Surf Expo 2011

Dive category's official launch at Surf Expo

"Surf Expo announces its introduction of a new product category this September - Dive. The category launch focuses on snorkel, swim, freedive and spearfishing; recreational diving products that encompass a strong, growing market for surf, resort and watersport shops everywhere."

Background

The Surf Expo is a "trade show" that is held twice a year, January and September. The two main categories are Boardsports and Beach & Resort Lifestyle. Boardsports is divided in to Surf, StandUp Paddle (SUP), Wakeboard & Waterski (Wake), Windsurf & Kiteboard (Kite/Wind), Dive, and Skate. Beach & Resort Lifestyle is divided in to Resort, Boutique, and Swim.

Here's some of what I saw...

This was a great trade show in general.  Clearly the vendors work hard to put on a good show and push each other to new heights.  Throughout the show there is a fun, relaxed vibe that seems to energize everyone and especially the buyers. 

Some of you are waiting for a comparison to DEMA... I've been to both several times and it's night and day.  The Surf crowds are easily 30 years younger, and the show is 'bigger'; bigger booths, bigger demos, bigger budget (free Wi-Fi), etc.

Let us know what you think.