In 2024, the inflation of sports goods and services in the European Union has shown a clear deceleration. Recent data indicate that the annual rate of change in prices of recreational and sports services was 5.2%, representing a decrease of 0.9 percentage points compared to the previous year, 2023. This change suggests that, despite the increase in costs, the growth rate is moderating.
Additionally, the cost of equipment for sports, camping, and other outdoor activities has also experienced slower growth, with an annual rate of change of 1.0% in 2024. This percentage is considerably lower than the 3.4% recorded in 2023, marking a 2.4 percentage point decrease. These data reflect an uncertain and variable outlook for the sector over the past decade.
Prices of sports equipment have shown significant fluctuations in recent years. In 2014 and 2015, there were negative annual change rates of -0.2% and -0.7%, respectively. Then, a slight increase in 2016 (+0.7%) was followed by a continuous decline until 2019. It was in 2020 when a sustained increase began, reaching its peak in 2022, with an increase of 3.8%.
On the other hand, prices of recreational and sports services started in 2014 with a growth of 1.9%, slightly adjusting to 1.8% in 2016. Subsequently, there was an increase to 2.4% and stabilization at 2.2% between 2020 and 2021. The upward trend was evident with a notable 4.7% in 2022, which accelerated to reach 6.1% in 2023.
This situation comes in a relevant context, as April 6 commemorates the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace. This date highlights the importance of sport in the well-being of individuals and communities, which can serve as a point of reflection on how the sports economy is adjusting to price changes and fluctuating demand for associated goods and services.
via: MiMub in Spanish
