Surf Expo Returns to Orlando with Expanded Global Participation

Orlando, FL, August 26, 2024 — Surf Expo, the world’s premier water sports and coastal lifestyle trade show, is set to make a significant return to the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, from September 5-7, 2024. This year’s event promises to be more expansive than ever, with over 650 exhibitors representing more than 750 brands from across the globe. The expo will showcase the latest trends and innovations in water sports, beach, resort, swim, outdoor, and coastal life products, reaffirming its status as the ultimate destination for industry professionals.

This year's Surf Expo is notable for its expanded global reach, with a marked increase in international participation. Over 6,000 retail buyers from 60 countries are expected to attend, representing key markets such as the U.S., Canada, the Caribbean, Australia, Central and South America, and more. The expo will see a strong presence from international retailers and distributors, particularly from countries like Mexico, Brazil, Peru, the Bahamas, and the Cayman Islands, highlighting the event’s growing influence beyond North American shores.

Roy Turner, the Surf Expo Show Director, expressed excitement about the event’s increasing international flavour. “The international flavour of Surf Expo will be more noticeable than ever at our September 2024 event,” Turner said. “Not only will this show bring together all the major brands along with new and emerging products that are setting the trends for next year, but also feature a larger number of global exhibitors and attendees. This surge in interest is driving strong attendance from international retailers who are looking to our market as the leader across the surf, beach, and resort product categories.”

The Surf Expo in September 2024 will feature an impressive array of products and innovations from leading brands across various categories. The trade show will include well-known surf brands such as Hurley, Quiksilver, Body Glove, Rip Curl, O’Neill, Billabong, RVCA, and Volcom. Additionally, attendees can expect to see emerging brands like Seager, Former, Rivvia, Duvin, Free Fly, GOORIN, and Aloha Collection making their mark.

Beyond surf wear, the expo will also showcase products from categories including swimwear, skate, paddle, boutique, resort, coastal gift, and footwear. Noteworthy brands such as IPD, Roark, Katin, Salty Crew, …Lost, Jetty, VISSLA, Skullcandy, Dark Seas, Diff Eyewear, Birkenstock, PQ Swim, Rhythm, Chubbies, Howler Brothers, Rocket Dog, Spartina 449, Tommy Bahama, PrAna, Skechers, ORCA, and GCI Outdoor will be present, ensuring a diverse and comprehensive display of products.

The inclusion of both industry giants and up-and-coming brands offers retail buyers a unique opportunity to discover fresh and innovative products that can set their businesses apart in the coming year. The growing interest in private label, athleisure, and sportswear categories is expected to attract significant attention from buyers eager to capitalize on these trends.

Surf Expo 2024 will attract a wide range of retail buyers, including prominent names such as Sun Diego, LL Bean, Palace Entertainment, Six Flags, Dillard’s, Ritz-Carlton, PGA Resort, Val Surf, Glik’s, Hi-Tech Surf Sports, K-Coast, Rooster Bus, Burlington, SCHEELS, Hawaiian Island Creations, Quiet Storm, Jack’s, Coastal Edge, Surf Style Retail Management, Aqua East, Swimwear Solutions, Town and Country, Marshall Retail Group, Swim Mart/Swim City, and many others.

These retailers are eager to explore the latest brands, products, and trends in the water sports and coastal lifestyle market. The event also offers ample opportunities for networking and professional development, with a schedule packed with daily fashion shows, Pickleball competitions, live demos, educational Learning Labs, and industry parties. The Surf Industry Manufacturers Association (SIMA) and Board Retailers Association (BRA) will host several events, including happy hours, parties, and industry breakfasts, providing attendees with valuable opportunities to connect with peers and industry leaders.

As the largest and longest-running water sports, beach, and resort lifestyle trade show in the world, Surf Expo continues to be an essential event for industry professionals. Produced twice annually in January and September, the expo draws buyers from stores across the U.S., the Caribbean, Central and South America, and around the world. Each show features hundreds of apparels and hardgoods brands, as well as a full lineup of events, educational opportunities, and more.

Looking forward, Surf Expo aims to continue expanding its global reach and influence, further solidifying its position as the leading trade show for the surf and coastal lifestyle industry. The event remains a trade-only platform, ensuring a focused and productive environment for exhibiting manufacturers, qualified retailers, and media professionals.

As Surf Expo 2024 approaches, the excitement among industry professionals continues to build. With its unique blend of established brands, emerging innovators, and a truly international audience, the September show is poised to set the tone for the water sports and coastal lifestyle markets in the coming year. Whether you’re a retailer looking to discover the next big thing or a brand eager to showcase your latest products, Surf Expo offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect, learn, and grow within the industry.