GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — The pandemic may have negatively impacted many businesses, but the outdoor industry certainly was not one of them.
People who sell outdoor equipment like bikes and kayaks can barely keep them on the shelves.
David Zeller is the co-owner of Zellers Ski and Sports, and he says he’s sold a whole year’s worth of kayaks in just three weeks.
“COVID has been actually kind to us. I know some businesses it’s obviously gone the other way but the outdoor industry, it’s just the perfect social distance sport, people want to get out of the house, get out on the water,” Zeller said. “Biggest issue for us has actually been supply, getting product.”
Zeller says the supply chain is also impacted.
“What it’s coming down to is 90 percent of the boats made, they might be missing a handle for the boat or part of the seat or something like that. The other issue is a little bit employment, getting enough workers to actually build the boats,” Zeller said.
It’s the same story over at the Bike Hub.
“It’s almost like if it’s not bolted to your floor it’s sold because people are looking for outdoor recreation gear right now,” The Bike Hub owner Scott Steeno said.
Owner Scott Steeno says inventory is challenging right now, and most suppliers won’t fulfill all orders.
“I think it goes all the way down to raw materials, actually just building the products, and then on the backside of it it’s the shipping of it, just being able to get those products across once they’re built,” Steeno said.
“But as far as enthusiasm, and the foot traffic, and the amount of units going out the door, it’s a record-breaking year for us. It’s unbelievable,” Zeller said.
If you’re looking to buy a kayak or a bike, outdoor retailers recommend finding one sooner rather than later.
