Why Outdoor Brands Should Show Up At Outdoor Economy Conferences

Could Outdoor Economy Conferences be the future of industry gatherings?

Today on The Rock Fight, Colin sits down with returning guest Darren Josey (First Seed Sown, Founded Outdoors, Great Malden Outdoors) to unpack what went down at the National Outdoor Economy Conference in North Carolina.

Unlike trade shows, these conferences bring together governors, policymakers, state OREC directors, economic developers, tourism leaders, trail builders, and healthcare advocates. All of them focused on one thing: using outdoor recreation to strengthen communities and economies.

Colin & Darren discuss:

• Why states like Tennessee and Arkansas are leading the charge on outdoor rec.
• How outdoor economy conferences differ from traditional trade shows.
• Why brands and retailers need to show up and what they stand to gain.
• The untapped link between outdoor rec and healthcare costs.
• How states are building infrastructure that literally creates new customers.
• The opportunity for the outdoor industry to move beyond selling gear into shaping healthier, more resilient communities.

TL;DR: The outdoor industry can move beyond its bubble and spoiler: brands that get involved early may benefit the most.

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