The Running Event Celebrates 20 Years and Opens Call for Education Focused on the Future of Run Specialty

March 18, 2026

Industry experts and innovators are invited to shape conversations around the growth and evolving future of run specialty

PORTLAND, Maine (March 18, 2026) /OUTDOOR SPORTSWIRE/ – The Running Event (TRE), North America’s premier run specialty retail conference and trade show, is celebrating its 20th anniversary and inviting industry leaders to help shape the future of run specialty through its 2026 Call for Education. From AI in retail operations to the rapid growth of races and run clubs, this year’s education program will focus on the forces impacting run specialty retail and the broader running industry.

Taking place December 1-3, 2026, at the Henry B. González Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas, TRE brings specialty retailers, brands, race organizers, and other industry leaders to explore the trends informing the future of running. As the industry continues to evolve through new technologies, shifting consumer behaviors, and stronger community engagement, TRE’s 20th anniversary theme, “Celebrating Run Specialty Now and Tomorrow,” reflects both the legacy and the future of the specialty running market.

Running participation continues to grow globally, with industry data showing steady increases in race participation and the continued rise of community-driven running experiences. These shifts are creating new opportunities and challenges for specialty retailers as they navigate changing consumer expectations, evolving retail technologies, and new ways to engage runners both inside and outside the four walls of their store.

Education sessions at TRE 2026 will explore the topics currently shaping run specialty retail, including but not limited to:

• AI & Modern Retail Efficiencies
• Run Clubs, Races, & Trail Running Opportunities
• Creative Buying, Merchandising, & Inventory Strategies
• Leadership, Hiring, & Training
• Data, Participation, & Consumer Insights
• Performance in Lifestyle & Fashion
• Access, Inclusion, & Retention in Running

Many of these themes reflect conversations already happening across specialty retail as stores expand community programming, explore new revenue opportunities through events and partnerships, and adapt to evolving consumer behaviors.

“As we look toward TRE’s 20th anniversary, our goal isn’t just to keep the momentum of this industry going; it’s to accelerate it,” said Caitlin Ewing, TRE Sr. Content Manager. “In 2026, we’re challenging ourselves and our attendees to think beyond the four walls of a store while reimagining what education, connection, and community can look like at this year’s event. TRE is a place where every voice belongs, and as we explore the future of run specialty together, that’s never been more important.”

TRE’s Call for Education invites diverse voices from across the running industry to contribute ideas that will support and inspire retailers and brands in navigating the next phase of industry growth. Run specialty retailers, brand leaders, race directors, community organizers, and industry experts are encouraged to submit proposals for retail education sessions, panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and Training Camp Theater presentations in the exhibit hall.

Session proposals will be accepted through Sunday, April 19, 2026, with selected speakers notified later in the summer. Individuals interested in speaking can learn more about the program and submit proposals at therunningevent.com/call-for-education.

###

About The Running Event
Launched in 2006, The Running Event (TRE) is North America’s premier specialty retail conference and trade show, bringing together thousands of industry professionals to discover the latest in footwear, apparel, gear, and services. With a strong focus on innovation and industry growth, TRE provides forward-thinking conference programming, peer learning opportunities, and dynamic product discovery that help shape the future of run specialty. As the must-attend trade show for the running industry, TRE is committed to fostering innovation, supporting retailers, and driving the industry forward. The Running Event 2026 will take place December 1-3 in San Antonio, Texas, at the Henry B. González Convention Center. For more information, visit www.therunningevent.com.

Media Contact: tre@obviouslee.com