Discover how climbing has transformed from a niche activity to a booming business, driven by the Olympics, popular films, and a surge in climbing gyms. Insights from industry experts and top competitive climber Shauna Coxsey.
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Quick takeaways
The rise of athleisure wear and inclusion in the Olympics have boosted climbing's mainstream appeal.
Investors recognize climbing gyms as a valuable business model, supporting athletes and brands.
Deep dives
Growing Popularity of Climbing
The sport of climbing has experienced significant growth in popularity, with an increase in membership and the opening of new climbing gyms across the UK. The rise of athleisure wear and the inclusion of climbing in the Olympics have contributed to its mainstream appeal. The sport has attracted a diverse range of participants, and climbing brands are experiencing high demand for their products. The accessibility of climbing facilities and the aspirational nature of the sport have further fueled its growth.
The Business of Climbing
The climbing industry has attracted the attention of investors, with venture capital and private equity firms recognizing the value in climbing gyms as a business model. Brands have played a significant role in the sport's growth by supporting athletes and providing financial backing. The success of these brands has allowed athletes like Shauna Coxey to pursue professional climbing careers and create content for social media. The growth of the climbing industry has also led to the emergence of climbing-focused films and documentaries that inspire people to take up the sport.
Challenges and Future Growth
While climbing continues to experience growth, there are challenges to consider. Climbing gyms may face issues related to rising costs, such as rent and utilities. However, the climbing community remains committed to maintaining the sport's ethos and encouraging positive development. With climbing now becoming more popular internationally, its future growth potential is significant, and the sport is expected to continue expanding in the coming years
The Olympics in Tokyo, some jaw dropping films, and a hardwired desire to be in the great outdoors. These are just some of the reasons credited with boosting the popularity of climbing. Hundreds of indoor bouldering gyms have cropped up in the US since the 1990s, and the sport is spreading across the world.
Although still concentrated in North America and Europe, more and more countries are joining the International Federation of Sport Climbing, and the millions of people taking part are attracting the attention of brands and financial backers. We hear from climbing business experts and the UK’s most successful competitive climber, Shauna Coxsey, to find out more.
(Picture: Shauna Coxey. Credit: Getty Images)
Presented and produced by Hannah Bewley
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