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OIA research findings

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The OIA regularly commissions research designed to provide valuable market intelligence for its members.

Plans underway for NCCW

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

This year's National Camping and Caravanning Week (NCCW) is set to be the biggest and best yet.

http://www.nccw.co.uk

Retail Employee of the Year Scheme update

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The initial request for nominations for OCC’s Retail Employee of the Year scheme (REYS), has produced more than sixty names. The scheme, supported by the Outdoor Industries Association and sponsored by Edinburgh-based distributor Anatom, is now in its third year and seems set to produce the biggest entry so far. After vetting the initial list of candidates – store-owners, part owners, managers that don’t spend the majority of their time dealing with customers and non-core outdoor independent retailers, are excluded from participating - the current list is now 43 strong. Over the next three months these and any other candidates proposed in the interim, will each be “mystery shopped” with the aim of producing a shortlist of ten before further assessed to produce the three finalists.

The scheme, which is aimed at celebrating excellence in outdoor retail sales reaches its conclusion at the OTS Show in Stoneleigh in September. There the overall winner will be announced along with the names of the two runners up. The winner will receive £1000, a holiday for two and a trophy. The winner’s employer will also receive £250.

Each of the runners up will receive a cheque for £500 and their commemorative trophy. Last year, Mark Barnes from The Climbers Shop in Ambleside was the overall winner picking up his award at a ceremony held at the end of the first day of OTS.

The list of REYS 2009 candidates is:

1. Chris Potter - Outdoor Traders, Abingdon
2. John Whitehead - Craigdon Mountain Sports, Inverness
3. Jill Robertson - Craigdon Mountain Sports, Perth
4. Alistair Fazakerley - Freetime, Carlisle
5. Salim Patel - White & Bishop, Northampton
6. Dave Cannon - Campcraft, Bolton
7. Simon Ashmore - Ultimate Outdoors, Skipton
8. Carolyn Little - George Fisher, Keswick
9. Eric Phillips - Gaynor Sports, Ambleside
10. Dave Gartside - Catsycam, Glenridding
11. Luke Sirdefield - Stafford Outdoor, Stafford
12. Cathy O’Connor - Up and Under, Cardiff
13. Lorna Owen - Craigdon Mountain Sports, Aberdeen
14. Pete Thain - Escape Route, Pitlochry
15. Ian Bridges - Summits, Dunfermline
16. Katie Gibson - Cairngorm Mountain Sports, Aviemore
17. Louise Reid - Ultimate Outdoors, Keswick
18. Nathan Angell - Cotswold, Cardiff
19. Grant Jones - Stewart Cunningham, Betws-Y-Coed
20. Sam Powell - The Kit Shop, Exeter
21. Mike Pickwell - Outside, Hathersage
22. Steve Haslam - Campcraft, Bolton
23. Sam Spence - Ultimate Outdoors, Skipton
24. Nick Cox - The Climbers Shop, Ambleside
25. Eric McConnell - BCH Camping, Trowbridge
26. Naomi Page - Penrose Outdoors, Truro
27. Charlotte Johnson - Foxes of Amersham, Amersham
28. Eileen Cartmore - George Fisher, Kendal
29. Nick Price - Taunton Leisure, Exeter
30. Chick Godsell - Trekitt, Hereford
31. Tom Grindey - Camp Four, Macclesfield
32. Steve Robinson - Lockwoods, Leamington Spa
33. Scott Matthews - BCH Camping, Bath
34. Tony Cox - Taunton Leisure, Bristol
35. Russell Coleridge - Escape 2, Warwick
36. Liz Holgate - Whalley Warm & Dry, Whalley
37. Verity Wood - Countryside, Stevenage
38. Simon Parry - Ellis Brigham, Leeds
39. James Steele - Ellis Brigham, Manchester
40. German Tortarolo - Ellis Brigham, Covent Garden
41. Nikki Cryer - Ellis Brigham, Westfield, London
42. Paul Armstrong - Tiso, Glasgow
43. Donna Stockhall - White & Bishop, Northampton

Innov_ex 08 winner reaches out to the Trade

Sat, 4 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Lisa Alberti , a design teacher at a Manchester inner city school was winner of the 2009 Innovation for Extremes prize. She is using her prize experience to inspire 14-16 year old technology and design students to become the next generation of innovations . A group of 5 year 10 students (GSCE year) with little outdoor experience have been selected for her project and faced with the challenge of designing original eco-friendly and functional garments.

The project was piloted in her school last year and involves :

1. Introducing the students to the outdoors to carry out primary research to develop understanding of activities and functionality
2. Researching existing designs
3. Developing final designs and prototyping
4. Field testing
5. Bringing results back to Innov_ex 2010

She needs help from OIA members with materials – fabrics, zips buckles, Velcro etc. In addition if any one could offer their expertise in the area with garment demonstrations, presentations, or mini workshops that will aid the pupils all help gratefully received.

You can get in touch with Lisa on: lisa-alberti@hotmail.co.uk, or tel: 07984780551

For more information on Lisa's project or Innov_ex visit http://www.innovation-for-extremes.org/index.html

Wanted: businesses to give evidence on access to finance

Mon, 6 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Small and medium sized businesses, banks, industry representatives, regional agencies, venture capital experts and academics were today invited to give evidence to the Rowlands Growth Capital Review.

The review will determine if Government intervention is needed to ensure adequate finance will be available to firms as the economy improves. Historically the period immediately following a recession is when small and medium sized businesses find it most difficult to access long term growth finance. It is also when demand for this type of finance is strongest.

Business Secretary Lord Mandelson said: “Small businesses will play an important role in the recovery of the British economy. These businesses now have the opportunity to contribute to our thinking on the frameworks we will need to put in place for a competitive, thriving market.”

Christopher Rowlands, who is leading the review, said: "We are keen to hear directly from businesses to ensure our recommendations reflect their needs in an appropriate way."

The call for evidence is open until 17 July 2009.

This review is one of the first measures to be taken forward from the Government’s ‘New Industry, New Jobs’ strategic plan for Britain’s recovery.

