Profile UK Outdoor Report published

By: Jeff James

Listed Under: Top Story

Published: Tuesday, January 29, 2008

The UK outdoor market is undergoing significant change, according to the Profile UK Outdoor Report 2008, which says it's currently being pulled in two directions.

Recent acquisition activity is fuelling market consolidation, while at the same time growth is coming from new consumers and a wider product pool driven by the popularity of outdoor-inspired or so called 'urban outdoor' products.

The Profile UK Outdoor Report 2008 is the definitive report on the specialist outdoor industry, providing a combination of up-to-the-minute statistical analysis based on retailer and manufacturer's surveys, combined with individual product sector analysis gathered over the past five-plus years.

It identifies the value of the outdoor sector through its core product areas and associated sub-sectors, including clothing, footwear and equipment. It also includes a full brand-by-brand analysis, profile of the top 20 sector suppliers by turnover, current trends and a profile of the top 15 outdoor retailers.

Key findings of the report include:

• Changing consumer buying trends, the effect of falling prices and an overcrowded market place have created a highly-competitive trading environment.

• Sales are coming from a broader product offering, and in some cases new areas of distribution.

• Waterproof sales are flat, while accessory and skiwear are down.

• Clothing sales, insulated outerwear, fleece and base layers have grown, while travel apparel may have peaked. Lifestyle clothing is the biggest driver.

• Brand-wise, the market is being led by The North Face, Berghaus, Craghoppers and Regatta.

• Footwear sales are static in terms of value.

• The big winner in 2007 was camping equipment.

• Sales for 2007 have grown by 3.1 per cent to £1,340million.

• All economic factors point to continued growth from the outdoor sector of 3-3.5 per cent.

• Market consolidation is set to continue, with more mergers and acquisitions expected.

The 80-plus page report, which is published in February, costs £495 and is available in pdf format or hard copy. For more details call Profile (Outdoors) Ltd on 01539 730400 or email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)