STAG/ Freedom is very pleased to confirm that Terra Plana is now an official supplier.

Terra Plana has spent 5 years perfecting and developing footwear inspired by ecological survival. Terra Plana respects Barefoot is the most healthy way to be. Terra Plana using VivoBarefoot technology is the original and authentic barefoot shoe, and has an international patent for the uniquely thin puncture resistant rubber sole (the thinnest on the market).

This incredible footwear stimulates, strengthens, improves health and realigns your natural posture. Terra Plana also create shoes from recycled materials using an unusual combination of artisan and modern technology. To view the current ranges please go to www.terraplana.com.

Terra Plana are launching the Franklin and Aqueous waterproof hiking boots in AW2010. You can see this years version worn by Bear Grylls in his hit show Born Survivor on the Discovery Channel.

Ricky Chandler MD of STAG/ Freedom says ‘after meeting with Ben and Andrew from Terra Plana and learning about the product and actually seeing the range we were extremely impressed and look forward to see this brand flourish.'

Ben Le Vesconte SD Of Terra Plana says ‘we are very excited to meet and present the VivoBarefoot range to the STAG/ Freedom members. Our goal is to inspire natural movement by leading the barefoot revolution'.

STAG/ Freedom members - please go to your members log-in to view Terra Plana preferential terms.

The OTS show, Stoneleigh, will always be an important trade show for Freedom as last year Ricky Chandler and Ward Robertson showcased the new outdoor buying group for the first time at OTS.

Since last September Freedom has grown to 80 members and constantly looking to expand the current portfolio of suppliers, recent additions have been Teva, Terra Plana and Orthosole. Discussions with many other leading brands are ongoing.

Both Ricky and Ward will be on the Freedom Stand and look forward to welcoming anyone who is interested to find out more about Freedom, if you would like to book an appointment then please call on 01793 715410 or email ricky@stagbuyinggroup.com

1.     How has 2010 been so far for the STAG and Freedom Buying Groups despite tough economic times?

Ø 2010 has been a tough year and even more challenging year than 2009.  The all-new coalition government has a very, very tough job to balance the books and reduce the deficit.  We have found that current STAG and Freedom members and the many new retailers joining us are looking at their businesses under the microscope like never before.  Forward order spending amounts are being reduced and more daily business is being done as retailers cope with the economic climate.  There is caution and optimism in equal measure out there.

2.    How have you found business in Ireland?

Ø Ireland is in the most difficult business climate ever experienced by the majority of its population.  Since March 2009, we focused on increasing our membership in the Republic of Ireland.  The results speak for themselves.  We have increased from one member to forty in 18 months.  Some of the most respected and well-established Independent retail businesses have now joined STAG and Freedom.  With the Irish economy in decline, it is crucial to enhance profit margins and reduce costs.  Our credit/debit card merchant rates is in the lowest bracket offered in the UK and R.O.I.to independent retailers, this membership benefit alone is a huge advantage in joining.

3.    As a buying group have you diversified into other areas?

Ø Last year at the Outdoor Trade Show, we officially launched ‘Freedom’ the buying group for Outdoor independent retailers.  Membership has grown to 80 members offering all of the same benefits of STAG.  The trade discounts apply for Outdoor equipment/ footwear and lifestyle brands. 

4.    Do you think the future is digital and web action is the way forward?

Ø In running a business today to have email and a good broadband web access is essential in our ever-changing digital world.  In STAG, the only way we can give our members numerous monthly special offers is online via our members’ website.  The pace of change is accelerating, we would not advocate staying glued to your PC / laptop, but looking at adopting new communication methods for your business and making it work for you is important.

5.    What new products/ opportunities are out there for independent retailers?

Ø We have taken on a number of new suppliers this year.  We are definitely seeing a surge in the wellness market pioneerd by MBT and further enhanced by Skechers, Reebok, Fit Flops etc have done well with their ‘Shape-ups’.  In Ireland, Orion Sports have now joined STAG and one of their many footwear/ accessories brands is Ryka, offering walking/ wellness footwear that has been very successful in Ireland.  Lee Sports is the Irish equivalent of Reydons in the UK.  The owner John O Connoll has built a tremendous reputation for excellent courteous service.  You can have all the innovation in the world but good face-to-face service counts now more than ever before.

Ø Lifestyle ‘barefoot’ technology such as our new supplier Terra Plana has been popular.  A new innovative brand that has recently joined is Exel Poles that uses specially designed poles to enhance walking, an activity that over 10 million people worldwide are now enjoying. 

