sportstyle

A ctive and Outdoors. That is the subject line of our style pages and it is also what's on everyone's mind as we begin to put the pandemic in our rear view mirror.Consumers want to be active, and have found a new love affair with being outdoors. Over the past two years, there have been many changes in consumer behavior.Some will last, while others will simply be a passing phase. Anticipating where that consumer bouncing ball will land remains an imperfect science. What will they be shopping for? For footwear, we take a look inside this issue at the red-hot casual sneaker style trend, whether for light workouts, walking around the block or back to the office. Where will they shop?We've been hearing a lot lately that consumers are looking for the in-store experience.Let me repeat that.They are looking for the in-store experience. Not all of them, mind you, but enough to say it's a trend worth noting, and happy to mention here.What will consumers pay and will they find what they are looking for? Yet another bouncing ball.Our recent consumer survey tells us that consumers are certainly aware of the supply chain disruption and resulting unavailable styles. They have adapted (grudgingly) to alternatives if they cannot find what they want. They want to buy. But when asked about who should bear the brunt of price increases caused by the shortages, 54% responded "vendor/manufacturer," while 16% responded "retailer."Got that? I have also had the pleasure to talk with a few specialty independent retailers recently. They were happy to report an uptick in customers coming into their stores.When it comes to staffing issues, not so much.And don't get them started on brands selling DTC. But I digress. Regarding staffing, we feature "Labor Pains" in this issue. While we take a look at the state of the labor market and its impact on team and sporting goods dealers, I believe you can substituteyour businessin its place as you read the article.Most of the challenges are the same.The tips for hiring and retaining staff should resonate with us all. Onthe subject of the outdoors, we have just learned that Outdoor Retailer is headed back to Salt Lake City in 2023. I am happy to see that at least this bouncing ball has finally landed. Jeff Nott CEO & Publisher 6 • March/April 2022 FOLLOW THE BOUNCING BALL Consumers want to be active, and have found a new love affair with being outdoors. Over the past two years, there have been many changes in consumer behavior. Some will last, while others will simply be a passing phase. sportstyle • sportstylemag.com ON THE HORIZON

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