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Author: Martha Collings

Raccoon Media Group and Messe München announce strategic partnership to redefine ISPO’s global future

Posted on by Martha Collings

Raccoon Media Group and Messe München are joining forces to usher in a new era for ISPO, the world’s largest and most influential trade event for the sporting goods and outdoor industry. Under the joint venture, Raccoon Media Group will be responsible for the operational leadership of the event, with key figureheads from Messe München transferring into the new leadership structure to deliver an ambitious, future-facing vision.


From 2026, ISPO will start with a new strategic concept, refined event date of 3-5 November, avoiding key international holidays and aligning more strategically with buying cycles, as well as a new venue with a relocation to the RAI, Amsterdam. This opens the doors to a more globally connected marketplace and supports accessibility to a broader international audience. The concept represents a significant strategic shift designed to futureproof the event for the evolving demands of the global sports and outdoor market and to once again, create an event that is globally significant.


As part of this transformation, a €3 million investment programme has been announced, comprising:

  • €1 million into advocacy, supporting not-for-profit organisations that protect the natural environments in which people play, increasing participation and safeguarding the grassroots of the sports industry
  • €1 million into a global hosted buyer programme, ensuring robust ROI for exhibitors and attendees while strengthening international business opportunities
  • €1 million into a world-class content programme, designed to deliver cutting-edge insight, thought leadership and education across the sports and outdoor ecosystem


The reimagined ISPO will begin with The ISPO Leaders’ Summit, a C-suite conference bringing together global industry leaders for a first-class content programme. The Summit will welcome globally impactful C-suite executives, policymakers and industry leaders—including confirmed speakers Jimmy Chin (Filmmaker and Mountaineer), Hap Klopp (Founder, The North Face), Professor Laura McAllister (Vice President of UEFA), Andy Rubin (Deputy Chair, Pentland Group), John Lacy (CEO, Burton) and Pia Heidenmark Cook (Former Group Chief Sustainability Officer Ingka/IKEA) to shape the strategic agenda for a year of growth and innovation across the industry.


Following this will be a two-day streamlined and focused exhibition, uniting the global sporting goods, winter and outdoor community under one roof to showcase innovation, foster collaboration and drive commercial success.


The 2025 event will mark a dignified and memorable ISPO Show in Munich under Messe München’s stewardship. This year’s edition will define the first strategic cornerstones for the future – a milestone event that provides the ideal launchpad for the next chapter. Following this remarkable event, the leadership team of the newly established joint venture company will take the helm post-2025. For the first time in the event’s history, rebooking for the following edition will be available onsite – providing exhibitors and partners with a seamless transition into the next era of ISPO.

Mike Seaman, Group CEO of Raccoon Media Group, commented:
“We are incredibly proud to take ISPO into its next chapter. By combining the rich heritage and reputation of ISPO with our agile, forward-thinking, community-driven approach, we are creating an event that not only reflects the future of sport and the outdoors but actively shapes it. Our investments in advocacy, hosted buyers and content underline our commitment to delivering tangible value for the entire industry—from grassroots organisations to global brands.

Seaman continued: “The Sports and Outdoor market in Europe has fragmented over the last decade and needs a cohesive platform to discuss key issues, network and do business. In the USA we have seen the reduction in trade shows and the subsequent effects on the industry and associations – all during a time when advocacy and communal voice is needed the most on key issues like public lands. We need to build ISPO into an event that is necessary and needed by the Sports and Outdoor Community. ISPO should help to protect the places we play, unite the industry and inspire the next generation of brands, leaders and businesses and that’s exactly what we plan to deliver.”

“We respond to market changes with care and consideration. The joint venture with Raccoon Media Group is a real new beginning and brings opportunities for the continuation of our traditional event. The focus on the growth of our major events at home and abroad strengthens our global market position as a top trade fair company. The industry will benefit from the partnership and receive important impetus,” say the two CEOs of Messe München, Stefan Rummel and Dr Reinhard Pfeiffer, in a joint statement.

For more information on this release or to arrange an interview, please contact Ashley Cox ashley.cox@raccoonmediagroup.com

*** ENDS ***

About Raccoon Media Group


Raccoon Media Group is a dynamic, high-growth media business dedicated to serving passion-led communities across both B2C and B2B markets worldwide. Through its impactful events and media properties, Raccoon delivers year-round content, education and growth and networking opportunities to specialist, self-identifying audiences. Founded in 2018 the company has rapidly expanded its portfolio across health, wellbeing and specialist passion-led markets. Entrepreneurial and disruptive, Raccoon challenges the status quo, invests in exceptional people and creates sustainable events that foster industry growth and meaningful connections. Connect with us at www.raccoonmediagroup.com or for all media enquiries, contact Ashley Cox ashley.cox@raccoonmediagroup.com.

