2020 marks the launch of the eagerly anticipated Sport & Outdoor Apparel Network in partnership with the LTP Group. The network is designed to bring together the industries brightest sparks, trailblazers, disruptors and progressive thinkers to debate the hottest topics whilst sharing knowledge, expertise and experiences. Through a programme of compelling talks, interactive discussions and unmissable activities, the networks mission is to spark new ideas and solve real-world challenges by connecting sports apparel leaders, creative directors and entrepreneurs with visionaries and industry experts from the field of technology, manufacturing, sustainability and trend.

Alex Ingildsen, Chief Commercial Officer at LTP Group explains the rationale for founding the group:

“Through inter-industry alliances, learning and collaboration the Sport & Outdoor Apparel Network will unlock exciting synergies and forge new relationships to tackle the industry’s biggest challenges.”

ATTENDEE BENEFITS

As the industry continues to flux and the action needed to tackle global issues is growing more urgent, the Sport & Outdoor Apparel Network provides vital opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals, gain strategic insights and exchange ideas. Inter-industry alliances are an imperative for the new decade as we aim to gain a greater understanding of social, economic and environmental challenges. Delegates from across the industry including Creative Directors, Founders and Heads-of-Design will give their perspective whilst gaining an overview of the market. By operating outside company echo-chambers we aim to unlock new initiatives and solutions to propel the sector towards an exciting new era.

KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THE FIRST LONDON EVENT

Hosted by Loughborough University on their London campus at the impressive Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Steeped in sporting history, the venue was the ideal location for the meeting of industry leaders from brands such as Rapha, Soar Running, Stella McCartney, Vollebak, Salewa, Sigma, Pentland, Lucas Hugh, Mr. Porter, Hunter Boots, New Balance & LNDR. A number of industry insiders were also in attendance.

The event was led by Alex Ingildsen, who expressed his vision for the network. Conversations sparked around innovation and sustainability as attendees debated what’s next for the industry as we move into the new decade. Discussions and activities were designed to tackle major issues through innovation and creativity.

Members were the first to see the Autumn/Winter 21/22 activewear forecast presented by design/trend expert Chantell Fenton. With a focus on performance, outdoor and athleisure, the presentation outlined the trends that will dominate the new season including Clean Performance, Tech-celleration and Modular Function.

Professor Mike Caine from Loughborough University addressed the collective, leading a talk on Progressive Sports Technologies. The presentation outline the benefits of a research-led approach to product development as winning brands increasingly flex their performance prowess to optimise and enhance athletic ability and extreme comfort.

A round-table discussion and breakout activity encouraged debates centred around the latest tech advancements from 3D cadding through garment visualization to digital showrooms and market places. Concluding that digitalisation will continue to transform the industry whilst agility and innovation are key to survival.

Brands also shared their experiences, challenges and inspirations through a series of provocative talks and Q&A sessions. Thomas Moe, Senior Product Director at Salewa drew inspiring comparisons and harmonies between cooking and product design, highlighting the importance of using the best ingredients and trustability.

The day was brought to a close by sustainability expert Anne Prahl, who outlined the innovations in eco-conscious design, materials and decision-making that will pioneer change and tackle the climate emergency, whilst future-proofing the industry and the planet. The good news is you don’t have to go it alone. Collaboration is key. Although green policy can present challenges, there are also opportunities as consumers increasingly reward brands that take a strong stance on social and environmental issues.

WATCH THIS SPACE FOR FUTURE EVENTS

The LTP Group will host a series of invite-only events, setting network hubs up in New York, Stockholm and London. The next London event will be held in May and the idea is to meet three times yearly. Amidst the growing consensus that drastic action is needed to address the climate crisis, sustainability will take centre stage at the next meeting. Change agent and sustainability expert Anne Prahl will present the latest innovations whilst outlining the priorities for the sports and outdoor market. A number of industry leaders have already confirmed, such as Luke Scheyneler, co-founder of Rapha & Tracksmith, sustainablity expect Anne Prahl, Adam Bellamy founder of Regis Fabrics as well as Karl Oskar Olsen, founder of Pas Normal Studio & Wood Wood.

For your exclusive invite contact Alex at the LTP Group.