From the ground up: Equip Outdoor Technologies Executive Chairman, Matt Gowar's epic 30-year journey

In this insightful episode, Equip Outdoor Technologies, Executive Chairman Matt Gowar shares his remarkable 30-year journey in the outdoor industry, from founding Equip Outdoor Technologies to acquiring and leading iconic brands like RAB and Lowe Alpine. He delves into the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, the strategic acquisitions that propelled his company forward, and the leadership philosophy that guided his success. Matt discusses the evolving challenges and opportunities within the outdoor sector, including sustainability and market dynamics, while offering invaluable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, he reveals the passion and resilience required to thrive in this competitive industry, providing listeners with a deep dive into the world of outdoor business and innovation. Sports + Outdoor Mentors is a source of inspiration, motivation, practical career, and business lessons for future and existing sports and outdoor industry leaders. Join us every Sunday for a new episode. Follow Matt https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-gowar-9589824a/ Follow Equip Outdoor Technology https://www.linkedin.com/company/equip-outdoor-technologies-ltd/ Follow RAB https://www.linkedin.com/company/rab/ Follow Lowe Alpine https://www.linkedin.com/company/lowe-alpine-uk-limited/ Follow European Outdoor Group (EOG) https://www.linkedin.com/company/european-outdoor-group-eog/ Follow Dan https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantrapp/ Follow Sports + Outdoor Mentors https://www.linkedin.com/company/sports-and-outdoor-mentors/ Watch Sports + Outdoor Mentors YouTube: https://youtube.com/@S_OM1 0:00 - Introduction  0:45 - Matt's Origins in the Outdoor Industry 2:30 - The Birth and Evolution of Equip Outdoor Technologies 5:00 - Acquiring RAB and Lowe Alpine: Strategy and Challenges 10:00 - The Role of Innovation and Adapting to Market Changes 15:00 - Insights on Leadership and Building a Dynamic Team 20:00 - The Importance of a Consumer-Centric Approach 25:00 - Discussing Global Challenges: COVID-19 and Its Impact 30:00 - Sustainability Efforts and Future Industry Trends 35:00 - Personal Passions: Balancing Work, Life, and the Outdoors 40:00 - Serving as President of the European Outdoor Group 45:00 - Advocacy for Collaboration Within the Outdoor Industry 50:00 - Reflections: Key Lessons from 30 Years in the Business 52:30 - Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs and Industry Leaders