Continuing our effort to keep you on trend with consumer habits and desires, we are back with Part 2 of our #Trending2021 series. If you missed it, check out Part 1, Global Consciousness.

Spring is on the horizon and, for many, Canadians cannot wait! The winter season often leads to less time spent outdoors but this year, with rinks, businesses, and services shuttered or restricted, there were fewer reasons to get outside. What can be expected throughout the year?

The Outdoor Experience

With limited access to many of our favourite hobbies and activities, going outside to enjoy just being outside, has never been more popular! Experiencing the outdoors is how many cope with being stuck in their homes for most of the day. Expect to see a rise in outdoor activities as the snow melts away.

Looking back at habits during 2020, many businesses catering to specific outdoor activities were flooded with business. As an example, many consumers that considered taking up biking, faced an awkward situation. Canada was quickly running out of bicycles. With travel plans cancelled, the pandemic has forced consumers outside to find new ways of entertainment, looking for an escape from the confinement of their homes.

According to Euromonitor, consumers will maintain habits they created during this pandemic and continue to look for new ways to achieve physical wellness. At the start of 2020, approximately 52% of consumers commuted 5 or more days per week. Once the pandemic hit, those numbers drastically changed as the Work From Home journey began. Public transportation also saw a significant drop in users as they opted to walk, bike, or scooter in order to avoid being confined in close quarters with others.

While legacy big box outdoor stores face continued difficulty, consumers are making their way outside and finding new hobbies, despite the weather. For instance, Snowsports Industries America reported an 202% increase in cross-country skiing and 221% increase in snowshoes in Q4 2020.

A lack of choice for entertainment has thrust hobby and adventure hungry consumers to flock outdoors. Hiking, bicycling, camping/glamping and gardening are just some of the activities that were easily relied on to escape the monotony of home.

Typically, promotional outerwear is kept on average for 16 months with approximately 6100 brand impressions over its lifetime. With more consumers getting in touch with the outdoors for exercise and peace of mind, it is possible to surmise that the value of outerwear and useful outdoor products will continue to grow.

Outdoor Promo

Brands that want to leverage the escape experience that the outdoors currently brings will want to consider promotional products that help to elevate or improve the adventure. Outerwear, equipment, and accessories that maintain their quality will be highly sought after.

Here are some products to add a little fun and value to your recipients:

Ready to start your project?