Sports & Leisure

Inexpensive designs for the recreational market present the best possible growth opportunity for industry.

Suppliers of skates and skateboards in China are espousing several strategies by observing market demand and realigning R&D initiatives in response. The majority is targeting niches and the opportunity to set trends by focusing on alternative and inexpensive designs.

China suppliers of picnic bags and trolleys are pursuing various design-oriented upgrades to keep sales healthy amid changes in clients' sourcing habits.

With effects of the economic crisis lingering, recent months have seen variety take precedence over quantity. Now most requisitions consist of multiple styles, with buyers stipulating fewer pieces than they normally did for a single design to minimize risk. In the past, purchases were usually made in bulk and involved only one or two types.

Jinhua's proximity to various industry-related suppliers in Zhejiang province firms up its position as a major sourcing center for electric bikes and scooters in China. The city is currently the largest exporter of the product line, accounting for 15 to 25 percent of the country's total overseas shipments in terms of volume. It also contributes about 10 percent to revenue from outbound trade.

China suppliers of swimming and diving gear are preparing to seize opportunities in the projected economic rebound and increase their stake in the worldwide market. To shore up competitiveness and cater to a diversified client base, some are already reworking R&D and marketing strategies.

Midrange and high-end selections are expanding with the release of safer, more durable models in lightweight constructions.

Efforts to shift the sales mix toward higher-value models are gathering momentum among China's city bike manufacturers. Suppliers are encouraged by rising demand for the line in the industrialized countries of North America, Europe and Asia, where health and environmental awareness is strong. Surging gas prices are also increasing uptake in the regions, as well as in developing economies and the domestic market.