Business Solutions for Outdoor Leaders in 2025

Your business thrives when you have the right tools, resources, and community to support your goals. That’s where Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) comes in. More than a trade association, OIA is a member-led collective of businesses like yours—leaders, innovators, and changemakers—who are shaping the outdoor industry’s future while achieving measurable success today. 

We know what matters to you: growing your business, staying competitive, and leading with purpose. OIA is here to deliver the education, events, and business intelligence you need to seize opportunities, tackle challenges, and drive results. 

Here’s how you can make the most of your OIA membership in the coming year:

1. Use Your Outside Voice Through Advocacy

Timely engagement on issues critical to the health of our businesses and industry is not just the right thing to do—it’s a must do. We unify the voices of small and large companies across the country to promote policies and programs to save money, create jobs, invest in recreation, expand outdoor access for all, and protect our environment.  

 In 2025, we’re introducing new opportunities to engage and mobilize advocacy at the intersection of equitable access, trade, climate, and conservation.  

2. Drive Strategy with Industry-Leading Business Intelligence

Better understand the markets and people you serve through OIA’s industry-leading data and insights on participation trends, market forces, consumer insights, and more. We work with multiple sources and leverage deep industry connections to provide the most focused and trusted view of the market and our consumers.  

From comprehensive reports on participation and retail trends to benchmarking studies, our data empowers you to make informed decisions and drive growth for your business. 

 3. Lead the Charge for a Sustainable Future

Through OIA’s trailblazing programs and pre-competitive collaboration, your brand protects the outdoor experience upon which we all depend. We help our members learn fast to apply realistic and proven solutions to reduce greenhouse gases, phase out harmful chemicals, apply safe alternatives in the supply chain, and get ahead of challenges that impact product quality and customer satisfaction.  

Our collaborative community is here to help you protect the people and places touched by your products and value chains.    

4. Connect and Innovate at Industry Events

OIA brings the outdoor industry together through events and gatherings designed to inspire collaboration and innovation. Whether it’s through Capitol Summit, Catalyst Conference, Switchback, or virtual convenings, you’ll have opportunities to network with industry leaders and forge meaningful partnerships.  

From the timing of events to the content they deliver, we aim to shape gatherings that bring value to all members and reflect the voices and needs of our entire community. 

5. Empower Your Team with Resources and Savings

OIA membership includes a wealth of resources to help your team grow. From our career center, press room, and member portal to exclusive access to special preferred pricing on goods and services from OIA’s 20+ best-in-class service provider partners, your team can stay ahead of the curve and drive success across your organization.

6. Foster Equity and Inclusion in the Outdoors

OIA’s philanthropic arm, The Outdoor Foundation, is dedicated to getting people outside for their health, the health of communities and the health of the outdoor industry. Through community investment and groundbreaking research, we work with partners across the country to address equity barriers and help make the outdoors accessible for all. Your business can be a part of the movement. 

Ready to Engage?  

No matter your sector, product category, or company size, OIA is your partner in driving business success while staying true to the values that define the outdoor industry. Let’s make 2025 a year of meaningful growth and impact for your brand and our industry. Talk to our team today. 

 

 

4 Key Post-Election Policy Implications for the Outdoor Industry

The 2024 election resulted in a dynamic political landscape with significant policy implications for outdoor industry businesses, particularly in overseas manufacturing and exporting. During our industry-wide webinar this December, OIA convened policy experts, government affairs representatives, and attendees to share insights and answer questions about tariffs, trade policies, and broader regulatory challenges under the new administration. Read on for key takeaways from the session and answers to some of the industry’s most pressing questions. 

Key Takeaways 

  • The outdoor recreation industry contributes $1.2 trillion to U.S. GDP and supports over 5 million jobs, underscoring its importance as an economic driver. 
  • Early and consistent engagement with the new administration and 119th Congress is critical to ensure the industry’s voice is heard on issues like trade, public land management, and sustainability. 
  • Businesses should prepare for potential new tariffs on China, Vietnam, and Mexico, emphasizing the need for supply chain diversification and proactive communication with policymakers and consumers. 
  • Circularity, product durability, and recyclable materials are becoming regulatory priorities, offering both challenges and opportunities for companies to innovate. 
  • Leveraging robust economic and sustainability data is essential for advancing policy goals and demonstrating the industry’s contributions. 

