RedlineXpo Plans West Coast Show Debut
August 23, 2024
U.S. resort and souvenir trade show and conference producer RedlineXpo has added to its event portfolio with the launch of California Action Retailer + Venture (CARV) Expo, which will showcase the latest surf, skate, bike, and outdoor retailers from across the country.
Set for June 20-22, 2025, at the San Diego Convention Center, the new trade show will span more than 70,000 square feet and feature a wide range of manufacturers showcasing products from apparel and hard goods to wellness and more in a casual setting designed to foster connection and networking opportunities for buyers and sellers, according to RedlineXpo officials.
What they are saying: “The West Coast is where many of the action sports brands and retailers are headquartered and yet for many years now the only expo available has been on the opposite side of the country,” said Josh Rifkin, CARV Expo co-founder. “This location also improves access to retailers and brands from Hawaii and beyond. We’re excited to launch CARV and bring an action retail show to California so it’s easier for our industry to connect on a regular basis and showcase the culture and energy that has made surfing, skating, and just getting outdoors a way of life for so many of us.”
Why it matters: Rifkin added that CARV Expo’s date pattern will give retailers opportunities to pre-book orders for the brands’ spring releases, as well as place immediate orders. Meanwhile, exhibitors can expect to meet with key buyers representing some of the U.S.’s most well-respected independent retailers, as well as relevant chains and large tourist attractions.
Need to know: The new show joins RedlineXpo’s portfolio alongside the Rocky Mountain Apparel, Gift & Resort Show, a semi-annual destination expo for the Rocky Mountain region held in Denver, and The Reunion, a curated souvenir, gift, and resort expo held annually in Las Vegas.
Deeper dive: “The initial response to CARV has been tremendous,” said RedlineXpo CEO Evan Shoda. “Exhibitors get it immediately; it makes perfect sense to be in San Diego. When you pair that with the value we are bringing to the table, it makes the show all the more appealing. As with every RedlineXpo experience, we expect to host many of our high-profile buyers in attendance searching for the latest trends.”
Industry response: Jhana Jordan, director of key accounts for RedlineXpo, added that the new show has received positive feedback from the company’s key accounts and buyer advisory board members who are excited to have another opportunity to meet with outdoor, adventure, and sport-related industry leaders.
What to expect: “We expect CARV to help buyers have a strong summer season and get orders placed in time to start planning for 2026,” Jordan said. “We’re confident buyers will find a lot of synergy on the expo floor and find the unique, high-quality products their shoppers are looking for.”
Getting ready to launch a U.S. trade show? We'd like to hear about it! Reach out to lisa.savas@informa.com and danica.tormohlen@informa.com.
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MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.
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