As anticipation builds for this year’s International Running Expo (IRX), we caught up with one of our passionate exhibitors, Craig Winter, Co-Founder, Runr, the UK-based lifestyle brand for runners.
Known for their distinctive headwear and commitment to community, Runr is gearing up for IRX with big plans and even bigger ambitions. In this Q&A, they share what inspired them to exhibit, how they’re already making waves in Europe by exhibiting at IRX, and what visitors can expect from them at the show this November.
What inspired Runr to exhibit at The International Running Expo this year, and what are your main objectives for the show?
We decided to exhibit at IRX as we believe there is a huge opportunity for Runr to work with retailers throughout Europe. We have some great relationships with UK retailers who are able to offer their customer our range of headwear and we want to expand the retailers that we work with, so even more runners can show of their passion for running by wearing Runr.
You’ve already secured a German retailer months ahead of the show. Can you tell us how that opportunity came about and what role IRX played in facilitating it?
Andreas at laufSinn reached out to us after seeing us announced as exhibiting at IRX in November. Andreas was proactively looking for new brands to bring into his store in Ulm, Germany, and our Runr products really stood out to him.
What does this early success mean for your brand’s growth plans in Europe and beyond?
This is just one order from one retailer in Germany, but it shows that there is demand for our products from retailers outside of the UK who want to be able to offer their customer and their community something new and different. We see this as the first step on the road to building some fantastic relationships with more retailers throughout Europe.
What can visitors to IRX this November expect to see from Runr? Will you be launching any new products?
We are deep in the planning and preparation stage for IRX and, although we can’t give too much away just yet, we’re hoping to showcase some new products and make the experience as engaging for those attending as possible!
What advice would you give to other brands who are contemplating exhibiting at IRX?
I’ve no doubt that there are other brands attending IRX who are small businesses like us. We’re going with the mindset of learning as much as possible once we’re there and being open to any opportunity that presents itself. To be in the same venue as established brands from over the years, we’re under no illusion that it’s going to be easy so we’re going to enjoy the occasion and start building relationships with as many people as we can whilst we are there!
What impact do tradeshows like IRX have on your brand visibility and engagement with the wider running community?
Face to face events like trade shows are vital for us to get in front of people who love running. Whether it’s a direct-to-consumer show, or a B2B trade event like IRX, we get to engage with people who ultimately make the decision whether to buy from us or not. That could be for just one hat for themselves, or dozens to offer to their community and we give every conversation our full attention!
Looking ahead to November, what are you and the Runr team most excited about at IRX?
As someone who loves running, I can’t wait to see what is on offer to the running community! In all seriousness, we’re excited to make new connections, strengthen existing connections and see what opportunities arise when we’re there.
And lastly, if you could describe the running sector in three words, what would they be?
Positive. Community. Strong.
Runr’s presence at IRX marks an exciting step in their efforts to grow beyond the UK and connect with retailers and runners across Europe. If you’re attending IRX this November, make sure to visit their stand to see what’s new and learn more about their journey.
If you would like to join Runr and exhibit at IRX on 4-5 November, please get in touch today to find out what opportunities are available.