Aung W.
Fontana, CA (USA)
Role(s):
Founder/Owner/Principal
Rent-A-Shaft
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Startup
Location:
Fontana
Industry:
Sports/Recreation
Year Founded:
2010
Number Employees:
1-10 people
Business Stage:
Growth (not profitable)
Entity Type:
Sole Proprietorship
Description:
A golfer’s game is greatly affected by his or her choice of equipment, and can be costly to the golfer’s long and short term game improvement if the initial clubs purchased do not compliment the golfer’s swing, style of play and ability to get the maximum performance from their equipment. The Golf equipment industry is a $4.7 billion industry that is characterized by income elastic demand that even during the economic decline sustained an overall sales decline of only 18%. From mid 2009 the decline of sales gradually improved until 2011, when first quarter indicators have shown market stabilization and the beginnings of growth in some product categories. The prevalence of golf as a popular sport and the U.S.’s 66% broadband internet penetration rate will combine to create a market laden with opportunities for Rent-A-Shaft.
These market trends position Rent-A-shaft in the market place to take advantage of a golfer’s need to get more out of their existing equipment by cost effective equipment investment which can be achieved through shaft replacement instead of whole club replacement, a trend of the last decade pushed by an increasingly shorter product life cycle. Rent-A-Shaft will remain aware of the competitive landscape as it builds upon its operational advantages and enhances its industry position. Some of Rent-A-Shafts main competitors offer “try it after you buy it” deals, but these are severely limited in that they only apply to “off the rack” product and do not include customized or fitted product. Online golf rental services that rent whole sets of golf clubs cannot be truly characterized as competitors because they offer rental as a travelling convenience for tourists and are not attempting to sell equipment to the golfer. Pro shops, wholesale golf retailers, and online resellers do not offer the professional shaft selection or rental services that Rent-A-Shaft provides and above all by using PGA professional teaching staff, Rent-A-Shaft is able to educate and sell to the golfer directly.
In the future, company will have "Build Your Bag" option based on customers' set price. An informational website and various customization options will also fuel the Company’s growth. Rent-A-Shaft’s promotional campaign will include search engine optimization of its streamlined website, social networking sites, online marketing, shaft-fitting demos, word of mouth referrals, magazine advertisements, public relations, and relationships with manufacturers.