March 26, 2009 - The 2009 LOHAS Forum (Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability) will highlight recent research showing that issues like health and environment matter to consumers. In fact, research from BBMG finds that health and environmental benefits have increased in importance since last year - including energy efficiency (47% in 2008, up 6%), locally grown or made nearby (32%, up 6%), all natural (31%, up 7%), made from recycled materials (29%, up 7%) and USDA organic (22%, up 5%). Despite the recession, consumers are still choosing products with lower environmental impact. The findings of this research will be presented at the LOHAS Forum to help companies that market to conscious consumers, and those that want to, learn how to best position their products and services.

For 13 years, the LOHAS Forum has brought together more than 500 business executives, entrepreneurs, investors, thought leaders and media, to discuss market innovation and consumer targeting and to exchange tools used to create clear, actionable plans that have been successful in driving revenue. All while developing internal policies and processes that align with the values of their consumers.

This year, these industry leaders will gather June 17-19 in Boulder, Colorado to learn about new marketing statistics in the conscious consumer niche, while exchanging their own market strategies and case studies. They will also hear from panels and experts in a variety of fields, from Ray Anderson of Interface Carpet, and Joe Green of Facebook's Causes.com to Investor's Circle president Karyn Barsa and environmental strategist Hunter Lovins.

"This year is an incredible year of change in the LOHAS market", says Ted Ning, Director of the LOHAS Forum, "With the changes in the economy, we are now at a time when green initiatives and services must make economic sense for businesses." Steve French, managing partner of Natural Marketing Institute and presenter at LOHAS adds, "Consumers have become more demanding and sophisticated when it comes to green products. It is important for companies to understand how to maintain and even expand their market position during this propitious time of opportunity. The LOHAS Forum is an excellent venue to learn about and be inspired by the latest advances the market has to offer."

In addition to the conference, the highly popular LOHAS Forum offers companies the opportunity to showcase new innovations in sustainable products and services ranging from organic food and alternative vehicles to eco-resorts and public relations firms. For more information, watch this video clip from last year’s event.

Despite the economy, LOHAS Forum registrations and sponsorships have actually increased. The event has been sold out in both registrations and exhibit spaces for the last two years. This year looks to continue the trend. Currently, 2009 LOHAS Forum sponsors include Gaiam, Vail Resorts, Mini Cooper, Design Works, Mohawk Group, Ingeo, Planet Green, Hess Natur, Ogden Publications, Native Energy, Wellness Water, Planeterra, Eco Bags, Recycle Your Mat, Pet Promise, Six Senses, Social K, Nutrition Capital Partners, Haberman Inc, BBMG, The SOAP Group, Natural Marketing Institute, and Wellworks.

About LOHAS Forum:
Since its inception in 1996, LOHAS (Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability) has been the catalyst for the adoption of sustainable living and environment-friendly practices within the North American and global business community. The LOHAS Forum is the leading annual gathering of thought and opinion leaders in the LOHAS marketplace. The LOHAS Forum features highly influential speakers and panelists who address and explore some of today's most prominent issues and business challenges, in the world of health and wellness. Other events include musical performances, culinary experiences, demonstrations and networking receptions.

For more information about LOHAS visit www.lohas.com.

LOHAS

LOHAS

Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability (LOHAS) describes an estimated $209 billion U.S. marketplace for goods and services focused on health, the environment, social justice, personal development and sustainable living. The consumers attracted to this market represent a sizable group in this country. Approximately 19% percent of the adults in the U.S., or 41 million people, are currently considered LOHAS Consumers. This is based on surveys of the U.S. adult population estimated at 215 million.

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