ORANGE, Calif. (BRAIN) — Triathlon Business International has completed an extensive study of the consumer triathlon market and its economic impacts.
TBI estimates the size of the tri market in the U.S. is $2.8 billion in 2014. Events, travel and accommodations combined take the largest share of the total market estimate
The findings are based on data from more than than 7,000 survey responses in the first quarter of 2015. Respondents provided details in a variety of areas, including event participation, the triathlon lifestyle. brand awareness, expenditures on gear, and demographics.
In addition to the online survey, follow-up trade interviews and desk research helped pinpoint the extent of money spent on the sport of triathlon in 2014.
The study found that 49 percent of total triathlon expenditure in 2014 was made online; the remainder was in-store, via clubs and other sales channels.
"There are encouraging signs across the triathlon marketplace for all stakeholders," said TBI president Jack Caress. "With a focus on athlete retention, alongside recruitment of new triathletes, there is good reason to see the triathlon market go onward and upward in the years ahead.
"Also of particular importance, triathletes are highly engaged with the multisport lifestyle, which is attractive to brands within the industry, and to sponsors eager to get their messages out," he added.
The 100-page TBI study also segments the triathlete population and clearly shows the evolution of spending throughout a triathlete's time in the sport.
A summary of the research findings will be presented in July at the 2015 TBI Global Triathlon Conference in Roth, Germany. The report is priced at $1,750. Customized category extracts (e.g., swim, bike, run segments) from the study are also available for purchase. For more information contact Lars Finanger at (303) 828-8034 or larsfinanger@gmail.com.