To contribute evidence to the review, visit the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills website at http://www.berr.gov.uk/files/file51817.doc

The terms of reference for the Rowlands Growth Capital Review can be found at http://www.berr.gov.uk/files/file51655.doc

Latest OIA research

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

New OIA research highlights the resilience of UK outdoor consumer spend

New research by the Outdoor Industries Association (OIA) has revealed encouraging news for the UK’s outdoor sector. Despite the economic downturn, 54% of core consumers do not intend to reduce their spending on outdoor products and only 13% will cut back (33% are undecided).

In a wide ranging survey conducted during May, the OIA canvassed the opinions of around 3,500 outdoor consumers across the UK. The results of the research support other evidence that the sector is more resilient than some in time of recession, and also highlights some developing trends.

Of those who completed the survey, 80% agree that outdoor products offer good value for money. Although the majority of people still intend to spend the same as in previous years, 64% will now look more closely at price when choosing outdoor products. However, for 77% of consumers, product performance remains the primary consideration over price.

The survey also asked respondents about the channels through which they research and buy outdoor products. Considering recent purchases, 70% have bought through specialist outdoor stores and 27% have used specialist online outdoor retailers.

A large majority of people (70%) research potential outdoor product purchases on brand websites and 62% do that research to find the lowest price. Although 54% of outdoor consumers still make most of their purchases in store in person, only 28% now only buy their products in store.

The survey is part of an ongoing programme of consumer research that is being undertaken by the OIA and follows Shaping the Future, a major report published in 2008. This year’s research also tested attitudes towards environmental issues and explored consumer buying patterns and intentions relating to outdoor clothing and footwear.

Louise Ramsay, OIA director, comments:

“This research is very timely and offers some good news for Outdoor Industries Association members and the sector as a whole. As the economic downturn continues, it is heartening to hear that our consumers intend to maintain their investment in outdoor products. Clearly, getting the right balance between promoting product performance and value for money is crucial and we will focus on that in developing communications plans and support for members.

“From earlier research, we know that more people are staying in the UK this year and going on outdoor breaks, and campsites and outdoor activity providers are enjoying record bookings. Despite the prevailing economic conditions, this does offer opportunities for outdoor businesses and the OIA will continue to work hard to direct consumers to the products and services of our members.”

A full research report with be published in September and will be available FREE to all OIA members, along with supporting data. Material will also be hosted in the members’ area of the OIA website. Non members will be able to purchase the research upon request.

Retailer taken to court by Environment Agency

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Camping and outdoor clothing retailer Yeomans has been ordered to pay £17,000 in fines and compensation for packaging waste offences committed over a ten-year period.

At Chesterfield Magistrates’ Court last week, W Yeomans Limited pleaded guilty to nine offences, and asked for a further 21 offences to be taken into consideration, for a period spanning 1 January 1998 to 31 January 2008.
The company should have been registered with the Environment Agency and was obliged to recover and recycle a portion of its packaging waste, as well as filing a certificate at the end of each year to confirm it had met these obligations.

However, Yeomans, which handles packaging waste including paper, cardboard, plastic, steel and wood, did not register with the Environment Agency until 2008.

The court heard the company registered with effect from 1 January 2008 but the Environment Agency subsequently received a telephone call that Yeomans might have committed offences by not being registered previously.
An interview letter was written to Yeomans on 14 October 2008 and the company responded with turnover and packaging details which indicated it should have been registered since 1998.

Trevor Cooper, prosecuting for the Environment Agency, said the company stated it had been under new ownership since March 2008 and could give no reason why it had previously failed to comply with the regulations.

By failing to register, Mr Cooper said Yeomans had avoided fees and other costs of at least £11,000.

In addition to a fine of £9,000, the Deputy District Judge ordered the company to pay compensation to the Environment Agency of £8,000 to cover the unpaid registration fees, as well as full prosecution costs of £1,398.38.

The court heard aggravating features of the case were that the offences had continued over a long period of time and that the company had saved money by not complying with the regulations.

The magistrate gave credit to Yeomans for an early guilty plea and accepted its mitigation that the company had no previous convictions for environmental offences, offences had not been committed intentionally for financial gain and that they had occurred at a time when the company had different owners.

Retailers left confused by EU Directive on Warranties

Wed, 2 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The question has been raised again by UK retailers as to where the directive from the EU leaves them with regards to warranties (Directive 1999/44/EC). Whilst the directive clearly states that ‘a two year guarantee applies for the sale of all consumer goods everywhere in the EU’ (this is the minimum that all EU states must adhere to) there is a stipulation in this rule which has created confusion.

Under the Consumer Sales Directive 99/44 consumers are entitled to expect that the goods they purchase will be in conformity with the contract for a minimum of 2 years. This means that consumers have rights against the retailer they purchase goods from for a minimum of 2 years. Under the Legislation a consumer's rights are referred to as a Legal Warranty. If a fault becomes apparent within the first 6 months of purchase the goods are seen by law to be inherently faulty (faulty at the time of purchase) and the burden of proof falls on the trader to prove that the goods are not faulty. If a fault becomes apparent outside of the first 6 months of purchase the burden of proof falls on the consumer to prove that the goods are faulty in order to claim a remedy. The 6 month ‘burden of proof’ (Directive 1999/44/EC article 5(3)) rule is the minimum requirement of all EU states. Portugal has chosen to extend this period to 2 years for example, in a similar way the UK has chosen to extend the return period from the EU directive’s minimum of 2 years to 6 years.

The concept of commercial guarantee, on the other hand, expresses the will of one person, the guarantor, who assumes personal liability for certain defects. The term "guarantee" covers only commercial guarantees which are defined as follows:

"any additional undertaking given by a seller or producer, over and above the legal rules governing the sale of consumer goods, to reimburse the price paid, to exchange, repair or handle a product in any way, in the case of non-conformity of the product with the contract".

Any (commercial) guarantee offered by a seller or producer will be legally binding under the conditions laid down in the guarantee document and the associated advertising. The guarantee must state that the consumer has statutory rights and clearly state that these rights are not affected by the guarantee. The guarantee must then state its content, in simple and understandable terms, and indicate the conditions for claiming under it, notably its duration and territorial scope and the name and address of the guarantor. The duration of a commercial guarantee is not stated by law and this is chosen by the guarantor.

The ambiguity seems to have arisen in the EU directive’s use of the term ‘guarantee’. This seems to have created confusions with ‘commercial guarantees’ that are offered on a voluntary basis by the seller; the Sales of Goods Act outlines consumer’s statutory rights.

