PODCAST: The State of the Industry

PODCAST: The State of the Industry

The surf industry is evolving and in this podcast recorded at the recent SIMA Super Summit, Paul Naudé shares an unfiltered look at where we’ve been, what went wrong, and how surf culture can reclaim its place at the center of it all.

From the rise and fall of the major heritage brands to the rebirth of independent labels and the future shaped by LA28, this conversation dives deep into the balance between business and culture, and why the ocean must remain our shared foundation.

Moderated by David Lee Scales, host of the Surf Splendor podcast, this session unites surf brands, retailers, and leaders for a candid look at the path forward.

Topics covered include:

• The real impact of corporate consolidation

• The return of authentic, culturally rooted brands

• The rise of new surf retail models

• The future of surfing through LA28 and beyond

• Why ocean stewardship is the industry’s greatest responsibility

Recorded live at the SIMA Super Summit, you can listen to the podcast here: