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First words from the Ed
Summer is well and truly here, ‘thank goodness’ the cry no doubt rises from many of you, it certainly has here at the SGB Outdoor office and what an action packed time we are in for.
I for one am trying my hand at a number of activities, that for those fair weathered weekend activists are also enjoying. As yet, I can’t claim to be a weekend warrior - although it is my favourite phrase , and is one which I aspire to become, but now having fallen in love with my mountain bike I am enjoying trying my hand at a few more activities from my long forgotten past. Kayaking is one of them - and as highlighted in our water sports feature this month (see pages 32-34) it is an outdoor pursuit that is awash (excuse the pun) with potential profits for outdoor retailers. Consider the fact that this pursuit is becoming increasingly popular with both families and weekend warriors alike, to the extent it is seeing a huge growth rate of 20%+ year on year. Whilst I accept that many of you will not be able to stock the rigid crafts, the inflatable side of the market, which is also seeing a massive growth rate, is certainly an area that could be considered.
My own weekend warrior (my partner) has just returned from the gruelling 2006 Saab/Salomon Mountain Mayhem, (24-hour mountain bike competition). It seems that this year, the event was even better than before, and whilst he is still euphoric (although extremely tired) at his team completing 33 laps within the 24 hour time slot, he pointed out that this type of event is vastly growing in popularity - and in particular with suppliers setting up shop. Events such as these are a superb opportunity to increase sales, after all you have a captive audience. The many entrants and supporters also turned the surrounding area into a sea of tents, vast numbers of which were quick pitch and in a variety of colours.
Camping, which has well been documented of late, and in particular family and weekend camping, is an area continuing to grow in popularity, with this in mind we continue our coverage on the forthcoming Tent Show@Stoneleigh (see page 12) and in addition this month, (check out page 3) - we announce a further tent show that is to be held at the same time! Will this damage or enhance the industry? As a parent, even my daughter is continually on at me to go camping at the weekend with her - as no doubt is happening across the breadth of the country, which is great news for all involved in the supply of quality camping gear. Yet the quick pitch tents are still beating me - but a challenge I take on wholeheartedly.
Dawn Davison Editor
