Good news for the UK outdoor sector
The credit crunch could have a silver lining for the outdoor industry according to new research published by the Outdoor Industries Association (OIA).
According to its study, almost half of people in the UK are now more likely to book an outdoor break in 2009 because of the economic downturn.
In a survey conducted at the start of January, 49% of adults said that the credit crunch has made them more inclined to go on an outdoor-based break in the UK, rather than head abroad.
The survey also tested which outdoor activities are most popular in the UK. Walking came out top, with 51% of all adults participating, while camping (21%), road cycling (14%), longer distance hiking (11%) and mountain biking (10%) also proved popular. While 37% of people either never or very rarely take part in outdoor pursuits, 20% participate in outdoor activities two or three times a year and 43% do so at least once a month or every week.
OIA chairman, Frank Bennett, said: “Everyone is acutely aware that the UK is experiencing a sharp economic downturn, which is having a major impact on the habits of the general public. This research provides businesses that are operating in the outdoors sector with some good news – namely, that more of the general public are planning to stay in this country and explore the outdoors.”