Ø We are continually asking our suppliers to propose new special offers for our members.  Many of our key suppliers such as Hi-Tec, Canterbury, and Asics are very keen to offer even more deals for our members so they can compete and make increased margins.

6.    Two STAG buying shows this year, are you worried?

Ø Anything new is a worry.  Will it work out?  Will the members turn up?  Will the brands sell anything on the day?  The answer to all the questions is a resounding yes.  Put motivated buyers and sellers in a room and the magic does happen.  The buying shows are the pinnacle of all our hard work and passion, where else is there an environment for members and suppliers to do first-class business, network like crazy and have a great time as well. 

Ø At the end of October, we will have had our first Irish Buying Show in Tullamore. 

Ø November 21^st and 22^nd is our UK Show at the stunning Cotswolds Water Park Hotel.  The UK show was a complete sell out months ago with more than 200 members booked to attend the show.  We will be working right up to the weekend ensuring that this is our best ever UK show!

7.    We will see the ‘usual’ brands at the UK Show this year?

Ø We welcome back with open arms brands Asics, Hi-Tec, Canterbury, Saucony, New Balance, Mizuno, Puma, Speedo, Ronhill, Hilly, Zoggs, Reydon, Uhlsport, UKL and many others.  New brands to exhibit will be Terra Plana, Orthosole, and newly joined Physicool, a brand that offers a new and unique reusable bandage that combines cooling, compression and support, as seen on Dragons Den last year!  For a full list of brands, please see below.  Show guides/ packs will be despatched to our members and brands shortly.

Fantastic news! ... in this month’s 220 Triathlon magazine ... the No.1 Triathlon magazine according to latest circulation figures...

This follows the success we had last year with Predator Flex Mirrored being voted 220 Triathlon Editor’s Choice.

Happy swimming!

Brand Agility, STAG and Freedom supplier, have concluded negotiations with the ITV X Factor show to supply Caribee backpacks for the forthcoming UK tour.

Caribee distributor Jacquie Sandison said "We were flattered to be approached by the X Factor team as they identified Caribee as a brand they wanted to work with and believed there was a synergy with the brand".

 "In a competitive marketplace we are optimistic this endorsement will give further credibility to the brand and firmly establish Caribee in the UK".

The first All Ireland Buying Show was a great success last year, and Canterbury will  be returning again, Matt Davey, Canterbury Sales Director commented "It was a pleasure to be at the first STAG Buying show in Ireland and to see the hard work STAG have done in Ireland to build membership.  The show was a great success forCanterbury, a huge beneift to spend quality time with our Irish STAG retailers."

Ward Robertson says, “This is the beginning of a naturally strong agreement between our two companies, and we look forward to developing both of our businesses over the coming years.”

Sport 100 has 43 Mega-stores in China with over £100 million turnover.  Alan Cheung comments, “I am delighted to ally with STAG and look forward to sharing ideas, networking, looking at new brands and trends.  Our goals are clear and simple.  Help each other to grow our businesses and then explore new opportunities on all fronts.

Trespass design and produce performance Outdoor clothing and footwear including a vast range of Outdoor related accessories.  The product is fashionable, functional, and innovative technical clothing for leisure pursuits and Outdoor activities including travel, hiking, and snow sports.

Stephen Anderson of Trespass remarks, “We are delighted to have finally joined up with STAG and Freedom.  Our strengths in terms of range, quality, value for money and margin potential combined with the expertise and route to market that STAG/ Freedom members offer I am sure will forge a very successful partnership in the months and years to come.

It takes hard work to succeed and without question STAG and Freedom shows the same drive and commitment that we do at Trespass and although it took time, it was an easy decision for us to join.  Our Spring/ summer 2012 ranges are to be launched very soon and we look forward to the reaction and feedback from the STAG members.”

All of the STAG and Freedom members will receive preferential terms from Trespass.

The two year deal, encompassing the 2012 and 2013 RBS 6 Nations Championships, will see BrandCo offering an expanded range of product for distribution across Europe and North America to capitalise on the strong demand for Championship branded products.

The RBS 6 Nations Championship involves England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, France and Italy competing annually across the six countries. The tournament attracted 911,000 spectators to the 15 games of the Championship in 2011 and was watched by 124.7 million viewers on free to air TV across the UK, Ireland France and Italy ensuring massive exposure for the RBS 6 Nations logo.
The RBS 6 Nations logo is immediately recognised by rugby followers and appeals equally to the supporters of all six competing nations so they can associate even more closely with the Championship.

