SNEWS launches In-New-Vation Awards with 3M as title sponsor

Recognizing that new products, new companies and new ideas are essential to the continued health and growth of the outdoor industry, SNEWS® is launching the IN-NEW-VATION Awards presented by 3M.

The inaugural IN-NEW-VATION Awards presented by 3M will recognize the best and most innovative new products showcased by new exhibitors at the 2011 Outdoor Retailer Winter Market trade show.

Recognition of innovative and functional excellence will be given in each of five categories, including: hardgoods, technical apparel, lifestyle apparel, accessories and footwear. An additional category will recognize innovation in sustainable and green products.

Both SNEWS and 3M recognize that new exhibitors have worked hard to get where they are and we want to reward that commitment to the outdoor industry.

“3M is thrilled to sponsor the IN-NEW-VATION Awards as it aligns with 3M’s core values and strengths,” Jeff Gunia, global portfolio manager for 3M Thinsulate Insulation told SNEWS. “3M thrives on its innovative products and solutions offerings. We produce thousands of imaginative products, and we’re a leader in scores of markets and our success begins with our ability to apply our technologies — often in combination — to an endless array of real-world customer needs.”

New exhibitors to Outdoor Retailer Winter Market are encouraged to apply today for a chance to win one of six IN-NEW-VATION categories.

Winners of an IN-NEW-VATION category will receive coverage of the accomplishment in the Winter Market 2011 OR Daily, as well as in SNEWS (www.outsidebusinessjournal.com) and on SNEWS® TV.

In addition, winners will receive advertising exposure in Backpacker, Climbing and Urban Climber magazines as part of the IN-NEW-VATION Awards presented by 3M advertising announcement. Plus, there’ll be bonus web exposure on Backpacker.com, Climbing.com and UrbanClimberMag.com.

A panel of expert judges (including retailers, manufacturers, designers and media) will review each entry during the first two days of Outdoor Retailer Winter Market 2011. When determining category honors, the judging panel will look for and evaluate each product for innovation, functionality, usefulness and design.

Awards will be presented on Day 3 of Outdoor Retailer Winter Market by an awards committee at each lucky winner’s booth.

Deadline for entry is Jan. 14, 2011. Go to www.outsidebusinessjournal.com/innewvationawards to submit an entry form. Don’t delay.

–Michael Hodgson