Trends and Opportunities in the US Ice Skating Rink Industry

Ice skating is a popular recreational activity in the United States, and the industry has been growing steadily over the years. According to IBISWorld, the ice skating rink industry in the US is worth $1.1 billion and employs over 12,000 people. The industry is expected to continue growing at a rate of 1.5% annually over the next five years. This article will explore the trends and opportunities in the US ice skating rink industry.

Overview

The US ice skating rink industry is made up of both indoor and outdoor rinks. Indoor rinks are typically located in urban areas and are open year-round, while outdoor rinks are seasonal and are often located in tourist destinations. The industry caters to a wide range of customers, including recreational skaters, figure skaters, and ice hockey players.

The industry has faced some challenges in recent years, including competition from other recreational activities and the rising cost of energy. However, there are also many opportunities for growth in the industry, including the increasing popularity of ice hockey and figure skating, as well as the growing demand for indoor recreational activities.

Key Players in the Trends and Opportunities in the US Ice Skating Rink Industry

There are several key players in the US ice skating rink industry, including:

• Ice Skating Institute (ISI)
• United States Figure Skating Association (USFSA)
• USA Hockey
• National Hockey League (NHL)
• International Skating Union (ISU)

These organizations play a significant role in promoting and developing the sport of ice skating in the US. They provide training and certification programs for coaches and judges, organize competitions and events, and work to increase participation in the sport.

Market Challenges

One of the biggest challenges facing the US ice skating rink industry is competition from other recreational activities. With the rise of video games, streaming services, and other indoor activities, many people are choosing to stay indoors rather than participate in outdoor activities like ice skating. This has led to a decline in the number of outdoor rinks and a shift towards indoor rinks.

Another challenge facing the industry is the rising cost of energy. Ice rinks require a lot of energy to maintain the ice surface, and the cost of electricity and other utilities has been steadily increasing over the years. This has led to higher operating costs for rink owners and has made it more difficult for them to turn a profit.

Market Opportunities

Despite these challenges, there are also many opportunities for growth in the US ice skating rink industry. One of the biggest opportunities is the increasing popularity of ice hockey and figure skating. These sports have seen a surge in popularity in recent years, particularly among young people. This has led to an increase in demand for ice time and training facilities, which has created new opportunities for rink owners.

Another opportunity for growth in the industry is the growing demand for indoor recreational activities. With the rise of indoor trampoline parks, escape rooms, and other indoor activities, there is a growing market for indoor recreational facilities. Ice skating rinks can capitalize on this trend by offering a fun and unique indoor activity that appeals to people of all ages.

Future of the US Ice Skating Rink Industry

The future of the US ice skating rink industry looks bright, with continued growth expected over the next five years. The industry is expected to benefit from the increasing popularity of ice hockey and figure skating, as well as the growing demand for indoor recreational activities.

However, the industry will also face some challenges in the coming years. The rising cost of energy and competition from other recreational activities will continue to be a concern for rink owners. To remain competitive, rink owners will need to find ways to reduce their operating costs and offer unique and engaging experiences for their customers.

Conclusion

The US ice skating rink industry is a growing and dynamic industry that offers many opportunities for growth and development. While there are some challenges facing the industry, such as competition from other recreational activities and rising energy costs, there are also many opportunities for growth, including the increasing popularity of ice hockey and figure skating and the growing demand for indoor recreational activities. With the right strategies and investments, rink owners can capitalize on these trends and continue to grow their businesses in the years to come.