Messe München


As one of the world’s leading trade fair organisers, Messe München showcases the world of tomorrow at around 90 trade fairs worldwide. These include twelve leading global trade fairs such as bauma, BAU, IFAT, and electronica. The portfolio covers trade fairs for investment and consumer goods as well as for new technologies. Together with its 1,300 employees in the group and its subsidiaries, it organizes trade fairs in China, India, Brazil, South Africa, Turkey, Singapore, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Thailand, and the USA. With an international network of subsidiaries and foreign representatives, Messe München is active worldwide. More than 150 events each year attract around 50,000 exhibitors and approximately three million visitors domestically and abroad. This makes Messe München a key economic driver, generating purchasing power effects worth billions.

Early-Bird Tickets Now Available for the Abilities International Accessibility Conference in Los Angeles

Posted on by Martha Collings

LOS ANGELES, CA, October 27, 2025 — Early-bird registration is now open for the inaugural Abilities International Accessibility Conference, launching March 26–27, 2026, at the Long Beach Convention Center. Coinciding with World Occupational Therapy Day, this limited-time offer gives complex rehab and accessibility professionals the opportunity to save on their conference passes and secure their place at this groundbreaking new event.

Co-located with the long-running and highly successful Abilities Expo, the Abilities International Accessibility Conference is designed to unite complex rehab technology (CRT) professionals across disciplines, creating a hub to enhance professional practice and business through education, networking and thought leadership. Visiting industry professionals have the opportunity to earn CEUs, network and collaborate.

Conference attendees will also receive complimentary access to the three-day Abilities Expo, the largest accessibility showcase in the US. Consumer-focused with a long-established loyal following across seven major cities, Abilities Expo serves more than 30,000 annual attendees from the disability community, including people with disabilities, caregivers, families, service providers and industry experts. The Expo offers critical support, resources and access to life-enhancing products and services.

“We are thrilled to be launching the Abilities International Accessibility Conferences in 2026,” said Katy Roberts, Managing Director of Abilities Portfolio. “This is a very natural progression from our established success with the consumer Abilities Expos. We listened to industry partners and identified the need for idea-sharing across disciplines. The new conferences will allow for education, connection and collaboration.”

The 2026 series will debut in Los Angeles, followed by conferences in New York Metro (April 30–May 1) and Chicago (June 11–12). The events will bring together professionals, clinicians, ATPs, technicians, manufacturers and industry leaders focused on advancing complex rehabilitation technology (CRT). Early-bird delegate passes will be available beginning October 27, 2025, for a limited time.

The two-day program will deliver high-impact education and industry insights in partnership with such leading organizations as:

  • RESNA (Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America)
  • ISS (International Seating Symposium)
  • CTF (Clinician Task Force)
  • NCART (National Coalition of Assistive & Rehab Technology)
  • INRRTS (International Registry of Rehabilitation Technology Suppliers)
  • US Rehab, part of VGM & Associates.

Industry professionals can select from three dedicated content tracks, offering up to 10 hours of CEUs:

  • Improving Patient Outcomes: Designed for occupational therapists (OTs), physical therapists (PTs), assistive technology professionals (ATPs) and other medical professionals, this track is for those seeking to deepen their clinical expertise and earn continuing education units (CEUs).
  • Business Optimization: Focused on Complex Rehab Therapy providers, manufacturers, distributors and service organizations seeking to maximize operational efficiency, strategic growth and market reach.
  • Adapted Living: Explores the latest innovations and practical solutions that empower independence and improve quality of life for people with disabilities.

The conference agenda features a powerhouse roster of thought leaders whose work is transforming lives. Over two days of keynotes, panels and hands-on workshops, attendees will learn proven strategies to drive business growth, earn CEUs and forge partnerships that accelerate innovation in accessibility.

Attendees can also participate in optional technical training workshops, which provide hands-on experience and certification preparation for wheelchair repair technicians. Delivered by US Rehab, this live tech training is designed to equip rehab industry repair technicians with essential skills for manual and power wheelchair service and repair. Both basic and advanced levels will be available, ensuring the right fit for every participant.

According to Roberts, “Sponsorship opportunities are still available that will allow businesses access to occupational therapists, physical therapists, assistive technology professionals and industry leaders.”

All conference attendees will enjoy complimentary coffee, pastries, lunch and refreshments throughout the event.

ENDS

For all media enquiries, contact USA Marketing Director, Chloe Hyland at chloe.hyland@raccoonmediagroup.com

Notes to Editors:

Abilities International Accessibility Conference

Website: abilitiesconference.com

A series of regional industry conferences for complex rehab technology professionals where expertise is elevated and attendees can earn CEUs, network and collaborate. These conferences bring the industry together to enhance professional practice and business through education, networking and thought leadership.

