RECCO expands global search-and-rescue network with first SAR Helicopter Detectors in New Zealand

 New search-and-rescue Helicopter Detector placements in New Zealand cover the North and South Islands.

STOCKHOLM, Sweden (September 19, 2025) — RECCO, an international leader in advanced search-and-rescue technology, this month announced continued expansion of its global RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector network with the first placements in New Zealand.

The RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector is a system that can help search-and-rescue teams find RECCO-equipped hikers and other outdoor users quickly and efficiently in the event they become lost. The RECCO SAR was launched in 2016, expanding the system’s applications from finding victims involved in avalanches to all-season search-and-rescue missions year-round.

Two RECCO SAR units have now been deployed in New Zealand, each centrally placed on the North and South Islands, and are now available for the use of search-and-rescue teams throughout the country.

“We’ve been quietly working away in the background for some time now to get the RECCO SAR into New Zealand and it’s awesome to see it finally deployed and available to rescuers.” said Andrew Hobman of Avalanche NZ Ltd, who is also a RECCO representative and instructor in New Zealand.

The unit on the North Island is placed at The Central North Island Emergency Management Center at Waimarino, Te Whare Whakaora o Waimarino. Having the RECCO unit based at Tongariro National Park will provide a central deployment location for search-and-rescue teams across the North Island.

“This technology adds another level of capability to our specialist SAR teams. Where a person is equipped with a RECCO reflector, this system has the potential to help us quickly locate missing people in challenging terrain, whether in the bush, alpine environments, or even under avalanche debris,” said Senior Constable Conrad Smith, New Zealand National Park Police, adding: “It’s always important to be prepared, carry the right gear, take a personal locator beacon and other communication device, and let others know of your intentions.”

RECCO reflectors are not a replacement for personal locator beacons (PLBs), and should be seen as a compliment to them, providing an additional way of being searchable that does not require a battery or need to be turned on. RECCO also recommends that people inform others of the equipment they are carrying, which can be valuable information to rescue teams in case of an emergency.

Andrew Hoyle, leader of the Ruapehu Alpine Rescue Organisation based at Waimarino in the central North Island, said the RECCO system will not only help find missing persons but also help to reduce risk to rescuers responding to a callout, since it can help reduce the number of people exposed to risk during field missions.

“We used it successfully this week at the local SAREX [Search and Rescue Exercise] and managed to locate at least one target in areas that couldn’t be searched safely.”

The unit on the South Island is placed at the GCH Aviation’s Christchurch Rescue Helicopter base, where the Canterbury Westpac Rescue Helicopters are located.

“This could be a real life-saver when we are searching for people in the bush or in an avalanche,” said Rick Knight, Air Rescue Crew Chief at GCH Aviation. “Right now, Christchurch will be home to the only South Island detector, making it a critical asset for South Island operations.”

Regional rescue teams in Nelson, Greymouth, Wanaka, Queenstown and Canterbury underwent training in September, and the South Island unit is now operational and available to support search-and-rescue missions year-round.

The detector arrived on the South Island on Sept. 5 and was immediately deployed the next day to help the SAR Response Team in Greymouth try to locate a missing man on the West Coast.

“The arrival of this technology represents a major step forward for search and rescue in New Zealand, strengthening the ability of SAR teams to respond swiftly and effectively in life-threatening and time critical situations”, said Senior Sergeant Mark Kirkwood, West Coast SAR Coordinator, adding: “It’s a game changer.”

The RECCO SAR helicopter detector can quickly search large areas, covering a square kilometer in six minutes. Along with helping reduce search times for missing people, the helicopter-based detector can reduce the time and risk exposure for rescue workers during missions.

“Since the 1990s, our handheld detectors have been used for avalanche rescue operations in New Zealand ski areas, and now we’re excited to expand RECCO’s capabilities to year-round search and rescue. With two operational helicopter detectors now in service, we’re proud to support rescue teams across the country,” said Fredrik Steinwall, CEO of RECCO.

