SOTA (the Snow and Outdoor Trade Association) was formed 25 years ago by a small group of independent sellers of camping and outdoor equipment who wanted a platform to show their product to retailers accross Australia and New Zealand.
From small venues in and around Canberra, an annual event grew into what is now ‘The National May Outdoor Trade Fair’. Presently held at EPIC (Exhibition Park in Canberra), the show is an unmissable date in the calendar to anyone involved in the outdoor industry. These shows organized by SOTA are considered an important and reliable yardstick on the health of the outdoor industry as a whole.The success of the show is attributed to its reliability and efficiency as much as the exciting and friendly atmosphere which is created each year. Exhibitors are all from the wholesaling or manufacturing business and visitors are buyers and retailers in the industry, most with genuine interest in purchasing. Exhibitors from last year’s event reported good leads and sales generated during the show.
One of the best things about this show is its sheer size. The venue including all outdoor areas allows exhibitors ample space to show off their products to their full potential. ie; tents can be erected and canoes can be on display. The interaction of this kind of selling environment is invaluable. As well as seeing all the products on offer, visitors can learn, ask questions and even touch the displays.
Nat Nay 2009 was a huge success. With the world economic crisis in full swing, and other exhibitions and trade shows struggling to get numbers of exhibitors and visitors, numbers at the National May Outdoor Trade Fair were not affected at all. First time visitors were exactly the same as the previous year and new visitors were only down by 32. This confirms that genuine interest in the outdoor industry is still solid.
Potential exhibitors are required to complete an Application for Membership at a cost of $75. If this is approved by the committee then they can then go ahead and apply for a place. There is no charge for visitors who pre-register fro this event. Those not registered will be charged an entry fee of $20 on the day.
