New dates, buyers ready to do business and complete product mix mark ASR Marketplace 2010

Press Release:

San Juan Capistrano, CA (August 17, 2010) - Four event platforms in one location brought over 750 brands and thousands of retailers to San Diego for ASR Marketplace, August 13th-15th.

New dates landing in the heart of the sales cycle made for more open-to-buy dollars spent during the show. The combination of CLASS@ASR, Crossroads and now Sacred Craft running adjacent to ASR created a comprehensive look at products, personalities and trends of the surf, skate, swim, moto and fashion markets.

"Brands and retailers were able to accomplish a lot of business in three days and a positive vibe surrounded all four events," says Andy Tompkins, VP of ASR.

"We also heard good feedback regarding the earlier show dates. The opportunity for buyers and sellers to meet during the product order window allowed for relevant conversations and negotiations on the ASR show floor. This helped to create a more effective show for both sides of the aisle."

Brands found the event a valuable resource for meeting with leading buyers. "There's a return of a lot of good accounts like Zappos and Sports Chalet. More retailers here this year are here working," says John Vance, President of Sanuk.

Steve Ward, Senior VP of Sales & Marketing at O'Neill Clothing agrees, saying, "After a busy and productive weekend, I can confidently say that ASR exceeded our expectations. Friday was particularly amazing. We were slammed from start to finish."

Along with hundreds of lifestyle apparel, footwear and accessories products, the addition of Sacred Craft and Crossroads brought a definitive collection of hardgoods, the soul of the industry, back to ASR.

Enthusiasts were able to attend both events offering retailers a valuable look at the public's reaction to brands and the progression of product design.

"You get to see so much with fours show all within walking distance," says Mike DeLuca, Owner, Progressive Skate Park in Atlanta, GA.

"This time I came out planning to write more orders than I have in the last year or two. We had a good back to school, so inventories in the shop are low and we're taking advantage of the deals being offered at the shows. The vibe feels more positive. The sky isn't falling and we're all here to work."

On page 2: more from retailers, 2011 show days & dates