Tariffs and Trade Policy

How soon could the administration implement tariffs on outdoor products? 

The administration is expected to act quickly on tariffs, with announcements potentially coming as early as Inauguration Day. Tariffs targeting countries with significant trade deficits, such as China, Vietnam, and Mexico, are anticipated. Businesses should be prepared for swift changes. 

Should manufacturers move operations out of China? 

While moving operations out of China may help mitigate risks, it’s important to avoid over-reliance on a single alternative, such as Vietnam, which may also face tariffs. Companies are encouraged to adopt a diversified multi-country sourcing strategy and consider onshoring and nearshoring opportunities to reduce dependency on high-risk regions. 

Mitigating Tariff Impacts

What can companies do to mitigate the impacts of increased tariffs? 

Diversifying supply chains is critical. Businesses should explore sourcing alternatives, including domestic production. Additionally, clear communication with consumers about the impacts of tariffs—such as breaking down costs on receipts—can raise awareness and drive advocacy. 

Will there be reforms to the 321 Program? 

Changes to the de minimis program under Section 321 are likely, with restrictions expected on categories like apparel and footwear. Companies should monitor legislative developments to adapt their strategies accordingly.

Advocacy and Engagement

How can companies advocate for their policy priorities and when should they engage with the new administration? 

Early engagement is essential. Advocacy efforts should begin as soon as the administration and Congress take office, emphasizing the industry’s economic contributions and the impacts of proposed policies. Coordinated campaigns, like participation in OIA’s Capitol Summit, are effective in amplifying these efforts. 

Will there be opportunities for coordinated advocacy efforts? 

Yes, coordinated advocacy initiatives, such as Capitol Summit and coalition campaigns, will provide platforms for engaging policymakers. Businesses are encouraged to join these efforts to ensure their voices are heard. OIA is here to facilitate any advocacy efforts that members are interested in. 

Broader Sustainability and Regulatory Trends

Do you see a shift in how retailers approach sustainability and climate goals? 

 Retailers were the among the first to incentivize sustainable practices, such as circularity, setting targets for emissions, and reduced packaging, from their supplying brands. After the election, there has been no indication that outdoor retailers will de-emphasize their sustainability and climate goals. They are committed to science-based targets and still have to comply with European regulations. 

What trends in sustainability should companies prepare for? 

 Regulatory focus is shifting toward circularity, with initiatives like California’s textile circularity laws paving the way. Businesses should prepare to align with sustainability goals through durable, repairable, and recyclable product designs. European regulation if often reflected in emerging state regulations, so supply chain traceability and data transparency could also be on the horizon. 

Looking Ahead

The post-election environment presents both challenges and opportunities for businesses. Tariffs, trade policies, and sustainability regulations will require strategic planning and advocacy. By staying informed and engaged, companies can navigate these changes effectively, ensuring resilience and long-term success. 

You can watch the full webinar recording here. For further discussion or questions, feel free to reach out to ga@outdoorindustry.org or join our upcoming webinars to stay ahead of policy developments! 

Meet Your New OIA Board Directors

September 16, 2024

As the outdoor industry’s member-led collective, OIA catalyzes meaningful change in every element of the industry. To set our businesses and industry up for future success, we rely on a clear strategy and value-based collaboration. The OIA board of directors helps shape our strategic plan. The individuals on the board, through their seats at the governance table, support the success of every member company across four critically aligned areas of market research, sustainability, government affairs, and inclusive participation. 

This summer, three new and two incumbent members were elected to the OIA Board of Directors by the OIA membership. We are proud to welcome back incumbent directors Sarah Matt and Janice Tennant, and to introduce you to the new directors: Jon Chong, Jason Parkin, and Jeff Tooze.

To the former and current board leaders, OIA members, and fellow outdoor enthusiasts, thank you for your participation in this year’s election and for treading the path with us! 

“I am thrilled for the opportunity to shape the future of our industry’s member-led collective and carry forward Patagonia’s legacy on the OIA Board. As a technologist, I look forward to leveraging technology and data to innovate member-focused solutions and chart a purpose-driven, sustainable, and successful path ahead.”

