New research undertaken by the Outdoor Industries Association (OIA) has revealed positive signs for the UK outdoor sector.  Despite the economic downturn, 54% of core consumers do not intend to reduce their spending on outdoor products and only 13% will cut back (33% are undecided).

In a survey conducted during May, the OIA canvassed opinions of around 3,500 outdoor consumers across the UK.  Of those who completed the survey, 80% believe outdoor products offer good value for money.

Although the majority of people still intend to spend the same as in previous years, 64% will now look more closely at price when choosing outdoor products.  However, for 77% of consumers, product performance continues to be more important than price.

The survey also asked respondents about the channels through which they research and buy outdoor products. Considering recent purchases, 70% have bought through specialist outdoor stores and 27% have used specialist online outdoor retailers.

A large majority of people (70%) research potential outdoor product purchases on brand websites and 62% carry out this research to find the lowest price.  Although 54% of outdoor consumers still purchase most of their outdoor goods in store, just 28% now only buy their products in store.

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