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."
Chris Bishop, marketing manager of AMG Group, comments: “20 years of OTS and it's still proving itself as the premier event for brands and retailers to see everything that the UK industry has to offer. It continues to be the calendar highlight, demonstrating its importance for the whole of the UK outdoor industry.”
Debbie Read, head of corporate communications and CSR at Rab, comments: “It was a great show and a good opportunity to reconnect with industry colleagues while also meeting new people. There was a real sense of energy throughout the event, from the inspiring Women’s Networking Event recognising the growth and impact of the group, to the well-attended Sustainability Breakfast, which sparked valuable discussion and shared learning. Overall, an insightful few days and a great reminder of the power of bringing people together in a great location.”
Dan Taylor, head of sales for outdoor and cycle, Pentland Brands – Berghaus, comments: “It was another brilliant OTS show in Liverpool this week. We had high quality meetings with many existing and prospective partners in what’s always a slick and easily accessible show.”
Neil Bradley, brand director at Mountain Equipment, comments: “OTS compresses months of networking and market research into a few highly productive days. Connecting face-to-face gives us immediate access to qualified buyers and emerging industry trends.”
Chris Gordon, marketing manager, Lyon Equipment, comments: “We're incredibly proud to have been attending OTS since its inception, here for the 20th consecutive year. The show has been at the heart of the UK outdoor industry for two decades, and Lyon Equipment has been there every step of the way. OTS continues to provide a valuable opportunity to showcase our portfolio of premium brands, engage directly with retailers, launch new products and strengthen relationships across the sector. We're delighted to celebrate this milestone alongside our customers, brand partners and fellow exhibitors.”
Andy Norman, regional sales manager UK & Ireland, Nordics and Benelux, Altra, comments: “OTS 2026 once again proved to be a great opportunity for Altra to showcase our range ahead of important Spring/Summer order deadlines. We see a lot of retail partners at this show and every year seems to be busier than the previous one for us. We highly value our attendance at this event and are looking forward to another great show in 2027.”
Craig McInally, head of ecommerce at liGo.co.uk, comments: “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, comments: “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, comments: “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, comments: “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, comments: “Very well organised event and great to see the so many major UK brands all in one place.”
OTS organisers are now planning for the 2027 show and will release the first details in the near future. For all of the latest news and information about OTS, visit https://outdoortradeshow.com and follow the show on social media: