Surf Expo adds digital market

By Kristin Ely

New online platform is an extension of the trade show buyer and seller connection.

Surf Expo has announced a new addition to its marketplace, Surf Expo Digital Market. The digital market is an extension of the in-person events, providing a centralized platform to extend that relationship and help efficiently source products 365 days a year, according to Surf Expo.

“Surf Expo has always been a strong order-writing show in addition to the relationships forged and strengthened at our events,” says Roy Turner, Surf Expo show director. “We have heard loud and clear from our retailer and brand community that face to face, in-person shows are critical. That said, they also need technology to connect, source and place orders year-round.”

Surf Expo Digital Market will provide an extension of the trade show buyer and seller connection.

Retailer benefits include:

  • Pre-show: Use Surf Expo Digital Market to prepare for the show by easily locating brands, researching products and previewing major lines before the show. Review styles and trends before committing open to buy, and make advanced decisions based on the projected style, size, price and color.
  • During the show: Arrive to appointments more informed and prepared. See and touch the products in person, easily take notes and place orders in the Surf Expo Digital Market tool at the show. Printed catalogs are no longer needed to keep up with unreadable notes.
  • After the show: Review notes, use merchandising tools to work on in-store product displays. Submit orders, easily place reorders, and locate at-once products easily and efficiently.

Wholesaler benefits include:

  • Pre-show: Provide buyers access to early line breaks, and the ability to research and preview before meeting at the show.
  • During the show: Present key products, take orders directly in the Digital Market platform — no paper orders, no catalogs needed.
  • After the show: Exposure to the Surf Expo retailer universe in one central location.


“Surf Expo Digital Market will revolutionize how brands and retailers collaborate, transact and merchandise,” Turner says.

Surf Expo Digital Market will debut in early August. Qualified retailers are invited to register. All retailers who register for Surf Expo’s September 9-11 show in Orlando, Florida, will automatically gain access.