About Raccoon Media Group

Raccoon Media Group was founded in 2018 with the launch of the multi-award-winning National Running Show and over the next few years went on to launch many popular consumer events in health and wellbeing markets. The business has expanded significantly since its inception and is now a dynamic, scaled, high-growth media business focused on mobilizing passion-led B2C and B2B communities across the globe. Our events and media properties deliver year-round content and advice to specialist, self-identifying audiences. Raccoon is entrepreneurial, fast-paced and disruptive. As a business we question the status quo, we invest in exceptional people, we operate with a clear purpose and deliver sustainable events that directly meet the needs of our audiences in a way that ignites and bolsters the industries in which we operate.

Thriving as a corporate intrapreneur: An interview with Nicole Cooper

Posted on by Martha Collings

We recently sat down with Nicole Cooper, CEO of Animal Health Division, Raccoon Media Group to find out more about her ethos and the transition from being a solo entrepreneur to part of a more structured corporate setting with Raccoon Media Group.

Tell us about you, what is your background?

I was born in Cape Town and have lived in the UK for around 35 years. My career in events spans 30+ years. Within that time, I founded Touchpoint Live Media. We were renowned for launching and running lifestyle events. I have launched and scaled some of the most recognised live event brands in the UK including Grand Designs Live, The National Pet Show, DogFest and the Vet Festival.

What drew you to Raccoon Media Group?

It didn’t happen overnight, there was a lot of groundwork laid over time. Several factors aligned and it really became an organic transition. This is a close-knit industry and I knew Mike Seaman (Group CEO) and Doug Emslie (Chairman) for many years before I joined Raccoon. I initially met Mike many moons ago through ‘Surrey Curry Night’, which was an informal get-together for event organisers. Through many discussions between myself, Doug and Mike, we had a shared understanding of the animal health market and vision for the future. The animal sector is thriving, and although Raccoon Media Group already had The National Equine Show in their portfolio, we could see the significant potential in the B2B space particularly and wanted to capitalise. I officially joined Raccoon Media Group in November 2024 to build and grow the animal health division.

What is your role now, and how has the initial phase with the company been?

I was brought in to grow the division by acquiring and launching events and it has honestly been an amazing experience. My initial, strategic manoeuvres were to bring PATS (Pet & Aquatics Trade Show) and BETA International (British Equestrian Trade Show) into the animal health division. Those events are now co-located at the NEC Birmingham in September, making it convenient for industry professionals with sector convergence to visit both Expos.

Going from one event to three events within nine months has meant a lot of work integrating teams and identifying opportunities, but this period has also been a real success story for the division. We have increased revenues by over 30% in the last nine months. The pet industry is very buoyant and is still experiencing year-on-year growth.

How have you found the transition from running your own business to being part of Raccoon Media Group? Do they give space for corporate entrepreneurship?

What I have loved about Raccoon is that it is a young, dynamic and supportive environment. They recognise, encourage and foster the entrepreneurial spirit, which is important to me. The culture and philosophy are very much move fast and don’t be nervous of tripping up along the way, which gives you real confidence to go and deliver. I joined the company at a time when it was gearing up for growth. That has been rapid in the last year and thrilling to be part of. After many years spent in the ‘trenches’ of events, I earned my stripes, but my interest concentrated more on what growth looked like. This role presents exciting opportunities you don’t get when running a smaller company. You can’t make acquisitions easily, which limits your growth.

What can you tell us about the future of the animal health division?

This is an exciting market and the opportunities are abundant. I am a natural entrepreneur who can spot ideas and assess them commercially. I’m here to drive growth, actively evaluating how we can develop the existing portfolio and where the natural brand extensions are. There is also enormous scope beyond the UK. We have our eyes set on internationalising our events and may even be announcing new launches later this year – watch this space!

A fireside chat with IRX Event Director Shirry Liram

Posted on by Martha Collings

Shirry Liram has been in the events industry for more than 20 years, with experience directing trade and consumer exhibitions, plus summits and festivals in the UK and overseas ranging from dance, travel and design to tech, medtech and AI.

We recently caught up with Shirry to find out about the current mission: to launch a new international running event in 2025. The International Running Expo (IRX) is a new B2B running event, the first of its kind in Europe, launching in Amsterdam this November.

How did you get involved with Raccoon Media Group and what attracted you to the role?

Having had a long standing career within events, I’ve known of Raccoon Media Group for some time. When an ex-colleague who currently works with Raccoon approached me with an ‘opportunity I couldn’t refuse’, I was instantly intrigued. The stars aligned and the rest is history…

Launching an event in the running industry is what made this role particularly attractive. That is what drives me. I thrive on the energy and adrenaline of launches and the satisfaction of bringing something that is needed to a new community. The running industry has seen incredible recent growth and the market potential is clear. Raccoon has a strong background and industry pedigree, and I knew they would have researched the launch thoroughly before pressing ‘go’ on the project.

