Registration is now open for Outdoor Retailer, which runs from Aug. 19-21 at the Minneapolis Convention Center.
This year OR is expanding its Hosted Buyer program, creating a reimagined format and has launched the “Make It Yours” campaign, which is focused on connection, education and discovery of new products.
Register here.
“Outdoor Retailer is evolving into a deeply collaborative platform, meeting stakeholders where they are and reflecting the industry’s future and its changing consumer,” said Lindsay Hubley, senior vice president, sports and outdoor division for Emerald, Outdoor Retailer’s parent company, in a statement. “That means opening the door to new voices, new communities, and new ways for brands and retailers to connect in more meaningful, relevant ways.”
Make It Yours Campaign
With its move to Minneapolis, Outdoor Retailer is focusing on emerging brands, founder-led companies and partnerships across the outdoor ecosystem fueling the future of the outdoor industry. The “Make It Yours” campaign invites the outdoor community to drive the future of the industry through collaboration, new ideas and shared experiences.
Expanded Hosted Buyer Program
Designed to support independent specialty retailers, the Hosted Buyer program reduces financial barriers to attending Outdoor Retailer. Approved buyers and product developers may receive travel subsidies such as airfare and hotel accommodations, which allow them to focus on relationship-building and sourcing new products on the show floor.
Qualified retailers can apply for the program here.
New Opportunities to Engage
A key element of this year’s event is the Wild Reach initiative in collaboration with Popfly, which will bring 150 creators on-site to produce live content and engage with exhibitors and attendees.
In addition, the show includes Urban Outdoor Experiences, where attendees can participate in guided activities around Minneapolis from 7 a.m.-10 a.m. on Aug. 20 and Aug. 21. Activities will be organized through the Outdoor Retailer show app.
Expanded Education and Workshops
Outdoor Retailer will kick off the week with “Outdoor Next: Ideas That Move Us Forward,” its 2026 Industry Day program, on August 19 at the Minneapolis Convention Center. The half-day event will bring retailers, brands, media and industry leaders together for panels focused on the forces shaping the outdoor sector, from shifting consumer behavior and economic pressures to emerging technologies and the evolving role of specialty retail.
Earlier that day, the Retail Playbook Lab will provide hands-on workshops focused on practical strategies for retailers.
Learn more at outdoorretailer.com.