Products to be offered by BrandCo will include:
- Rugby Jerseys, Polo's, tees, hooded tops and polar fleeces
- Caps, knitted beanies and scarves
- Bags

The range will offer two collections, being TOURNAMENT and COUNTRY COLOURS, and will be available in Men's, Ladies and Children's sizes.

All products will carry prominent Official Licensed Product identification along with an Official Licensed swing tag for immediate recognition by consumers at retail. Products will be launched to the retail trade from 1st Sept 2011 and will be available at retail from December 2011.

Dave Kavanagh, Commercial Manager, Six Nations Rugby Ltd said:
"Since we first signed with BrandCo in 2009, we have been very happy with BrandCo's creative approach to, and enthusiasm for, this licensing opportunity.

This allied to their significant sports apparel sales and licensing experience, and the fact they currently work with two of our six rugby Unions, makes them an ideal licensing partner for the RBS 6 Nations. We greatly look forward to continuing our partnership with them for another two years to further grow and develop our RBS 6 Nations range of supporter wear".

Martin Aynsley, Managing Director BrandCo Management Ltd said:
"The RBS 6 Nations Tournament, with it's distinctive logo, is recognised as one of the Worlds most prestigious Rugby tournaments and the logo is instantly recognised by Rugby Supporters of all Nations.
We are delighted that 6 Nations Rugby Ltd has chosen to continue to work with BrandCo in developing an expanded and commercial range of products to drive even greater sales off an already established base. The RBS 6 Nations is a great licensed property and fits perfectly with our existing Official Rugby licences".

For more information please contact:
MARTIN AYNSLEY M.D BrandCo Management Ltd martin@brancomanagement.co.uk
JAMES LAWRENCE Sales Manager BrandCo Management Ltd james@brandcomanagement.co.uk
Also visit www.brandcomanagement.co.uk or www.rbs6nations.com

If you're looking for a ‘cool' sportswear range then look no further than PenCarrieUKL, one of the leading distributors of the Just Cool range by AWDis. Just Cool's Neoteric 100% Polyester fabric is a brand new concept which is incredibly comfortable, with built-in wicking and fast drying properties to ensure cool comfort for sports, work and everyday use.

Just Cool consists of three styles, the JC001 Cool T which is available in 30 great colours, plus the JC007 Cool Vest and JC040 Cool Polo. The garments themselves have been carefully designed to be best in class in terms of fit and construction and above all they are offered at a value price point and with fantastic stock availability.

Three great styles, thirty great colours

For more details on the range please contact our friendly Customer Service Teams at Exeter 0800 252248 or Swindon 0800 220955 or visit www.pencarrieukl.com

The new pink rubber basketball is available in size 6 only and has been introduced to the range of Molten coloured rubber basketballs following significant demand from women players.

The 12-panel design, pink basketball is manufactured using a special rubber compound which gives the ball a tacky feel. This, combined with its deep-pebble surface, enhances a player's grip on the ball, while the additional seams (in comparison to traditional 8-panel balls) provide increased accuracy in shooting and passing. The special surface also adds durability to the life of the ball, especially when used outdoor.
The new pink ball joins the existing Molten range of coloured, rubber basketballs which are also available in sizes 7, 6, 5, 3 & 1.

First to trial the new pink ball was the GB Women's Basketball Team. Jo Leedham, a member of the team said: "The Molten G-Series is a great basketball and we are thrilled Molten has brought out this unique pink ball. Women's teams up and down the country are just going to love playing with it."

Comments Bob Hope, chairman of UK & Ireland's Molten distributor: "Molten is introducing this new pink basketball to our popular range of rubber basketballs in response to the strong feedback we have received from the UK's growing number of women basketball players. As it is the only pink basketball in the marketplace we are expecting a high uptake."

Jo Leedham, GB Women's Basketball Team with the new Molten pink basketball

The expansion of the UK team allows for the introduction of a dedicated UK customer services function operating from within the new UK offices in Haydock. Ariane Pringle joins the team as UK customer services and telesales supervisor.

The move to the new premises in Haydock comfortably accommodates the team and houses Dobotex's first UK showroom.

With continued successful growth within the UK market our hope is that we will be able to expand the UK team from our platform in Haydock to continually satisfy the needs of our UK customers.