There has been a large amount of enquiries about this ambiguity (according to the Euro consumer helpline) but UK law and the Sales of Goods Act is in fact in line with the EU directive. That is the UK does now comply with this.

Click here for further details

Specialist retailer from Hereford crowned best in UK

Tue, 6 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Chick Godsell of outdoor specialist Trekkit, located on Eign Gate in Hereford, has been named as the Outdoor Industries Association’s (OIA) sponsored Retail Employee of the Year for 2009.

Godsell was presented with her award last week during industry event, The Outdoor Trade Show. Along with a cut glass trophy, she received £1,000 and a holiday for two. As the store that produced the winner, Trekkit also picked up a cheque for £250.

The Retail Employee of the Year Scheme (REYs) is the brainchild of leading outdoor magazine OCC Outdoor and in 2009 attracted a record number of entries. Retail sales staff were nominated by reps and agents across the country and 42 were selected for a ‘mystery shopper’ stage. OCC news editor Alistair Phillips co-ordinated the process – he and his team covered almost 5,000 miles as they visited each of the candidates and whittled the list down to three finalists. After a six month search, which saw candidates from as far apart as Aberdeen and Truro assessed, Chick Godsell emerged as the overall winner.

Chick Godsell comments:
“It’s a great honour to receive the OIA Retail Employee of the Year Award and I’m really happy. I love my job. When I serve people who are off camping or going traveling around the world, I feel like I’m going with them.”

Alistair Phillips, who co-ordinates REYs, and carried out the majority of the mystery visits said:
“It’s always hard to put your finger on exactly what makes the REYs winner different from the other candidates. It would be obvious to anyone that Chick is outstandingly good at what she does - she’s polite, approachable, knowledgeable, humorous, confident, enthusiastic, all at once - but to win this award outright you have to have even more than that. What Chick has is hard to describe exactly, but if you could bottle it and sell it you could make a fortune.”

Louise Ramsay, Outdoor Industries Association director, adds: “The role that frontline staff play is fundamentally important to all retail businesses and the Retail Employee of the Year scheme is a great way to celebrate excellence. Despite the challenging economic times, the outdoor sector is generally performing well and a big part of that success is down to the passion of the people who work in it and the high levels of customer service that many specialist retailers offer. Chick Godsell is clearly a deserving winner of the REYs and the Outdoor Industries Association congratulates her on this achievement, in heading what was clearly a very competitive field.”

This is the third year of REYs and Godsell joins 2007 winner Steve English of Mountain Spirit in Aviemore and last year’s winner, Mark Barnes of The Climbers Shop in Ambleside, the Lake District, on the roll call of recipients of the award.

Help needed from suppliers to take Designers of the Future forward

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Lisa Alberti, a design teacher at Manchester creative and Media Academy was the winner of the OIA 2008 Innovation for Extremes prize. She is using her prize experience to inspire 14-16yr old technology and design students to become the next generation of innovators.

The project was piloted in her school last year and involves:

Introducing the students to the outdoors to carry out primary research to develop understanding of activities and functionality.
Researching existing designs
Developing final designs and prototyping
Field testing
Bringing the results back to Innov_ex 2010

And now the project is finally due to start!

Lisa, Project Tutor at Manchester Creative and Media Academy, said: "We have become a new Academy this year, so commencing the research into our design and make project has been put on hold until 1st November.We have selected our year 9 Gifted and Talented Design group, and are now looking for your help in acquiring existing waterproof jackets to analyse and evaluate.

We are looking for 15 garments to loan.

If anyone could come into school to discuss the garments with the pupils, that would be even better!"

Contact Lisa here

To find out more about Lisa's project visit Innovation for Extremes website.

The Textile Institute presents 'The Sustainable Way'

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Celebrity Lecture ‘The Sustainable Way’ will provide a fantastic opportunity to gain an insight into Defra’s Sustainability Roadmap and a way forward with REACh and Substances of Very High Concern (svhc’s).

Dr Dorothy Maxwell, Lead Sustainable Clothing Roadmap, Department for Environment, Food
and Rural Affairs (Defra) will bring the audience up to date on the UK Governments sustainability
initiative, while Asif Shah, Business Development Manager, Shirley Technologies Ltd will talk
about the legislation involved in REACh and substances of very high concern.

Taking place on the evening of Wednesday, 2 December at the Friends Meeting House, in
Manchester, from 6.30pm the event is FREE to everyone, but places are limited so anyone
interested must contact Dr Kim Gandhi, Chair, Manchester and Cheshire Section of The Textile
Institute Email: kim.gandhi@virgin.net or telephone: 0161 702 9483 / Mobile 0780 170 8878 or
Vanessa Knowles, Chair, Sustainable, Environmental and Ethical Special Interest Group
Email: vanessa@pebbleinternational.com or telephone: 01942 886402.

Full information is available at the Institute’s website: www.textileinstitute.org/EventsPage.asp#SustainableDec

BACKGROUND

The Sustainable Clothing Roadmap is a voluntary clothing industry initiative involving over 300
companies along the clothing supply chain and is co-ordinated by Defra to provide a platform for an
integrated approach to improving the environmental and ethical performance of clothing. While it originated in the UK - it has linkage with Asia (especially China and India), EU and USA to date as most UK consumed clothes have a global supply chain. The aim is to drive sustainability from retailers down through the clothing supply chain and fast track best practice through establishing sound science based evidence, prioritising actions (short to long term) and providing a platform for industry best practice cases in order to catalyse change throughout the sector. Dr. Dorothy Maxwell, Technical Director at Global View Sustainable Services – specialists on sustainable products – runs the Roadmap on behalf of Defra.

The Textile Institute, incorporated in England by a Royal Charter granted in 1925, is governed democratically by and on behalf of individual members throughout the world, registered as a charity and recognised as a non-profit association under the laws of many countries.

Dorothy Maxwell has an MSc and PhD in Environmental Science and 19 years professional experience
working in the environmental / sustainability arena in industry, government and consultancy in Europe, USA and Asia. For the last 12 years, she has focused on sustainable products related projects for industry, governments in several EU Member States, the European Commission and UNEP working on Sustainable Consumption & Production (SCP), Producer Responsibility, Eco-labelling, Life Cycle Assessment, Ecodesign and Green Supply Chain Management. She has been a policy representative (Ireland, Sweden and Holland) working on the development of EU and international products policy. She is currently Technical Director of Global View Sustainability Services Ltd. specialists in SCP/sustainable products. In this context she is a consultant to Defra on several SCP projects including leading the Sustainable Clothing Roadmap.

