We asked 7 sports business experts - These innovations are shaping the future of sport

• Technology: the key to movement, lifestyle and efficiency
• Sustainability: The green revolution in the sports business
• Sport is a lifestyle: multifunctionality and young target groups
• Design and innovation: sustainable, data-driven and individual
• Conclusion: The game changers of the future

Almost all experts agree that technology will play a central role in the further development of the sports business. Digital innovations such as wearables, fitness apps and artificial intelligence will not only change exercise habits, but also make processes in the industry more efficient.

Grace McNamara, Founder & CEO of The Collective emphasizes how technologies could seamlessly integrate exercise into everyday life:

"So if we can consistently look at active days, then we're going to consistently look at our population being more active. That to me is going to have a massive impact."

Stephan Buschmann, Director Customer Service B2C & B2B at Jack Wolfskin, emphasizes how apps could help people become more active again:

"The greatest opportunities are in harnessing digital technologies to promote more people being active. This includes developing apps and programs to help people restart sports and being more active, and using technology to monitor and measure activity levels and track trends."

Technologies such as artificial intelligence and data-driven solutions are not only relevant for end consumers, but also for companies. Margit Gosau, CEO of Sport 2000 GmbH, explains how AI could change the industry:

"Innovations using artificial intelligence can simplify retail and the process of curating sports, making both much more efficient."

Digitalization is therefore not only becoming a tool to motivate consumers to exercise more, but also a game changer for retail, marketing and product development.

Another key trend that many experts emphasize is the importance of sustainability. The industry is facing the challenge of establishing resource-saving materials and sustainable production methods.

"Sustainability and recyclability could be the key priorities, as we, as a society, already have too many things and garments", says Benton Wang, Marketing Director, LifeLabs Ai-Clo System sums up the urgency.

It's not just about the materials themselves, but also about efficiency in production. Sustainability must become part of the entire value chain - from raw material extraction and production through to disposal or recycling.

Brands that manage to credibly integrate sustainability into their products and processes will be successful in the long term. The younger generation in particular expects companies not only to think sustainably, but also to act actively.

The boundaries between sport, fashion and lifestyle are becoming increasingly blurred. The next generation sees sport not just as a physical activity, but as part of their identity. Products need to be versatile - functional, fashionable and sustainable.

"I buy a product to engage in an activity, but I use it for many different purposes. It could be for sports, work, or leisure", describes Grace McNamara.

Athleisure is the perfect example of this development: clothing that combines sporty functionality with fashionable design. Simon Wong adds: "Sportswear that can also be worn outside the gym is becoming increasingly important."

The young generation itself is also seen as a great opportunity. Their values, lifestyles and needs are driving innovation.

"The young generation has new lifestyles and visions. Their behavior and views offer enormous potential," explains Benton Wang.

They are not only looking for products, but also for brands that share their values - be it in the areas of sustainability, social responsibility or technological progress.

Another topic that many experts address is the role of design and innovation. Creativity and technology will increasingly go hand in hand to create products that are both sustainable and functional.

Luping Shao, Representative for Zhejiang Ciapo Sporting Goods Co., Ltd., explained how artificial intelligence could revolutionize product design:

"We are very familiar with AI design and we will design new products next year so we can bring them to this booth next year as well."

With regard to young consumers, the experts also emphasized how important it is to meet their demands for individuality and sustainability. Brands that manage to combine technological innovations with creative solutions will prevail.

The voices of the experts clearly show where the sports business is heading. Three key trends will shape the industry:

1. Technology will become the driving force for movement, retail and product innovation. Smart apps, wearables and AI-supported solutions connect people with products and create new opportunities.
2. Sustainability is moving from an optional extra to a mandatory program. Brands that develop recyclable materials and efficient production methods are asserting themselves in an increasingly conscious consumer world.
3. Lifestyle and multifunctionality are merging. The young generation is looking for products that not only perform, but are also part of their lifestyle - from yoga mats to dinner outfits.

The future of the sports business lies in the balance of innovation, responsibility and the ability to fit seamlessly into consumers' lives. Now is the time to redefine the industry - smarter, greener and closer to the people.