Core Insights - The price of badminton has seen a significant increase, with popular brands raising the price of a single barrel by approximately 30 to 40 yuan, leading to comments that "the price of three barrels is comparable to 1 gram of gold" and a total increase of 100% over two years [1][5] Price Trends - The most expensive goose feather badminton, priced at 350 yuan for a barrel of 12, and duck feather balls ranging from 110 to 260 yuan per barrel, indicate a consistent upward trend in prices over the past two years [3] - The price of the popular Yonex AS-05 model has increased from 220 yuan to 240 yuan, and now to 260 yuan per barrel, reflecting a gradual price increase [3] Market Dynamics - Major brands like Yonex, Victor, and Li-Ning have experienced price increases of up to 100% in the past year, surpassing the increase in gold prices during the same period [5] - The increase in badminton prices is attributed to a decrease in the supply of high-quality feathers, which are sourced from geese raised for over 120 days, due to a shift in livestock farming towards pigs following a drop in pork prices [7] Consumer Behavior - Despite rising prices, most badminton enthusiasts are willing to pay more and do not plan to reduce their playing frequency, as evidenced by a 49% increase in foot traffic at a local badminton venue compared to the previous year [8] - Some players are adopting cost-saving strategies such as repairing and reusing equipment or opting for lower-quality balls [8]

Core Viewpoint - The price of badminton has been increasing significantly, with reports indicating that it has risen three times in a year, surpassing the price increase of gold [2][3][11]. Price Adjustments - The price of Yonex AS-05 badminton has increased from 225 yuan to 275 yuan, and then to 350 yuan, reflecting a total increase of 125 yuan over the past year [8][9]. - The price adjustments for various models of badminton are as follows: - AS-05: 225 yuan to 275 yuan - AS-03: 185 yuan to 235 yuan - AS-02: 165 yuan to 215 yuan - AS-9: 180 yuan to 225 yuan - AS-20: 300 yuan to 340 yuan - AS-30: 320 yuan to 360 yuan - AS-40: 340 yuan to 380 yuan - AS-50: 370 yuan to 405 yuan [8][9][29]. Consumer Reactions - Many consumers express frustration over the rising costs, with some stating that they can no longer afford to play badminton due to the high prices [3][20][22]. - Some consumers regret not purchasing more badminton supplies earlier, anticipating further price increases [15][49]. Market Trends - The overall price increase of badminton has been attributed to rising raw material costs, particularly due to a decrease in the supply of feathers used in production [60][67]. - The price of natural feather badminton has seen a consistent rise, with specific examples showing increases from 59.9 yuan in April 2022 to 119.9 yuan in 2024 [52][58]. Industry Impact - The badminton industry is experiencing a significant shift, with the rising costs leading to concerns about the sustainability of playing the sport at current prices [67].

Core Insights - The price of badminton products has been continuously rising, with notable increases from well-known brands like Yonex and Victor, leading to consumer frustration over affordability [1][3][17] Price Increases - Popular badminton products have seen price hikes of approximately 30-40 yuan per barrel, with some items experiencing price increases of nearly 20% [1][3] - For instance, the Yonex AS-05 model's price rose from 275 yuan to 350 yuan, marking a 20% increase, while its wholesale price has doubled over the past two years [4][19] Market Dynamics - The decline in the supply of ducks and geese, essential for producing high-quality feathers used in badminton, has contributed to rising raw material costs. The number of ducks decreased from approximately 4.878 billion in 2019 to 4.22 billion in 2024 [17][19] - The rapid growth of badminton's popularity in China, with 250 million participants, has led to increased demand, further straining the limited supply of raw materials [19][21] Consumer Behavior - Many consumers express regret over not purchasing more badminton products earlier, indicating a growing awareness of the price trends [15][19] - The rising prices have also led to the emergence of a second-hand market for refurbished badminton products, catering to budget-conscious consumers [19][21]

