Switchback Spring, June 16-18, 2026 in New Orleans, LA
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Switchback at TRE, December 1-3, 2026 in San Antonio, TX

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Durability as Value: Making Longevity a Competitive Advantage in Outdoor Retail

Jun 16 2026

1:30 PM - 2:15 PM CST

This guided discussion will help independent retailers reframe durability to their customers – moving beyond “technical performance” and into something retailers can sell, explain, and operationalize on the floor. We will explore how to make durability a central point of discovery in the customer journey and address product longevity as a key value driver for shopping at your store. Attendees will leave with more knowledge and a practical tool kit to implement better sustainability messaging and practices into their retail sales model.

What we’ll cover:

• How to communicate product durability in ways that build loyalty and trust with your customers
• How to navigate the buying cycle and purchasing decisions when bringing longer-lasting products into your store
• How to leverage untapped resources for your customers through product storytelling, care education, repair programs, warranties, resale, and more

More panelist information coming soon! 

Moderator

Outdoor Industry Association (OIA)

- Sr. Director of Engagement and Impact

Speakers

W.L. Gore & Associates

- Account Marketing Specialist

Mountain Hardwear

- President & Global GM