Hockey pro shops have long been the go-to destination for serious hockey players. But, to truly capitalize on the growing popularity of hockey culture, these shops need to expand their offerings beyond just equipment and gear. Incorporating lifestyle apparel and hats can significantly boost sales, attract a wider customer base, and solidify the shop's position as a hub for all things hockey.

Why Lifestyle Apparel and Hats?

Expanding the Customer Base:

1. Casual Fans: Many hockey fans aren't active players but still love the sport. Lifestyle apparel like t-shirts, hoodies, and hats can appeal to this broader audience. What we've seen at For the Love of Hockey is a growing audience of grandparents, aunts, and uncles who also want to participate in the experience and wear bespoke items that speak the unique language of the hockey lifestyle.
2. Youth Players: Younger players and their parents often seek out stylish, comfortable clothing to wear both on and off the ice. Team apparel is just the beginning of expression for this group of customers. 

Enhancing Brand Identity:

1. Unique Merchandise: Offering exclusive, branded apparel and hats can strengthen the shop's brand identity and foster customer loyalty.
2. Community Building: Lifestyle products can help create a sense of community among hockey fans, encouraging them to support the shop and the sport. For the Love of Hockey itself was born from a community, which continues to provide inspiration for product development, packaging, and positioning. 

Increased Revenue:

1. Higher Profit Margins: Lifestyle apparel and hats often have higher profit margins than traditional hockey equipment.
2. Impulse Purchases: Eye-catching displays of stylish merchandise can entice customers to make additional purchases. Let us know if you'd like our simple guide for easy in-store merchandising tips & tricks. 

Key Considerations for Pro Shops:

1. Curate a Diverse Selection:
   
   
• Variety: Offer a range of styles, sizes, and colors to cater to different tastes.
• Quality: Prioritize high-quality materials and comfortable fits. Our 2024 Holiday Wholesale Catalog is now available; access it here. 
• Trends: Stay up-to-date with the latest hockey fashion trends.

1. Partner with Reputable Brands:
   
   
• Brand Recognition: Collaborate with well-known brands to attract customers.
• Exclusive Partnerships: Secure exclusive deals to offer unique products.

1. Create a Strong Visual Presence:
   
   
• In-Store Displays: Dedicate prominent space to lifestyle apparel and hats.
• Online Store: Showcase products on a user-friendly website.

1. Engage with the Community:
   
   
• Social Media: Use social media to promote new products and engage with fans.
• Local Events: Sponsor or participate in local hockey events to increase visibility.

By incorporating lifestyle apparel and hats into their offerings, hockey pro shops can tap into a new revenue stream, strengthen their brand, and solidify their position as the go-to destination for all hockey enthusiasts.

Ready to learn how we can help you offer high-quality lifestyle apparel to your customer base? Email Maddie, our head of retail partnerships here.