expo
Grand Opening of October 2024 Global Sources Sports & Outdoor Show Emerging Sports Rise: Pickleball and AR Fitness Take Center Stage
HONG KONG /PRNewswire/ — Phase 3 of the 2024 Global Sources Hong Kong Shows officially opened today, featuring the Global Sources Sports & Outdoor Show alongside the debut of the Global Sources Baby & Children’s Products Show. The events will run until October 30 at AsiaWorld-Expo. With growing global awareness of health consciousness, the sports and outdoor industry is experiencing explosive growth. The Sports & Outdoor Show, first launched last year, has successfully captured trends in the sports industry and met global buyers’ demands.
The Global Sources Sports & Outdoor Show showcases over 30,000 high-quality, fashionable, technological, and environmentally friendly sports and outdoor products, featuring approximately 600 booths from Asia. The shows cover equipment for camping, fitness, water sports, outdoor activities, sportswear, and accessories, aiming to build a comprehensive sports lifestyle ecosystem and create a one-stop fashion sports sourcing platform. The Global Sources Baby & Children’s Products Show concurrently showcases baby products, toys, clothing, strollers, car seats, children’s furniture, and related maternal and infant services.
John Kao, Vice President of Global Sources Hong Kong and Overseas Shows, stated: “The sports and outdoor market is experiencing unprecedented development opportunities. People’s pursuit of a healthy lifestyle and love of nature are driving the robust growth of the sports and outdoor industry. Our shows follow market trends by not only providing buyers with a diverse range of high-quality sports and outdoor products but also by introducing immersive sports experiences and emerging sports programs, bringing new vitality and business opportunities to the industry. Global Sources will continue to promote the development of the sports and outdoor market and build a superior platform for global buyers and suppliers to exchange ideas and cooperate.”
Newly Emerged Sports Growth: Indoor Pickleball Experience Space Added
Global Sources Sports & Outdoor breaks from traditional exhibition formats by introducing a series of immersive sports experiences for buyers. Among newly emerged sports, Pickleball has shown significant growth, with Hong Kong recently opening its first indoor Pickleball experience space, demonstrating enormous business potential and broad development prospects. Global Sources set up a Pickleball court and launches a “Pickleball Training Camp” with HKPickle.Union. Visitors can interact on-site and experience the unique charm of Pickleball under the guidance of promotional ambassadors and professional coaches, stimulating buyers’ purchasing interest in the emerging sports trend.
The show has also established a Sports Carnival in Hall 5, featuring basketball, air hockey, smart bike riding, darts, table football, and other sports gaming facilities. Through a series of sports and outdoor-themed activities and competitions, buyers can enjoy sports in fun competitions while sourcing products in a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere.
Wellness & Fitness Zone: PURE Yoga Classes and Latest AR Fitness Equipment
Phase 3 of the Global Sources Hong Kong Shows has set up a special “Wellness & Fitness Zone” in collaboration with local premium fitness center PURE, bringing a series of yoga and fitness activities to buyers and exhibitors. PURE’s professional yoga instructors will provide yoga experiences on-site and share yoga-related knowledge.
The experience zone will also showcase the latest AR fitness equipment, which won the 2023 Red Dot Winner Award. This equipment integrates digitalization, artificial intelligence, gym training, strength training, and smart home fitness functions, providing visitors with an immersive fitness experience. Through these activities, buyers can closely understand and experience the latest sports and outdoor products while personally participating in health and fitness practices.
International Pavilions Showcase Diversity, Innovation
The exhibition continues its internationalization, attracting pavilions from countries including India and Vietnam. The Vietnamese manufacturers’ group is presenting highly competitive and cost-effective new products such as sportswear, swimwear, and functional bags. These products highlight Vietnam’s increasing craftsmanship and design capabilities while bringing Southeast Asian fashion design concepts and creativity to the show. On the opening day, the Vietnam Pavilion held an opening ceremony attended by Hu Wei, CEO of Global Sources; Mrs. Le Duc Hanh, Consul General of Vietnam in Hong Kong; John Kao, Vice President of Global Sources Hong Kong and Overseas Shows; and Sam Hui, Vice President of Global Resources Strategy and International Business, who jointly witnessed this important moment.
