Chris Melly, International Sales Manager at NEBO, had a fantastic time at Outdoor and Social 2025, held from March 11–13 at the scenic Newfold Farm in Edale, nestled in the heart of the Peak District.
This year’s event brought together more than 150 retail staff, 28 retailers, and 86 brands for an immersive experience packed with hands-on learning, product testing, and outdoor skills training—all set against the stunning backdrop of one of the UK’s most beautiful national parks.
Representing NEBO, a global leader in innovative LED lighting technology for over 20 years, Chris appreciated the event’s relaxed yet productive atmosphere.
“The event was really good,” he said. “There was a nice flow of people, a great mix of retailers, and everyone was in good spirits despite the chilly weather. It’s been very well received.”
One of the key highlights for Chris was the opportunity to have meaningful conversations with engaged retail staff.
“Over the last couple of years, we’ve been ramping up our presence at trade and consumer shows. What we’re hearing more and more is, ‘Oh, I’ve got your Nebo lights or hand warmers—what else have you got?’ People are genuinely curious about our range.”
Unlike the hectic pace of typical trade shows, Outdoor and Social offered time for deeper engagement.
“It’s not a rush. You’re not dealing with people back-to-back. Here, you can spend half an hour to an hour with someone, going through the product range, merchandising tips, and sector-specific insights. You get quality time. It’s not just about making a sale—it’s about education.”
Chris also highlighted the social side of the event as a major bonus.
“The food was fantastic, and the atmosphere was really friendly. It was great to mingle with retailers and other brands, sharing insights and learning from each other.”
Will NEBO be back in 2026?
“Without a doubt,” Chris said. “We’ll definitely be back next year. There are some things I’d love to engage in more—maybe some talks. It’s a bit tricky with lighting during the day, but we’ll see what we can do!”
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