Shirley Technologies Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of BTTG Ltd, part of the British Textile
Technology Group. BTTG was formed during the late 1980’s from two globally renowned textile
institutions; the Wool Industries Research Association (WIRA) established in 1918 and The Shirley Institute; the latter set up to support the cotton industry in 1919. Shirley Technologies Ltd is a UKAS accredited laboratory providing competitive, independent expert textile testing, certification, advisory and investigation services across the traditional and specialist textile industries.

Asif Shah is a polymer graduate, who has worked within the technical textile industry for the last 15 years,
holding various technical and commercial roles. The majority of his experience has been involved in the
development of technical coated fabrics and their processes. Asif has also been part of teams that developed the worlds first inflatable curtain vehicle airbag and the development of an MRSA patient slide sheet. Asif is currently employed as Business Development Manager at Shirley Technologies which involves mainly promoting and developing the companies eco textile testing and certification schemes. These include REACh svhc, Oekotex 100 (Human ecology testing), PET (product eco testing) and “Made in green” (certification for ethics and sustainability of textile products and their supply chain).

Outdoor Industries Association statement regarding Blacks announcement

Mon, 9 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Corry Taylor, managing director of Bradshaw Taylor and chairman of the Outdoor Industries Association Ltd, comments:
“The Company Voluntary Arrangement announcement made by Blacks earlier this week confirms what many in the industry were expecting. With the CVA meeting scheduled for late November, the industry will soon know what the future will hold for the largest retail player in our sector. A ‘yes’ vote will allow the company to restructure and give it a sporting chance of surviving. A ‘no’ vote will see it go into administration, with many staff losing jobs, suppliers losing money and another round of speculation over who will buy the business from the administrator.

“The OIA will continue to closely monitor the situation as it develops and, as required, we will offer support and advice to those businesses and individuals who are affected. The situation at Blacks, although by no means unique in the wider business community, does not reflect the overall health of outdoor industries in the UK. The current economic climate is certainly proving to be challenging for everyone, but the sector is performing well relative to others and I think that it is important to remember that context when assessing the difficulties that Blacks finds itself in.”

Andy Barker, country manager of The North Face, adds:
“Blacks has had, and I believe continues to have, a place on the high street as well as in outdoor retailing. It’s been clear that parts of the business have simply not been performing, the major problem being in the boardwear divisions, the other from what have been classed as exceptional circumstances. As a consequence, the outdoor side of the business, as well as the turn around strategy in which 'Cool air' plays a significant part, has been diluted.

“I believe the CVA strategy addresses the key aspects that could and should allow Blacks to not only stabilise the business but to also help it become more sustainable for the future, by eliminating some of the exceptional trading risks that brands have had to take during recent uncertain times. Certainly from a brand perspective, most importantly it will allow more accurate and confident planning and forecasting.”

“All things considered, the alternative options could have been less favourable, leaving brands to make potentially damaging decisions of how to make up lost turnover.”

Bringing clarity to sustainability standards

Mon, 9 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In an attempt to give some clarity to the different regulations, standards and labels associated with sustainability within the outdoor sector, the Standards and Regulations Committee (part of the Sustainability Working Group), will aim to compile the definitive industry resource in the form of an open
database. It will provide a one stop point of reference for the outdoor sector to understand what is mandatory and what is voluntary within the industry.

The Sustainability Working Group (SWG) was started in 2008 as an industry led initiative and the Standards and Regulations Committee is now the second committee actively working on key areas of concern for the outdoor sector. Chaired by Kilian Hochrein from W L Gore, the Committee has members from Vaude, Polartec, Deuter, BlueSign, Outdoor Industries Association (OIA), Shirley Technologies, Aku, Dialog Textil- Bekleidung, German Fashion (Association), DSM Materials, Häglofs and Ferrino.

The aim of the Committee is to provide the European outdoor industry (Suppliers, Brands, Retail, Media, Consumers) with practical awareness of relevant existing and emerging, product related Legislation, Standards, Labels, and Frameworks regarding chemical product safety (restricted substances) and environment. In addition it will also promote and support effective industry-wide, coordinated implementation.

Kilian Hochrein in discussing the aims of the Standards and Regulations Committee commented that “the industry is currently faced by diverse levels of information, it is extremely difficult for small and medium sized companies to have the resources to understand all that could be relevant and available to them with regards to sustainability issues, we hope that by working collectively we can provide a relevant tool that the whole industry will be able to make use of.”

Mark Held, Secretary General of the European Outdoor Group stated “As the SWG develops and grows it is vital to the relevance to the industry that we encourage as many companies and organisations as possible to become involved, all sizes and all parts of the supply chain through to retail are welcome. The website provides a vital link and acts as a resource for the industry. The more diverse and industry
representative the membership of the SWG is, the closer the results will be to a true industry solution.”

The work of the SWG is NOT exclusive to members of the European Outdoor Group; it is operating on an open source basis and welcomes involvement from all areas of the value chain.

Join up to waste saving initiative

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Manufacturers have just six weeks remaining to sign up to a free initiative that could help them unlock thousands of pounds in cost savings.

Rethink Waste, run by sustainable business experts Envirowise with support from manufacturers’ association EEF, will show companies how they can make significant savings by changing their approach to dealing with waste. Businesses can register for the scheme at www.envirowise.gov.uk/rethink – until 31 December.

Three advice-packed online modules will take businesses through the key steps of collecting benchmarking data, developing an action plan and then implementing a waste-saving strategy. Participants will also have access to a virtual factory tour, audiocasts and an exclusive web conference.

Envirowise experience has shown that manufacturers taking action to reduce waste and improve their resource efficiency can save up to £1,000 per employee. Across the UK, around £500-million could be saved annually.

Envirowise Production Specialist Michael Savage said: “Rethink Waste provides an excellent opportunity for manufacturers to improve their resource efficiency, and make cost savings, in a planned and measurable way. But with the deadline for registration fast approaching, companies need to act quickly if they want to take part in the initiative.”

