Rural Gentrification
From the Wall Street Journal:
The word "gentrification" conjures up images of once-poor urban neighborhoods invaded by cappuccino bars and million-dollar condos. Now, broad swaths of rural America -- from New England to the Rocky Mountain West -- are being gussied up, too.
...
Jeff Bowlby, a Seattle cabinet manufacturer, has purchased three properties here over the past six years. Along the way, he's noticed an explosion of new services and goods for sale. One local fly-fishing store, for instance, now sells rubber waders for $750 a pair. Spa del Sol offers a $125 Salmon River stone massage, using heated local stones that have been carefully selected "for their shape and energy."
What do rural trends like this mean for the outdoor industry? Post your thoughts in the comments.
This is great news for for Outdoor Retailer. More overpriced gear that people don't need but they want. Get those waders in one of your booths for Summer 2008.
Posted by: Allie | January 25, 2008 at 03:58 PM