Please click here to download contact details for the DOBOTEX team.

As part of the sportswear portfolio at PenCarrieUKL the Finden+Hales range offers you the chance to provide a mix and match of team wear to best suit your customers needs. There is massive potential in the range which is specifically designed to co-ordinate with matching tops, trousers, shorts and additional outerwear, available in men�s, ladies and children�s sizes. Selected styles feature the Coolplus� comfort control system which offers moisture management and increased comfort due to the specially developed breathable fibre which wicks moisture from the body. The collection consists of polo�s, t-shirts, track tops, track pants, shorts, hoodies, microfleece tops, jackets and cricketwear � so whatever is needed you can do the full kit with Finden+Hales. �

For further details on the Finden+Hales range please call our Customer Service Teams who will be happy to help on 0800 252248 or 0800 220955 alternatively to view the Finden+Hales ebrochure visit http://www.findenandhales.com/brochure/

Planning a push to increase sales this summer/autumn?

Blank brochures are still available to purchase directly from PenCarrieUKL.

With 10 fantastic covers to choose from for blank brochures and a separate cover for the end user priced brochure, we're sure you'll find something to suit your business.

Have you tried our Compact brochure? Lighter weight and cost effective to post, these are available to buy at just 99p each.

Call the PenCarrieUKL Customer Service Teams today to order yours; 0800 252248 or 0800 220955.

The product is being backed by Consultant orthopaedic and trauma surgeon at Dorset County Hospital.  He says "We are constantly looking at ways to improve our patient care. IIf we can reduce the pain we can get patients up and moving quicker and they will mobilise quicker and leave hospital that much more quickly. We have been carrying out some clinical trials using Physicool bandages on patients who’d had knee replacement surgery. We found that post-op, after one day patient pain scores were much reduced and in the first 48 hours Physicool made a dramatic difference.”

Please do click on this link to find out more.

Two years on, and having had the all clear, Mike has worked with one of those brands, Uhlsport, to launch a special glove to support the charity "Its in the Bag" that Mike, and fellow cancer suffers, subsequently launched.

The "Its in the Bag" campaign promotes the early recognition and treatment of testicular cancer and proceeds from the sale of the gloves will result in a charitable donation by Uhlsport to "Its in the bag", and will help to ensure that young men are made aware of the risks of testicular cancer and can get information, and sufferers can find help.

It's just one of many global "Wir Tun Was" (We Take Action) programmes that Uhlsport are involved in as a follow up to their successful World Cup 2010 initiative whereby proceeds from the sale of the special edition World Cup gloves went to support aids orphans in South Africa.

Speaking about the launch of the glove, whilst filming a small sketch to be shown at the forthcoming "Its in the Bag Charity Ball" as "Mick the Glove", Mike commented "For a global brand such as Uhlsport to support not only myself, but more importantly the charity that I am involved with, at such a local level, reinforces my passion for the brand and my commitment to raising as much as we can from the sale of this product.

With its distinctive orange palm and backhand, and based on the top selling Pro Comfort Textile Rollfinger , the "Its in the Bag" glove comes packaged with its own glove bag subtly embellished with the charity logo. RRP £50.

Image: Mike Morgan as "Mick the Glove"

If sadly you have please let us know if there is anything that we can do to help.

The following is a list of advice from the Association of Town Centre Management and a personal message from the Independents Day team, please read below: -

 Independents Day (Retail) Team - our thoughts are with those business owners and managers affected by the riots. If you need advice @retailtrust is a great charity for retailers, http://www.retailtrust.org.uk/

Advice from the ATCM:

1. Ensure staff report any suspicious activity to security officials and the police
2. Consider regular checks of the building and surrounding areas. Identify any areas that are vulnerable and remove loose objects that could be used as missiles
3. Make sure all service doors are kept locked and secure when not in use
4. Ensure your CCTV system is fully operational
5. Consider removing high value goods from display windows overnight
6. Keep as little cash as possible in the building overnight
7. Where possible retail premises should be suitably staffed with security guards
8. Landlords need to ensure that residents living above commercial premises are aware of risks and ensure that all fire alarms, smoke alarms and fire escapes are fully functional

David Wiley, UK Sales Director at Helly Hansen says, "The UK & ROI markets are incredibly competitive, and it's crucial for Helly Hansen to recognise that we need to be building even stronger relationships with independents that deal directly with our target consumers. Linking with STAG & FREEDOM buying group members means we can drive forward our initiatives to communicate with and meet the needs of consumers that live, work and play in the harshest environments."

