Encouraging signs continue
The good news from last month continues. Overall sales, in value terms, were up by +11.5% compared to September last year. The trend looks fairly settled with the previous three months weighing in at +0.7% June, +1.8% July, and +12.4% August. All product groups showed substantial growth ranging from +6.1% for light durables to +14.2% for clubs: great news as the latter accounts for 42.4% of the overall product mix. However, we must once again issue a health warning, as inflation will have played its part.
Turning to year to date figures the good news is that the upward trend continues. July was +1.9%, August +3.2% and now September is +4.1% compared to the same periods last year. Most individual hardware products showed growth with only irons, putters, and trolleys failing to beat last year’s performance. Nearly all apparel products showed growth. The only exception being men’s trousers and shorts.
So, what of the future? The industry has performed surprisingly well over recent months. Hopefully, this momentum will continue. However, as the global picture looks increasingly unsettled, we need to be mindful of what’s around the corner. As we come out of the season managing stock will be critical in preparation for 2024.
Golf Datatech is a world leader in golf industry research. It provides the trade with specialised market research covering retail sales, inventory, pricing, distribution, along with strategic sales and marketing consultancy.
Golf Datatech research is based on millions of transactions per month, all recorded by EPOS systems at the point of sale.
For greater detail contact John Hassett on 07976 797081
Definitions
Clubs: Woods, irons, putters, and wedges
Apparel: Men’s and women’s shirts, bottoms, tops and weatherwear
Consumables: Balls and gloves
Light Durables: Shoes & Bags
MacGregor Releases V-MAX Woods and Hybrid Line-Up for 2024
MacGregor Golf is set to launch a new line of Woods and Hybrids for 2024 with the introduction of the V-MAX SPEED range. Featuring Driver, Fairway and three Hybrid options, the V-MAX SPEED range returns the brand to a level of technology and innovation that has seen MacGregor feature in the winner’s bag at 59 Majors, while maintaining the affordable quality for which the brand has more recently been known.
“I’m delighted to bring a new range of MacGregor game improvement clubs to the market,” said Graeme Stevens, owner of MacGregor. “The brand has such a rich heritage of performance innovation, the V-MAX range has a lot to live up to. We also wanted to keep the costs affordable and in this fantastic new line I think we’ve balanced those two factors perfectly. V-MAX delivers on the course and it doesn’t break the bank.”
V-MAX SPEED DRIVER
With a high MOI design for stability on off centre hits, an oversize sweet spot and a regular flex graphite Dynamic Launch shaft, the V-MAX SPEED Driver is set up to deliver a consistent ball flight and minimal dispersion for golfers of all abilities. Add in an aerodynamic head featuring SPEED contours to reduce drag and increase club head speed, with an ultra slim face for increased ball speed, and the V-MAX SPEED adds impressive distance to its game improvement credentials.
A premium finish, with subtle coloured detailing on a black base combines with a traditional head shape to inspire confidence at address, while premium Tour Pride grips and stylish headcover finish off this impressive package. Available in Man’s right hand 10.5° and 12° loft options and Ladies right hand 13.5°.
V-MAX FAIRWAY
With a confidence inspiring low profile design, the V-MAX SPEED Fairway is the perfect choice for distance and control off the tee or the fairway. High MOI with peripheral weighting and a low centre of gravity helps launch the ball with ease and maintain consistency of ball flight, while the thin face and aerodynamic club head design with SPEED contours for reduced drag, promotes distance.
High quality components such as the graphite, regular flex dynamic launch technology shaft, premium Tour Pride grips and stylish head cover add to the impressive design features and subtle coloured detailing to make this a fantastic addition to any golfer’s bag. Men’s right hand available in 15° and 18° loft. Ladies right hand available 18°, 21° & 24° loft.
V-MAX SPEED HYBRID
Designed for versatility, the V-MAX SPEED Hybrid will perform from the tee, fairway, rough or fringe delivering distance and control wherever you need it. A low profile, confidence inspiring head benefits from high MOI construction and low centre of gravity, making this the perfect club to tackle shots from the rough.
But put it on the tee or fairway and it performs just as well, with an ultra thin face for improved ball speed and SPEED contours to reduce drag through the swing and improve club head speed. High trajectory, easy to hit and superb distance, this is the club for any occasion. Men’s right hand available in 18°, 21° and 24° lofts. Ladies right hand available in 24°, 27° and 30° lofts.
For more information and to order, email Sorders@wwgb.uk.com or visit the Worldwide Golf Brands B2B portal at https://b2b.wwgb.uk/pages/trade-login
BIG MAX designs the perfect golf bag for any golfer
BIG MAX, continental Europe’s #1 manufacturer of golf bags and push trolleys is introducing a new line of golf bags for 2024 that covers off any golfer’s dream bag. From Tour size cart bag through to ¾ set carry bag, BIG MAX has a waterproof or water resistant option for every type of customer.
“The team at BIG MAX are known for their quality products and innovative designs and in this new 2024 line-up they’ve really outdone themselves,” comments Graeme Stevens, M.D. at U.K. BIG MAX distributor Worldwide Golf Brands. “There’s a new design for every type of golfer that looks great and makes a golfer’s life easier on the course. Retailers can treat BIG MAX bags as a one stop shop knowing that every customer will have their golfing needs met.”
Based on BIG MAX Dri Lite water-resistant technology and Aqua waterproof technology, BIG MAX bags provide all the protection a golfer needs along with a host of features designed for practicality, simplicity and style. New for 2024 are:
Aqua Tour 4: 100% waterproof Tour style cart bag with enormous storage capacity. Ultra-Lightweight and packed with features this is the ultimate cart bag for the best equipped golfer.
Aqua Sport 360: Spacious cart bag for golfers who demand the best. Bold styling and packed with features, the fully waterproof Aqua Sport 360 features 10 waterproof pockets including 2 on the reverse of the bag for full 360° storage.
Dri Lite Style: An elegant and spacious water-resistant cart bag with large pelican style pockets to the front for ease of access. Ultra-Lightweight and brimming with practical simplicity, this is a lot of bag for the price.
Aqua Hybrid 4: The latest addition to the BIG MAX Hybrid Line, the Aqua Hybrid 4 is as at home on a trolley or cart as it is being carried. Ultra-lightweight with padded straps and air channel for breathability plus flat base, modified stand mechanism and 100% waterproof construction make this the perfect all-rounder.
Dri Lite Hybrid Plus: Water-resistant and weighing just 2kg this hybrid is perfect for walking the course. On a trolley it sits perfectly square and has enough storage for the best equipped golfer. With stylish looks to match its practicality, the Hybrid Plus is will be a fantastic addition to any golfer’s game.
Aqua Eight G: A fully waterproof stand bag with 7 way divider top, 6 spacious pockets, ultra-light weight and drop dead good looks, the Aqua Eight G is perfect for golfers who want to carry a full set in lightweight comfort.
Aqua Seven G: Fully waterproof with a 4 way top and 6 spacious pockets, the Aqua Seven G is perfect for a ¾ set, though it will take a full set, with room for waterproofs and accessories. All you need for a winter round while keeping all your gear protected from the elements.
Dri Lite Seven G: Using Dri Lite water-resistant technology, the Seven G will keep all but the wettest days at bay. A perfect winter or travel bag, with bags of storage and stylish good looks.
For more information on all the new bags in BIG MAX’s 2024 range visit the Worldwide Golf Brands B2B ordering portal https://b2b.wwgb.uk/pages/trade-login
Alternatively, for more information please contact Sorders@wwgb.uk
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