an affiliate of SNEWS Retail College.

About Outdoor Industry Association
Outdoor Industry Association® (OIA) is a national trade association whose mission is to ensure the growth and success of the outdoor industry. OIA provides trade services for over 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers in the outdoor industry. OIA programs include representation in government/legislative affairs, market and social research, business-to-business services and youth outreach initiatives. Educational events include the annual Rendezvous®, Outdoor University® and the Capitol Summit. Outdoor Industry Association is based in Boulder, Colorado and is the title sponsor of the Outdoor Retailer tradeshows. For more information go to outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.

Outdoor Industry Association

Boulder, CO –-(AmmoLand.com)- Outdoor Industry Association® (OIA) and The North Face have joined forces to produce the Industry Breakfast in conjunction with the Outdoor Retailer trade show starting January 21, 2010. The North Face, the world’s premier supplier of authentic, innovative and technically advanced outdoor apparel, equipment and footwear, will be presenting sponsor for the OIA Industry Breakfast beginning with Outdoor Retailer Winter Market 2010.

“This partnership with The North Face secures the health of the event for the industry and allows us to tap into their extensive resources that help us to jointly elevate and continue the critical conversations around participation and sustainability,” said Frank Hugelmeyer, OIA president and CEO.

Kicking off the partnership for Outdoor Retailer 2010 Winter Market, the Industry Breakfast will focus on exploring how we can redefine outdoor to inspire greater participation. Speakers will include Chris Fanning, Executive Director of The Outdoor Foundation, Juan Martinez of the Children & Nature Network and Chris Rutgers of Outdoor Outreach, each, who, through personal experiences during their youth, have become visionary pioneers addressing this issue.

“The signing of this three-year, exclusive agreement with Outdoor Industry Association is a great collaboration for The North Face and VF Outdoor. We look forward to working together to address these issues affecting the industry and to help OIA better serve their membership through education and discussion opportunities,” said Steve Rendle, president, The North Face and VF Outdoor.

In addition, a new title sponsor of the OIA Industry Breakfast is Eagle Creek, the industry’s number one maker of adventure travel gear, luggage, day travel bags, travel accessories and packing solutions for active, adventurous souls. Eagle Creek joins title sponsors Outdoor Retailer and W.L. Gore. For additional information, please visit www.outdoorindustry.org.

About Outdoor Industry Association
Outdoor Industry Association® (OIA) is a national trade association whose mission is to ensure the growth and success of the outdoor industry. OIA provides trade services for over 4000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers in the outdoor industry. OIA programs include representation in government/legislative affairs, market and social research, business-to-business services and youth outreach initiatives. Educational events include the annual Rendezvous®, Outdoor University®, and the Capitol Summit. Outdoor Industry Association is based in Boulder, Colorado, and is the title sponsor of the Outdoor Retailer trade shows. For more information go to www.outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.

The North Face

About The North Face
The North Face, a division of VF Outdoor, Inc., was founded in 1968. Headquartered in San Leandro, California, the company offers the most technically advanced products in the market to accomplished climbers, mountaineers, snow sport athletes, endurance athletes, and explorers. The company’s products are sold in specialty mountaineering, backpacking, running, and snow sport retailers, premium-sporting goods retailers and major outdoor specialty retail chains.

Outdoor Industry Association

BOULDER, CO – -(AmmoLand.com)- Outdoor Industry Association® (OIA) has named Craig Mackey

Director of Government Affairs. Mackey will direct the OIA recreation program and manage the OIA Political Action Committee (OIAPAC).

“Craig has worked in public affairs and politics for the last 30 years. He now brings his years of experience working on public lands issues to OIA. His excellent contacts at the state and federal levels and his understanding of the OIA policy agenda will enhance the expertise of OIA and the Government Affairs team,” said Frank Hugelmeyer, president and CEO of OIA.

Mackey spent 10 years in Democratic politics working on and running political campaigns, and serving as deputy political director for Colorado Governor Roy Romer. He has also served on the finance committees of several statewide and federal candidates and as an advisor to elected officials in Colorado on public lands issues.

Since 1990, Mackey has operated his own public affairs consulting practice on issues related to public lands and outdoor recreation. Clients have included Outward Bound USA and Outdoor Industry Association.

Mackey is founder of, and advisor to Choose Outdoors, Inc., founder of the Alliance for Wilderness Education and Stewardship, and former board member of Outdoor Industry Association, and past chair of the OIA Government Affairs Committee.

