The sixth annual European Outdoor Summit (EOS) pulled in its highest numbers to date, with 305 delegates registered for the two-day Summit, which took place in Malmo, Sweden.
The European Outdoor Group (EOG) has announced that Interlaken, Switzerland, will host the EOS 2019, on September 26-27.
The two-day programme of presentations, social events, networking and outdoor activities brought together CEOs, directors and senior managers from the biggest names and brands within the outdoor industry from across Europe and beyond; giving them the opportunity to learn from and be inspired by some incredible speakers, as well as share and network with like-minded individuals.
The theme for EOS 2018 was ‘The Outdoor Industry – A Progressive Business Sector’ with a focus on Outdoor Digital, and setting the scene was Technology Entrepreneur John Straw, who gave an informative presentation on how new technologies, Blockchain, AI and IoT will create opportunity and disruption in future business.
Presenting on the journey, transformation and success in the outdoors of Swedish brand Thule, CEO Magnus Welander commanded the stage with this motivational story of how a world leader in transport solutions has become so key to outdoor enthusiasts.
Paralympian and Deputy Mayor of Gothenburg David Lega drew on his own experience of pushing boundaries to describe his journey from having very limited mobility to Olympic success; demonstrating that with the right support, encouragement and mindset, anything is possible.
The Light My Fire ‘outnic’ lunch on the first day let delegates enjoy the sunshine out on the deck, while later that evening they took the opportunity to relax, unwind and taste the local cuisine at the Slagthuset Networking Evening.
Mark Held, General Secretary for the EOG, said: “Every year the European Outdoor Summit strives to deliver an event that captures the imagination and engagement of the whole of the European outdoor industry. A record number of delegates this year proves the Summit continues to do this and holds significant value within the industry.
“Putting together an event that each time offers delegates something new, challenging and inspirational takes a lot of time, effort and industry support. We thank our sponsors and partners for their unwavering commitment, and of course our team, who continues to work hard to deliver.”