Top January articles: New programs and big innovations

By Emma Peterson. 

A look back at the outdoor industry initiatives and momentum kicking off the new year. 

Here at OutdoorCoffeeShop (OCS), January brought a wave of activity. From new programs to big events, 2026 has started energetically. As we carry that momentum into February 2026, this is the perfect time to take a look at all that happened last month.  

January saw a couple of big announcements. Here at OCS we announced our 2026 Outdoor Influencer program. Featuring industry leaders like Brittany Klein from Heritage and Cindy Code of Project Evergreen, this program is a dedicated space for contractors to learn from the professionals shaping the outdoor living industry.  

We also saw The Coffee Shops’ Manufacturers’ Representative Program launch. As Heidi J. Ellsworth, president and CEO of The Coffee Shops, described, “This program is about giving reps greater visibility and connections while building a space that supports long-term business growth.” 

As for the rest of the industry, January saw Portable Winch Co. unveil the APW6000. Developed in partnership with STIHL, this is the first “high-performance battery-powered winch developed.” This is the first product released through the Powered by STIHL program, which fosters collaboration between STIHL and like-minded manufacturers for the benefits of the entire industry’s safety and efficiency.   

Read all the top articles on OutdoorCoffeeShop this month 

5 - The Coffee Shops™ announce 2026 OutdoorCoffeeShop™ Outdoor Influencers

4 - Portable Winch Co. and STIHL Join Forces to Launch the APW6000, a Breakthrough in Battery- Powered Winching

3 - See you at World of Concrete 2026! by Emma Peterson

2 - A place for all members of the industry by Emma Peterson

1 - Using AI to strengthen operations, not replace people by Emma Peterson