2005 market figures (estimated):
Total market: USD 1.6 billion
Total imports: USD 1.891 billion
U.S. import market share: 7.5 %
Estimated market growth rate for 2006: 2 %
- Both Swiss retailers and consumers perceive that most sports trends, such as mountain bikes or inline skates, originate in the U.S.
- Industry experts see good potential for growth in demand for safety items, such as snow sport helmets, protectors and goggles.
- Demand for poles for Nordic walking and hiking, outdoor equipment, apparel and footwear, as well as sportswear with high-tech materials, is expected to rise.
- Market demand for golf equipment is expected to rise with an increasing availability of golf courses, up from 47 to 88 in ten years.
- Switzerland counts approximately 1,700 sporting goods retail
outlets, one outlet per 4400 Swiss.
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U.S. suppliers should consider setting up sales channels through existing and well-established Swiss sporting good chains.