The Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) will hold its annual industry event in a virtual format from November 9-11, 2021. The “SFIA Trends & Insights 2021,” will feature sports & fitness executives and experts discussing strategic issues and opportunities in a post-pandemic market.
“We know our executives are intensely interested in learning insights and innovative strategies around taking advantage of a national economic recovery and increased physical activity,” said Tom Cove. president and CEO of SFIA. “After many consultations with our Board of Directors and member companies, we concluded that a virtual format is the most productive way to deliver valuable content this year. While we recognize many people are looking forward to in-person events, we heard clearly that restrictive travel policies and budget constraints in 2021 would likely limit attendance from many who would want to participate. Therefore, a virtual format was best for most members this year and we will return to an in-person SFIA Industry
Session topics will include: changing consumer preferences, sports and fitness market analysis, return to youth sports trends, regaining momentum within the fitness club industry, organizational resiliency, supply chain developments, trade and tariffs in a Biden administration, sustainability policy and practice, and equity & inclusion. Registration is expected to open in May 2021.
In response to members’ response for safe, in-person gatherings, SFIA is planning a series of regional events in the U.S. designed for groups of 50 attendees in an afternoon format. The gatherings will provide educational content and networking, in a minimal-cost, accessible format. SFIA sees the opportunity as a way to welcome younger industry members and seasoned executives to promote community and professional development.
“Our industry is stronger when our members can interact and feed off the energy of each other,” continued Cove. “Rather than ask our companies to come to us, we’re turning the model around and going to them.”