RECCO Reflectors are integrated into apparel, helmets, backpacks, running vests, shoes and climbing harnesses by more than 150 brand partners, including brands like Arc’teryx, Helly Hansen, POC and Camelbak. A complete list of partner brands is available at recco.com. Reflectors are also available as stand-alone products to be attached to a helmet or a backpack or worn as a belt.

“The two-week training and deployment campaign in New Zealand has been a great success and we’d like to extend a huge thanks for the overwhelming support and positive response from rescue teams throughout the country.” said Craig Donovan, Head of Detector Operations at RECCO.

There are currently 45 RECCO SAR Helicopter Detectors globally, with 14 located in North America, 28 units across Europe, one unit in Nepal and now two in New Zealand.

Images are available here

About RECCO

 RECCO® advanced rescue technology makes outdoor enthusiasts searchable to rescuers in case of an avalanche accident or when lost in the outdoors. The technology builds on a two-part radar system. Rescuers carry RECCO® detectors that send out search signals which are echoed by RECCO® reflectors, carried by the user. RECCO® detectors are used worldwide at more than 900 ski resorts and mountain rescue organizations in 32 countries. RECCO® reflectors are integrated into select apparel, helmets, protection gear and boots manufactured by more than 150 leading outdoor brands. RECCO AB was founded in 1983 in Sweden and is owned by its founder Magnus Granhed and the publicly traded investment company Traction AB (listed on OMX Nordic Exchange Stockholm). More info at recco.com.

 

Media Contact:

Verde (NA)

Julia Granhed (Rest of world)

 

Outdoor Industry Association Urges Department of the Interior to Protect Public Lands Rule 

Boulder, CO (September 11, 2025) — Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) expressed disappointment in the Department of the Interior’s announcement to rescind the Bureau of Land Management’s Public Lands Rule. The rule elevated recreation and conservation as key priorities for the Department of the Interior in its decision-making, but without it, millions of acres of public lands will be lost to logging, mining, and energy development projects. 

 “America’s public lands are the engine of the $1.2 trillion outdoor economy and should be protected so future generations can continue hiking, climbing, and recreating in our most cherished places,” said OIA president Kent Ebersole. “The rescission of the public lands rule would not only prevent accessible outdoor recreation on these vital lands but also hurt the small businesses and gateway communities that rely on it. The outdoor industry urges the administration to reconsider this decision and protect the landscapes that are vital to local economies, small businesses, and the outdoor recreation community.”   

The Department of the Interior’s decision to rescind the public lands rule will begin a 60-day comment period in the Federal Register beginning on Thursday, September 11. OIA will be submitting a comment and encourages other stakeholders to submit a comment urging the Department to reconsider the rescission of the public lands rule.  

 

About Outdoor Industry Association 

Based in Boulder, Colo., with offices in Washington, D.C., Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a catalyst for meaningful change. A member-based collective, OIA is a passionate group of business leaders, climate experts, policy makers and outdoor enthusiasts committed to sustainable economic growth while protecting – and growing access to – the benefits of the outdoors for everyone. For more than 30 years, OIA has catalyzed a thriving outdoor industry by supporting the success of every member company across four critically aligned areas: market research, sustainability, government affairs, and inclusive participation. OIA delivers success for its members through education, events, and business services in the form of solutions and strategies, consultation, collaboration, and opportunities for collective action. For more information, visit outdoorindustry.org. 

Western North Carolina Launches Thrive Outside Initiative to Expand Outdoor Access for Youth and Families

Asheville, NC (August 28, 2025) – On August 25, 2025, a diverse coalition of community leaders, funders, outdoor advocates, and government partners gathered at Wrong Way River Lodge & Cabins along the French Broad River to celebrate the official launch of Thrive Outside Western North Carolina — a new multi-year initiative dedicated to increasing access to the outdoors, especially for communities that have historically faced systemic barriers to outdoor recreation.

