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Show winner says traditional tackle shops are battling back

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A winner during the first-ever Angling International LIVE show in Budapest believes that bricks and mortar stores are fighting back in the battle against online competitors.

Gerco Consemulder, of Raven Hengelsport, which won the Gifts category in New Product Showcase for an ornamental mirror carp – a surprising best-seller for the brand – told Angling International that business is getting better for ‘stone’ retailers.

Talking from a position of experience – Raven Hengelsport owns two stores in the Netherlands – Consemulder said: “Buying online is easier, but people still want to see and handle products before they buy them. For big money tickets, they may visit a store four or five times before making a purchasing decision.

“Bigger retail stores of over 2,500sqft are becoming destination venues where anglers go for a day out. They bring their lunch. Anglers know what to expect from tackle stores – they know what they do and welcome the guidance that the staff can offer in the selection and buying process.

“Online dealers will stay, but retailers are enjoying a comeback.”

Consemulder added that although Hengelsport enjoyed a successful show and saw the major industry players from both Europe and China, he was disappointed that some within the trade did not make the trip to Budapest. “It says something about the fishing industry that many did not make the effort to attend. If I had a shop and lived within one-and-half hours from the venue I would not think twice about attending.

“Retailers are missing an opportunity. Free entrance and a chance to see some of the latest fishing tackle on display is time well spent. It is just too easy to buy from brands online. There was something for everyone at Angling International LIVE.”

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