Golf Equipment Manufacturers Battle U.s. Downturn
This reaction from the retail industry was triggered after two of the industry’s largest manufacturers, Callaway Golf and Acushnet Co. recently posted below average results for the second quarter – a period that is usually one of the most prolific in the calendar for golf equipment manufacturers. Fortunately, both manufacturers experienced considerable growth overseas in Q2, allowing both Callaway and Acushnet to offset the U.S. decline against foreign growth in sales.
Unseasonal weather conditions in key golfing areas has also affected golf equipment sales in addition to new USGA restrictions hindering product development.
Golf equipment manufacturers and retails agree that consumers are delaying the purchase of significant items such as complete golf sets – Callaway has recently dropped the prices on many of its high-end lines to spark consumer spending. Callaway was also responsible for incentivising golfers who purchased a golf driver with $100 of free petrol
This seasons latest innovation, adjustable golf clubs, has received a poor take-up from consumers who are finding it hard to justify an initial outlay of up to $1,000. Forgan of St. Andrews, an online custom fit website is offering a complete custom fit service on its latest range of golf clubs – including the impressive looking series three, triangular driver. Massive discounts are typically applied towards the end of a season to make way for new lines – something which couldn’t come quick enough to spark demand in the market.
Callaway Golf for example has announced that certain lines from next seasons range will be available sooner than previously expected – a new driver from the golf clubs manufacturer is expected to launch in time for the holiday season.
The Sports HQ supplies factory direct golf equipment including golf clubs from leading manufacturers at up to 85% off full RRP.
