As the popularity of climbing booms, so do the businesses that serve those growing numbers of climbers. Perhaps nowhere is that evolution more apparent than at trade shows and vendor expos, which have also seen tremendous growth over the past decade around the world. Several countries now boast their own climbing trade events, from North America to Europe.
In France, the Salon de l’Escalade is preparing to host its third edition on November 18-20. This year, organizer Eric Hatesse moved the annual event from Lyon to Grenoble, anticipating the new, much larger venue (up to 8,800m² of space available, compared to 4,200m²) will be more accessible and better located in “a cultural center of the French mountaineering scene,” says Eric. Over 170 exhibitors are expected to take part this November alongside thousands of attendees coming from across France and beyond. Since its premiere in 2019, the gathering has been certified (by an independent agency) as an international event, with attendees and exhibitors from many different countries.
Like many trade shows, there is a strong B2B focus, and the entire first day is dedicated to business attendees. However, a major difference between Salon de l’Escalade and other peer events is that the second two days are open to the general public. Consumers can make purchases onsite and walk away with the wares, and of course business attendees can still visit any of the three days. In addition to vendor booths, attendees will enjoy a wide range of programming, including skills clinics, panel discussions, product demos, athlete presentations, movie screenings, a bouldering competition, and even a fashion show.
Interested in attending? The tickets are relatively inexpensive at 8€ for Saturday or Sunday (for consumers) and 28€ for Friday (businesses). Attendees are welcome from anywhere in the world. Purchase your tickets here.
Interested in exhibiting? They may still be able to fit you in. Request your credentials here.
Salon de l’Escalade is a leading French trade show for climbing and all things vertical (mountaineering, canyoning, via-ferrata, caving, slacklining, and rope-access workers). Launched in 2019, the certified international event follows a unique B2B and B2C format and has gathered exhibitors and attendees from around the globe. First held in Lyon, in 2022 the annual gathering moved to Grenoble, at the foot of the French Alps.