Onsite Summit Program
Phase 3 of the Global Sources Hong Kong Shows features a series of professional forums under the theme “Thriving Together: Novel Products for Active Folks and Little Ones.” The event brings together industry representatives from the E-Commerce Association of Hong Kong, Pantone, Novelty Lane, SGS, Tech Packs Co, and others to explore industry development trends and share market updates. The forums cover various hot topics, including “PANTONEVIEW Colour Planner Autumn/Winter 2025/26 – Family,” “The Rise of Fashion-Forward Active Apparel and Gear,” and “Navigating the Latest Pitfalls for Selling Baby and Kids Products on Amazon.” A highlight forum, “Champion’s Choice: Elite Athlete Unveils the Winning Gear,” features Ms. Pui Yin Yip, former Olympic badminton representative, sharing insights on athletes’ preferred sports apparel and equipment, meeting buyers’ needs for the latest market dynamics.
Focusing on Sustainable Development and Upgrading Digital Services
As consumers’ awareness of environmental protection continues to strengthen, Global Sources Hong Kong Shows, as an internationally leading B2B procurement platform, actively practices ESG principles. From the meticulous layout of the exhibition hall to the orderly organization of events, it comprehensively implements measures for environmental protection and sustainable development. In these shows, Global Sources strongly encourages exhibitors to showcase their ESG labels, making it easier for buyers to identify and select suppliers that meet environmental standards. This initiative motivates suppliers to put environmental concepts into practice and jointly promotes the green development of the industry.
At the same time, the shows have launched the feature-rich Show Genie 2.0 APP, providing visitors with more convenient exhibition features. These include fast entry through QR code registration, a search function to quickly locate desired exhibitors and products, personalized exhibition routes, and online note-taking capabilities. This greatly enhances the exhibition experience for visitors.
About Global Sources
Global Sources is an internationally recognized B2B sourcing platform that has been driving global trade for over 50 years. The Company connects authentic buyers and verified suppliers worldwide with tailored solutions and trusted market intelligence through trade shows, digital platforms, magazines and events. Global Sources’ unique online-to-offline (O2O) services have successfully provided efficient and convenient commercial services to over 10 million registered international buyers and users.
This press release is distributed by Market Hubs Holdings Limited.
SOURCE Global Sources
Get the latest updates and information on the rapidly growing sport of pickleball, specifically designed for the senior community aged 50+. Check out Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Report on YouTube to stay informed and up-to-date with the ever-changing world of pickleball. Join the community and stay ahead of the game. https://stmdailynews.com/sleeves-senior-pickleball-report/
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expo
Debbie Gibson Inspires at the 2025 Arizona Ultimate Women’s Expo
Pop legend Debbie Gibson headlined the 2025 Arizona Ultimate Women’s Expo in Phoenix, inspiring thousands with her story of resilience and creativity.
Last Updated on October 16, 2025 by Daily News Staff
News You Can Use This Moment! | STM Daily News
The 2025 Arizona Ultimate Women’s Expo lit up downtown Phoenix last month with an empowering mix of celebrity inspiration, local entrepreneurship, and creative energy. Held September 28–29 at the Phoenix Convention Center, this year’s expo drew thousands of women from across the Southwest to explore, connect, and celebrate.
Among the weekend’s standout moments was the appearance of pop icon Debbie Gibson, whose presence on the main stage brought both nostalgia and inspiration. The singer-songwriter, who rose to fame in the late 1980s with hits like “Only in My Dreams” and “Lost in Your Eyes,” shared her personal journey through the music industry, resilience, and rediscovering purpose. Attendees were treated to an intimate and uplifting conversation, followed by meet-and-greet sessions and photo opportunities — including one lucky attendee who met Gibson personally and captured the moment with several photos.