The Thrive Outside WNC initiative is spearheaded by the North Carolina Outdoor Economy Office, in partnership with the Outdoor Foundation, The Morrison Family Foundation, and VF Foundation. The effort is powered by a dynamic coalition of local partners including youth-serving organizations, public schools and school districts, environmental education programs, outdoor recreation businesses, workforce development organizations, conservation nonprofits, and community groups. The initiative aims to strengthen cross-sector partnerships that foster lifelong connections to nature for youth and families across the region.

“We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to enjoy and benefit from time spent outdoors. This initiative marks an exciting and collaborative milestone—one that will introduce more youth across the region to meaningful outdoor experiences while fostering a lasting sense of welcome and connection to nature,” said Amy Allison, Director of the North Carolina Outdoor Recreation Industry Office.

The launch event brought together leaders from the western counties of North Carolina and featured remarks from funding partners, local organizations, and supporters from the outdoor industry. Guests enjoyed locally sourced refreshments, a riverfront gathering, and a shared vision for a more inclusive and connected outdoor culture in Western North Carolina.

Through a place-based and community-driven approach, Thrive Outside WNC aims to:

  • Expand high-quality, culturally relevant outdoor programs for youth
  • Build a sustainable regional network of cross-sector partners
  • Support youth leadership and workforce development in the outdoor sector
  • Center belonging and inclusivity in outdoor access and environmental stewardship

The Thrive Outside initiative is a national movement powered by the Outdoor Foundation and its outdoor industry and philanthropic partners to create and support a network of communities committed to increasing outdoor access for youth and families. Over the past 6 years, the Outdoor Foundation has launched 14 Thrive Outside Communities across the country that have collectively helped to connect over 300,000 children, youth and families to transformative experiences in the outdoors.

“This initiative builds on the strong foundation of partnerships already thriving across Western North Carolina’s communities,” said Lesford Duncan, Executive Director of the Outdoor Foundation. “By strengthening and expanding this collaborative network, we’re supporting the region as it rebuilds from the impacts of Hurricane Helene—creating an outdoor recreation economy that is more resilient and inclusive.”

“This is about more than outdoor recreation — it’s about healing communities, nurturing wellbeing, and strengthening bonds between people and Western North Carolina’s landscapes.”

The VF Foundation has been a steadfast partner of the Outdoor Foundation for many years, investing in programs that lift barriers to outdoor access and youth leadership nationwide. Their continued support for Thrive Outside Western North Carolina reflects their deep commitment to fostering inclusive outdoor communities and building pathways for youth to thrive through nature and recreation. “We believe in the transformative power of nature and the importance of making it accessible to all to fuel the next generation of explorers. Supporting initiatives like Thrive Outside is central to our mission of expanding opportunities for youth to connect with the outdoors and grow as leaders,” said Gloria Schoch, Executive Director of the VF Foundation.

The Morrison Family Foundation is excited to join forces with the Outdoor Foundation and local partners in this initiative. They see Thrive Outside WNC as a critical opportunity to foster  access to the outdoors and support community resilience and wellness as the region rebuilds. Their enthusiasm and funding will help ensure the initiative’s long-term impact and success. “We are proud to support Thrive Outside Western North Carolina and believe it will be a powerful catalyst for healing and opportunity across the region,” said Bruce Boyd, Executive Director of the Morrison Family Foundation.

The Outdoor Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Outdoor Industry Association, is a national 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization 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, the Outdoor Foundation works with partners across the country to address equity barriers and help make the outdoors accessible for all. Visit outdoorfoundation.org for more information.

To learn more about Thrive Outside Western North Carolina, visit https://outdoorindustry.org/participation/thrive-outside/thrive-outside-wnc

Thrive Outside Western North Carolina is sponsored by:

North Carolina Department of Commerce
Outdoor Foundation
The VF Foundation
Morrison Family Foundation

Sol Systems and Outdoor Industry Association Partner to Expand Access to Clean Energy

Sol Systems to offer RECs and impact-driven clean energy subscriptions to outdoor brands via the Sustainable Choice platform

Washington, D.C. (August 18, 2025) — Sol Systems has announced a new partnership with Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) to expand access to clean energy solutions for the outdoor industry. Through this collaboration, OIA members can now subscribe to Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) via Sol’s Sustainable Choice platform—an easy-to-use clean energy “subscription” offering designed for mission-driven brands and retailers.

