The Golf Equipment Industry is Currently "Booming Even Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic"

US GolfDataTech Analysis "Sales Surge Since July", Irons 83%, Woods 74%, Wedges 64%, Putters 32%, Balls 27% 'Rapid Growth'

American golf equipment companies are recording impressive sales performance during the COVID-19 pandemic. Photo by Golf Digest

[Asia Economy Reporter No Woo-rae] "There is no impact from the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19)."

American golf equipment companies are actually showing growth as the number of rounds played surged this year. The unexpected 'COVID-19' situation brought many changes to the golf equipment business. Golf shops and clubhouses were closed, and social distancing made fittings difficult. Due to uncertainty and inactivity, the golf industry temporarily stagnated. However, after quickly adapting to the new environment over several months, impressive sales figures were recorded.

Golf Datatech, a U.S. golf industry research company, recently announced, "Since July, sales of all golf equipment have increased dramatically," adding, "Sales of woods and irons have increased by more than 50% compared to the same period last year." According to this data, golf balls increased by 27%, putters by 32%, wedges by 64%, woods by 74%, and irons by 83%. Irons especially achieved the highest monthly sales ever, drawing the spotlight.

Not only golf clubs but also sales of golf shoes, gloves, and bags increased by 60% compared to the previous year. This year's sales are still lower than last year's. From March to May, when COVID-19 peaked, sales of woods, irons, and golf balls decreased by 30-75%. Why did golf equipment sales soar from July? Golf Datatech analyzed, "It seems related to the number of rounds played," explaining, "Golfers have been gathering since May."

David Maher, General Manager of Acushnet Company, responsible for Titleist and FootJoy, explained, "The increase in the number of rounds played is proportional to the demand for equipment." In fact, even beginners who started golf for the first time amid the global spread of COVID-19 are joining in. Since it is an outdoor sport, the risk of COVID-19 infection is relatively low. Also, there are no clear alternative sports besides golf. Golf is attractive in terms of exercise, interaction, and recreation.

The impact of e-commerce cannot be ignored. It recorded more than a 50% increase compared to the previous year. Many golf equipment companies saw a 20% drop in sales in the first quarter but have been performing well since the second quarter. Dick's Sporting Goods, a U.S. sports goods store, said, "Last July was the best month in 10 years, and this July, some items increased by 40-50%," calling it "amazing." The golf equipment market boom is expected to continue for the time being.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.