About Outdoor Industry Association
Outdoor Industry Association® (OIA) is a national trade association whose mission is to ensure the growth and success of the outdoor industry. OIA provides trade services for over 4000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers in the outdoor industry. OIA programs include representation in government/legislative affairs, market and social research, business-to-business services and youth outreach initiatives. Educational events include the annual Rendezvous®, Outdoor University® and the Capitol Summit. Outdoor Industry Association is based in Boulder, Colorado, and is the title sponsor of the Outdoor Retailer trade shows. For more information, visit www.outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.

About OIAPAC
The Outdoor Industry Association Political Action Committee is the voluntary, non-partisan political action committee of Outdoor Industry Association (OIA). As the only national trade association representing the complete spectrum of manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, retailers and media of the active outdoor recreation industry, an OIA-sponsored PAC represents the diversity of interests, activities and companies within our industry. Formed in 2008, OIAPAC has a long-term goal of establishing a political environment conducive to the growth and success of the outdoor industry.

Outdoor Industry Association

BOULDER, CO –-(AmmoLand.com)- Retail sales for all core outdoor stores combined (chain, internet, specialty)* rose 15 percent, compared to last October, moving from $338M to $390M, according to the most recent edition of the Outdoor Industry Association® (OIA) Outdoor Topline Report, produced for OIA by the Leisure Trends Group. Year-to-date sales (January – October 2009) totaled $3.6B, down 3 percent from the same period a year ago.

October 2009 was the third coldest in 115 years and the wettest on record, according to the NOAA National Climatic Data Center. The cold, wet weather spurred sales in the outdoor channel, as all outdoor sales increased 15 percent over October 2008. Chain and specialty stores were each up 12 percent for the month, while Internet sales were up 27 percent. Increases were driven by all four product categories (equipment, equipment accessories, apparel, footwear), with biggest gains coming from apparel and footwear, specifically outerwear, base layer and boots.

Outdoor Specialty
Specialty stores’ dollar sales grew 12 percent compared to October 2008. The cold-weather effect was particularly apparent in specialty stores, as growth in the channel came from winter-appropriate categories such as outerwear, base layer, apparel accessories, winter boots and winter equipment. Typically nearly 63 percent of a typical year’s outerwear sales occur in specialty stores in Q4. October, the first month of Q4 2009, saw all outerwear dollar sales surge 16 percent in units and 23 percent in dollars for a total of $60M, a very positive sign for the remainder of the calendar year. Base layer dollar sales grew 8 percent, winter boots jumped 60 percent and cold-weather apparel accessories such as hats, gloves, socks and leg gaiters each posted double-digit sales gains for the period.

Outdoor Chain
Chain dollar sales were also up 12 percent in October, with a total of $140M for the month. Cold weather appropriate products also sold well in chains this month. Outerwear, base layer, apparel accessories and winter boots each posted double-digit gains over last October. Shoppers may have returned to the chains for cold weather gear, but they left with more than just warm clothes. Packs, hiking boots, trail running shoes, multisport shoes, sportswear and multiple equipment accessory categories all saw healthy sales increases this month as well.

Outdoor Internet
Total internet unit sales increased 6 percent over last October, but average retail-selling price jumped 20 percent, buoying dollar sales up an extremely healthy 27 percent over October 2008. Unlike brick and mortar stores, Internet sales gains came from nearly every category, including equipment which, with $17M in total sales for the month, comfortably outsold equipment in chain and specialty stores. Most major product categories enjoyed double-digit dollar gains this month. Increases were fueled by nearly across the board double-digit jumps in retail-selling price. That double-digit bump in selling-prices, paired with the fact that carryover (old/discontinued or sold below cost) product sales dipped 10 percent in October, suggests that consumers were more willing to purchase new, full-priced items this month, another positive sign moving into the holiday selling season.

Paddlesports
Colder than average weather may have been a much-needed shot in the arm for outdoor products, but it did not do paddlesports any favors. Core paddlesport stores (specialty, chain, internet) brought in $13M in October and $315M year-to-date, down 1 percent for October and down 7 percent for the YTD period. Positively, specialty stores, with 83 percent of all paddlesport dollars sold in October, saw plenty of healthy categories for the month. Recreation kayaks gained 36 percent in dollars, whitewater kayaks jumped 42 percent, PFDs 19 percent and helmets 30 percent.

* OIA Outdoor Topline Report Outdoor and Paddle channels include: outdoor and paddle specialty, national outdoor chains, regional sporting goods chains and outdoor (and paddle) internet specialty merchants.

To access the OIA outdoor retail sales Topline data, read the complete monthly executive summary and to review trends by industry channel and category, OIA members can log in at www.outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353 for assistance.

