MAY 9, 2023

May Shooting Industry Examines State Of Ammo Market

In the midst of “normalization” ahead of an election year, the ammunition segment has made great strides in a return to more widespread availability. Though some retailers still struggle to get ammo on the shelves, it’s far cry from what things looked like 24 months ago, as Shooting Industry’s May feature, “The Ammunition Market In 2023,” explores.

“We’re seeing a little bit of softening in the market,” sums up Kevin Smith of Sprague’s Sports. “Prices have come down on certain ammo, but other ammo still remains a challenge to find and prices are still high on those.”

Accessories such as red dots, MSRs and defensive magazines are so popular they move without promotion or marketing — but knowing customer preferences is key to facilitating an upward trend. Bryan Hendricks reveals how successful retailers ride waves to steady accessory sales in “Firearms Accessories That Practically Sell Themselves.”

Additional content in May includes why “Setting Your Sights On Varmint Hunters” can pay big dividends. As Mia Anstine notes, the year-round nature of this segment and need for numerous accessories provides a steady stream of customers. Nancy Keaton shares ways to “Ramp Up Summer Sales Events.” She suggests thinking about what draws you to other businesses when trying to come up with ideas to boost seasonal traffic. Fresh from their debut at the 2023 NRA Annual Meeting, Massad Ayoob highlights a new batch of “Promising Self-Defense Picks.”

Most people might think of “Paycheck Protection Program” when they see PPP. In Best Practices, retail expert Hank Yacek proposes “Payroll, Profits and Performance” may be more fitting. In Arms & The Woman, Ashley McGee introduces Vicki Farnam, a leading force in teaching the fundamentals of off-body carry — a growing area of interest among women who carry concealed. Massad Ayoob introduces Tony and Sherrie McKnight, owners of Big Daddy Guns, and their path to success in the Personal Defense Market column. And in Industry Link, Editor Jade Moldae comments on the challenge facing the industry: Capitalizing on growth and momentum while navigating speed bumps.

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