This partnership builds on Sol’s deep experience working with outdoor leaders such as REI and Patagonia, and marks the first enterprise launch of Sustainable Choice, Sol’s simplified, digital purchasing platform for clean energy and community impact.

“Sol Systems has been a trusted clean energy partner to some of the most respected brands in the outdoor industry,” said Susanne Fratzscher, VP of Strategic Solutions at Sol Systems. “Now, through our work with OIA, we’re proud to offer project-specific RECs + Impact to any brand, large or small, through a seamless, transparent platform.”

A New Pathway to Clean Energy for Outdoor Brands

The outdoor industry has long led the way in climate action. But for smaller retailers or regional brands, clean energy options and impact investments have not always been accessible. Project RECs + Impact offered through Sustainable Choice changes that.

Through Sol’s partnership with OIA, member companies now have a trusted, vetted channel to purchase RECs tied to wind and solar projects across the country—either from Sol’s national REC pool or project-specific offerings. Participating companies can also contribute to a shared Community Investment Fund, designed to aggregate impact and deliver measurable benefits to frontline communities.

This partnership also offers OIA members a new way to demonstrate collective environmental leadership, and to tell a story about clean energy that extends beyond individual transactions.

“We often hear from members that accessing clean energy can feel out of reach, especially for smaller member brands. Collaborating with Sol Systems makes renewable energy solutions more accessible for OIA members. Through this partnership, we’ve created a path for outdoor companies, regardless of size, to invest in renewable energy and reduce emissions,” said Julie Brown, Director of Sustainable Business Innovation at OIA.

Sol Systems currently manages REC transactions for more than 30,000 individual and organizational customers, bringing deep experience, responsive support, and a strong track record of impact-driven procurement. With Project RECs + Impact through Sustainable Choice, we are lowering the barriers to entry for meaningful environmental action.

To see this approach in action, check out the video of our recent collaboration with REI and Nester Hosiery, which highlights how REC purchasing can be both simple and meaningful.

 

About Sol Systems
Sol Systems is an Independent Power Producer (IPP) committed to building, owning, and managing clean energy infrastructure that benefits local communities. With over 7 GW of projects across 38 states, Sol integrates energy storage and grid resiliency solutions to deliver reliable, sustainable power to Fortune 500 companies, municipalities, utilities, and schools. Through strategic partnerships and community reinvestment, Sol ensures clean energy development drives long-term economic and environmental benefits. Founded in 2008 and led by its founder, Sol Systems is dedicated to shaping an energy future we can all believe in.

About Outdoor Industry Association
Based in Boulder, Colorado, Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a catalyst for meaningful change. A member-based collective of business leaders, climate experts, policymakers, and outdoor enthusiasts, OIA supports the success of member companies through sustainability consulting, advocacy, research, and events. Learn more at outdoorindustry.org.

OIA Launches Inaugural Outdoor Footwear Trends Report

BOULDER, CO – 08/07/2025 – The Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) today released its first-ever category-specific Outdoor Footwear Trends Report for 2025, providing in-depth analysis and actionable insights into the evolving outdoor footwear market. This report marks a significant step for OIA in offering focused analysis on specific segments within the broader outdoor industry, beginning with footwear.

This inaugural report leverages trusted OIA data combined with insights from Circana, Civic Science, and RunRepeat to offer a holistic view of the outdoor footwear landscape. Designed to inform strategic decision-making, the report goes beyond raw data to provide actionable intelligence, enabling businesses to stay ahead of market trends, optimize resource allocation, and refine marketing strategies. The OIA aims to provide valuable resources for stakeholders navigating the evolving outdoor recreation sector.

“This report represents a significant milestone for OIA, as we delve into specific categories to provide more granular and actionable insights,” said Kelly Davis, Director of Research at the Outdoor Industry Association. “By focusing on footwear, we offer a comprehensive understanding of the trends shaping this market segment, empowering our members to make informed decisions and capitalize on emerging opportunities.”

