Marketplace Events (MPE) has acquired the Northwest Sportshow in Minneapolis from the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA).
Business-to-consumer show producer Marketplace Events already produces two longstanding home shows in the Twin Cities.
The company has been aggressively acquiring in the sport and outdoor category and the Northwest Sportshow will be the 19th show the company has purchased in this category since March 25 2024.
The acquisition brings the total number of events produced by the company to 114, including 68 home shows, 19 sport/outdoor shows, 16 holiday shows, and 11 trade events.
“We are excited to continue our expansion in the outdoor category,” explained Mark White, CEO of Marketplace Events. “A show of this quality, in a market like Minneapolis where we have deep roots and a long history of success, will help us provide a top-notch experience for exhibitors and attendees.”
Darren Envall, vice president of Midwest Shows for NMMA, added: “Marketplace Events has a long track record of producing quality consumer events, and with its expansion into the outdoors sector and experience in the Minneapolis market, will continue to produce a successful Northwest Sportshow for visitors and exhibitors.”
NMMA remains committed to the Twin Cities market.
Darren Envall
He added: “NMMA remains committed to the Twin Cities market with a focus on the Discover Boating Minneapolis Boat Show, which closely precedes the sportshow, and we will continue to explore opportunities to strategically broaden the Discover Boating boat show portfolio in other markets to further engage target audiences.”
The 2025 Northwest Sportshow is scheduled to run from March 13-16 2025 at the Minneapolis Convention Center.
The show will be led by show managers Bruce Evans and Dan DeJaeger, who are both from Minneapolis.
“Both have strong ties to the community and a long history of producing and marketing successful events in Minneapolis,” explained Mark.
NMMA says the sale is part of its plan to strategically broaden the Discover Boating boat show portfolio in other markets to further engage target audiences.
