Germany's ispo trade show for sports -- newly dubbed as of summer 2007 as ispo Sports & Style -- does a great job encouraging and promoting new and small brands, as well as giving them a platform for more exposure to additional markets.

As of the winter 2007 show, ispo launched such a platform in the fitness segment, similar to a so-called "Greenhouse" project it began a couple of years ago in outdoor and others that followed in snowsports and other segments.

The concept is to give a fledgling brand a small booth space (215 square feet) for a reduced fee. The space is already equipped with a basic table and chairs as well as draping, so the company just has to bring product as it tests the waters internationally. In addition, the project -- called WarmUp in fitness -- gives participants public relations support and exposure.

For fitness' WarmUp project, brands that encompass the areas of fitness, wellness and rehabilitation are invited to apply for a space. The first year it costs EUR 2,000 (approximately USD $2,700, depending on the current exchange rate) for everything, part of which is returned its second year, when it pays a reduced fee on a regular booth space.

An application and details are available by clicking here.