Core Viewpoint - The price of badminton shuttlecocks has been rising significantly, with major brands like Yonex and Victor increasing prices by approximately 30-40 yuan per barrel, leading to consumer frustration and calls for a boycott [1][3][4]. Price Increase and Consumer Reaction - The price of the popular Yonex AS-05 model has increased from 275 yuan to 350 yuan per barrel, resulting in a per shuttlecock price of 26.25 yuan, which is an increase of over 3 yuan or nearly 20% [3]. - Consumers express concerns about the affordability of badminton, with some stating that playing badminton is now more expensive than drinking milk tea [2][3]. Supply Chain and Material Shortages - The increase in shuttlecock prices is attributed to a shortage of raw materials, particularly duck and goose feathers, which are essential for manufacturing high-quality shuttlecocks [3][4]. - The production of ducks and geese in China has declined significantly, with duck production dropping from approximately 4.878 billion in 2019 to 4.22 billion in 2024, and goose production decreasing from 634 million to 569 million [4]. Market Dynamics and Demand Surge - The rapid growth of badminton as a popular sport in China has led to increased domestic demand, causing suppliers to shift focus from exports to the local market [4][6]. - A supplier reported that prices for duck and goose feathers have more than doubled since the end of 2022, with some price changes occurring within hours [4]. Production Capacity and Economic Impact - The badminton production industry in Guizhou has seen significant growth, with companies like Aislong producing over 400 million shuttlecocks and achieving an export value of nearly 9 million USD [6][10]. - The factory in Guizhou has increased production capacity and revenue, with a reported 40% increase in exports compared to the previous year [6][10]. Alternative Materials and Future Trends - The use of synthetic materials for shuttlecocks is being explored as a sustainable alternative, with positive market feedback for recreational synthetic shuttlecocks [4][12]. - The market is witnessing a rise in sales of nylon and plastic shuttlecocks due to the high prices of natural feather shuttlecocks, although they do not match the quality of traditional feather shuttlecocks [12].

Core Insights - The price of badminton has increased significantly over the past six months, with many brands raising prices by 20-30 yuan per barrel, leading to concerns among enthusiasts about affordability [2][3][5] - The rise in prices is attributed to a shortage of raw materials, particularly duck and goose feathers, which are essential for manufacturing high-quality feather shuttlecocks [7][10] - Despite the price hikes, sales volume for badminton products remains stable or even shows an upward trend, indicating that consumer enthusiasm for the sport persists [5][10] Price Trends - Specific examples of price increases include the Yonex AS-05 shuttlecock, which rose from 180 yuan to 218 yuan per barrel, and the AS-9 from 160 yuan to 185 yuan, reflecting a price increase of 20-35 yuan [5] - Other brands such as Victor, Decathlon, and RSL have also experienced slight price increases, with Decathlon's shuttlecocks now priced between 89.9 yuan and 249.9 yuan [5] Supply Chain Issues - The decline in duck and goose farming has led to a significant reduction in the supply of feathers, causing a spike in prices for shuttlecock materials [7] - The production of nylon shuttlecocks has seen a slight increase in sales as consumers look for more affordable alternatives, with prices remaining stable around 90 yuan per barrel [8] Market Dynamics - The current high prices of traditional feather shuttlecocks are expected to remain as the supply chain struggles to recover, indicating a potential new price baseline for the industry [10] - The market for synthetic shuttlecocks, such as nylon and carbon fiber options, is anticipated to grow, driven by technological advancements and consumer acceptance [10][11]

Core Viewpoint - The badminton industry is experiencing a trend of price increases, with brands like Yonex and Victor raising prices due to rising raw material costs and supply shortages [1][4][6]. Price Increases - Yonex announced a price increase effective August 1, with various products seeing price hikes of 30 to 40 yuan, such as AS-05 rising from 275 yuan to 350 yuan per dozen [3][4]. - The trend of price increases has become a norm in the badminton industry, with multiple brands raising prices by 5% to 29% earlier this year [4][5]. - Consumers are feeling the impact, with some products seeing over 100% price increases compared to two years ago [5][11]. Supply and Demand Dynamics - The badminton market is experiencing a polarization, where premium brands can cover costs through price increases, while others face profit margin issues [1][12]. - The demand for badminton has surged, with participation in China reaching 250 million and the number of badminton courts increasing by over 40% in five years [5][6]. Raw Material Challenges - The production of quality badminton requires specific types of feathers, and the supply of these materials has decreased significantly due to changes in poultry farming practices [7][8]. - The price of key raw materials, such as duck feathers, has risen sharply, with wholesale prices increasing by 40% from the previous year [7][12]. Market Response - Some brands are exploring synthetic alternatives to natural feathers, but consumer habits and technical challenges hinder widespread adoption [10][12]. - Despite rising costs, companies like Yonex have reported significant revenue growth, with an 18.8% increase in revenue for the fiscal year 2025 [11][12]. Consumer Behavior - As prices rise, some consumers are seeking cheaper alternatives, such as unbranded or lower-cost badminton products [9][10]. - The high cost of premium products is leading to a shift in consumer purchasing behavior, with some opting for lower-quality options to manage expenses [9][10].

