Men's swimwear
Many independent retailers interviewed by Ragtrader reported a dismal performance in the men's swimwear market with a mere 25 per cent of store owners reporting an increase in sales compared to the previous year.
XS Surf owner Brett Pilon said "we are finding business a bit slower than what it was last year. The holiday period was a bit slower than expected. We were wondering whether petrol prices were having an impact on sales."
Compared to last years survey, the average spend on men's swimwear per customer has jumped from $50 to $70. Surprisingly, business performance has improved over the past 12 months with the number of retailers reporting increased sales jumping from 12 to 25 per cent.
Knee-length board shorts are currently the most popular swimsuit style with accessories such as goggles and rash vests also in demand.
TOP 5 BRANDS
1. Billabong
2. Speedo
3. O'Neill and Cult
4. Vulcan and Rusty
5. Ripcurl and Quiksilver
AVERAGE SPEND
$70
CASH: 30 %
CREDIT: 70%
BUSINESS PERFORMANCE
BETTER: 25%
WORSE: 25%
SAME: 50%
ACCESSORIES
1. Goggles
2. Rash shirts/vests
POPULAR STYLES
1. Fitted waist knee length board shorts
2. Hot-shorts (european style boyleg) and briefs