For additional brand growth and brand and model market share reports, please contact Leisure Trends Group at 303.786.7900 x107 www.leisuretrends.com.

About Outdoor Industry Association
Outdoor Industry Association® (OIA) is a national trade association whose mission is to ensure the growth and success of the outdoor industry. OIA provides trade services for over 4000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers in the outdoor industry. OIA programs include representation in government/legislative affairs, market and social research, business-to-business services and youth outreach initiatives. Educational events include the annual Rendezvous®, Outdoor University® and the Capitol Summit. Outdoor Industry Association is based in Boulder, Colorado, and is the title sponsor of the Outdoor Retailer tradeshows. For more information, visit www.outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.

Outdoor Industry Association

BOULDER, CO –-(AmmoLand.com)- Congress has approved a 17 percent increase in total funding over last year’s level for the Department of the Interior (DOI) which manages a vast majority of the nation’s public lands. The final bill H.R. 2996,

http://www.outdoorindustry.org/pdf/ConferenceReportDOI2010.pdf

designates over $32 billion to the DOI, an increase in $4.66 billion compared to last year. Notable victories for the outdoor recreation community include invigorated funding levels for the federal and stateside Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) as well as authorization and support for the FLAME Act which is aimed at managing the escalating costs of wildfire.

Systematically underfunded in the past, the LWCF received revived attention from lawmakers this year. The conference committee approved $265.3 million for federal LWCF, a figure that exceeds last year’s funding level by $100 million. The committee has designated $40 million to stateside LWCF, twice the amount specified in last year’s appropriations.

The bill also creates the FLAME Fund which sets aside resources for fire suppression emergencies to avoid drawing from non-fire operations such as the budgets that fund campgrounds and trails. The conference report allots $474 million to the fund for FY2010, $61 million of which will go to the Bureau of Land Management and $413 million will be allotted to the Forest Service.

Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) appreciates the leadership that congressional members have shown for outdoor recreation and land stewardship throughout the appropriations process.

“The vast majority of outdoor recreation occurs on our magnificent public lands and in order for the recreation economy to continue to grow as well as for Americans to enjoy the health and spiritual benefits of outdoor recreation, we as a nation must invest in the management of these wonderful resources. This budget reflects that priority,” said Frank Hugelmeyer, president and CEO of OIA.

Here is a brief list of additional highlights from the spending bill:

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Resource Management Planning program will receive nearly $50 million this year, a $2 million increase over last year and slightly below the $52.5 million recommended by OIA.

The BLM’s National Landscape Conservation System will receive a nearly $8 million increase over last year’s funding, just shy of the OIA recommendation.

The National Park Service’s (NPS) operating budget was approved at $130 million more than last year’s level, exceeding the OIA recommendation of a $100 million increase.

The committee approved the NPS’s Centennial Initiative for $15 million, $10 million below both the House request and the OIA recommendation.

The Forest Service’s Recreation, Heritage & Wilderness program was approved for $285 million which is a $7.5 million increase over last year.

The committee allotted $85.4 million for the Forest Service Trails program which is a $4.4 million increase over last year.

The final version of the spending bill will go to President Obama for his signature.

Click here (http://www.outdoorindustry.org/pdf/ConferenceReportDOI2010.pdf) to be directed to the full text of the conference committee report.

About Outdoor Industry Association
Outdoor Industry Association® (OIA) is a national trade association whose mission is to ensure the growth and success of the outdoor industry. OIA provides trade services for over 4000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers in the outdoor industry. OIA programs include representation in government/legislative affairs, market and social research, business-to-business services and youth outreach initiatives. Educational events include the annual Rendezvous®, Outdoor University® and the Capitol Summit. Outdoor Industry Association is based in Boulder, Colorado, and is the title sponsor of the Outdoor Retailer tradeshows. For more information, visit http://www.outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.

Outdoor Industry Association

BOULDER, CO –-(AmmoLand.com)- On Wednesday, October 22 at 2:00 p.m. (MDT) Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) and the Leisure Trends Group (LTG) will present Trends in Outdoor Retail, an in-depth look at both summer and Back-to-School sales trends in this fifth in a series of Webinars in 2009.

Scott Jaeger, LTG’s senior retail analyst, will use the OIA Topline Outdoor Sales data and the online data mining tool to examine sales in three channels (outdoor specialty, outdoor chain and outdoor internet), identify key trends and look forward to fall and the holiday selling season. Topics covered in Trends in Outdoor Retail, will include:

• Hot categories and subcategories in Summer 2009
• Back-to-School sale results for August and September
• A full recap of year-to-date paddlesports sales
• An in-depth look at recreation and family camping sales
• How to easily mine valuable and actionable data from the OIA Topline Dynamic Reports

Trends in Outdoor Retail is free for OIA members and non-members. To register, visit: outdoorindustry.org/webinars.