All of our STAG and Freedom members will receive preferential terms from Helly Hansen.

Full match kit offerings from Kooga and mix and match separates from Canterbury, PenCarrieUKL are sure to have an option for you.

Supporter's need not miss out with the range of t-shirts and hoodies available from both brands.

Call the friendly and knowledgeable Customer Service Teams for more information or to place your order on 0800 252248 or 0800 220955.

Nottingham based Precision Training have introduced a brand new Vortex Match Ball and Vortex Futsal ball to the range which will appear in the 2011/12 catalogue.

The new Match ball will incorporate the latest behind the glass technology to enhance durability as well as the soft touch TPU material that is a feature of the current range.

The new balls will be available in sizes 3,4 and 5.

David Sanderson, National Sales Manager for Precision Training, said; "The Vortex footballs have been one of our stand out products in the last year and it was a logical step for us to extend the range.

"Through STAG we have reached record sales across the range and we are delighted with how they have been received.

"Grass roots football clubs up and down the UK have been using the Vortex training balls and we have been delighted with the feedback we have received regarding the shape retention and durability.

"We are very pleased with the new additions to the range with the soft touch TPU and behind the glass technology we believe we have a ball that is worthy of gracing any football field."

The new Vortex football range is featured in the 2011/12 Precision Training catalogue.

Former England manager Graham Taylor has been a brand ambassador for Precision Training since 2006 and continues to make have a significant input into the development of the brand.

Precision Training, Britain's fastest growing sports brand, offer a high quality one stop solution for all sports at highly competitive prices and was created to give sports men, women and children accessibility to a range of high quality professional products at affordable prices.

As official suppliers of training aids to the Football League, Precision Training work alongside all 72 member clubs across England and Wales. They have official partnerships with Nottinghamshire CCC, Leicester Ladies Hockey Club and Premier League clubs Aston Villa and Burnley FC.

For further information on Precision Training please visit:
http://www.precisiontraining.uk.com

Ricky Chandler of STAG wanted to say, "It will be good to add a different element to the show with the presentation by Nicholas Bate, whilst at the same time still presenting the buying show that means business. All of our members will be entitled to exclusive offers/ packages from all exhibitors, all accommodation expenses covered and a welcome opportunity to network and enjoy a good night on the Sunday."

Please click here to download the stunning Brilliant at the Business Basics by Nicholas Bate.

For Nicholas's enlightening blog please go to NEWS - Nicholas Bate blog or click on this link.

PenCarrieUKL on Tour for 2011 - for more details please click on this link http://www.ontour.pencarrieukl.com/

Ricky Chandler of STAG wanted to say, "It will be good to add a different element to the show with the presentation by Nicholas Bate, whilst at the same time still presenting the buying show that means business. All of our members will be entitled to exclusive offers/ packages from all exhibitors, all accommodation expenses covered and a welcome opportunity to network and enjoy a good night on the Sunday."

Please click here to download the stunning Brilliant at the Business Basics by Nicholas Bate.

For Nicholas's enlightening blog please go to NEWS - Nicholas Bate blog or click on this link.

STAG has grown its membership in Ireland to 90 individual business (well over 100 outlets) in the last 12 months making it by far the largest buying group that operates in Ireland and this will be reflected in the number of exhibitors and visitors at the show.

Major brands such as Canterbury, Mizuno, Kooga, Hi-Tec, Puma, Asics and Zoggs amongst others will be exhibiting along with Irish suppliers KTR, Lee Sports and Marc Sports.

Helly Hansen and Trespass will also be exhibiting for the first time.

The show takes place on the 23rd and 24th of October at The Tullimore Court Hotel, Tullimore.

Every brand has special show offers in place that STAG retailers can take advantage of and the event is an excellent networking opportunity as everyone stays in the same hotel.

You can still register to attend by contacting STAG HO 00441793 715410 or online www.stagbuyinggroup.com

For members and suppliers already registered SHOW manuals can now be found clicking on this link.

STAG has grown its membership in Ireland to 90 individual business (well over 100 outlets) in the last 12 months making it by far the largest buying group that operates in Ireland and this will be reflected in the number of exhibitors and visitors at the show.

Major brands such as Canterbury, Mizuno, Kooga, Hi-Tec, Puma, Asics and Zoggs amongst others will be exhibiting along with Irish suppliers KTR, Lee Sports and Marc Sports.