What has been the highlight of the role so far? And the biggest challenge?

It may sound cliché, but the highlight has been my team. You can’t underestimate the importance of a good team, especially when it comes to a launch. I’m thankful that everyone brings different strengths to the table and we aren’t afraid to challenge each other, but we also all get on like a house on fire.

A few of the IRX team on a lunch time run!

The biggest challenge is launching an event from scratch. It can be a rollercoaster. To an extent, you are selling a ‘dream’ because you don’t have the event history to rely on. When you are on this side of things, you’re aware that we have all the contacts in the running industry and a very experienced team who know how to deliver events, but that is something you need to keep communicating. Even though we don’t have that history to rely on, the numbers of registrations and exhibitors for IRX has been phenomenal. As Event Director, it is really rewarding to be confident it is going to be something special that will make a mark on the industry.

Were you already a keen runner or has being involved with IRX drawn you to the dark side?

I would describe myself as a social and culinary runner. I’m happy to get involved in social runs and I can be extra tempted if there are pastries on offer afterwards! Seriously though, it is quite addictive when you are surrounded by people who love running and talk about running, you get swept along. Just getting involved is brilliant, it is a way of getting to know people and networking that is totally different. For instance, some of the team got involved in the TCS Amsterdam Marathon, and that was a lot of fun.

We are now just a few months away from IRX, which top 3 things are you looking forward to?

Firstly, the world class content being put together by the Raccoon content team led by Kate Jamieson. We will have industry leaders and running giants discussing new developments in running and top trends via fireside chats and live podcasts. They are going to be unmissable.

I’m also super excited to have over 200 exhibitors in the room. For a launch event that is incredible! I know that a lot of them have surprises planned for activations and I can’t wait to see those. It is the biggest pleasure for me, seeing the engagement between retailers, exhibitors and influencers – the meaningful conversations in action.

The third, if I have to pick a top three, would be all the experiences and activations , the ‘icing’ on top of and surrounding the event. I know the Cool Down Party is going to be quite a spectacle, and there are morning drills, ice baths and more activities that will foster a fun, energising and collaborative environment for attendees.

What is the mix of brands attending IRX?

What is the mix of brands attending IRX? We have a fantastic mix of brands that are known and established Vs newcomers and disruptors to the industry. This is fascinating to watch and by attending IRX, visitors will get a chance to connect with the next ‘big thing’ that they haven’t heard of.

The geographical spread of brands is amazing and global. We have businesses from just about every country in Europe, as well as from the USA, Canada, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Australia, China, Malaysia, Japan, South Africa and more. See the exhibitor list here.

You’ve been in the industry for many years, how do you think B2B events are evolving?

I think the most important aspect is connection. People go to events to connect. Learning and networking are the critical elements. To establish itself as a staple on the industry calendar, a B2B event must do two things well. That is give visitors the opportunity to learn and grow and facilitate opportunities to meet and network with other people. Those opportunities will naturally depend on the space being operated in, but the running industry is super creative, and opportunities can be in the form of runs, hikes, parties and more.

Is there an event activation that has stood out to you?

I didn’t experience it first-hand, but from everything I’ve heard since and the impact it had, I would say that our sister event TrailCon got their activations on point earlier this year. If you are looking for that virality and moments that people talk about long after, then TrailCon by all accounts set the bar. As I understand it, there was a run up a mountain at 6am followed by a live DJ in a cable car and breakfast after. You’ve got to have serious respect for the person who thinks ‘yes, let’s put a DJ in a cable car early in the morning’.

I’m also really anticipating our own activations at IRX in Amsterdam. The scavenger hunt run that will involve sightseeing and an ice bath in November sound particularly interesting to me..!

What are the key trends in the industry you expect to be discussed at the Expo?

The main trend topics will include:

– The Future of Running Events: Innovation, Technology, and Experience
– Sustainability in Running: How Events and Brands Can Lead
– Gen Z & the Next Wave of Runners: Building the Future Audience
– Retail Reinvented: The Running Gear Marketplace Post-COVID
– Running Tech Trends: Wearables, Recovery, and Personalization
– Inside the Brand: Building a Global Running Community
– Monetising Running Events in the Digital Era
– Performance Meets Tech: The Science Behind Smarter Training

What is your go-to karaoke song?

Ha! I love a duet! I would do Summer Nights from Grease.

Following that answer, we need to ask… who would be your dream person to duet with?

John (Travolta), and if he reads this, I’m free from Thursday 6th November .