Sporting Goods / Outdoor Recreation

Sports and outdoor recreation play a substantial role in North American culture as participation rates rise among individuals of all ages, genders, races and ethnicities. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, annual sales for retail stores rose 24.7% to $67.2 billion in 2021 compared with $53.9 billion in 2020.  Additionally, athleisure continues to become more popular as people adapt to working increasingly from home and not needing to dress in more business appropriate attire. As cited in the Gordon Brothers' market insight report back in March of 2022, "increased health awareness, new perspectives on sports and fitness and the rising popularity of digital forms of exercise and physical activity have created new growth opportunities for sporting goods companies." However, amid an everchanging political landscape, retail gun stores are constantly on edge as new gun reform is consistently being presented before lawmakers to combat gun violence. The potential for new policies invoking stricter restrictions on firearms and various related accessories could ultimately have substantial effects on sales moving forward.

The sporting goods and outdoor recreation industry has proven to be steady year over year, which has translated over to the business resale market. Over the last 40 years, Sunbelt Business Brokers has transitioned dozens and dozens of these types of businesses. While much of our success can be attributed to the highly experienced and knowledgeable business intermediaries stationed in 140+ offices throughout the United States, Sunbelt Franchise Resales (SFR) has partnered with the most diverse and largest sporting goods buying group Sports, Inc. to help educate their members on maximizing value and the business selling process. As a result, this has given us keen insights into how to effectively market this type of business and has allowed us to play an integral role in helping owners achieve their succession goals.  

As of the conclusion of 2023, the marketplace remains an advantageous place for business owners to transition their business. Immediately following the onset of COVID-19 in March of 2020, the buyer pool for businesses increased dramatically due to historically low interest rates, high unemployment and low job satisfaction. Since 2022, however, rapid rates of inflation and interest rates spiking beyond even pre-pandemic levels left many business owners wondering if they could still earn maximum value for their business.

The simple answer remains "YES!"

Year-over-year, the business resale market has continued to demonstrate that buyers are interested in purchasing strong performing businesses regardless of economic conditions. BizBuySell, the largest online business-for-sale marketplace, published their market insights report at the conclusion of Q4 in 2023. Here's what they said:

                   "Businesses bought in 2023 showed stronger financials compared to the previous year,                             also exhibiting a U-shaped pattern with values surging in the 4th quarter. Median cash                               low grew 13% in the final quarter, finishing the year with a 4% annual gain, while median                           revenue gained 16% and 6% respectively. This activity underscores small business                                       resilience despite current economic conditions. It also suggests buyers are still willing to                             invest in great opportunities."

If you are an owner contemplating the sale of your business, it's never been more critical and beneficial to consult with someone who understands the marketplace, the selling process and how to appropriately value and market your business in order to maximize value.

Ready to explore selling your business? Contact us today for a free/no-obligation discussion and complimentary value range analysis!