Switchback and Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) have announced a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing the twice-annual outdoor industry gatherings. The partnership will debut at the inaugural Switchback Spring in Nashville, Tennessee, on June 16-18, 2025, and will also support Switchback’s late fall event, held alongside The Running Event.
Switchback and OIA will collaborate to attract specialty retailers, brands, organizations, and media with a vested interest in outdoor experiences. It’s significant to note that OIA ended its partnership with Outdoor Retailer this past July. And Outdoor Retailer, owned by Emerald Expositions, just recently cancelled their fall 2024 show in favor of a single summer event that will take place next on June 18-20, 2025.
“The number one request I hear from both long-time veterans of our industry and the rising next generation is ‘give us a great place to gather.’ The Switchback team has a proven track record of success, and we’re excited to collaborate with them on growing an event that can deliver multiple benefits to a wide range of outdoor industry members,” said Kent Ebersole, OIA Executive Director.
As a partner, OIA will contribute by sharing industry data, recommending speakers, hosting special events, and supporting industry initiatives at both events. OIA members will receive discounted exhibitor rates at Switchback events starting in 2025.
“OIA and Switchback are completely aligned on the importance of building a valuable and welcoming environment for the entire outdoor industry community and doing it with the support of quality industry partners. OIA has an inspirational commitment to this industry and the people who comprise it, and their deep working relationships with both brands and retailers is unparalleled,” said Christina Henderson, Switchback event director.
Switchback originally launched in 2022 as part of The Running Event (TRE), North America’s leading run and outdoor specialty retail conference. Earlier this year, organizers introduced Switchback Spring, a new standalone gathering aimed at supporting spring/summer buying.
Both events focus on outdoor experiences, offering exhibition space, educational sessions, and networking opportunities. Upcoming dates include Austin, Texas (Switchback at TRE, November 19-21, 2024) and Nashville, Tennessee (Switchback Spring, June 16-18, 2025).
To learn more visit www.SwitchbackEvent.com.
Switchback and OIA Announce Partnership originally appeared on Gear Institute.