Head of Environment at the EEF, Gareth Stace, adds: “Free initiatives such as Rethink Waste offer a practical and accessible route to resource efficiency and we are encouraging our members to take part.”

Manufacturers can register for Rethink Waste before 31 December 2009. Registrations can be made at www.envirowise.gov.uk/rethink.

ALERT to all suppliers

Wed, 2 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Extra vigilance is being called for after it has become apparent that a man masquerading as employees from various UK retailers is placing, and receiving, fictitious orders directly with suppliers. The individual, from the Liverpool area, is believed to be taking identities and company details from the web, and placing orders with some major UK suppliers, using a network of associates to directly collect from source.

It is also known that the man, going by the name of John, creates a gmail account to impersonate the retailer incorporating their name when orders are made via e-mail.

Several suppliers have been hit in this way and as a consequence lost up to thousands of pounds worth of stock. Suppliers should ensure that any supplementary orders or one offs are double checked with a known contact from the respective retailer before processing the order.

New routes to accreditation for adventure activity providers

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

OIA members who provide adventure activities or expeditions may find accreditation of value in demonstrating that they have been benchmarked against external standards. Until recently, this need was mainly met by the AALA License, with few options available to those who were out of scope of the licensing regulations. However, Adventuremark now offers nationally recognised safety accreditation to those out of scope of licensing. In addition, the Learning Outside the Classroom (LOtC) Badge covers similar safety requirements but also audits the learning quality that is on offer.

Which route?

Both Adventuremark and the LOtC badge are “non-statutory” routes to accreditation. Each has been developed by the Adventure Activity Industry Advisory Committee (AAIAC) in response to a request from the DCSF for investigation of a non-statutory complement to the statutory licensing of adventure activities. Adventure Activity Associates are operating both non-statutory routes on behalf of AAIAC:

The LOtC badge is targeted at those providers who intend to trade with schools and other facets of statutory education. It covers both safety and the quality of the educational experience and is available across many sectors of which adventure is only one. It exists primarily for those wishing to work with schools in England but discussions are in progress about comparable initiatives in Scotland and Wales.

The Badge covers a number of sectors. This article refers only to the Adventurous Activities and Overseas Expeditions Sectors.

Adventuremark is targeted at those providers of adventure activities who intend to trade with adults, parents with their own children, private schools and so on. It can also be used by any organisation seeking external validation of their safety of operation.

Its scope is confined to the safety of the adventure experience and only applies to adventure activities (although these are defined broadly).

Each scheme has a similar approach to safety but Adventuremark does not attempt to assure educational quality because many providers who would use Adventuremark may have no need, for instance, to agree learning outcomes with their clients.

Extensive information on the badges can be found at:

www.adventureactivityassociates.co.uk

Access to Assessment

Providers can choose different routes to access assessment for the LOtC badge or Adventuremark:

Direct assessment by Adventure Activity Associates on behalf of AAIAC – the “Direct Route”
Assessment by an approved scheme (see below)
For existing AALA Licence holders, a “top up” route to LOtC accreditation exists. This assesses the additional criteria concerning educational and general quality.

Access to all can be found at:

http://www.adventureactivityassociates.co.uk/accreditation/accreditation.php

Scheme Approval

Direct Route and Top Up inspections for LOtC are operated directly by Adventure Activity Associates on behalf of AAIAC. The model of operation allows existing accreditation schemes to apply for “approval”.

Approved schemes:

can be confident that their processes and arrangements meet industry standards of good practice
will be able to award an LOtC badge or Adventuremark in conjunction with their existing accreditation.

Providers who gain an LOtC badge via an approved scheme can expect to find that this route is cost effective and has the potential to eliminate unnecessary duplication of inspection. An additional benefit is that their inspection is by specialists in the same type of adventure provision as themselves.

As more and more schemes seek and gain approval, the assessment of LOtC badges will be devolved to a level where it is strongly integrated into the fabric of adventure activity provision. Approved schemes include:

British Canoe Union (BCU)
Mountain Bike Instructors Award Scheme (MIAS)
British Activity Holiday Association (BAHA)

and approval is under way for:

Association of Heads of Outdoor Education Centres (AHOEC)
British Association of Snowsports Instructors (BASI)
Cyclists Touring Club (CTC)

Organisations that do not currently undertake accreditation of providers can establish scheme to do so. The approval criteria for scheme approval are, in effect, a blueprint for setting up a new scheme, and a number of national governing bodies are following this path.

Providers are very keen on gaining accreditation through a scheme. Schemes who are interested in seeking AAIAC approval can find further information on the routes at:

http://www.adventureactivityassociates.co.uk/accreditation/scheme-approval.php

Examples

• A small climbing school, frustrated by being unable to apply for a License, chooses to be inspected for Adventuremark so as to demonstrate the quality of its safety systems
• A multi activity outdoor centre operated by a charity and out of scope of the Licensing Regulations gains an LOtC Badge by direct route assessment. The inspector seeks evidence both of safe practice and learning quality.

• To support its future work with schools, an education authority centre currently holding an AALA licence gains an LOtC badge via the top up route. The inspector seeks evidence both of learning quality and the safe operation of any activities out of scope of Licensing.

• A canoe provider plans to seek assessment for both BCU Centre Approval and the LOtC badge via the BCU (an approved scheme).

• An independent school with a tradition of providing adventure activities for its own pupils applies to be assessed for Adventuremark as a validation of safe practice.

Badging of Expedition Providers

The Expedition Providers Association (EPA) is the awarding body for the Overseas Expeditions sector of the LOtC Quality Badge. Organisations providing overseas expeditions to young people can apply for the LOtC badge through EPA.

Assessment is against the EPA standards. These define good practice in the industry and incorporate the LOtC quality indicators.

More information can be found at:

http://www.epa.uk.net/

Bob Barton is a Director of Adventure Activity Associates Ltd.

He is a former Principal of Outward Bound Eskdale, an international mountain guide and the author of “Safety Risk and Adventure in Outdoor Activities”

Call for nominations to the Adventure Activities Industry Advisory Committee

Sat, 2 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The AAIAC, which is supported by both CCPR and SkillsActive, is representative of a wide range of stakeholders from the UK adventure activities sector. It works with the industry to identify, develop and disseminate good practice, and to advise Governments and agencies accordingly.