  • Jon Chong, Patagonia Chief Technology Officer

“For decades, the outdoor industry has been the tip of the sustainability spear; breaking trail and demonstrating climate leadership across all industries. I look forward to continuing this history of innovative work and finding new, powerful ways we can collectively leverage our $1+ trillion industry to maximize our positive impact for people and planet. And while our tent is already large, it can always include more, so I am eager to continue welcoming more individuals and groups into our community so that we can all thrive together towards a brighter future.”

  • Jason Parkin, Compose[d] Founder, President and CCO

“For 20 years, I’ve been on OIA’s Trade Advisory Council, and I have found it to be a highly effective group influencing changes on trade-related policy and legislation, while also protecting domestic manufacturing interests. OIA is a great organization and, I’m proud to play an even larger role in shaping OIA’s strategic initiatives.”

  • Jeff Tooze, Columbia Vice President of Global Customs & Trade

5 Ways Benchmarking Can Drive Growth and Profitability for Your Outdoor Brand

In today’s competitive outdoor industry, brands need to make data-driven decisions to stay ahead. Benchmarking is a powerful tool that allows you to measure your brand’s performance against your competitors and industry standards, uncovering opportunities for growth and profitability. Here’s how benchmarking can help your outdoor brand blaze new trails to success:

1. Optimize Financial Performance

Benchmarking provides a clear picture of your brand’s financial health by comparing key financial ratios and indicators. By analyzing metrics like revenue growth, profit margins, and inventory turnover, you can identify areas where your brand excels and where improvements are needed. For example, understanding how your profit margins compare to industry leaders can highlight pricing strategies or cost management practices that could be adopted or refined. Similarly, tracking inventory turnover rates against top performers helps ensure that your capital isn’t tied up in excess stock, boosting cash flow and profitability.

2. Streamline Business Operations

Your brand’s operational efficiency is critical to sustaining growth. Benchmarking allows you to assess core business operations, focusing on metrics such as SKU count, sales channel mix, marketing mix and ROI, sourcing mix, number of employees, and sales per employee. By comparing these metrics with industry averages or top performers, you can identify inefficiencies or areas for optimization. For instance, understanding the right balance in your sales channel mix or the effectiveness of your marketing spend can lead to better allocation of resources, improved customer reach, and ultimately, higher sales.

3. Implement Actionable Best Practices

Benchmarking goes beyond identifying gaps; it can often unlock actionable strategies for your brand’s specific needs. For outdoor brands, this could mean adopting best practices for revenue and gross margin optimization, asset management, or payroll control. These practices help you streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance profitability. For example, if your payroll expenses are higher than industry norms, benchmarking can guide you in implementing more efficient workforce management practices, or if your gross margin is below average, it might suggest pricing adjustments or cost-cutting measures that align with industry standards.

4. Gain Targeted Insights

Not all outdoor brands are alike. Segmenting by company size and product line allows you to pinpoint opportunities within your specific market segment, whether you’re a niche specialty brand like OIA member Gossamer Gear or a large, diversified outdoor company like The North Face. By comparing your performance to similar-sized companies or those with a similar product mix, you can identify the best strategies for your unique circumstances, ensuring that your growth efforts are both targeted and effective.

5. Catalyze Continuous Improvement

Benchmarking is not a one-time exercise but a continuous process that drives ongoing improvement. By regularly measuring your brand’s performance against industry benchmarks, you can stay ahead of trends, anticipate challenges, and adjust your strategies proactively. This ongoing evaluation ensures that your outdoor brand remains competitive, agile, and poised for long-term growth.

Ready to incorporate benchmarking into your business strategy? OIA makes it easy. Our new 2024 Outdoor Brand Benchmarking Report provides decision-makers access to exclusive industry benchmarks across all major business functions so that you can make informed decisions and lead your outdoor brand to success. Learn more and gain access to the data and insights today.

OIA Expands Sustainable Business Innovation Programs

OIA Advocates for Sustainability

Sustainability has been central to OIA’s mission since 2007, when the first sustainability working group launched. Since then, our sustainability programming has continued to grow, fostering a culture of collaboration where members take the reins, determine the agenda, invest personally, and encourage partnership without succumbing to competitive barriers. 

