Ispo’s Amsterdam debut draws around 20,000 visitors as buyers seek more brands

Ispo’s first Amsterdam edition attracted around 20,000 visitors, according to an initial organiser projection reported by FashionUnited. The sports trade fair moved after more than 55 years in Munich and had announced 25,000 visitors in advance. German businesses were more hesitant about the new location than participants from Northern Europe, the UK and the US.

The exhibition ran for two days, preceded by the Ispo Leaders Summit for executives. The International Running Expo ran alongside it with access on the same ticket. Managing director Tracy Bebbington said buyers wanted more brands at the next edition. Organisers plan to refine existing formats and improve returns for exhibitors and visitors, with participant feedback still needed for a reliable assessment.

Exhibitor experiences varied. Rab reported attendance from all key accounts in its domestic market, while Scott’s running division noted limited buyer and retailer turnout. The Brandnew area, organised with YKK, offered emerging brands exhibition space and stage presentations. Separate halls housed materials, components and finished-product suppliers, alongside a dedicated sustainable supplier area.

Why it matters

The mixed turnout highlights the importance of brand participation and wholesale buyer attendance for exhibitors assessing the event. For emerging sportswear brands and suppliers, the fair provided opportunities to meet retailers and prospective production partners, although buyers’ requests for a broader brand mix remain a priority for organisers.