The Committee consists of individuals with expertise, knowledge and experience of the adventure activities sector. AAIAC members are also understood as coming from broadly defined ‘constituencies’ with which they are expected to keep in touch, and of whose concerns and interests they are expected to be aware.

In accordance with the constitution, nominations are now invited for membership of the Committee (members are normally appointed for a period of three years: one-third of the members stand down each year – and may, if eligible, be re-nominated).

Nominees should have a knowledge and understanding of safety and good practice in adventure activities, whilst having a commitment to the AAIAC and its objectives. Committee members will need to be able to read, understand and comment on documentation including relevant consultations, legislation and good practice guidance. Members will be encouraged to participate in the AAIAC working groups and contribute to the development of good practice guidance. Nominees should be able to participate constructively in open discussions, while respecting the views and roles of members and observers.

An information pack and nomination form can be obtained from Martin Key, AAIAC Secretariat:

By email: mkey@ccpr.org.uk

By post: CCPR, Burwood House, 14-16 Caxton Street, London, SW1H 0QT

All nominations must be with the Secretariat by 5.00 p.m. on 1 March 2010. The AAIAC Appointments Committee will meet mid March 2010, following which successful nominees will be notified.

AAIAC is keen to increase the diversity of its members and welcomes nominations from all sections of the community. Copies of this advert and the application pack are available in large print.

Public advised to buy wisely

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Businesses in the outdoor clothing and equipment sector are reporting a very strong start to 2010, helped by the prolonged winter weather. The Outdoor Industries Association (OIA) has been receiving news of brisk trading from members across the UK, as consumers rush to buy warm kit to combat the low temperatures. The big freeze is benefiting large and small retailers alike and the OIA is advising the public of the importance of visiting specialist outlets and choosing products that will not let them down in the challenging conditions.

Sales of insulated items such as down jackets, fleeces and hats and gloves have been particularly high, but the OIA has warned the public to be careful when shopping for outdoor kit. Products that look warm and technical on the shelf don’t always deliver that promise outside. Consumers are strongly advised to seek professional advice in one of over 1000 specialist outdoor stores in the country.

Louise Ramsay, chief executive of the Outdoor Industries Association, has this advice:
“As temperatures continue to plummet, it is really important that members of the public who have to go outside are properly equipped. If for any reason you get caught outside – or in your car – in the worst conditions, you could seriously regret not investing in garments that use genuine cold weather performance materials and construction techniques. All Outdoor Industries Association members, whether retailers or manufacturers, are experts in this field and can offer outstanding guidance based on their deep experience of preparing people for all weathers.”

Specialist outdoor retailers are already experiencing a January rush, with one major chain enjoying a 10% boost in immediate business. Similarly, outdoor brands are also finding that demand is high for new supplies of products to replenish rapidly emptying stockrooms. The outdoor sector has always been very sensitive to short term weather patterns, and so is well prepared and able to adapt to the circumstances, ensuring that the right types of products are available for the general public.

Ken Reeve, buying and merchandising director for retailer Cotswold Outdoor, comments:“Trading has been excellent with the arrival of the cold weather, with all locations showing good increases. We have seen significant growth on cold weather clothing items including hats, gloves, fleece and down as customers look for proper outdoor kit to protect themselves against the cold. For the more active customers, sales of ice related products, such as crampons, ice axes and sledges, have also been very strong.” 

Mark Brigham, of outdoor retailer Ellis Brigham, comments:
“The weather has helped sales - a combination of cold weather and Christmas presents ensured that we had a pleasing end to what had been a slow few months. Unsurprisingly, most interest has been in winter essentials such as gloves, hats, socks, down jackets, thermal underwear and hand warmers.”

Leading outdoor clothing company Regatta has experienced an increase in turnover of over 30% for December 2009, compared to 2008, partly due to the recent cold and snowy weather conditions. Top selling Regatta products have included waterproof insulated jackets, fleece products, overtrousers, waterproof shell jackets, hats and scarves, socks, gloves, base layer, boots and ‘soft shell’ jackets.  

Outdoor brand Berghaus is also performing strongly. Brand president Richard Cotter comments: “We enjoyed a very busy end to 2009 and that trend is continuing. Berghaus benefits from its high profile in the UK – because it’s long established and so well known, consumers request the brand in store. Of course, it helps that so many TV reporters have, out of necessity, been sporting their Berghaus jackets during outside broadcasts in the last few weeks. However, what is really allowing us to make the most of the weather is the hard work that our customer services team is putting in to keep our retail customers supplied with a stock of winter products.”

BBC Learning launch campaign to get more people into the outdoors

Wed, 3 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

BBC Learning is launching a brand new, multi-platform campaign to encourage individuals and families to try out a new adventure activity. By joining forces with BBC One’s Countryfile and a range of external partners, the ThrillSeeker campaign will enable people to search out exciting events taking place across the UK.

Visitors to the ThrillSeeker website at bbc.co.uk/thrillseeker, will be able to look up thousands of adventurous activities. By entering their postcode an Event Finder feature allows users to narrow down their search to reveal exciting activities taking place within their local area.

Activities are tiered according to their level of difficulty, from hiking and cycling to canyoning and kite surfing, so there really is something for all ages and abilities. Trying out a new activity doesn’t have to be expensive as most which are found using the Event Finder are free or charged at a cost recovery reduced rate. All events are organised and run by external partner organisations who are specialists in their field.
The campaign also includes the ThrillSeeker Adventure Pocket Guide which can be downloaded from bbc.co.uk/thrillseeker, requested by post and will be available at all ThrillSeeker events. The guide includes both child and family focused activity ideas for creating mini-adventures at home or within the local area. It also contains information on the benefits of getting active and adventurous.

“Recent research carried out by the BBC found people had a real desire for more adventure in their lives. It’s my avowed hope that the ThrillSeeker campaign helps people fulfil that desire by offering a wide range of free or reduced price adventures for all.” Sean Kirkegaard, Development Executive, BBC Learning Campaigns

The campaign launches on January 31st on BBC One’s Countryfile, presented by Julia Bradbury and Matt Baker.

To become an event partner, please contact Ian Lewis.

Scottish Natural Heritage engages with retailers to get the message out

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Scottish Natural Heritage is offering Scottish retailers and their staff free Scottish Outdoor Access Code training.

