Summer 2019 – Inside Outdoor Magazine

Outdoor Apparel Purchase Drivers Comfort and style are the top priorities for 42% of outdoor apparel purchasers, according to a survey by investment banking firm Stifel. Versatility also is key, as just 9% listed their top priority as a specific outdoor activity, while 22% prioritized use for multiple activities. Top Priority for Outdoor Apparel Purchase Comfort 29% Style and fashion 13% Use in multiple activities 22% A combination of activities and style 11% A specific outdoor activity 9% Source: Stifel Inside Outdoor | SPRING 2019 8 Numbers Worth Noting DATA POINTS Year over Year Trouble? Despite higher consumer spending overall, outdoor retail sales declined about 2 percent in 2018, according to NPD figures. A separate survey by Merit Mile also found that significantly more outdoor stores are seeing sale declines than those that are seeing increases. It should be noted, though, that buying group Grassroot Outdoors said its combined membership experienced growth of 2.53% nationally during the last 12 months. Revenue Pressures Considering NPD’s indication of slowing sales, it’s not a surprise outdoor retailers are stressed about revenues. So what’s hurting outdoor retail sales? According to findings from Merit Mile, pressure is coming from all directions: suppliers, competitors and consumers. Outdoor Retailers’Top Three Concerns Heading in 2019 Source: Merit Mile Source: Radial Here’s how outdoor retailers’sales are faring: Source: Merit Mile Health & beauty items Sporting goods or outdoor equipment 23.5% 17.9% 14.8% Up 10% or more 3% Down 10% 14% Down 5% 30% Unchanged 35% Up 5% 19% 20 19 1 5 39.5% 42.1% #2 #1 #3 36.8% Heavier competition compared to years past Rising supplier costs that are eating into margins Fear slowing sales due to rising interest rates Outdoor Retailers’Top Three Concerns Heading in 2019 Source: Merit Mile Source: Radial Here’s how outdoor retailers’sales are faring: Source: Merit Mile Groceries & household items Electronics Health & beauty items Sporting goods or outdoor equipment 26.0% 23.5% 17.9% 14.8% Up 10% or more 3% Down 10% 14% Down 5% 30% Unchanged 35% Up 5% 19% 20 19 1 5 39.5% 42.1% #2 #1 #3 36.8% Heavier competition compared to years past Rising supplier costs that are eating into margins Fear slowing sales due to rising interest rates 29% Share of U.S. footwear purchases that took place online in 2018, according to NPD Group.