Last week at our OIA Sustainability All-Member Webinar, we unveiled several exciting new opportunities for all members to connect and collaborate with peers grappling with similar challenges. Through these collaboration opportunities, we can join hands and address the complexities of chemicals and climate together.  

New Goals: OIA is leading the charge for a sustainable future

CAC Goal 

Take bold, collective action against climate change by reducing and removing greenhouse gas emissions across the outdoor industry, carving a bold new path for others to follow.  

Why the change? CAC’s old goal was to “Become the world’s first climate positive industry by 2030, setting a bold example for others around the world to follow.” While we still stand by this goal in spirit, the sustainability landscape is rapidly evolving. The term “climate positive” is no longer widely used and, in some cases, is even prohibited under certain rules and regulations concerning sustainability claims. Our updated goal reflects the evolving sustainability landscape, the need to align with science, and the focus on greenhouse gas reduction in order to prevent catastrophic climate change.  

CCMC Goal

Blaze the trail in the innovation and adoption of safer chemicals that deliver functional, durable, and trustworthy materials and products to our customers.  

CCMC is approaching its one-year birthday. Chemical regulations continue to progress at a rapid and disjointed rate. However, our members are now more prepared than ever to comply thanks to CCMC’s community and expertise. This goal represents all of the progress that CCMC has made in the past year, and the coalition’s future aspirations for safer chemistry in the industry.  

New Program Requirements 

  • Commit to Program Goals  
  • Share Annual Progress  

New Resources: Our Evolved Offerings for OIA Members

For both CAC and CCMC, we aspire to offer our members:  

  • Guidance – Approachable guidance with the basics of what you need to know in order to make progress towards the program goal.  
  • Trainings – Virtual events to engage and instruct members on addressing chemical and climate impacts.  
  • Tools – Recommended and discounted tools to help you measure your impacts and keep track of important legislative timelines.  
  • Community – Online communities, in-person events, and other opportunities to connect with your industry peers.  
  • Collaboration – CoLabs aimed at specific impact reduction initiatives and Task Forces where members roll up their sleeves to discuss innovative solutions to shared challenges.  

We hope that through these two programs, our members will:  

  • Comply with upcoming regulations  
  • Reduce industry emissions  50% by 2030 and achieve net-zero by 2050 (UNFCCC)  
  • Replace harmful substances with clean chemistry and materials  

New Collaboration Opportunities: Let’s Work Together

As we move towards our sustainability goals, we must move together, as an industry. It’s in this spirit that OIA is launching more collaboration opportunities for our members to investigate challenges, implement solutions, and progress the industry.   

OIA Impact CoLabs: Pre-Competitive 

Existing CoLabs (not recruiting):  

  • Tent Flammability (CCMC) – Change outdated laws in 7 states to no longer require flame retardants in tents   
  • Drinkware (CAC) – Carbon auditing, target setting, and decarbonization action planning for suppliers   
  • Clean Heat (CAC) – Creation of a decision support tool for the electrification of heating in textile plants    
  • Vietnam Renewable Energy (CAC) – Aggregated solar procurement for suppliers in Vietnam    
  • Virtual Power Purchase Agreement (CAC) – Aggregated solar procurement for owned and operated facilities (Scope 2)     
  • Carbon Leadership Project (CAC) – Carbon auditing, target setting, and decarbonization action planning for suppliers  

New CoLab (recruiting):  

  • Developing: Philippines RE (CAC) – OIA is collaborating with Allotrope Partners once again to give members the opportunity to explore clean energy at the Dong In Entech facility in the Philippines  

 

OIA Task Forces 

Task Forces are member-led and member-driven teams dedicated to addressing specific challenges and producing specific deliverables within a set period of time. Here are the task forces OIA is currently offering members: 

  • Aluminum Task Force 
  • Hardgoods Task Force 
  • PFAS Testing Task Force 
  • Supplier Climate Principles Task Force 
  • TSCA Task Force 
  • Sustainability Policy Task Force  
  • Recycled Inputs Task Force  

 

To learn more about OIA Sustainability, visit our OIA webpage, or reach out to sustainability@outdoorindustry.org.