The market for tennis rackets - France

As of 2020 and beyond, the tennis racket market continues to be dominated by major brands such as Babolat, Wilson, and Head, with Babolat leading the market, holding approximately 30% of the global share. The French market remains sizable, but the preferences and practices of tennis players have evolved. Players show a preference for purchasing equipment from multisport stores like Decathlon, which reported sales of 11.3 billion euros in 2018, indicating the strength of these retailers in the industry. Advances in racket technology have led to a varied offering catering to different playing styles and skill levels, from power-oriented Babolat Pure Aero rackets to Wilson Pro Staff rackets requiring precision from technically skilled players. The production of carbon fiber rackets remains the standard, with an intricate production process that includes stages from draping to overmolding. Despite the wide offering, the market is difficult for new entrants due to the dominance of established manufacturers and a cultural shift towards technical sports equipment over lifestyle products. The French tennis racket market observed in 2018 accounted for 43 million euros in revenue from racquet sales alone, which implies a significant market size to consider for the years following. However, specifics on market growth trends post-2020 are not included in the text, thus cannot be ascertained from the available information..**Fluctuations and Preferences in the French Tennis Market** In France, the tennis market has displayed several distinct trends shaped by the preferences and behaviors of enthusiasts and players. Primarily, the market has been robust, with an admirable performance in racket sales, with figures ranging between 500,000 and 600,000 units sold annually and revenues estimated between 40 and 45 million euros. Substantial sales were also observed in tennis footwear, with over a million pairs sold, translating to revenues between 55 and 60 million euros. Tennis balls and strings also contributed to the market's strength, with sales of around 12 million balls and 500,000 strings generating revenue in the vicinity of 15 to 20 million euros and approximately 10 to 15 million euros, respectively. An analysis of the distribution of active tennis members in France reveals concentrated pockets, with the Ile-de-France region accounting for nearly a quarter of the total membership, while other regions such as Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes also showcase substantial numbers, holding around a tenth. Membership is primarily clustered in regions where tennis clubs are prolific, which suggests a correlation between the availability of facilities and the popularity of the sport. Delving into the types of tennis practiced, club playing emerges as the most popular choice for around 44% of players, followed by a sizable 40% who prefer independent play. The frequency and regularity of playing tennis indicate that a significant majority—approximately 65%—do not maintain a weekly playing schedule. Still, over half of the players report engaging in tennis throughout the year. Within the market, the distribution of tennis licenses reflects an interesting demographic profile. Young individuals, particularly girls and women aged between 5 and 19, represent the largest segment, albeit a notable proportion of licenses are also held by women in their 40s. For men, a similar pattern is observed, although less pronounced, with the 5-19 age group accounting for just over half of the licenses. When it comes to equipment importation and exportation, France boasts a self-sufficient market, maintaining a coverage rate averaging just over 100% in recent years. Imports are predominantly sourced from China, which underscores the significant reliance on Asian manufacturing for tennis equipment. Conversely, French exports are mainly destined for European markets with significant shares being sent to Italy, Germany, Spain, and the United Kingdom. What is particularly pertinent to the discussion is the players' self-assessment of their skill level and their need for coaching. Many players rate themselves.### Titans of the Tennis Equipment Market: A Closer Look at the Industry Leaders The landscape of the tennis equipment market is dominated by a notable quartet of companies that have established themselves as the primary suppliers and innovators in the field. These industry giants cater to the needs of players at all levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals, and have a direct influence on trends and technologies within the sport. **Decathlon**, renowned for its wide reach in the multisport retail sector, offers a range of tennis products under its in-house brand, Artengo. Decathlon has positioned itself as a go-to destination for recreational players seeking quality equipment at an affordable price point. Their diverse offerings ensure accessibility to the sport, providing players with entry-level to moderately advanced racquets, which boast remarkable value for money. **GoSport**, another significant multisport retailer, competes in the same space by offering a variety of tennis gear from multiple brands. It is a favorite for many due to its physical and online presence that provides convenience and a broad selection of products. Both Decathlon and GoSport have a strategic advantage due to their broad retail infrastructures, which allow them to tap into a vast customer base beyond just tennis aficionados. Switching focus to the dedicated tennis brands, **Babolat** stands tall as a premier name in the tennis equipment industry. Originating from France, Babolat has garnered a global reputation, not just for its high-quality racquets but also as an innovator in tennis string technologies. With historical ties to the invention of the tennis string, Babolat continues to push the envelope in racket design and performance, with top pros like Rafael Nadal endorsing their equipment. **Wilson** is acknowledged not only for their extensive range of tennis rackets that suit various playing styles but also for their prestige in the sport's history. With the Pro Staff line being a notable series among their arsenal, Wilson has consistently delivered products that resonate with players looking for a blend of tradition and modern playability. **Head** carves its niche with a diverse range of racquets catering to different aspects of the game, from control and precision to power and spin. Known for their innovative technology, Head racquets are a common sight on professional courts, emphasizing their commitment to serving players aiming for high-performance gear. Lastly, **Prince**, a brand with a significant legacy in tennis, provides players with a unique selection of racquets that emphasize control and comfort. Their distinctive approach to racket design has earned them a loyal following among players who appreciate the brand's commitment

Inforamtion

• Number of pages : 30 pages
• Format : Digital and PDF versions
• Last update : 01/09/2023

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Summary and extracts

List of charts

• Distribution channels for tennis equipment
• Distribution of female licenses by age group
• Distribution of male licenses by age group
• Men's and Women's Tennis Licensing
• Proportion of people who have participated in at least one of these sports activities in the past 12 months
• Composition of the tennis market turnover
• Places to play tennis
• Frequency of tennis practice
• Regularity of tennis practice
• Self-assessment of the players' tennis level
• Level of supervision of tennis practice (presence of a coach)
• Foreign trade in tennis rackets
• Main origins of tennis racket imports
• Main export destinations for tennis rackets

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