The RIA Spring Gathering 2025 hosted by Howden: Key takeouts

Whether you joined us in London for #TRSG25 this week or couldn’t make it this time, here’s a recap of standout moments and updates from The RIA Spring Gathering 2025 powered by Howden. A huge thank you to Howden for their hospitality and support, and to everyone who attended and was part of TRSG25 – we are so grateful to have you in the RIA Community.

TRSG25 captured the spirit of our industry and RIA Members, again sparking further connection, collaboration and meaningful progress.

Let’s keep the momentum going together

Official TRSG25 Photography by MarathonFoto

We are proud to have MarathonFoto as the official photography partner for The RIA Spring Gathering 2025. Sara captured standout moments, meaningful connections and all the energy of the day.

📸 You can view and download images from TRSG25 via the link here:

Download TRSG25 Photos

Do feel free to share on your channels  and on LinkedIn and tag @Running Industry Alliance

WMAG Panel at TRSG25 – Real Talk, Real Action

WMAG | Women’s MultiSport Action Group panel delivered challenge, clarity and community. The conversation dug deep into the realities of leading as a woman in the business of running and what we need to do next.

🎙️ Hosted by Matt and Anna, curated by Layla and Becs – the session featured six exceptional voices from across the industry. A HUGE thank you to all for being there and sharing openly what is meaningful to you, your challenges, experiences and thoughts for the future.

Penny – Chief Client Officer, Threshold Sports
Katie – Running Category Manager, Pro:Direct
Charlotte – CEO & Founder, World’s Sports Group
Lucynda – MD, PUMA UK & IRE
Denise – Co-Founder, Emancipated Run Crew CIC
Jackie – Co-Founder + Chief Strategy Officer, haku

What was discussed

  • Defining Your Own Path – From pivotal moments to career advice for those finding their voice and space in the industry.
  • Breaking Through & Building Up – The challenges, the missed opportunities, and the power of collective action.
  • Redefining Leadership + Work-Life Realness – Shifting expectations, showing up authentically, and rewriting what leadership looks like.
  • The Final Thought – “What excites you most about the future of the running industry – and what still needs to change?”

Key Takeaways from the Panel

  • Representation matters – and visibility is still lacking and at leadership level in running.
  • Support networks work – women in the business of sport thrive when there’s a safe, intentional space for sharing, learning, and positively amplifying each other.
  • It’s not just a “women’s issue” – inclusion benefits the whole industry and requires commitment from everyone, across all channels.
  • WMAG is about doing the work, not just the talking. Change comes from bold, collective action.
  • The stats speak volumes – less than 1% of venture capital funding goes to women-led businesses. The playing field isn’t level, and we are all here to change that.
  • Motherhood is a superpower – leading with empathy, clarity and strength.
  • Positive peer support is non-negotiable – we rise by lifting others. Let’s be the ones who show up, share wisdom, open doors, and create safe spaces for all women to lead and grow.

💫 WMAG exists to inspire, advocate and progress the running and multisport industries. We are here to challenge the status quo – with action, intention and unity.

💥 The energy in the room said it all. Let’s keep building. Together 🚀

Sustainability & Community Panel at TRSG25 – Real Action, Real Impact

We were proud to spotlight three RIA Members making powerful moves in the areas of community building and sustainability – with passion, purpose, and practical action.

🎙️ Matt and Anna hosted the fireside chat and welcomed:

Jonny – Product & Marketing Director EMEA, Merrell

Tony – Founder & CEO, JogOn

Danny – Founder & CEO, TrailFam

They each shared insight and inspiration on how they are using business for good and shaping a better future for the running industry and the world around it.

Jonny | Merrell
Trail running is booming and Jonny brought the stats to back it up. He introduced The Merrell Fund, which as an example of the work being done, is actively supporting two Kenyan athletes and their families with race entries, visas, and practical assistance. A brilliant example of how brands can remove barriers and uplift people through sport. Jonny also invited charities in the RIA network to apply to The Merrell Fund and have a conversation with him for future support opportunities.

Tony | JogOn
With the bold mission to keep 1 million pairs of running shoes out of landfill, Tony shared JogOn’s growth – including new facilities and impact milestones. His call to action to brands to get involved landed powerfully, and was immediately followed by three major brands in the room stepping up and confirming their support. RIA have supported JogOn and Tony since the inception and are proud to have helped again in the room at TRSG25.

Danny | TrailFam
TrailFam is about community, charity, and inclusion. Danny, a teacher by background, shared how he founded TrailFam to give people – especially young people – access to trail running and belonging in outdoor spaces. From school programmes to community-led initiatives, it’s a grassroots charity movement with heart. Danny’s invitation? Let’s collaborate to grow this together.

What is the connection?
• Doing good isn’t a nice-to-have – it’s in our connective DNA
• Collaboration unlocks real, scalable impact
• There’s space for every RIA Member to support and shape the future.

A massive thank you to Jonny, Tony, and Danny for sharing their work and their passion. It’s inspiring and a reminder that business and purpose go hand-in-hand.

Let’s keep connecting the dots. And doing the work. 💥

WMAG Shakeout Run at TRSG25

Women’s MultiSport Action Group (WMAG) had its first Shakeout Run led by Tasha ofBlack Girls Do Run UK. This took place before The RIA Spring Gathering and was powered by Michelle | Scott Sports and Layla | Aspire and Team.

After meeting up, signing in and dropping off bags the group headed out for a relaxed group run around the City of London.

Fran from PhotoToday supported the photography for WMAG Shakeout Run, capturing the atmosphere. Thank you Fran!

For further details about Running Industry Alliance, membership, member events and all other info please get in touch with the membership team , browse the website and follow the LinkedIn open company page.