Sporting Goods Manufacturing Industry Profile

The US sporting goods manufacturing industry includes about 1,300 companies with combined annual revenue of about $10 billion. Large companies include Callaway Golf Company; Easton-Bell Sports; the Spalding division of Russell Brands; ICON Health & Fitness; and Rawlings Sporting Goods (a subsidiary of Jarden Corporation). The industry is concentrated: the 50 largest companies account for about 60 percent of industry revenue.

Worldwide, sports equipment generates about $100 billion in annual sales. Major companies outside the US include Amer Sports (Finland), DECATHLON (France), and Mizuno (Japan).

The industry includes manufacturers of fitness equipment, which are also covered in a separate profile. The industry does not include companies primarily engaged in the manufacturing of athletic apparel and footwear.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

The primary demand drivers for sporting goods are consumer income and demographic trends. The profitability of individual companies is determined by efficient manufacturing and effective marketing. Large companies enjoy advantages in economies of scale and brand recognition, and often offer a wide range of products. Small companies can compete effectively by offering specialized or unique products that interest enthusiasts.

Sporting goods imports equal about 60 percent of domestic production. Manufacturers may have overseas production facilities to take advantage of lower cost wages. Sporting goods companies may also buy and import products from overseas contract manufacturers. China accounts for the majority of US sporting goods imports. Other significant sources of imported sporting goods include Canada, ...