Target Markets

Understanding and serving the hockey community

Our Market Approach


SkateWorks has identified key market segments within the hockey community that will benefit most from our integrated model. Our approach is to understand the specific needs of each segment and tailor our offerings to provide maximum value, creating loyal customers and advocates for our brand.

Primary Market Segments


Youth Players (Ages 8-18)

Segment Profile

Young hockey players who are developing their skills and growing physically, requiring frequent equipment upgrades and specialized training to improve their game.

Key Characteristics:
  • Rapid physical growth requiring regular equipment changes
  • Developing skill sets that benefit from structured training
  • Parents heavily involved in purchase decisions
  • Team-oriented with strong peer influence
  • Varying skill levels from beginner to elite
Primary Needs:
  • Properly fitted, age-appropriate equipment
  • Skill development programs and coaching
  • Safe, accessible practice facilities
  • Community and team engagement
  • Positive reinforcement and achievement recognition
SkateWorks Value Proposition:

We provide a comprehensive development environment where young players can access quality equipment that grows with them, expert coaching to develop their skills, and a supportive community that celebrates their progress.

Market Size: Approximately 65% of our total customer base, representing the largest segment of the hockey market.

Adult Recreational Players

Segment Profile

Adult hockey enthusiasts who play in recreational leagues, seeking quality equipment, skill improvement, and social connection through the sport.

Key Characteristics:
  • Varying skill levels from beginner to former competitive players
  • Higher disposable income for premium equipment
  • Limited practice time due to work and family commitments
  • Strong social component to their hockey participation
  • Value convenience and efficiency in their hockey experience
Primary Needs:
  • Durable, high-performance equipment
  • Flexible training options that accommodate busy schedules
  • Specialized services (skate sharpening, equipment repair)
  • Social connection with other hockey enthusiasts
  • Convenient access to ice time for games and practice
SkateWorks Value Proposition:

We offer adult players a one-stop destination where they can efficiently maintain their equipment, improve their skills through targeted training, and connect with a community of like-minded hockey enthusiasts.

Market Size: Approximately 25% of our total customer base, representing a growing segment with higher average transaction value.

Elite/Travel Team Players

Segment Profile

Serious competitive players who require professional-grade equipment, advanced training, and specialized services to maximize their performance.

Key Characteristics:
  • High skill level with significant time commitment to the sport
  • Detailed knowledge of equipment and performance factors
  • Willing to invest in premium products and services
  • Focused on measurable performance improvement
  • Often aspiring to college or professional opportunities
Primary Needs:
  • Professional-grade, customized equipment
  • Advanced, specialized training programs
  • Performance analysis and feedback
  • Quick turnaround on equipment services
  • Access to the latest hockey technology and innovations
SkateWorks Value Proposition:

We provide elite players with access to professional-level equipment, NHL-caliber training expertise through our ELEV802 partnership, and specialized services that help them gain a competitive edge and reach their full potential.

Market Size: Approximately 10% of our total customer base, representing our highest-value customers with the greatest influence on brand reputation.

Teams & Organizations

Segment Profile

Hockey teams, clubs, and organizations seeking group services, bulk equipment purchases, and dedicated training and ice time for their members.

Key Characteristics:
  • Organized structure with designated decision-makers
  • Bulk purchasing power for equipment and services
  • Regular, scheduled need for ice time and training
  • Interest in team-specific customization and branding
  • Seeking long-term partnerships with service providers
Primary Needs:
  • Team equipment packages and uniform management
  • Consistent access to quality ice time
  • Team training programs and development plans
  • Administrative support and coordination
  • Volume discounts and package pricing
SkateWorks Value Proposition:

We offer teams and organizations a comprehensive solution for their hockey needs, including dedicated ice time, customized training programs, team equipment management, and administrative support, all in one convenient location.

Market Size: While representing only about 5% of our customer accounts, this segment generates approximately 15% of total revenue through high-volume transactions.

Secondary Market Segments


Beginners & New Players

Individuals new to hockey who need guidance, entry-level equipment, and introductory training to get started in the sport.

  • Key Needs: Starter equipment packages, introductory clinics, knowledgeable staff guidance
  • Value Proposition: A welcoming environment with expert advice to help new players enter the sport with confidence
  • Market Size: ~5% of customer base with high growth potential
Coaches & Trainers

Hockey coaches and trainers who influence equipment decisions and require resources to develop their players.

  • Key Needs: Training tools, coaching resources, team management support, professional development
  • Value Proposition: Professional-grade resources and support to enhance coaching effectiveness and player development
  • Market Size: ~3% of customer base with high influence on team purchases
Hockey Enthusiasts & Gift Buyers

Non-players who purchase hockey merchandise, gifts, and novelty items for themselves or hockey-playing friends and family.

  • Key Needs: Gift options, hockey-themed merchandise, knowledgeable gift advice
  • Value Proposition: A wide selection of hockey-related products with expert guidance for selecting appropriate gifts
  • Market Size: ~2% of customer base with seasonal peaks

Market Demographics


Key Demographic Insights

Understanding the demographic profile of our target market helps us tailor our offerings and marketing approach to effectively reach and serve our customers.

Geographic Distribution

Our primary market is concentrated within a 25-mile radius of our location, with highest density in suburban areas with strong youth sports participation. Secondary reach extends to 50 miles for specialized services and training programs.

Income Profile

Hockey participants typically come from middle to upper-income households (median household income of $85,000+) due to the equipment and participation costs associated with the sport. Our pricing strategy accommodates various budget levels while maintaining quality standards.

Gender Distribution

While historically male-dominated, women's hockey is one of the fastest-growing segments, increasing at 25% annually. We actively support this growth through dedicated women's programs, appropriate equipment selection, and female coaching staff.

Education & Occupation

Our customer base tends to be well-educated (65% with college degrees) and includes a high percentage of professionals, business owners, and skilled workers who value quality and expertise in their hockey-related purchases.

Market Segmentation by Age

Youth (8-12): 35%
Teens (13-18): 30%
Young Adults (19-30): 20%
Adults (31+): 15%

Market Segmentation by Skill Level

Beginner: 25%
Intermediate: 40%
Advanced: 25%
Elite: 10%

Market Trends & Opportunities


The hockey market is evolving, presenting both challenges and opportunities for SkateWorks. By staying ahead of these trends, we can adapt our offerings to meet changing customer needs and maintain our competitive advantage.

Growth in Women's Hockey

Women's hockey participation has increased by over 30% in the past five years, creating demand for women-specific equipment, training programs, and community support.

Our Response:
  • Expanded selection of women's equipment
  • Female coaching staff and women-specific training programs
  • Women's hockey events and community building
  • Partnerships with women's hockey organizations

Performance Analytics

Players at all levels are increasingly interested in data-driven performance analysis to improve their game and track progress over time.

Our Response:
  • Integration of performance tracking technology
  • Video analysis capabilities in training programs
  • Data-driven equipment recommendations
  • Performance benchmarking and goal setting

Sustainability Focus

Increasing consumer interest in environmentally responsible products and practices, including equipment recycling, eco-friendly materials, and energy-efficient facilities.

Our Response:
  • Equipment recycling and trade-in programs
  • Promotion of sustainable product lines
  • Energy-efficient facility design
  • Community environmental initiatives

Digital Integration

Hockey players increasingly expect digital tools for scheduling, training, equipment research, and community engagement, accessible through mobile devices.

Our Response:
  • Mobile app for scheduling and account management
  • Online equipment catalog with detailed specifications
  • Digital training resources and video libraries
  • Virtual community platforms for customers

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