December 13, 2024 – America Outdoors Conference and Outfitter Expo successfully concluded today, bringing together more than 300 outfitters, industry experts, and speakers to delve into critical issues facing the outdoor industry today. Almost 90 exhibitors were on hand to showcase their goods and services.
The conference, held at the Chattanooga Convention Center, featured Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly, keynote addresses by Chandria Harris and Craig Childs, panels with representatives from public land agencies and insurance providers, roundtable discussions on sales, marketing, and operations, wilderness medicine courses, and networking opportunities to strengthen connections and spark new ideas for the outdoor industry.
During the conference, America Outdoors held its annual business meeting, where membership voted in new by-laws, board members, and an executive committee. During this time, the George and Pamela Wendt Industry Achievement Award and Innovator Award were also announced.
“It was invaluable to have an opportunity to bring America’s outfitting community together in such an outdoor friendly destination like Chattanooga, Tennessee,” said Aaron Bannon, America Outdoors’ Executive Director. “Not only did we celebrate the role that facilitated outdoor recreation plays in the fabric of America, but also to hear from and offer support to the dozens of outfitters impacted in the area by Hurricane Helene, including those on the Pigeon River, the French Broad River, the Nolichucky River, and the Nantahala River.”
The conference is slated to return December 9–12, 2025, in Salt Lake City, Utah.
About America Outdoors
America Outdoors is a community of outdoor adventure businesses and organizations who have joined together to promote and support the outdoor recreation industry through advocacy, education, and collaboration. AO has been working on behalf of the outdoor industry for over 30 years. For more information, please visit our website www.americaoutdoors.org.