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Expanding Defensive Long-Gun Sales In August Shooting Industry
Self- and home-defense remain top of mind for today’s customer. The August issue of Shooting Industry uncovers trends impacting sales of defensive long guns — with three dealers lending their expertise in expanding sales in this category.
For stores like Rich’s Gun Shop in Donald, Ore., Gentry’s Firearms in Harned, Ky. and Sharp Shooting Indoor Range & Gun Shop in Spokane, Wash., successful growth in selling defensive rifles and shotguns can be attributed to factors such as stocking well-known and reliable product lines, offering training and classes, maintaining a healthy rental fleet and keeping employee education at the forefront.
“Employee education is extremely important because our consumers are better educated than they have ever been,” shares Jeremy Ball, Sharp Shooting Indoor Range & Gun Shop’s general manager. “They have so many resources that if you don’t encourage your employees to learn more about product lines — and use those product lines — then every customer who walks in the door is going to know more than they do.”
Hunting technology advancements also come into focus in the August issue. AJ Hoffman, owner of SoDak Sports’ two locations in South Dakota, shares the impetus is on dealers to stock new products and get them in front of customers.
“If it’s anything new, you’ve got to push it out there in front of customers,” he says.
August’s issue also includes Pat Covert’s tips on developing a successful sales strategy to “light up” flashlight profits. With profit margins between 30 and 50%, illumination devices can dramatically affect a retailer’s bottom line. In “Our Shifting Consumers,” Southwick Associates’ data reveals growth in several segments (firearm parts, optics and shooting and hunting accessories), which shows customers are spending money in different sectors today.
In the Personal Defense Market installment, Massad Ayoob reports the trends observed at the 2019 NRA Annual Meetings — where economy-grade versions of established lines and “package deals” were particularly noticeable. Courtesy of the 5 tips Mark Kakkuri provides in the Everyday Marketingcolumn, business owners can explore whether it’s best to handle marketing efforts in-house or contract with an external agency. Lastly, the Arms & The Woman’s “Unique Concealed Carry Options For Her” highlights two companies dedicated to offering quality products for women who wish to carry concealed — comfortably and confidently — in addition to their commitment to serve retail partners.
The entire August issue is available online at www.shootingindustry.com/digital-version. Readers are invited to share their thoughts atcomments@shootingindustry.com or facebook.com/shootingindustry.
CONTACT: JADE MOLDAE