About Outdoor Industry Association
Outdoor Industry Association® (OIA) is a national trade association whose mission is to ensure the growth and success of the outdoor industry. OIA provides trade services for over 4000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers in the outdoor industry. OIA programs include representation in government/legislative affairs, market and social research, business-to-business services and youth outreach initiatives. Educational events include the annual Rendezvous®, Outdoor University®, and the Capitol Summit. Outdoor Industry Association is based in Boulder, Colorado, and is the title sponsor of the Outdoor Retailer tradeshows. For more information go to www.outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.

Outdoor Industry Association

BOULDER, CO – -(AmmoLand.com)-Retail sales for all core outdoor stores combined (chain, internet, specialty)* declined six percent compared to last August, moving from $346M to $325M, according to the most recent edition of the Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) Outdoor Topline Report, produced for OIA by the Leisure Trends Group.

Select equipment, accessory, outerwear and footwear categories continued positive momentum in August. Year-to-date sales (January – August 2009) totaled $2.9B, down just five percent from the same period a year ago.

Although sales were soft overall in August, several categories continued upward movement. A renewed interest in camping and outdoor vacations did not slow in August, as many National Parks continued to see record attendance.

This trend was helpful to outdoor stores, as backpacking tents, medium sized packs (2,500 – 4,000 cubic inches), climbing gear, trekking poles and multiple camp accessory categories all outsold August 2008. Footwear was on the top of consumers’ minds as well, with hiking boots and multisport shoes managing to outperform 2008 again this month.

Finally, energy food maintained its momentum in 2009, growing 20 percent in August dollar sales.

Outdoor Specialty
Specialty stores lost eight percent in total dollar sales compared to August 2008, with all four major product categories (equipment, equipment accessories, apparel and footwear) losing ground. It was not all bad news, however; certain categories have sold well in 2009 and continued to do so in August. Strong categories were centered on practicality and mobility this month as recreation tents, energy food, hiking boots, multisport shoes and trail running shoes saw the healthiest sales.

Outdoor Chain
Total sales were down seven percent in chains for the month of August. Sales trends were similar to specialty stores, with healthiest growth coming from hiking boots, multisport shoes, trail runners and energy food. Chain stores also saw multiple apparel categories increase sales as short sleeved shirts, sleeveless shirts, dresses, skirts and insulated outerwear tops all outsold August 2008. Women were responsible for all of the gains in insulated top sales, as well as in the dress and skirt categories, while men’s products fueled growth in the short sleeved shirt and sleeveless shirt categories.

Outdoor Internet
Similar to July, total internet dollar sales were flat in August as units slid nine percent for the period while retail prices were 10 percent higher than last year. Increased hard good sales balanced out losses in apparel and footwear in August. Both equipment and equipment accessories gained dollar sales, assisted by double-digit increases in average retail selling prices. Equipment dollar sales growth was fueled by tents, sleeping bags, medium and large packs and climbing gear. Growth in the equipment accessory category was buoyed by energy food, trekking poles, camp accessories, instruments and luggage. Unlike their brick and mortar counterparts, online retailers did not sell as many hiking boots this month as in August 2008. However, the increased popularity of multisport shoes carried over into the online realm.

Paddlesports
Paddlesports stores have seen very few silver linings in 2009. Core paddlesport stores (specialty, chain, internet) brought in $37.5M in August and $276M year-to-date, down 13 and nine percent, respectively, for both periods. In August, losses were felt across the board, as all store channels and essentially all product categories declined. With over 80 percent of a typical year’s sales complete at the end of August, the paddle industry will have a difficult time regaining lost ground in the remainder of 2009.

* OIA Outdoor Topline Report Outdoor and Paddle channels include: outdoor and paddle specialty, national outdoor chains, regional sporting goods chains and outdoor (and paddle) internet specialty merchants.

To access the OIA outdoor retail sales Topline data, read the complete monthly executive summary and to review trends by industry channel and category, OIA members can log in at www.outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353 for assistance.

For additional brand growth and brand and model market share reports, please contact Leisure Trends Group at 303.786.7900 x107 www.leisuretrends.com.

