The climbing gym market - France

The global indoor climbing market has grown significantly, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7%, driven by increased interest in the sport and events such as the Olympic Games. In France, the indoor climbing market is booming, with 2 million climbers.

However, the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 had an impact on the industry with closures and restrictions, although peaks of interest were observed after the containment. The largest number of climbing gyms in France is in the Rhône-Alpes region.

Analysis of the indoor climbing market and trends in France

The indoor climbing market in France has experienced remarkable growth, with the number of active climbers constantly rising. A recent study shows that French climbing consumers are relatively young, with a significant proportion aged between 9 and 17, indicating a future generation of passionate climbers. This growth trajectory is reflected in the sharp increase in indoor climbing facilities, with around 100 accessible gyms, compared with just 20 in the early 2000s. Complementary products are a vital segment of the market, with specialized footwear and chalk indispensable to the climbing experience. Consumers spend most of their money - around 47% - on footwear and equipment. Textiles follow, accounting for around 33% of spending.

Interestingly, women tend to spend less on climbing gear each year, averaging between 300 and 400 euros, while men spend between 450 and 500 euros. Events and media coverage have played a decisive role in the popularity of climbing. The upcoming Paris Olympics in 2024, for which climbing will be one of the featured sports, promise to have a positive impact on the market.

In addition, globally televised championships and documentaries on platforms such as Netflix have significantly broadened exposure and generated interest. Indoor climbing areas primarily meet the practical needs of the urban population, enabling enthusiasts to practice within city limits. The average time spent by climbers in gyms is over two hours, which, combined with the high cost of gym membership, indicates that time and financial commitments are the main obstacles to more frequent practice of the sport.

Market size is significant and growing, with estimates suggesting an annual market size of between 100 and 150 million euros, including sales of complementary products such as footwear. This size is expected to have doubled in recent years. The franchise model has gained in popularity, as it enables entrepreneurs to take fewer risks and get off to a fast start, despite the considerable initial investment required, estimated at over 400,000 euros, a large proportion of which is made up of personal contributions.

Recent global events, in particular the COVID-19 pandemic, have undeniably affected the indoor climbing market, with mandatory gym closures during shutdown periods resulting in a sharp drop in the sector's revenues. However, the resilience of the market is remarkable, with exceptional peaks in interest in climbing following the relaxation of containment measures.

Regulations and standards play a fundamental role in the safe operation of climbing gyms, with detailed guidelines laid down by the Fédération française de la montagne et de l'escalade (FFME), which cover a range of aspects from safety to environmental protection and accident prevention

The main players in the French indoor climbing market

The indoor climbing market in France boasts several major players who have risen to the top, becoming synonymous with the sport in the country. These companies have not only fueled the market's growth, but have also set the standard for climbing enthusiasts looking for exceptional facilities and services. Here's a look at the main players in this dizzying sector.

• Block'Out Block'Out is one of the major players in the indoor climbing sector. This company blends the lines between a climbing gym and a social center, where bouldering is the main activity. With facilities catering for beginners and experienced climbers alike, Block'Out also offers a welcoming atmosphere with cafés and relaxation areas where climbers can unwind after a tough session.
  
  
• ClimbUp ClimbUp takes indoor climbing to new heights with its vast and varied climbing walls, suitable for all ages and skill levels. The company has a strong presence, with numerous sites offering lead climbing, bouldering and speed climbing. Its gyms are known for being inclusive spaces that encourage climbers to challenge themselves, improve and become part of the climbing community.
  
  
• Les Arts de La Grimpe Les Arts de La Grimpe is a specialist in climbing gear and equipment. They offer a wide range of products suited to climbing enthusiasts. With years of experience under their belts, Les Arts de La Grimpe is an essential resource for climbers looking for quality equipment, whether for indoor or outdoor use.
  
  
• Altissimo Altissimo stands out in the market by offering a complete climbing experience. It offers walls designed for a variety of climbing disciplines. Altissimo has made a name for itself thanks to its distinctive approach to indoor climbing, offering tailor-made experiences and emphasizing the community aspect of the sport, where climbers can share their passion and learn from each other.
  
  
• Arkose Arkose is a modern and innovative addition to the indoor climbing industry, distinguished by its integration of healthy lifestyle aspects into the climbing experience. With a commitment to environmental sustainability and social responsibility, Arkose gyms often offer organic cafés and host events, making them fashionable venues for environmentally conscious climbers.

In conclusion, these heavyweights in the climbing gym market are pushing the boundaries of indoor climbing in France. They not only offer spaces for physical activity, but also foster the creation of communities where climbing aficionados can converge. As the market continues to grow, these players are well placed to meet the needs of a growing number of people looking for a climbing gym.

Informations

• Nombre de pages : 30 pages
• Format : Version digitale et PDF
• Dernière mise à jour : 05/10/2022

Sommaire et extraits

Liste des graphiques

• Taux de pratique sportive au cours de l'année
• Premiers et seconds motifs de la pratique sportive
• Dépenses sportives des ménages
• Diriez-vous que l'intégration du surf, du skateboard, du breakdance et de l'escalade aux JO est une bonne ou mauvaise chose ?
• Quel type d'escalade pratiquez vous ?
• Répartition des pratiquants d'escalade en salle, par âge
• Quels sont les freins à la pratique de cette activité ?
• Avec qui pratiquez-vous l'escalade en règle générale ?
• Évolution du marché de la gestion d'installations sportives
• Nombre de membres du club d'escalade (indoor/outdoor/rock)
• Évolution du marché des salles d'escalade
• Évolution du marché des salles d'escalade
• Indice de chiffre d'affaires pour les activités en club de sport (NAF 93.12)
• Intérêt de recherche pour le terme "escalade"
• Répartition géographique des salles d'escalade
• Répartition des dépenses liées à la pratique de l'escalade