Outdoorsmen Holdings is focused on acquiring hunting, fishing, camping, boating and RV trade shows. Here is why we believe the marketplace itself is the most valuable place to be in the outdoor economy.
When people hear that Outdoorsmen Holdings is focused on trade shows, a common question follows. Why not buy a boat maker, an outfitter or a gear brand? Why the shows?
The short answer is that the show is where the whole outdoor economy meets.
A big and growing economy
That economy is large. According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, the value added of the outdoor recreation economy accounted for 2.4 percent of U.S. gross domestic product, or $696.7 billion, in 2024. BEA also reports that the sector supported approximately 5.2 million jobs, with total compensation of $324.3 billion, up 5.2 percent from the year before.
The marketplace, not a single seller
A single manufacturer depends on its own products and its own season. A trade show brings together hundreds of manufacturers, dealers, outfitters and small businesses, and the families who buy from them, in one place. Owning that marketplace means being connected to the entire ecosystem rather than betting on one corner of it.
What makes shows attractive
- Recurring events. Established shows return year after year, with loyal exhibitors and attendees.
- Many revenue streams. Exhibitor booths, attendance, sponsorships and related services.
- Deep relationships. Shows sit at the center of thousands of business relationships.
- Room to add value. A show owner can offer services that individual exhibitors can't easily get on their own.
Building a national footprint
Outdoorsmen Holdings has identified the largest hunting, fishing, camping, boating and RV shows nationally and is working toward acquisitions that would give it a balanced U.S. footprint. It has made major progress building that footprint in the RV show sector, though no acquisition has been completed yet.
More than an event company
Over time, we see the shows as a platform. Plans include discounted access for active-duty service members and veterans through a military partnership that is still being finalized, and, in the future, financing for exhibitors and vendors to help them through the seasonal cycle. Those programs are planned and not offered today.
That is why we chose the shows. They are where the outdoor economy gathers, and where we believe we can do the most good for the people and businesses in it.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, "Outdoor Recreation Economic Statistics, U.S. and States, 2024," March 2026, bea.gov
- U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Survey of Current Business, "Outdoor Recreation Statistics for 2024," June 2026, bea.gov
Forward-looking statements: This article contains forward-looking statements about Outdoorsmen Holdings' acquisition strategy and planned programs. No trade show acquisition has been completed, the military partnership is not final, and lending services are not currently offered. These statements involve risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially. References to third-party sources do not imply any relationship with or endorsement by those organizations.