Sporting Goods Industry Leaders Unite to Champion Global Physical Activity at Why Sports 2026.
- Why Sports
- 5 hours ago
- 2 min read
Why Sports is delighted to announce that Caroline Brooks from the World Federation of the Sporting Goods Industry (WFSGI) will be joined by senior representatives from ASICS, Pentland Brands, and Decathlon at the Why Sports 2026 Conference. Sports, Health and Well-being. A Nation's Progress.
This exceptional line-up brings together some of the most influential voices in the global sporting goods sector—leaders united by a shared mission: to improve global health through increased physical activity.
Across the world, sporting goods companies are stepping up. They are responding to the urgent need for healthier, more active populations by driving ambitious and collective efforts to build inclusive, supportive, and active communities. From innovative product design to behaviour-change campaigns and cross-sector partnerships, these companies are demonstrating the essential role that industry can play in advancing public health.
A Global Perspective from WFSGI.
Caroline Brooks brings a valuable and uniquely global perspective shaped by her work with leading brands across the sporting goods sector. Through her role at WFSGI, Caroline has championed the importance of physical activity as a foundation for healthier and more resilient societies.
Drawing on recent WFSGI physical activity case studies, she will share insights into:
Why physical inactivity is a significant concern to our industry and why we want to play a greater role.
How our industry amplifies the global call to action with WHO, UNICEF, UNESCO, and OECD.
How global brands are breaking down barriers to participation, particularly for groups who face social, cultural, or economic obstacles.
The power of brand engagement and storytelling to inspire behaviour change and foster lifelong participation in sport and activity.
Cross-sector collaborations are proving essential in creating active environments and embedding physical activity into everyday life.
The growing role of the sporting goods industry as a strategic partner for governments, health systems, communities, and the wider sport ecosystem.
Building Active Communities Together.
ASICS, Pentland Brands, and Decathlon—each with a long-standing commitment to advancing physical and mental well-being—will complement Caroline’s perspective by sharing their own case studies, experiences, and research. Their contributions will highlight how:
Industry can work hand-in-hand with public and third-sector organisations to drive meaningful change.
Companies are designing innovative programmes and products that reduce friction, increase engagement, and make movement accessible to all.
Collaborative campaigns can amplify positive messaging around health, well-being, and lifelong activity.
A Sector Joining Forces for Better Health.
The participation of these global industry leaders underscores a powerful and growing consensus: improving physical activity levels is a collective responsibility—and the sporting goods industry has a crucial role to play.
The Why Sports 2026 Conference will provide a unique platform to explore how brands, policymakers, health leaders, and community partners can work together more effectively to promote active living.
Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from global best practices, discover innovative partnership models, and gain practical insights to support a healthier and more active future for communities across the UK and beyond.