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 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].