Access rights and the Code are unique to Scotland and SNH have a duty to promote them and the enjoyment of the outdoors whenever possible. We’ve used various communication methods such as TV and outdoor advertising, but we believe retailers could also play a big part in our communications.

The training has been devised specifically for retail staff and covers the basics of the Code as well as how the staff can use this information in their everyday job. It’s fun, brief and to the point lasting just thirty minutes so that staff are back on the shop floor as quickly as possible. Furthermore our experienced trainer Peter Braidwood will come to each store at a time that’s convenient.

Benefits include:
• Staff development – increased staff knowledge and awareness of the Code. Each staff member will receive a certificate to acknowledge training attendance
• Revenue potential – promoting responsible camping equipment such as camping stoves, tents and trowels could increase revenue
• Create a Unique Selling Point – differentiate the store through additional staff knowledge
• No cost – all training is provided free of charge
• Convenient – training will be arranged in store to suit your staff cover.

All SNH ask is for the display of their Responsible Camping leaflets in store and use of their Code swing tags on selected camping equipment when possible but specifically during the fortnight outdoor advertising promotion in summer 2010 (exact dates to be confirmed).

For more information please contact Peter Braidwood on info@thepeopledevelopers.co.uk or 01786 823246 / 07990 647873.

General public calls for greater political focus on the outdoors

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The UK population wants politicians to do more to encourage people to participate in outdoor activities, according to new research by trade organisation the Outdoor Industries Association (OIA). More than 77% think that the Government should make it easier for people to participate in outdoor activities. In addition, over 60% stated that they would probably (47.2%) or definitely (13.1%) support a political party that had a serious, defined policy commitment to encourage the population to participate in outdoor activities.

The OIA survey reveals that a majority of respondents view their outdoor experiences as either more valuable to them than their other leisure activities (27%), or even their most valued (31.5%). Participation in outdoor activities is significant. Research from 2009 (TNS Omnibus from 6–8 January 2009, of 1017 people aged 16-64) identified the level of participation in outdoor activities within the general UK population. Walking came out top, with 51% of all adults participating, while camping (21%), road cycling (14%), longer distance hiking (11%) and mountain biking (10%) are also popular. While 37% of people either never or very rarely take part in outdoor pursuits, 20% participate in outdoor activities two or three times a year and 43% do so at least once a month or every week.

In recent years, the popularity of the outdoors and outdoors based activities has consistently grown and 28% of people who completed the OIA survey spend more than £1,000 on outdoor activities every year, contributing to a multi-billion outdoor economy. Organisations such as the Camping & Caravanning Club have experienced a significant rise in membership and during the recession, the trend for ‘staycations’ led to more people spending time in the UK’s landscapes.

However, despite a raft of national initiatives, such as the Staying Safe Action Plan, Outdoors for All and Change4Life, the general public believes that not enough is being done to promote outdoor activities in the UK. A key role of the OIA is to encourage more people to enjoy the outdoors responsibly and the association is calling on political parties to better represent the outdoors through policy commitments.

Louise Ramsay, chief executive of the Outdoor Industries Association, comments: “We live in a society in which obesity rates have been soaring. Almost a quarter of adults are classed as clinically obese, so getting people active is more important than ever, and simple pastimes such as going for a walk can be a great part of nearly anyone’s healthy lifestyle. The outdoors can play a huge role in improving the fitness of our population, but at the moment not enough is being done to make the most of that opportunity.

“The Outdoor Industries Association is willing, ready and able to work with any of the main political parties that is prepared to take the outdoors seriously. This survey clearly shows that the general public supports our aims and objectives and wants politicians to do likewise. There have been some attempts by the Government to engage with the outdoor community during the last few years - we now look forward to seeing what serious, sustained commitments politicians are going to make during the General Election campaign.”

The OIA recently published its own manifesto for 2010, outlining a plan of action for the year. Key priorities include: providing accurate and useful market intelligence; setting standards for retail training and sales through developing a retail skills qualification; encouraging people to consider careers in the outdoors through outreach programmes; working with UK and European government on issues and legislation that impact the sector; and collaborating with organisations to establish practical and commercial sustainability best practice models for outdoor businesses.

The new OIA survey also revealed that 68% of respondents believe that current regulations and legislation, while important, do not get the balance right between risk and adventure, and can discourage people from enjoying a full outdoors experience.

Experiential learning charity The Outward Bound Trust supports the sentiments expressed through the survey. Established more than 65 years ago, the Trust focuses on boosting personal learning and development through a programme of challenging activities in the outdoors.

Nick Barrett, chief executive of The Outward Bound Trust, comments: “In experienced hands, there is a clear link between adventure in the outdoors, the intensity of the experience for young people and the quality and lasting impact of the learning. Put simply, adventure in the outdoors is a powerful and effective way of learning and the term ‘adventure’ implies an uncertainty of outcome and the ability to assess risk.

“The future success of our society, our economy and our personal happiness depends on creative, enterprising and skilled risk-takers. Unless we educate young people about risk, help them to understand it, to embrace it and to exploit it, then we will fail as a society. The Outward Bound Trust has long believed that the general public fundamentally understands this and the OIA survey clearly demonstrates that to be true. I urge the political parties to take notice.”

The Outdoor Industries Association conducted the survey in early March, in partnership with the Camping & Caravanning Club. Over 1,000 adults from across the UK completed the survey questionnaire.

Nothing Ventured … balancing risks and benefits in the outdoors

Mon, 3 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

“Nothing Ventured … balancing risks and benefits in the outdoors” is a new publication aimed at teachers and other children’s services professionals. Written by Tim Gill, a well known author in the field of children’s play, it encourages readers to take a reasonable and proportionate approach to safety and reassures them that a degree of risk, properly managed, is positively desirable in helping young people to learn to manage their own safety. A risk-averse approach is discouraged. Instead, readers are encouraged to balance the risks and the benefits from an activity.

A number of myths relating to outdoor activities are demolished. For example, an encouraging account of the current legal position shows that fears of a growing compensation culture are unfounded and that courts do in fact take a common sense view. The publication has been endorsed by HSE and ROSPA and will be very reassuring to teachers who wish to give their pupils an adventurous experience. Published by the English Outdoor Council, it is a 28 page, full colour publication designed to complement the EOC publication “High Quality Outdoor Education”. A pdf is available at http://www.englishoutdoorcouncil.org/wp-content/uploads/Nothing-Ventured.pdf and hard copies will be available from the Institute of Outdoor Learning bookshop.

