As we head into the second quarter of the calendar year, the show season is behind most of us. And depending on who you ask, they’ll summarize the show season as “good,” “great” or the elusive “about what we expected.”  According to data we collected in a recent manufacturer survey, the “about what we expected” response means an increase of 10% to 20% in orders over last year, which is considered good or great.

Responses from our annual ATA Show surveys were in line or even better. We rolled new promotions like the Super Deal Pass and brought back old favorites like the Big Buck Tags coupon book and Show “goody” bags. Exhibitors who participated in the Show promotions or had one of their own generally did very well. Taking advantage of Show special pricing is still one of the top reasons retailers attend the Show. Despite the negativity heading into St. Louis, I heard from many exhibitors who said those magic words, “this was our best ATA Show ever!”

We look forward to being back in Indy for three straight years and expect a strong rebound in attendance. That’s something to consider when you select your booth space next month. Look for more information on the booth space selection schedule and process in the coming weeks.

It’s also membership renewal time. For retailers, we’ve added two new convenience options: you can opt to have your membership auto-renew or recognize a discount by selecting the new three-year membership option. Check your email for renewal information. 

Your ATA is at work tackling issues like FET avoidance, building programs to strengthen your business like our new Bow Tech Certification program (we just added a crossbow certification!), constantly striving to provide information and data you can use through our Quarterly Retail Trend Tacker Surveys and other special surveys and working with other organizations to grow archery and bowhunting participation. 

Contact Kim Watson if need help renewing your membership so you can continue taking advantage of ATA-member benefits. We look forward serving you and are excited to host another highly successful ATA Show in Indy, Jan. 8-10, 2025.