The UK’s only outdoor sport and leisure-focused trade show has celebrated its 20th anniversary with a busy and successful event. OUTDOOR TRADE SHOW (OTS) returned to Liverpool for the sixth time, where 135 exhibitors showcased the latest product innovations to retail buyers, media and other trade visitors. The show also included a programme of events, activities and networking opportunities
Taking place from 2-4 June, OTS was hosted in Exhibition Centre at Liverpool Experience Campus and organised by MCS PR & Events. Among the 135 exhibitors were many of the UK and Europe’s biggest outdoor brands, including some who have had a stand at every single show. Likewise, there were visitors who have made the trip to every edition of OTS since its launch in 2006.
Outside the main hall, other activities during the show included morning runs supported by Ronhill and Topo, on stand entertainment by Vango and Rab, a sold-out OTS Social and the always popular OTS Sustainability Breakfast, which this year included presentations from event sponsor Rab, the Tiso Group and The Microfibre Consortium.
During the OTS Social, the winners were announced of the Outdoor Retailer of the Year – OTS Awards 2026. Now in their third year, the Outdoor Retailer of the Year Awards recognise and celebrate the best outdoor retailers in 10 categories. Full details of the winners can be found at Winners crowned in the Outdoor Retailer of the Year OTS Awards 2026 – Outdoor Trade Show. The finalists of the UK Outdoor Industry Awards 2027 were also revealed – Announcement of UK Outdoor Industry Awards 2027 Finalists – The Outdoor Industries Association.
Marta Williams, managing director of OTS organiser MCS PR & Events, comments: “We are absolutely delighted with how the industry came together to celebrate the 20th anniversary of OTS. The feedback from exhibitors, retailers, brands, distributors and media has been extremely positive. What has been especially rewarding is hearing first-hand how important the show is to so many exhibitors and visitors, how it helps save time, creates new contacts and business relationships, showcases new products, and provides valuable networking opportunities.
“OTS has always been about bringing the outdoor industry together, and this year felt particularly special. The events programme was very well attended and received excellent feedback for both its format and content. There was a real sense of optimism, collaboration and community throughout the three days.
“Personally, having been involved since the very beginning, seeing the industry continue to support and value OTS after 20 years is something of which I am incredibly proud. Thank you to every exhibitor, visitor, partner and supporter who has been part of the OTS journey.”
Visitor feedback
Craig McInally, head of ecommerce at liGo.co.uk: “As an independent outdoor retailer, OTS provides invaluable insight into what’s coming next and gives us an opportunity to connect with new brands and suppliers as well as strengthen existing relationships. This year’s event was extremely productive, and we appreciate all the effort that goes into making it such a worthwhile event!”
Emily Russell, owner of The Outdoor Depot: “OTS is always a great opportunity to catch up with brands we already deal with but this year we were able to connect with new brands, suppliers and products, forging new relationships within the industry. It was an exciting show with lots of potential.”
Gareth Sandilands, director, LittleMountainOutdoors.com: “After a decade of visiting the show I was so please to see it is still the number one show in the UK for the outdoor trade. Great to see existing and new brands at the show.”
Jon Fountain, director/owner, Craigdon Mountain Sports: “The show is a fundamental part of the outdoor world. OTS is a great place to buy kit from industry-leading brands and to catch up with fellow professionals.”
Steve Tiffany, managing director, Ski Equip: “Very well organised event and great to see the so many major UK brands all in one place.”
David Chandler, freelance writer, Bird Watching magazine: “I always look forward to OTS, and this year’s show didn’t disappoint. I’ll be back.”
Tim Hebbert, co-host, Casual Camping podcast: “This is the show our listeners can’t come to, so it always lands well. We are like big kids seeing all the incredible equipment and clothing, most of which won’t hit the consumers for several months. Being able to speak to so many brands at one event is just amazing. OTS is a genuine highlight of our year.”