Key Findings:

  • Market Growth: Despite a 9% decrease in unit sales, retail sales revenue increased by 1%, totaling $5.15 billion, highlighting the impact of rising prices.
  • Running Dominance: Road running shoes continue to lead the market with $2.4 billion in sales, while a growing trend of using running shoes for hiking is impacting hiking boot sales.
  • Regional Variances: The South Atlantic region shows the highest outdoor activity participation, and Nevada leads the US in footwear ownership, averaging 19 pairs per person.
  • Consumer Preferences: The average American owns six pairs of shoes, with consumers increasingly opting for versatile footwear that can transition between activities like walking and running.

About Outdoor Industry Association
Based in Boulder, Colo., with offices in Washington, D.C., Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a catalyst for meaningful change. A member-based collective, OIA is a passionate group of business leaders, climate experts, policy makers and outdoor enthusiasts committed to sustainable economic growth while protecting – and growing access to – the benefits of the outdoors for everyone. For more than 30 years, OIA has catalyzed a thriving outdoor industry by supporting the success of every member company across four critically aligned areas: market research, sustainability, government affairs, and inclusive participation. OIA delivers success for its members through education, events, and business services in the form of solutions and strategies, consultation, collaboration, and opportunities for collective action. For more information, visit outdoorindustry.org.

MEDIA CONTACT

 Andriana Rogers | Director of Marketing Communications, OIA | arogers@outdoorindustry.org

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OIA 2024 Impact Reports Celebrate Industry Leadership on Climate Action and Clean Chemistry

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

The outdoor industry advances its climate and chemical safety goals with significant progress in emissions reduction and responsible chemistry to build a stronger outdoor business. 

Boulder, CO (July 22, 2025) — Outdoor Industry Association’s (OIA) Climate Action Corps (CAC) and Clean Chemistry and Materials Coalition (CCMC) are proud to announce the remarkable achievements of 2024, spotlighting how the outdoor industry is advancing in sustainable business practices and climate resilience to build a stronger outdoor economy. In a challenging regulatory environment, these milestones highlight how industry-led efforts can make a meaningful difference for environmental health and a sustainable future. 

About the Climate Action Corps: Since 2020, OIA members participating in the CAC are committed to collaboratively developing and implementing solutions to combat climate change throughout their organizations and across their value chains. By taking bold collective action, these leaders are driving the industry toward reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 50% by 2030 and achieving net-zero by 2050—aims essential for limiting global warming to 1.5°C and preventing the worst impacts of climate change.  

Throughout 2024, the 61 members of the Climate Action Corps have made substantial progress, including: 

  • 97% measuring or progressing on measuring their Scope 1 and 2 emissions; 90% addressing Scope 3 emissions 
  • 95% establishing GHG reduction action plans 
  • 59% making measurable progress toward these targets 
  • Significant engagement with supply chain partners, shifting to lower-GHG products, and improving energy efficiency among suppliers 

About the Clean Chemistry and Materials Coalition (CCMC): Launched in summer 2023, the CCMC supports retailers, brands, manufacturers, and distributors in adopting safer, more sustainable chemicals and materials. This coalition innovates on sustainability, aims to build consumer trust in their brands, and proactively prepares for chemical regulations. The CCMC supports members as they pioneer innovation in safer chemistry, build consumer trust, and deliver durable, trustworthy products. This is the first year that the progress of the CCMC has been reported by its 51 members. 

Key 2024 milestones include: 

  • 79% of members setting chemical management goals 
  • 65% developing action plans to achieve safer chemistry 
  • 90% communicating their Restricted Substances Lists (RSL) to their suppliers 
  • Significant strides in phasing out PFAS and strengthening chemicals management practices throughout the supply chain 

Industry Leadership and Impact:
The Outdoor Industry Association, through the Climate Action Corps and Clean Chemistry and Materials Coalition, is leading the way as the outdoor industry takes decisive action to protect our planet. These efforts are not only reducing the industry’s environmental footprint but also fostering innovation, transparency, and consumer confidence. “While there is still work to be done, our collective efforts in 2024 demonstrate resilience and the industry’s strong commitment to sustainability,” said Julie Brown, OIA Director of Sustainable Business Innovation.  

