The Reinvention of ISPO: Can The Show Find Its Mojo Again?

Can one of the outdoor industry's most iconic trade shows reinvent itself? And what does its comeback mean for the future of industry gatherings?

Today on The Rock Fight, Colin welcomes ISPO Managing Director Tracy Bebbington to discuss the major changes coming to the legendary European trade show as it prepares for its first event in Amsterdam under new ownership.

After years of declining relevance and questions about its future, ISPO is getting a fresh start. Tracy explains why Raccoon Media Group moved the show from Munich to Amsterdam, how a million-euro hosted buyer program is bringing retailers back, and what attendees should expect from the revamped event.

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Topics / Chapters

03:15 – ISPO's Decline, New Ownership & Move to Amsterdam

08:16 – What's Different About ISPO 2026?

11:58 – Are the Buyer Numbers Real?

12:58 – Why Have Outdoor Trade Shows Lost Their Relevance?

17:13 – Is Connecting Brands With Buyers Still Enough?

21:38 – Sponsor Break

22:45 – Are Outdoor Trade Shows Different From Other Industries?

26:40 – What Will Success Look Like for ISPO 2026?

30:29 – Can ISPO Bring the Biggest Brands Back?

The Rock Fight is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.