A Weekend of Empowerment and Discovery
The Arizona Ultimate Women’s Expo, part of a national event series produced by the Ultimate Events Group, featured more than 400 exhibitor booths and dozens of workshops across health, finance, fashion, and wellness. Visitors explored everything from skincare innovations and artisan goods to self-development seminars and business networking lounges.
Sponsors and partners have historically included Chevrolet, Humana, Mary Kay, Massage Envy, and the Arizona Republic, reflecting a diverse mix of corporate and local support. The 2025 edition once again sold out exhibitor space, signaling renewed enthusiasm among small businesses and women-led ventures in Arizona.
Record Attendance and Growing Momentum
While official numbers haven’t been released, estimates place attendance at over 20,000 visitors — a notable increase from roughly 17,000 in 2024. Organizers cited record booth sales and packed speaker sessions as evidence of the event’s continued post-pandemic growth.
Phoenix’s event mirrors a broader trend of rising participation in women-centered expos nationwide, as more entrepreneurs and creators seek in-person opportunities to share ideas, products, and inspiration.
Why It Matters
The Women’s Expo is more than just a shopping or networking event — it’s a platform for women to connect, elevate one another, and rediscover their voices in business and life. Whether through a celebrity keynote, a local business success story, or a spontaneous encounter on the expo floor, attendees leave with a sense of empowerment that lasts long after the weekend wraps up.
As Debbie Gibson reminded the crowd:
“Reinvention isn’t about starting over — it’s about owning every version of yourself.”
🖼️ Photo Gallery: Moments from the 2025 Arizona Ultimate Women’s Expo
(Captured by Rebecca Jo Washington, a contributors to STM Daily News)
(Editor’s note: Photos courtesy of STM Daily News contributor Rebecca Jo Bigham. If you attended this year’s expo and would like to share your images, please email them to editor@stmdailynews.com for feature consideration.)
🔗
Related Links
Explore more stories from STM Daily News and around the web:
- Arizona Ultimate Women’s Expo – Official Site
- Phoenix Convention Center Events Calendar
- Debbie Gibson Official Website
- Women’s Business Success Stories – STM Daily News
- Empowerment Events & Lifestyle Features – STM Daily News
The Bridge is a section of the STM Daily News Blog meant for diversity, offering real news stories about bona fide community efforts to perpetuate a greater good. The purpose of The Bridge is to connect the divides that separate us, fostering understanding and empathy among different groups. By highlighting positive initiatives and inspirational actions, The Bridge aims to create a sense of unity and shared purpose. This section brings to light stories of individuals and organizations working tirelessly to promote inclusivity, equality, and mutual respect. Through these narratives, readers are encouraged to appreciate the richness of diverse perspectives and to participate actively in building stronger, more cohesive communities.
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Senior Pickleball Report
People of Pickleball Podcast Episode: PickleCon 2025 Tournament Director Joins Sleeves!
Mike “Sleeves” Sliwa interviews Kelsea Thompson, Tournament Director of PickleCon 2025, discussing her journey in pickleball and details of the event happening from August 7-10 in Kansas City, Missouri.
Last Updated on August 6, 2025 by Rod Washington
Join host Mike “Sleeves” Sliwa as he sits down with Kelsea Thompson, Tournament Director of PickleCon 2025, for an inspiring conversation about passion, pickleball, and one of the sport’s most anticipated events.
In this engaging episode, Kelsea shares her personal journey into the world of pickleball – from her first time picking up a paddle to becoming the driving force behind PickleCon’s tournament operations. Discover how her love for the sport evolved and what led her to take on the massive responsibility of organizing tournaments for thousands of players.
Published May 30, 2025
Kelsea provides an insider’s look at PickleCon 2025, taking place August 7-10 in Kansas City, Missouri. Learn about this all-inclusive pickleball paradise that transforms 400,000 square feet of convention space into the ultimate destination for players of every skill level. From competitive tournaments and pro clinics to glow-in-the-dark matches and social events, PickleCon truly offers something for everyone in the pickleball community.