Core Insights - The badminton market is experiencing a significant price increase, with prices for popular brands doubling over the past year, impacting consumer behavior and market dynamics [2][3][12] Price Trends - The price of badminton shuttlecocks has surged from 100 yuan per barrel (12 pieces) last year to 180 yuan this year, indicating a near doubling in price [2] - A specific brand, Yonex, has seen its popular model's price rise from 100 yuan to 180 yuan, often resulting in stock shortages [2][4] Consumer Impact - Consumers are feeling the financial strain due to rising prices, with one badminton enthusiast reporting her regular shuttlecock cost increasing from 50 yuan to over 100 yuan, leading to a significant increase in her overall expenses [3] - To mitigate costs, some consumers are resorting to bulk purchasing or group buying to save on shuttlecock expenses [3] Shift in Purchasing Behavior - The rising prices have led consumers to prioritize cost-effectiveness over brand loyalty, with a noticeable increase in the demand for second-hand shuttlecocks [5][9] - The second-hand market is thriving, with prices for used shuttlecocks ranging from 28.8 yuan to 57.8 yuan per barrel, appealing to budget-conscious consumers [5][9] Market Dynamics - The increase in badminton prices is attributed to a shortage of duck feathers, rising raw material costs, and increased production expenses [12][13] - Some manufacturers are raising prices to maintain profit margins amid rising costs, while others are accused of price manipulation through hoarding and speculation [11][13]

Core Viewpoint - The price of badminton has significantly increased, with some brands experiencing price hikes of up to 100%, making it comparable to gold in terms of value appreciation, but unlike gold, badminton is a consumable product [4][9][10]. Group 1: Price Increases and Market Dynamics - Major badminton manufacturers like Yonex and Victor have announced price increases ranging from 5% to 29% since April, affecting not only badminton but also related equipment [8]. - The price of a popular high-end badminton model, AS-05, has risen from 95 yuan to 190 yuan per tube, reflecting a 100% increase [9]. - The rising prices have deterred new players from entering the sport, leading to a decrease in participation and sales of badminton equipment [10][12]. Group 2: Consumer Behavior and Adaptations - Consumers are adapting to the price hikes by seeking lower-cost alternatives, such as participating in non-inclusive games where they bring their own cheaper shuttlecocks [12][13]. - Some players are resorting to purchasing artificial shuttlecocks, which are cheaper but do not match the quality of natural ones [35]. - The overall cost of playing badminton has increased, with monthly expenses easily surpassing 1,000 yuan for regular players, transforming badminton from a popular sport into a niche luxury activity [33]. Group 3: Supply Chain and Production Issues - The production of badminton shuttlecocks is heavily reliant on the supply of goose and duck feathers, which has been affected by a decrease in poultry production, leading to soaring prices for raw materials [21][20]. - The supply of badminton courts is also insufficient, with a significant increase in the number of courts in major cities, yet still falling short of demand [18]. - The supply chain has been disrupted, with longer delivery times for badminton products, which has further exacerbated price increases [25][26]. Group 4: Social and Cultural Aspects - Badminton remains a popular sport among various demographics, particularly in corporate environments, due to its accessibility and social aspects [38]. - The sport serves as a social platform for networking and building relationships, especially in professional settings [39]. - Despite the rising costs, many players continue to engage in badminton for the enjoyment and social interaction it provides, indicating a strong cultural attachment to the sport [36][40].