Marketing Forecast from Ad-ology

Sales of new homes continue to be weak so builders are turning to different strategies to increase sales. One popular new trend has been to construct smaller homes. This change is occurring as the era of the mega-mansion wanes.

Ad-ology Research recently updated their Industry Marketing Insights report for Bowling Centers. The following are the predicted Top 3 Opportunities/Challenges from the report for this industry for the upcoming 12 months:

* One of the biggest opportunities for growth is considered to be partnering with high schools. More high schools are not only offering bowling as physical fitness and elective classes, but also adding varsity bowing teams. There was a 3% increase in high school bowling team/club participation in 2009.
* There’s a growing opportunity for bowling “lounges,” which cater to the 21-40-year-old demographic. These sophisticated lounges are typically set in urban areas and offer upscale menus, music, bars, high-tech audio and visual systems, and party areas.
* The number of certified bowling league members has declined by an average of 3% annually in the last decade.

In more fiscally conservative times, consumers saved money all year to spend on holiday gifts. The advent of easy credit and the growing economy of the decade just before the recession all but did away with the concept of holiday clubs. But this year, in an effort to attract shoppers and appear financially responsible, some marketers are once again promoting holiday savings programs.

Ad-ology Research recently updated their Industry Marketing Insights report for Golf/Tennis Shops. The following are the predicted Top 3 Opportunities/Challenges from the report for this industry for the upcoming 12 months:

* There’s been an increase in activity-based areas in stores, where shoppers can test equipment, attend clinics and have custom club fittings. These interactive and personalized experiences can set retailers apart from competitors.
* The off-course specialty golf retail industry has become extremely competitive as general sporting goods or other golf specialty retailers have expanded their markets. Specifically, the Atlanta, Georgia, Dallas, Texas and Phoenix, Arizona markets have grown increasingly competitive in the last few years.
* These businesses must have an Internet presence to compete with other retailers: Seventy-four percent of golfers research golf equipment online in the past year.

Consumer interest in mobile apps remains huge. Nielsenwire analysts note that the sales of smart phones are projected to overtake the sales of traditional mobile phones in the near future. As they do, consumers will continue to download apps. This trend presents an opportunity for app developers.

Ad-ology Research recently updated their Industry Marketing Insights report for Computer Training Services.