With just a few days to go before the doors of SOLEX 2026, the final preparations are being made by the impressive gathering of exhibitors in Hall 5 of the NEC. LOFA's General Manager and SOLEX Event Director Gina Hinde looks forward to three exciting days starting on Tuesday (7th July).
“Every year, as we get closer to SOLEX, I find myself feeling exactly the same. There's a mixture of excitement, anticipation and, if I'm honest, a few sleepless nights! After months of planning, phone calls, meetings and countless emails, it's finally the time of year when everything comes together.
“For me, SOLEX is much more than an exhibition. It's the one week of the year when our industry comes together under one roof. It's where I get to catch up with our LOFA members, hear how they've been doing, find out what kind of season they've had and, most importantly, share a few laughs along the way. Those conversations are priceless and are one of the reasons I love what I do.
“When we launched the very first SOLEX back in 2008 at the Telford International Centre, our aim was simple – to create an event organised by the industry, for the industry. We wanted somewhere our members could showcase their products in a friendly, relaxed environment where genuine business could be done.
“Nearly twenty years on, that hasn't changed.
“SOLEX is owned and run by LOFA, and because of that our members always come first. We aren't a commercial exhibition driven by shareholders or profit; we're a member event. Every decision we make is based on what our members tell us they need. I think that's reflected in the atmosphere of the show. Visitors often comment on how welcoming it feels, and exhibitors tell us they enjoy doing business because it's relaxed, professional and full of quality buyers.
“This year we're delighted to welcome around 50 of the outdoor living industry's leading brands, all showcasing their latest collections and innovations for Spring/Summer 2027. SOLEX has become the place where retailers can see new products, compare ranges, meet suppliers face to face and start planning for the season ahead.
“Of course, none of us would pretend the market has been easy. I would describe it as optimistically cautious. Thankfully, the excess stock that built up after Covid has now worked its way through the system, but trading has still been challenging. We've enjoyed some lovely weather, but it hasn't been consistent enough to create steady sales throughout the season.
“At the same time, suppliers continue to face rising costs. Increased container prices, higher raw material costs and ongoing global uncertainty all have an impact on our industry. Consumers are also thinking more carefully about how they spend their money, so retailers and suppliers have had to adapt.
“One thing I have learned over the years is that our industry is incredibly resilient. We always find a way forward.
“That's another reason why SOLEX is so important. It gives people the chance to step away from the day-to-day pressures of business and spend time talking to one another. Business relationships are strengthened, new partnerships begin and ideas are shared. Sometimes the best conversations don't happen in a meeting room – they happen over a coffee or while walking around the exhibition together.
“If you're exhibiting for the first time, my advice is simple: make your stand welcoming and be ready to engage. Create a stand that catches people's attention, use good lighting and, above all, smile and talk to visitors. Don't spend the day sitting behind a desk looking at your phone. People buy from people, and those personal conversations are often where great business relationships begin.
“What many visitors don't see is what happens behind the scenes. SOLEX may last for three days, but organising it takes the best part of a year. As soon as one exhibition finishes, planning for the next one begins. It's a real team effort, and I'm incredibly grateful to everyone who helps make the show the success it is.
“Looking ahead, next year is a very special one for LOFA as we celebrate our 60th anniversary. It's a wonderful opportunity to reflect on everything the Association has achieved, but it's also a chance to look to the future. We have to keep listening to our members, continue bringing fresh ideas to the table and make sure both LOFA and SOLEX remain relevant for the next generation coming into our industry.
“People often ask me why we put so much into organising SOLEX. The answer is very simple. We love doing it.
“For three days each year, the outdoor living industry comes together. New products are launched, orders are placed and business gets done, but for me that's only part of the story. What makes SOLEX special is the people. It's the friendships, the conversations, the support we give one another and the sense that we're all part of something bigger than ourselves.
“Products will change. Trends will come and go. Markets will rise and fall. But one thing has never changed. This industry is built on people. That's why SOLEX still matters, and I can't wait to welcome you all next week.”
SOLEX – The Summer Outdoor Living Exhibition organised by the industry for the industry.
7th - 9th July 2026 NEC, Birmingham
Register for SOLEX today – click here
