Join the UK Trade Zone
The Federation of Sports and Play Associations (FSPA) represents the sporting industry in the UK with over 500 member businesses and is once again offering the chance to exhibit with them in the UK Trade Zone.
Mark Kirkup, FSPA Chief Executive, said: “ISPO Munich is the go-to event for the industry and, as ever, demand for exhibition space is high – not just from our members who regularly join our UK Trade Zone, but from new ones too. The FSPA team are on-hand to assist our exhibitors and support them in making the most of this key event in the industry’s calendar.
“We work hard to ensure that every one of our exhibitors attending has the opportunity to present their products in the best way possible so they get maximum exposure and make the most of their presence at ISPO.”
Apply for an export grant
The FSPA works closely with the Department for International Trade and eligible companies can apply for an export grant through the FSPA. You don’t have to exhibit with the FSPA in their UK Trade Zone to apply for a grant and priority will be given to those companies who are either new to export or new to market.
Businesses in the UK Trade Zone will benefit from a high-quality stand build and distinctive shell scheme in a key position. The FSPA also provide a range of support services leading up to the show and throughout its duration, including marketing of the group at the event and in the UK and European trade press.
Practical support comes in the form of an FSPA information stand, Wi-Fi, furniture package including electrics, display panels and carpeting and the services of a group freight forwarder.
The Federation also hosts a networking drinks reception on their stand where all UK exhibitors and visitors are welcome to join them for a drink.
Mark said: “The UK Trade Zone at ISPO has been an important aspect of our offer to sports businesses along with our close links with Department for International Trade meaning we can assist with grants to attend.”
Increased participation in sports
“The promotion of sports, activity and active lifestyles is the key to unlocking the economic growth of the sports industry in the UK, Europe and worldwide,” said Mark. “So the FSPA and its member associations are embarking on a new phase with particular emphasis on campaigning for increased promotion in sports, play and activity.
“We see one of our primary roles as influencing policy and effecting social and political change in the UK and Europe on the issues which matter to the industries we represent. As the sector continues to evolve, it’s crucial that we are here to champion the social and economic contribution the industry makes and support our member businesses in fulfilling their potential.
“The Federation team is devising a new strategy going forward combining its lobbying work on behalf of the sports industry with an exciting new phase in marketing and communications A vital aspect of our new strategy is to prioritise partnership working to maximise our visibility, strengthen our voice and represent our industry at the highest political levels.
“Our member association, the Sporting Goods Industry Association (SGIA), forms a key part of our new focus on promoting participation in sport and the great benefits sport provides. There is no other industry body which speaks exclusively on this solely for the benefit of the UK sports industry and sports businesses.”
The leading trade fair for sports professionals
“Year on year ISPO proves itself as the leading trade fair for the sports sector,” said Mark. “The exhibition has always been a highlight of the sporting industry calendar and will be integral to everything we do for UK sporting goods.
“Our exhibitors at the UK Trade Zone and those sports businesses we assist with Department for International Trade grants always give positive feedback about how ISPO enables them to make new contacts and deepen existing relationships in the sports business world.
“For our members and exhibitors, ISPO is a crucial platform for showcasing their brand and promoting their products. No other event provides them with access to an expert audience and such a high volume of visitors to their stand. It enables them to gather feedback on new products and strengthen the brand of their established merchandise.
“We’re looking forward to seeing as many of our members as possible there and to welcoming new businesses to ISPO.”
If you have any questions regarding the exhibition, the UK Trade Zone or applying for an export grant contact Jane Montgomery on 02476 414 999 or email jane@sportsandplay.com