Helly Hansen and Trespass will also be exhibiting for the first time.

The show takes place on the 23rd and 24th of October at The Tullimore Court Hotel, Tullimore.

Every brand has special show offers in place that STAG retailers can take advantage of and the event is an excellent networking opportunity as everyone stays in the same hotel.

You can still register to attend by contacting STAG HO 00441793 715410 or online www.stagbuyinggroup.com

For members and suppliers already registered SHOW manuals can now be found clicking on this link.

STAG UK BUYING SHOW 2011 - FULLY BOOKED FOR EXHIBITORS

Yet again demand for the Buying Show has been extremely high and all exhibition space has now completely sold out.  STAG are delighted to welcome back suppliers such as Asics, Puma, Hi-Tec, Ronhill, Skechers, Vivo Barefoot, Jansport, Mizuno, New Balance, Zoggs and many more. 

For a full list of exhibitors please click on this link.

Also this year the business guru Nicholas Bate will be speaking at the show on the Sunday evening talking to members and suppliers about "More Business; More Profit; More Easily Right Now"

Please go to his blog (click on this link) to find out more on the extremely talented Nicholas Bate.

New suppliers to exhibit at the show are as per below: -

• 2XU
• Clif Bar Company
• Cybertill
• Eden Shop Equipment
• Falke
• Grangers
• GU
• Helly Hansen
• Jakabel
• Joma Sport
• KDS Group - Phillips Headphones
• Kickers
• Spalding

For more details on the show please click on this link.

STAG Members - it is not too late to sign up to the show please download the booking form (click on this link) and send to HO or call on 01793 715406.

Yet again demand for the Buying Show has been extremely high and all exhibition space has now completely sold out. STAG are delighted to welcome back suppliers such as Asics, Puma, Hi-Tec, Ronhill, Skechers, Vivo Barefoot, Jansport, Mizuno, New Balance, Zoggs and many more.

For a full list of exhibitors please click on this link.

Also this year the business guru Nicholas Bate will be speaking at the show on the Sunday evening talking to members and suppliers about "More Business; More Profit; More Easily Right Now" please go to his blog (click on this link) to find out more on the extremely talented Nicholas Bate.

New suppliers to exhibit at the show are as per below: -

2XU - base layer/ clothing
Clif Bar Company - nutrition
Cybertill - epos system
Eden Shop Equipment
Falke - running clothing/ accessories
Grangers - outdoor/ lifestyle
GU - nutrition
Helly Hansen - outdoor/ lifestyle apparel
Jakabel - swimming
Joma Sport - football
KDS Group - Phillips Headphones
Kickers
Spalding

For more details on the show please click on this link.

STAG Members - it is not too late to sign up to the show please download the booking form (click on this link) and send to HO or call on 01793 715406.

The original fitting out of the shop was completed by REPLAN and Joe made the decision to use them again to refresh and update his store, as you can by the photos they have achieved a fantastic finish.

Joe comments "Replan who did my new shop refit were a great company to work with and would confidently recommend them to any business looking to do a refit. It has certainly made my shop look much more professional and help increase sales on footwear and other areas that are now merchandised much better."

For more information on REPLAN please visit http://www.replan.com/.

Terry says "Many of you may know that I have been a STAG Member for many years and that I am lucky enough to have been a member of the England Hockey over 60 and 65 teams since 2005, winning a couple of World Cup Gold medals on the way. What many of you may not know is that I was diagnosed with Prostate Cancer in summer 2008, having to undergo radiotherapy in January 2009 and now take daily medication to control the tumour.

This year, I have enrolled in the Movember Campaign to grow a moustache and I was hoping I can count on you support to raise funds for this worthwhile cause. It is forty years since I was last clean shaven and it came as a bit of a shock to take it all off on November 1st and start again.Those of you, of a non-nervous disposition may like to visit my web-site, http://mobro.co/terryhowlett and check out the photos or make a donation.

Please help me raise a sizable amount for this great cause, Many Thanks, Terry Howlett"

STAG members and suppliers please do click on this link to see Terry's page and donate.

Please do not miss the following: -

GRAHAM TAYLOR - on the Precision Training Stand

We will are delighted to announce that from midday onwards Sunday November 20th Graham Taylor, the brand ambassador for Precision Training and former England Manager, will be on the Precision Training (part of Reydon Sports) stand in the Kingfisher Hall of the Show.

