The New Era of the Outdoor Industry
Innovation, Connection & Growth
The Outdoor Retailer show is evolving from a traditional trade show into the central hub for the entire outdoor industry. Starting August 19–21, 2026, we welcome you to our new home in Minneapolis, MN—a vibrant city at the heart of the outdoor business ecosystem.
Experience a re-imagined format built for innovation, connection, and sell-through growth. This is where your brand’s story shines, and meaningful relationships lead to real results.
Smart August Timing
Positioned perfectly after peak summer selling and before fall production, our new date gives buyers real bandwidth to plan and purchase. This creates higher-value conversations for you and provides more runway to showcase innovations and launch new product lines.
Central, Connected Location
Minneapolis puts Outdoor Retailer 2026 in the heart of the outdoor business ecosystem. This vibrant city offers easy access for national retailers and is home to a thriving outdoor economy, providing the perfect backdrop for business and connection.
Why Outdoor Retailer 2026 Matters for Your Brand
- More Than a Trade Show: This is the essential investment in the ideas, relationships, and market insights that drive sell-through once your product hits the floor or site.
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Industry-Led Credibility: Our fresh leadership team, including outdoor business veterans and athlete-advocates, ensures the show’s strategy aligns with your world—from product design to mission-driven branding.
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Stronger Voice & Amplification: Expect expanded programming and dedicated zones focused on innovation, sustainability, and brand storytelling—channels where your brand can truly shine and go beyond the line sheet.
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Targeted Connections: Unlike regional shows, Outdoor Retailer 2026 brings together national retailers, media, nonprofits, and industry stakeholders in one place, maximizing your investment. We focus on drawing retailers who are ready to talk, not just rush through orders.
The Re-Imagined Show Floor & Focus
The new layout features dynamic, themed zones designed for easy discovery and powerful networking:
ASCENT
A spotlight on emerging brands and groundbreaking innovation.
Outdoor Lab
A deep dive into the latest in design and materials technology.
Community Hub
The central space for networking, education, and thought leadership.
Activity-Focused Zones
Showcasing finished goods in core categories: Camp & Hike, Run & Cycle, Climb, Water, and Lifestyle.
Garage Grown Gear + Founded Outdoors
Inaugural Ascent Summit (Aug 19) and the Campsite Pavilion spotlighting independent innovation and specialty brands.
Expanded Opportunities for Growth:
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Retailer Education & Thought Leadership: The show integrates a full day of education before the floor opens, including a new Summit and learning tracks focused on sustainable growth and timely topics like AI and supply chain.
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Celebrate Minnesota Outdoors: Guided morning activities (climbing, biking, trail running) on August 20–21 to experience the local outdoor landscape and connect with peers.
News
Build direct relationships with attendees, brands and media this summer.
Brands
Retailers
Reps
