Expanding into the European Market: Faber Meets Distributors at the Sport-Achat Hiver Trade Show in Grenoble

As the winter sports industry continues to redefine itself post-pandemic, international market development requires a strong and strategic on-the-ground presence.

With this objective in mind, Luc Paris, Executive Vice President at Groupe TAQ, attended the Sport-Achat Hiver Trade Show in Grenoble, a key event for European winter sports professionals.

A Key Trade Show for the European Distribution Network

Held in France, the Sport-Achat Trade Show brings together retailers, distributors, and leading brands in the winter sports industry. For Faber, this participation is part of a structured approach to developing the European market.

The objectives were clear:

• Meet specialized distributors;
• Assess market interest in Faber snowshoes;
• Identify strategic partners for distribution across Europe.
  

Being present in the field not only allows the company to showcase its products, but also to gain a deeper understanding of current market dynamics.

“Our participation in the Sport-Achat Hiver Trade Show is part of a concrete strategy to grow in the European market: meeting distributors, understanding today’s realities and building strong long-term partnerships. In a context where purchasing decisions are made more cautiously, Faber stands out through a powerful combination: 100% Canadian manufacturing, 150 years of recognized quality and a socially responsible business model,” said Luc Paris.

A Market Still Adjusting Post-COVID

Discussions on-site confirmed a trend seen across many disciplines: a general slowdown in sales within the sports industry since the pandemic.

The strong surge experienced during the COVID years, driven by booming outdoor activity. has now given way to a more cautious market. Distributors are adjusting inventory levels, purchasing cycles are lengthening, and decisions are being made with greater planning and long-term forecasting.

In this context, Faber’s positioning stands out clearly:

• A Canadian manufacturer (design, manufacturing, and assembly 100% in Canada);
• 150 years of expertise ensuring quality, durability, technical know-how, and innovation;
• Exclusive patented technologies designed to enhance the snowshoeing experience;
• A socially responsible company providing quality employment to over 250 people with disabilities.
  

A Strategic Opportunity for Faber

Manufactured in Canada and recognized for their proven design, Faber snowshoes align with the expectations of a demanding European market—one that values craftsmanship, real-world performance, and long-lasting products.

Beyond technical performance, international growth is also driven by strong values. In Europe, inclusion and social responsibility play a central role in business decision-making. Faber naturally aligns with these priorities through its adapted enterprise model.

Faber’s European market development is therefore not only about increasing visibility, but about building lasting relationships with distributors who share the same core values: quality, reliability, and a commitment to a more inclusive winter sports industry.

Would you like to learn more about distribution opportunities with Faber?
Contact our team to discuss potential collaboration.