GUEST SPEAKER - NICHOLAS BATE

Business Guru, author, designer and pioneering ‘thought leader' in business and helping people ensure their true and full potential will be leading a presentation called, ‘More Business; More Profit; More Easily Right Now'.

This will be on the Sunday evening (November 20th) from 6:30pm in the downstairs bar area.  Dinner will be served once the presentation has finished.

SportAssist & Sports Insight Magazine

This year SportAssist is offering a free fitness and body composition assessment, so please go to the Sports Insight booth in the tea and coffee area (to be found on your right as you come out of the Mallard Hall).  Then take your completed form to the SportASsist stand in the Kingfisher Hall, and be entered into a draw to win a GoBandit HD GPS Action camera worth £329.

To Download the SHOW GUIDE for this weekend please click on this link.

For any other Show/ hotel details please click on this link.

Paul Sherratt and his team at Solutions for Sport, the current UK Sales and Marketing partners for Uhlsport and McDavid, brings a wealth of sports trade experience to Spalding and, for the first time, will be presenting a full portfolio of basketball products under one umbrella. The ranges will consist of basketballs, backboards, portables, teamwear, bags and accessories.

Commenting on the deal Sherratt said "Spalding is a superb compliment to our existing brand portfolio as McDavid already has a strong sports medical and protective baselayer basketball range and many of our partner Uhlsport football teamwear dealers also have a demand for basketball Teamwear."

With over 125 years heritage in the sport, today Spalding is the Official game ball and backboard of the world's leading basketball league - the NBA - as well as the partner and official supplier to numerous top teams and national federations across the world.

The existing team of Uhlsport sales agents will begin carrying Spalding from the end of 2011 with first deliveries being available from January 1st 2012

For further information contact: Paul Sherratt, Country Manager
Uhlsport / Spalding / Kempa
Bampton Business Centre (South)
Cypher House
Weald
Bampton
Oxon OX18 2AN

T: 08448 849861
F: 01993 851603
paul@uhlsportuk.com

Exciting new UK based tennis brand MANTIS have today announced former British number 1 Greg Rusedski as brand ambassador.

The new addition to the MANTIS team comes on the back of a successful first full year in the market, which has also seen them become the official tennis racket and ball partner to the AEGON Masters Tennis Championship.
Rusedski, a US Open finalist, former World number 4 and Great Britain Davis cup star, will play a major role in future product development and an active part in the testing of new MANTIS ranges.

The Wimbledon quarter finalist will be using a MANTIS Tour 305 racket in his day to day role as a talent and performance ambassador for the Lawn Tennis Association.  Rusedski, who also works as a tennis pundit on TV, said; "I am delighted to be joining the MANTIS team as an ambassador for this exciting new British brand." 

"The passion, attention to detail and love of tennis was apparent from the first conversation I had with the guys at MANTIS. Great rackets just have that feel about them the moment you pick them up for the first time and for me, it was definitely the case with the MANTIS frame."

Despite being a relatively new brand MANTIS have had a fantastic response both in the UK and internationally, with their philosophy of producing products of exceptional quality at vastly superior prices at the heart of their core values.

Martin Aldridge, Founder and Managing Director of MANTIS, said; "The signing of Greg Rusedski as brand ambassador demonstrates our commitment to the expansion of MANTIS in the coming years.  "Greg's expert knowledge and his experience in the game at the highest level will be invaluable moving forward as we continue to extend our portfolio of high quality products."

For more information about MANTIS go to www.facebook.com/mantissports
Follow MANTIS on twitter @MANTISsport

Please do click on the link below to view the new campaign: -

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=le8En3oKY_c

The Ireland Buying show is in the same great location as last year, Tullamore Court Hotel starting Sunday October 21st for two days.

The UK Buying show is also the same stunning setting, Cotswolds Water Park Four Pillars Hotel starting Sunday November 18th for two days.

Ricky Chandler of STAG says "We were extremely pleased with the success of our two shows in Ireland and UK in 2011, in very tough trading conditions the optimism and attendance from our members and suppliers was second to none.  Whilst the STAG team work exceptionally hard to organise and present the two shows, no success would be achieved without the enthusiasm and support from both our STAG and Freedom Indpendent retailers and the brands exhibiting.

"We will be issuing booking forms the first week of February so please do complete and return as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.  For more information please do not hesitate to call or email us or visit our website stagbuyinggroup.com"