About Outdoor Industry Association
Based in Boulder, Colo., with offices in Washington, D.C., Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a catalyst for meaningful change. A member-based collective, OIA is a passionate group of business leaders, climate experts, policy makers and outdoor enthusiasts committed to sustainable economic growth while protecting – and growing access to – the benefits of the outdoors for everyone. For more than 30 years, OIA has catalyzed a thriving outdoor industry by supporting the success of every member company across four critically aligned areas: market research, sustainability, government affairs, and inclusive participation. OIA delivers success for its members through education, events, and business services in the form of solutions and strategies, consultation, collaboration, and opportunities for collective action. For more information, visit outdoorindustry.org. 

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OIA Opposes Chairman Lee’s Latest Public Lands Proposal

Boulder, CO (June 26, 2025) — Today, Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) issued the following statement regarding the updated language introduced by Chairman Mike Lee (R-UT) to renew his fight to include the public lands selloff provision in the Republican’s reconciliation package after the Senate’s parliamentarian disqualified his earlier plan to mandate the sale of millions of acres.

“Chairman Lee’s latest proposal to sell off some of our most treasured public lands poses a renewed threat to the landscapes that are vital to local economies, small businesses, and the outdoor recreation community,” said Kent Ebersole, president of Outdoor Industry Association. “The bill would significantly shrink BLM lands across 11 states, eliminate public input, bypass the environmental review process, and mandate the disposal of lands near population centers, putting accessible outdoor recreation at risk for millions of Americans. It’s time for Congress to move past this misguided and deeply unpopular idea and instead focus on policies that grow the $1.2 trillion outdoor recreation economy and support the gateway communities that depend on it.”

Tell Congress: Hands Off Our Public Lands

Take action now through OIA’s Action Center:


About Outdoor Industry Association

Based in Boulder, Colo., with offices in Washington, D.C., Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a catalyst for meaningful change. A member-based collective, OIA is a passionate group of business leaders, climate experts, policy makers and outdoor enthusiasts committed to sustainable economic growth while protecting – and growing access to – the benefits of the outdoors for everyone. For more than 30 years, OIA has catalyzed a thriving outdoor industry by supporting the success of every member company across four critically aligned areas: market research, sustainability, government affairs, and inclusive participation. OIA delivers success for its members through education, events, and business services in the form of solutions and strategies, consultation, collaboration, and opportunities for collective action. For more information, visit outdoorindustry.org.

OIA Responds to Disappointing Public Lands Sale Provisions in the Senate ENR Committee Bill

Boulder, CO (June 12, 2025) — Today, Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) issued the following statement regarding the newly introduced reconciliation bill from the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, unveiled by Chairman Mike Lee (R-UT).

“It is deeply disappointing to see the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee’s reconciliation bill once again puts our treasured public lands on the selling block,” said Kent Ebersole, OIA President. “We appreciated that the House removed a similar provision from its version of the bill and we strongly encourage the Senate to do the same. We will continue working with the bipartisan coalition in Congress that helped stop this proposal last month to protect these critical places that power the $1.2 trillion outdoor recreation economy.”

About Outdoor Industry Association

Based in Boulder, Colo., with offices in Washington, D.C., Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a catalyst for meaningful change. A member-based collective, OIA is a passionate group of business leaders, climate experts, policy makers and outdoor enthusiasts committed to sustainable economic growth while protecting – and growing access to – the benefits of the outdoors for everyone. For more than 30 years, OIA has catalyzed a thriving outdoor industry by supporting the success of every member company across four critically aligned areas: market research, sustainability, government affairs, and inclusive participation. OIA delivers success for its members through education, events, and business services in the form of solutions and strategies, consultation, collaboration, and opportunities for collective action. For more information, visit outdoorindustry.org.