Whether you’re a competitive player, casual enthusiast, skill-building learner, industry professional, or simply a pickleball fan, this episode will give you the inside scoop on what makes PickleCon a must-attend event. Kelsea discusses the unique challenges of organizing such a comprehensive event and shares her vision for creating an unforgettable experience that celebrates everything we love about pickleball.
Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from one of the key figures making PickleCon 2025 possible – and start planning your trip to Kansas City this August!
PickleCon 2025: August 7-10, Kansas City, MO
Learn more: https://www.picklecon.com
Get the latest updates and information on the rapidly growing sport of pickleball, specifically designed for the senior community aged 50+. Check out Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Report on YouTube to stay informed and up-to-date with the ever-changing world of pickleball. Join the community and stay ahead of the game.
STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.
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Entertainment
KOCCA Brings the Future of Entertainment to SXSW 2025 – AI, XR, and K-Content Innovation Take Center Stage
AUSTIN, Texas, March 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — At SXSW 2025, the Korea Creative Content Agency (KOCCA) is set to showcase the next frontier of entertainment and technology, bringing 12 cutting-edge Korean companies to Austin. From AI-powered media to immersive experiences in XR and the metaverse, KOCCA Pavilion will be the hub for the latest innovations reshaping global content trends.
KOCCA will host three major events at SXSW 2025:
KOCCA Pavilion (March 9-12, Booth No. 1007, Austin Convention Center, Hall 3) – Experience firsthand how AI, virtual humans, immersive art, and game-tech are redefining storytelling and audience engagement.
KOCCA NEXT STAGE (March 10, 10 AM, Hall 4) – Industry leaders discuss the convergence of AI and entertainment, the rise of digital humans, and the future of interactive storytelling.
K-Content Night (March 10, 6-9 PM, Parlor & Yard, Downtown Austin) – An exclusive networking event where investors, creators, and tech pioneers connect over K-content’s impact on the global entertainment landscape.
Meet the Innovators at KOCCA Pavilion
Twelve visionary companies will present game-changing solutions in AI-driven media, metaverse experiences, immersive art, and next-gen music & gaming solutions. These companies include DATUMO, BRUSH Theatre, BEAM Studio, ShiningLab, Cuz Global, KAI, Minimap, GiiOii Immersive Studio, apoc, Stela, Neutune, and Gaudio Lab.
Visitors can expect to engage with groundbreaking advancements such as AI-generated storytelling, virtual human interactions, and next-gen music tech that is redefining how audiences consume content worldwide.
KOCCA NEXT STAGE – The Future of AI in Entertainment (March 10, 10 AM, Hall 4)
Beyond the exhibition, KOCCA will host NEXT STAGE, a must-attend panel exploring how AI, XR, and emerging tech are revolutionizing content creation and audience experiences. Featuring industry experts Michael Hwang (DATUMO), Youngbeom Jeong (BEAM Studio), Ellie Lee (apoc), and Sylvia Yang (BRUSH Theatre), this session will dive into the challenges and opportunities of integrating AI in storytelling and the lessons global industries can learn from Korea’s rapid innovation.
K-Content Night – Where Business Meets Creativity (March 10, 6-9 PM, Parlor & Yard, Austin)
KOCCA’s K-Content Night is an exclusive gathering that brings together investors, startups, and industry leaders to explore how Korean content is shaping the next wave of entertainment. Attendees will enjoy a high-impact networking session, speed pitches from innovative startups, and exclusive insights into one of the fastest-growing creative industries in the world.
This is more than just a networking event—it’s an opportunity to connect with visionaries redefining the future of media and entertainment.
Register Now:
KOCCA Pavilion: https://m.site.naver.com/1BCHG
KOCCA NEXT STAGE: https://forms.gle/ZGedEyUEAjxKsH4X8
K-Content Night: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/k-content-night-2025-sxsw-free-dinner-drinks-tickets-1238084777899?aff=oddtdtcreator
Join KOCCA at SXSW 2025 and witness the future of entertainment unfold.
SOURCE KOCCA
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