Press Release:
MONDAY 24th OCTOBER 2011: In what was a groundbreaking event for the Australian surf industry, over 100 surf retailers and industry executives attended the inaugural Surf Retailers Federation Industry Summit recently at the Novotel Manly Pacific.
“As a fledgling organization we are stoked with the day and the support from the surf industry” enthused Anthony Wilson, founding President of the Surf Retailers Federation. “keeping in mind we launched only 3 months ago, to have over 100 at our first summit is fantastic and a credit to our industry!”
The Summit featured keynote presentations by Rob Henderson, Chief Economist NAB, and Brian Walker, Managing Director and Founder of the Retail Doctor Group. “Rob walked us through the factors influencing the economy and his outlook for surf retail while Brian gave everyone an insight into what goes into good retailing” noted Wilson.
Two major surveys were conducted (pre event) on industry sentiment and consumer behaviour and the results analysed and discussed at the Summit. The consumer survey gave valuable insights into habits, preferences and thoughts of consumers Australia wide. “A key take out of the consumer survey was quantifying just how often our customers shop with us which in turn highlighted opportunity for improvement in a number of areas”
Wrapping up the afternoon was a 360 Assessment workshop where everyone did a “Start doing / Stop doing / Keep doing” on both retail and wholesale sides of the surf industry. “It was a great opportunity for everyone to have a say on where they saw opportunities, strengths and weaknesses for surf retail and wholesale” said Wilson.
The summit also saw the launch of the Surf Retailers Federation Industry Awards to be held in March 2012. The awards will recognize excellence across surf products, marketing and retail.
About Surf Retailers Federation Inc.
The Surf Retailers Federation Inc (SRF) is a non profit organization, founded by, and run by Surf Retailers. The association serves as the preeminent voice for surf retailers on a grassroots level with manufacturers, suppliers, and other associations.
The Surf Retailers Federation works to improve the overall vibrancy and business opportunities for the surf industry and its members. Central to this are its two annual flagship events; – the SRF Industry Awards and – the Surf Industry Summit. https://www.surfretailers.com.au/
