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T o k e e p u p w i t h t h e challenging pace of business we all must evolve to remain current and aligned with the needs of customers, the industry, technology, you name it. The RIA has stayed true to this philosophy by continually transforming its annual member event. Many will recall the original iteration as the KICK Show in Denver, Colorado. That event became Runchella - infusing the show with some fresh, social air after a COVID hiatus, and it thrived in Chicago in 2022 and 2023. Now it's time for another shift. "We're moving on from the Runchella name with intention in 2024," states RIA Executive Director Terry Schalow. "Rebranding as the RIA Summit more accurately reflects the ethos of the show, which is designed to inform as well as create connections and collaboration between members. As in the past, it will constantly evolve through attendee feedback to ensure that we continue to best serve our members." There will also be a new gathering place, the elegant and iconic Union Station Hotel in downtown St. Louis, Missouri. Based on feedback from Runchella 2023, there is a clear need for a larger, more versatile venue to accommodate what retailers, brands and associate members want. So in 2024, there will be more programming, including professional development for a variety of roles, as well as a new track that specifically addresses the challenges (and opportunities!) for smaller, newer stores. Peer-sharing will return as a keystone of the experience, with structured, topic- driven discussions. The new hotel will also accommodate one-on-one brand conversations held in quiet, private rooms. As in years past, the members-only, boutique-style event will span two and a half days. Retailer attendees can customize their schedules to meet with brands, business partners, participate in peer discussions and learn from a variety of experts. In addition, the RIA Summit will feature social gatherings, including sponsored group runs, cocktail hours, product demonstrations, and of course the famed industry party. The exhibiting brands are top-notch. The RIA hand-selects industry leaders in footwear and apparel, as well as the key brands within each accessory category. Emerging brands that are new, or new to the channel, will also have a presence at the show. The leading point of sale, e-commerce, and digital marketing providers will attend to introduce retailers to their platforms or do training with existing customers. After last year's event, Geoff Tease, Channel Sales Manager from Puma North America stated, "Our first year at the show was good! We got a number of new account leads and had the chance to reconnect with some of our current accounts. We definitely plan to attend again next year." New Location. New Name. RIA's Annual Member Event Morphs for the Better When: Monday, April 29 to Thursday, May 2nd Where: St. Louis, Missouri - Union Station Hotel Registration opens in January 2024 runningindustry.org Union Station Hotel, downtown St. Louis, Missouri.

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