Livingston wants more European partners to share in its success

Award-winning US lure manufacturer Livingston Lures believes EFTTEX 2026 was an improvement on last year’s event but says attracting more retailers and distributors are critical to its long-term success and growth.

Speaking to Angling International after the show, Erick Arnoldson, VP of Sales, said Livingston had enjoyed a productive event and was encouraged by the quality of conversations taking place on its stand.

“It felt like the show was better than last year,” said Arnoldson. “However, EFTTEX needs to improve in bringing in more retailers. The show could certainly be stronger. The organisation has a lot of work ahead to restore the event to the level it enjoyed ten years ago.

“What remains unclear to me is why more distributors and dealers are not attending as their participation is critical to the show’s long-term success and growth.”

The company attended the exhibition with a focus on expanding its European distribution network and exploring new partnerships. While it is too early to assess the commercial outcomes, Livingston reported a positive response from prospective partners.

“We are forging new relationships, and it is still too early to determine the outcome. Follow-ups and commitments take time to develop, but the early response has been very promising.”

Livingston currently has distribution in Germany, Switzerland, Bulgaria, Latvia and Spain and is targeting further growth in the Nordic region and Eastern Europe.

Its presence at EFTTEX was further enhanced by another product award – for the BRUTE soft lure – recognition that the company says validates its commitment to innovation.

“Winning another award is both an honour and a validation of the hard work our team puts into developing innovative products that help anglers catch more fish,” said Arnoldson. “More importantly, it tells us that anglers, retailers and industry professionals recognise the value of what we’re bringing to the market.”

Like many businesses in the tackle trade, Livingston says it has faced challenges from inflation, geopolitical uncertainty and cautious consumer spending across Europe this year. However, it believes innovation remains the key differentiator in a difficult market.

“Challenging markets often reward innovation. Anglers continue to seek products that give them an edge, and we believe our EBS Technology and expanding product line-up position us well for long-term growth.”

Looking ahead, the company remains optimistic, citing new product development, expanding partnerships and growing international opportunities as reasons for confidence.

“We’ve seen encouraging interest from dealers and distributors who are looking for something different and innovative to offer their customers. The relationships we’re building today and the investments we’re making in product development position us well for the future.”

T: +1 210 410 2041
erick.arnoldson@livingstonlures.com
www.livingstonlures.com