About Outdoor Industry Association
Outdoor Industry Association® (OIA) is a national trade association whose mission is to ensure the growth and success of the outdoor industry. OIA provides trade services for over 4000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers in the outdoor industry. OIA programs include representation in government/legislative affairs, market and social research, business-to-business services and youth outreach initiatives. Educational events include the annual Rendezvous®, Outdoor University® and the Capitol Summit. Outdoor Industry Association is based in Boulder, Colorado, and is the title sponsor of the Outdoor Retailer tradeshows. For more information, visit www.outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.

Outdoor Industry Association

Boulder, CO – Results from the recently released Outdoor Industry Association OIA® / Piper Jaffray Outdoor Industry Survey, completed in August, shows members increasingly cautious and realistic about the economic situation facing the industry. When asked to indicate the level of concern surrounding current economic conditions affecting their business, a majority indicated they are “very concerned,” up from just under half last spring and about one-third last fall. The highest levels of concern have shifted to retailers with 88 percent of them signaling they are very concerned. Just 44 percent of vendors have the same level of concern, signaling mismatched expectations.

OIA is asking industry executives to take a brief updated survey, which will allow Piper Jaffray to gather and aggregate this critical economic data to share with members. This information will provide real time data about how industry leaders view the macroeconomic environment and the overall health of the outdoor market.

The survey is available online between today and Friday, October 16, 2009. A report highlighting key takeaways will be posted on the OIA website in late October. This survey builds on initial results collected in late 2008 and spring 2009, both of which can be found at the research and resources section of the OIA website. To take the survey, go to http://www.piperjaffray.com/outdoorsurvey.

A copy of the August 2009 report, as well as all OIA research is available to OIA members at www.outdoorindustry.org/research.

About Outdoor Industry Association
Outdoor Industry Association® (OIA) is a national trade association whose mission is to ensure the growth and success of the outdoor industry. OIA provides trade services for over 4000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers in the outdoor industry. OIA programs include representation in government/legislative affairs, market and social research, business-to-business services and youth outreach initiatives. Educational events include the annual Rendezvous®, Outdoor University®, and the Capitol Summit. Outdoor Industry Association is based in Boulder, Colorado, and is the title sponsor of the Outdoor Retailer tradeshows. For more information go to www.outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.

SALT LAKE CITY, UT – -(AmmoLand.com)-Expert instruction on how to boost sales staff expertise online is just a click away thanks to the 2009 Outdoor University online retail education program.

Online training leader 3point5.com will host a Webinar on July 8 as part of an Outdoor Industry Association series designed to help improve business infrastructure, ensure skills development and provide information on emerging trends and technologies.
The topic of the 3point5.com Webinar, “Boost Your Sales and Your Sales Staff’s Expertise with Online Training”, addresses a crucial topic, said 3point5.com CEO Duncan Robins.

“Staff training remains an urgent need at the retail level and 3point5.com is the leader in the effort to move this critical instruction online,” Robins said. “This Webinar is a way for all OIA members to benefit from our experience across several markets.”

3point5.com trains retail salespeople in the Outdoor, Hunt/Fish, Snowsports, Action Sports, Footwear, Bike, Golf and Tennis industries for free, online. Sales people must pass online “Edu-Games” to earn deep discounts on the products they sell.

Over the last two years, Outdoor University has educated over 300 specialty retailers through regional workshops in the field, eliciting positive reviews. For 2009, the program format shifts online to ensure workshops are accessible to all retailers – no matter the location. Each workshop will be recorded and archived so that it can be rebroadcast on demand.

A launch party for OIA Webinar attendees and presenters will be held at the OIA booth at Outdoor Retailer, scheduled for July 21-24 in Salt Lake City. Outdoor University is free to OIA members or $99 per webinar for non-members. Pre-registration is required. For complete information on the Outdoor University program, speakers, or registration, visit www.outdoorindustry.org.

About 3point5.com:
3point5.com is an online campus that represents over 153,000 registered pros and sales professionals, 120 manufacturers and over 17,000 retailers in an increasing number of industries, including Outdoor, Snow, Bike, Action Sports, Golf, Tennis and Hunt/Fish. 3point5.com offers a fun and secure place for retail sales professionals to train, access information and interact within their industry. www.3point5.com

About Outdoor Industry Association:
Outdoor Industry Association® (OIA) is a national trade association with a mission of ensuring the growth and success of the outdoor industry. OIA provides trade services for over 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers in the outdoor industry. OIA programs include representation in government/legislative affairs, market and social research, business-to-business services and youth outreach initiatives. Educational events include the annual Rendezvous®, Outdoor University®, and the Capitol Summit. Outdoor Industry Association is based in Boulder, Colorado and is the title sponsor of the Outdoor Retailer.