Why Attend the Sports Licensing & Tailgate Show (SLATS)
The Only Event Connecting the Entire Sports Merchandise Ecosystem
The Sports Licensing & Tailgate Show is the premier event for professionals in licensed sports products, collegiate retail, and fan-driven merchandise. With more than 300 exhibiting companies showcasing the latest in apparel, gifts, décor, and gameday essentials, SLATS is where decision-makers, buyers, and brands shape the future of the licensed sports industry. Plus, the License to Buy discount program offers incentives for buyers to place orders right on the show floor! You can’t get this kind of deal anywhere else. View the thousands of key retailers and universities that attended last year.
Proven Value for Attendees
SLATS helps retailers build a competitive edge. Attendees consistently report that relationships and insights gained here directly translate into stronger assortments, better margins, and higher customer engagement. SLATS brings together the widest spectrum of buyers in sports licensing and retail, creating unmatched opportunities for networking, deal-making, and discovery:
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Major Retailers & Specialty Shops – National chains, independent stores, and destination retailers looking for new licensed products to drive foot traffic.
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Collegiate Licensing Leaders – Athletic departments, universities, and licensing companies that set the standards for collegiate merchandise programs.
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College Bookstores – From flagship universities to specialty campus stores, bookstore buyers rely on SLATS to source products that resonate with students and alumni.
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International Buyers – Attendees from Canada, Europe, Asia, and Latin America expanding global demand for U.S. sports brands.
Why It Matters
- Exclusive Access to Products & Trends: Discover new licensed product lines before they hit shelves. See firsthand how brands are innovating in sustainable merch, digital customization, and premium fan experiences.
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Meet the Right Decision-Makers: From Walmart and Fanatics to independent pro shops and college spirit stores, buyers come to SLATS ready to evaluate, partner, and purchase.
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Build Authoritative Partnerships: Connect directly with collegiate licensing offices, pro leagues, and international distributors, ensuring your products reach the right audiences across every channel.
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Education & Insights: Attend sessions with industry experts who share practical strategies on retail trends, NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities, and the future of sports licensing.
Be Part of the Marketplace That Moves Sports Licensing Forward
Whether you’re a retailer seeking the next bestselling product, or a university licensing director optimizing fan engagement, SLATS is where opportunity begins. Join thousands of industry leaders this year and see why SLATS is the most important event in licensed sports and tailgate merchandise.