2014 was a huge year for Target Darts with the signing of Phil ‘The Power’ Taylor and the launch of his new range of darts, which recorded record breaking sales.
In addition, Taylor won a score of major TV tournaments.
2014 also saw the launch of brand new dart grip technology – Cortex.
This new radical, pioneering grip design boasted the first axially milled darts.
Having the grip facing in the direction of throw significantly improves control over the dart, as well as grip release.
These higher specification darts are driving up the average selling price for darts worldwide, making darts more lucrative for independent retail, thanks to their small footprint and high value.
James Tattersall, International Sales Manager at Target Darts, says: “We are pushing the boundaries of technology and engineering precision to create the highest specification Tungsten darts in the market.
“We are seeing our customers demanding equipment innovation to help them improve their performance.
“This is what Target excels at and is why our base of loyal customers is growing day by day.”
The 2015 PDC World Championship was the second most watched sporting event on Sky, which goes someway to highlighting how popular darts has become in recent times.
The event even prompted the attendance of royalty at the Ally Pally, with a visit from HRH Prince Harry.
There were some fantastic matches, some star performances from Target’s BDO world champion Stephen Bunting and a phenomenal final between Phil Taylor and Gary Anderson.
2015 promises to be even better for Target and darts.
This year there are more televised events than ever and the surge in popularity is set to continue with record spends on darts equipment.
Target has four PDC players in the invite-only Premier League of Darts this year, which promises to be a huge event.
Stephen Bunting has been rewarded for his excellent first year in the PDC with his debutant place in the Premier League.
Bunting is playing with his signature Target 12 gram dart featuring Nano grip technology, Target Pro-Grip Stems and Target Vision flights.
Dave Chisnall makes his second appearance in the Premier League using his Target 22 gram ‘Chizzy Gold’ with Pro-Grip Stems and Target Vision flights.
Target’s complement of players also includes world number four Adrian Lewis and 16-times world champion Phil Taylor.
Seeing Phil playing with a new Target concept dart in the final of the world championship, many will be excited to see what changes have been made to the prototype in time for the Premier League.
2015 will prove to be another big year for darts and gives the opportunity for sports retailers to cash in on its renewed popularity.