Stranda Snowboards 2024/25 Preview
Retail Buyers Guide: Snowboards FW24/25 Retail Buyer’s Guide
Brand: Stranda Snowboards
Interviewee: Mats Drougge founder & shaper
How would you describe the current state of the snowboard market? What big developments, changes, challenges, and/or opportunities are you seeing and how is your brand navigating them?
We can see a growing interest in boutique brands like us. Sales has been really strong so far this season. The more mature riders are looking for and are prepared to pay a premium for high end snowboards.
Following overall price increase, any positive developments with regards to manufacturing, sourcing, or logistics and the changes you’ve made? Are there any examples you can share of how your business pivoted effectively? What developments are you seeing with regards to product pricing?
We’re keeping prices same for next season. But looking constantly to getting a more effiecent distribution. Shipping and packaging is a bigger part compared to before.
Is e-commerce sales still strong since most brands have been put a lot of effort in physical retail?
We’re seeing a very strong growth in direct to consumer for Stranda. At the same time we’re actively supporting independent shops.
After last winter and the lack of snow in Europe, what’s your overall sales and production/inventory strategy for 24/25?
This season has started with a bang in Europe and as we’re doing carry over on all of our designs we don’t panic if a winter is bad in relation to unsold inventory.
SNOWBOARD SPECIFIC
What trends or developments are you seeing with regards to board construction, shapes, and general innovation? How is this shaping your 24/25 range?
Carving is definitely gonna continue to grow. A niche we traditionally been very strong in.
Are you using any new materials in your hardware for 24/25? If so, what and why?
We’re interested in anything new in inserts / edges / cores / sidewalls / glue / resin/ wood types / base material / top sheet / etc. here.
Are you planning to focus on a special product range or type of customers? What’s your newest range?
Our true and award winning volume shifted Biru. Adding lengths and a women’s model plus we’re splitting it
What is your top product marketing story for next season?
The Biru – a freestyle board you can carve.