Activity-Based Structure Replaces Traditional Format
The National Outdoor Expo will return in 2027 with a discipline-led format organized around eight core outdoor activities: hiking and walking, trail running, cycling, climbing, camping, adventure travel, water sports and bushcraft. Each discipline will have a distinct area within the event, bringing together brands, retailers, content and live environments relevant to that specific activity.
The redesigned event structure places disciplines, retail, practical learning and live participation at the center of the show. Visitors will navigate the event by their outdoor interests rather than traditional exhibition hall layouts, allowing them to spend more time within their area of interest and engage with content in greater depth.
Retail Integration Within Each Discipline
A key component of the new format involves integrating retail directly within each discipline area. Dedicated retail zones will sit inside each section of the show, bringing together leading outdoor retailers and brands alongside relevant content and activations. This approach allows visitors to explore equipment and apparel in context, with opportunities to compare products, ask questions and understand how they perform in real use.
The integration aims to create a more useful commercial environment for both exhibitors and visitors, where product discovery connects directly to activity-specific needs and applications.
Emphasis Shifts to Practical Learning
The 2027 programme places greater emphasis on practical learning and participation rather than traditional presentations. Each discipline will include workshops, coached sessions and skill-based demonstrations led by athletes, guides and practitioners. These sessions are designed to reflect real outdoor environments, giving visitors the opportunity to build knowledge they can apply beyond the show.
Content will sit closer to the action, with the programme including live activity, performance environments and opportunities to observe and participate in the disciplines themselves. The balance shifts towards doing, learning and observing real participation rather than purely listening to presentations.
Live Activity Environments
Each discipline area will feature activity-led environments designed for actual use. Climbing sections will include performance and competition elements, while trail running areas will focus on endurance, technique and equipment testing. Camping and bushcraft zones will center on practical skills and field use applications.
The National Outdoor Expo positions itself as a single place where the UK outdoor community comes together across multiple disciplines, while providing each discipline the space and depth it requires. The event remains open and accessible but offers greater structure for those already active in outdoor pursuits as well as those looking to progress their involvement.
Further announcements regarding retailers, partners and programme details for the 2027 edition will follow in the coming months.
Based on reporting by Event Industry News. Read the original article.