We recently hosted our annual tradeshow and it was great to see everyone. We realize that not everyone is able to attend our show, so we are following that up with some interviews with the vendors that attended the show. Our first one is with Steven Ball from Sure-Grip Skate.
Question 1 – Thanks for taking the time to come to Roanoke for our tradeshow. How did it go for your company? Did anything stick out?
Sure-Grip – We always have a great time coming to the show. Always great to see the customers and talk about the business. We have a lot of new item that we are very excited about and we are excited about the future.
Question 2 – You go to a lot of shows, you travel a lot, talking to different rinks, etc. What are you hearing from the rinks (or shops)? Are they excited about the upcoming season?
Sure-Grip – We received a lot of good feedback about our new items this year so that is very good. I think the rinks are also very optimistic about the season and most rinks mentioned a good last few months. I think its important to note the hurricanes can and will slow things down but I think the next few months will be very good.
Question 3 – Are there any new products you have coming out that we should know about? Or any proven winners that you’d like to remind people about?
Sure-Grip – We have our new oxford skate that a lot of people were really intrigued about. I think its a special product and it might not be for everyone but we have always tried to create new and personal products for skaters. We also have our new black and gold fame skate. Same great Fame skate but in a new limited edition color. Also have the new blue premier wheel that has done very well so far. [editor’s note – the Oxford is not in stock yet, they’re hoping for a late November delivery – the black and gold Fame skates are available now – the blue Premier wheels should arrive any day now]
Question 4 – Do you have any suggestions or ideas for the skating rinks that will see this? Have you heard anything at our show (or at other shows) that is especially interesting that might could help other rinks? It doesn’t have to be “product” related.
Sure-Grip – Stay positive and stay excited.
Question 5 – What excites you about our industry right now? Does anything scare you?
Sure-Grip – I love how everyone is willing to listen and talk to one another. Learn from others and keep moving forward. A really good show that features roller skating is on HBO which I think everyone should watch and learn. [editor’s note – the show is called Roller Jam and is available on HBO and also their streaming service]
Question 6 – What else would you like our readers to know? Is there anything that doesn’t fit into the above questions that skaters or rink owners would find interesting or helpful as we approach the traditional busy season for roller skating?
Sure-Grip – Stay hungry and look to the season. Stay positive and be excited for the skaters and your employees.
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