Golf

The increasing popularity of the sport has not only translated into a larger TV audience for international sporting events, it has also driven sales of merchandising and golf equipment. Of particular importance has been the surge in golf apparel sales, with many brands expanding the range of their offerings to meet growing demand.

The Emergence of ‘Footgolf’ Is Likely To Introduce A New Consumer Segment To The Market

Since golf has become a popular sport in many European countries, playing footgolf has become a recent trend among amateur golf enthusiasts. International government organizations such as FIFG (The Federation for International Footgolf) take various initiatives to organize global golf tourism and international sporting events such as the FIFG World Cup. The increased participation of professional players in these events is likely to influence new players to take up the sport at a professional level – this in turn might translate into increased spending on clothing and equipment.

Technological Advances to Underscore Profitable Growth Opportunities

Emerging technological developments have led to a significant transformation in the sport of golf. To offer performance-enhancing apparel, manufacturers focus on manufacturing recreational golf apparel equipped with features that maximize comfort and flexibility while playing. Apart from golf apparel, manufacturers are also focused on integrating advanced features and designs in golf equipment to enhance players’ performance. Leading manufacturers opt for a soft plastic casing, with a double layer covering the golf ball that allows for ideal ball swing. Broader developments in the incorporation of innovative technologies in golf apparel and equipment are likely to bode well for the prospects for the global golf apparel market.

Golf’s Growing Popularity Among Women: Potential Opportunity For Manufacturers

The latest trend seen is the increasing participation of female golfers in various international golf sports. International sports organizations take the initiative to encourage women to participate in this sport. In addition, this organization also organizes golf events at the global level for women, such as the One-Day International event. As more and more women actively participate in golf sporting events, manufacturers are focusing on creating women-focused products. It is very likely that women’s golf wear will become a staple in the product offerings of leading brands in the future.

Golf Apparel Production to Increase Employment

Increased production of golf apparel for local, state and international golfers creates job opportunities in both developed and developing countries. The increasing popularity of golf as a sporting event gave impetus to the manufacture of golf apparel and equipment. In addition, the increasing preference for high-quality apparel equipped with smart technology has led to a growing need for workers in manufacturing units. Rising demand for golf apparel and equipment is also driving broader macroeconomic developments regarding employment and job growth.

Game Seasonality Continues to be a Challenge to Maintain Interest

Since the sport of golf can mainly be practiced and played during the summer and winter, sales of golf apparel continue to be sluggish during the low season. In addition, due to the game season, golf sporting events can only be held in winter and summer. Demand for golf apparel and equipment has traditionally remained low during the low season, and the status quotient is unlikely to change in the future.

Preference for Cheap Products and Counterfeit Products to Reduce Global Market Growth

The availability of counterfeit products is also expected to hamper the growth of the global golf apparel market. Since counterfeit products are relatively cheaper, customers prefer to shop for clothes that are offered at reasonable and lower prices. Moreover, the organizers have a limited budget to host international sporting events. To stay within their budget, event organizers prefer spending on affordable options, which creates challenges for leading golf apparel companies.

Overall, the global market is expected to see positive growth associated with a surge in demand for clothing with flexible and comfortable designs. The incorporation of leading technologies is also expected to increase sales of golf apparel globally. Initiatives taken by international organizations to encourage the participation of women players are also expected to contribute to the growth of the global market. However, the playing season and limited participation rates continue to be longstanding challenges to golf apparel sales at large.