Expect Debuts at Sportswear Trade Expo
Businesses tied to surfing, skateboarding, snowboarding and other lively sports are gearing up for next month’s Action Sports Retailer Trade Expo in San Diego, which showcases what’s hot in the industry.
Highlights this year will include the introduction of the new Hurley International surf wear line, presented by Bob Hurley, who recently decided to relinquish the reins of Billabong USA to launch his own company in Costa Mesa.
But since Hurley’s contract with the Australia-based company doesn’t expire until June 1999, he will also be showing the Billabong spring line at the trade expo. (This should be interesting. . . . )
The folks at Billabong Australia, who have not yet announced a new USA licensee, say they have no problem with the dueling displays and will unveil at the expo their new surf wear for juniors: Billabong Girls, made by Burleigh Point in San Francisco.
Other locals showing new products at the trade show are Anaheim-based Lunada Bay, which will present its XOXO swim line, and Corona del Mar boutique owner Holly Sharp, who will introduce her new sportswear collection (insiders say it will be called Lucy Love).
There’s also a buzz about a new children’s clothing line being presented by world-famous skateboarder Tony Hawk, who has started the Hawk Clothing company in San Juan Capistrano. The skate-inspired clothes are for children and teens from 4 through 14 years.
Buyers say they’ll be scanning the 1,625 exhibition booths for new names and fresh ideas.
“I want to find something new, something that’s not all over the place,” said Tania Cassill, with Dana Point-based Hobie Sports. “I’m very interested in the new Hurley company. That’s one of the things I would like to check out. I’m very covered in the older brands and I’d like some new names.”
This trade show--which will be held at the San Diego Convention Center Sept. 10-12--caters to an industry that targets consumers between the ages of 11 and 25 who surf, skate, swim, ski or snowboard (or at least want to look like they do). It’s an industry event, closed to the public.