"The next generation is tomorrow’s workforce. Helping young people to experience and handle risk is part of preparing them for adult life and the world of work. Young people can gain this experience from participating in challenging and exciting outdoor events made possible by organisations prepared to adopt a common sense and proportionate approach that balances benefits and risk. I support this publication for the encouragement that it gives to everyone to adopt such an approach."
Judith Hackitt CBE, Chair, Health and Safety Executive

"Developing confidence and risk judgement among young people is crucial if we are to structure a society that is not risk averse. We need to accept that uncertainty is inherent in adventure, and this contains the possibility of adverse outcomes. A young person’s development should not be unduly stifled by the proper need to consider the worst consequence of risk but must be balanced by its likelihood and indeed its benefits. Counter-intuitively, the key to challenging risk aversion among leaders and decision makers, is the application of balanced risk assessment. It is only by objective analysis that the benefits and
opportunities of an activity can be weighed against their potential to go wrong. Indeed I feel that the terminology should be changed to ‘risk/benefit assessment’. For the most part, as previous generations have learnt by experience, it is rare indeed that a well planned exercise leads to accident. It will instead be most likely to bring a sense of enterprise, fun and accomplishment, so vital for maturity, judgement and well-being, which must nearly always offset the residual and inevitable risk. Our mantra at RoSPA sums up this approach: We must try to make life as safe as necessary, not as safe as possible. This is why I am
delighted to support the work of the OEAP and Tim Gill with Nothing Ventured. We welcome the debate this will promote."
Tom Mullarkey OBE, Chief Executive, Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents

Women's winter climbing trouser wins Innov_ex Design Prize 2010

Wed, 5 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The OIA, in sponsoring Innov_ex with its student prize, is genuinely investing in the future of the outdoor industry" Professor Mary Rose, LUMS

The Innov_ex Design Prize has a growing reputation and this year there were 6 finalists and the standard of entry was high. Tthe winning design came from Veronica Legg a student at Manchester Metropolitan University for her Winter Climbing Trousers.

The innovation is a pair of winter climbing trousers designed specifically for female mountaineers, with zoned insulation to provide warmth without the need for an additional underlayer, and a double end opening fly zip to facilitate toilet stops. The trousers aim to provide a single layer legwear solution for a wide range of winter conditions, which eliminates the need for other layers (underneath or over the top). Multiple layers create compatibility problems that prevent effective openings for toilet stops.

Judges reactions:
Mark Pedley (Smartlife Technologies)
The reason this won was that it combines other innovative technology (the Shewee) albeit we all felt the market is very limited. Innovation should not have to be thought about – it should be like a light bulb so that the reaction of customers is’ why didn’t we think of that?’ This is what happened in this instance. We felt there were a couple of design challenges but these would be addressed very easily.

Chris Townsend (TGO Gear Reviewer)
These trousers look functional but not that unlike other similar products. However the extended double-ended fly zip to allow use of a female urinating device is innovative and meets an obvious need. This zip makes the trousers stand out from other winter trousers for women. It’s simple, practical and has an obvious market.

Veronica said of her win: "My inspiration for the winter climbing trouser with a Shewee compatible fly zip was born out of frustration from my personal experiences of incompatible clothing. I’d lost count of the number of times I’d cursed having long johns under my trousers, making using a Female Urinating Device impossible; or being tied into a belay and unable to remove my harness. I found myself limiting my fluid intake to avoid this issue, but was acutely aware of the impact dehydration has on physical performance and mental judgement: two of the most crucial elements of winter climbing. There had to be a solution; it came in the form of a double-ended zip.

Winning the Innov_ex Prize is a dream come true – I still can’t quite believe it’s real! I have been following Innov_ex and the stories of previous winners for some years now, and finally being in a position to enter was a milestone in itself for me. I’m not a competitive person by nature: putting my work ‘out there’ for others to judge was a very daunting proposition. I’m glad I took that risk now, and I would encourage anyone else to do the same. You might be pleasantly surprised by the outcome, as I was!”

The 2010 finalists were:
Francis Fox Hydro Tec Impact Cushioning System
Karthick Govarthanam : Slash and Abrasion Resistant Fabric for garment
Veronica Legg Womens' Winter Climbing Trousers
Oliver Nissen Business Model combining technologies
Albi Schneider CU Belay Glasses
Ian Whitehead Rescue Aid

Read the full conference update here

Time for Change in Outdoor Learning

Mon, 17 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The English Outdoor Council (EOC) has released its latest publication 'Time for Change in Outdoor Learning' which delivers hard evidence on the value of the outdoors and a challenge to deliver fair access to all. This new publication will be presented to Parliament today.

Read the publication here.

Members of EOC: Association of Heads of Outdoor Education Centres. British Activity Holiday Association, Christian Camping International, Institute for Outdoor Learning, National Association of Field Study Officers, National Council for Voluntary Youth Services, Outdoor Education Advisor's Panel, Outdoor Industries Association, Young Explorers' Trust

Ethical Consumer Magazine publishes report critisising the outdoor industries

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The recently published report accuses companies of not taking enough accountability for what is essentially at the heart of our industry. There is some debate as to how accurate and up to date the information reported on is. The OIA's response however to the recently published Ethical Consumer magazine report to the media is as follows:

Louise Ramsay, Chief Executive of the OIA commented: "The report touches on important issues and highlights some of the huge challenges that every business now faces. Contrary to the report, the outdoor industry is well aware its environmental and ethical responsibilities and takes them very seriously. These must be balanced however with a very real responsibility for ensuring product performance and safety for the end user. The outdoor industry is already working in a very collaborative fashion to address these issues with long term sustainability in mind, and is making clear progress to the benefit of all. A vast majority of those companies mentioned in the report, several of which are Outdoor Industries Association members, are actively involved in this work which is being co-ordinated on a European level by the European Outdoor Group.

The Outdoor Industries Association's membership represents all parts of the UK outdoor sector. Along with other existing and planned initiatives, the OIA’s ongoing sponsorship of the Innovations for Extremes conference is central to our commitment to the sustainable, ethical development of the UK’s outdoor industry. We also continue to play a role in the sustainability projects being undertaken by the European Outdoor Group.”