Post-COVID Outdoor Industry Growth: A New Era for Adventure Businesses

The global pandemic changed the way people think about health, travel, and the outdoors. As restrictions lifted, an unexpected yet profound shift emerged—more people began embracing the outdoors like never before. This transformation has opened up exciting new opportunities for businesses in the adventure industry, and the growth trajectory shows no signs of slowing down.

From hiking and mountain biking to surfing and rock climbing, the outdoor industry has seen a surge in participation, driven by a desire for adventure and a renewed appreciation for nature. Let’s explore the factors driving this boom and how businesses are adapting to meet the growing demand.

Pandemic-Driven Shift Toward the Outdoors

When gyms closed and travel was restricted, people started seeking ways to stay healthy while maintaining social distancing and outdoor activities became a refuge. This newfound connection to the outdoors has driven a surge in demand for adventure-related experiences, products, and services. In Australia and New Zealand, where Adventure Entertainment is based, this trend has been particularly evident as individuals explore their local environments with fresh eyes.

According to a report by the Outdoor Industry Association, outdoor recreation participation increased by 7.1 million people in 2020 alone, and this trend has continued well into 2023 and 2024. Businesses that cater to this market, from adventure sports companies to eco-tourism ventures, have seen significant growth, and the potential for further expansion remains strong.

Adaptation is Key: How Businesses are Thriving

Adventure businesses have not only capitalized on increased demand but have also adapted to the changing landscape. Toby Ryston-Pratt from Adventure Entertainment, and his team have successfully tapped into this post-pandemic outdoor boom by curating adventure films, tours, and community events that resonate with this new wave of adventure-seekers.

By leveraging digital platforms, they have expanded their reach, offering a hybrid approach that includes both in-person film tours and virtual streaming events. This dual strategy has helped bridge the gap for those who are unable to attend events in person while still maintaining the personal connection that adventure enthusiasts crave.

As Toby Ryston-Pratt points out, “We’re seeing a resurgence in the desire for shared experiences. People are more eager than ever to connect with like-minded adventurers, whether it’s through local events or online platforms. The challenge is providing these opportunities in ways that are both accessible and inspiring.”

Long-Term Outlook: Where the Industry is Headed

The post-COVID outdoor boom is not just a passing trend. The long-term outlook for the adventure industry looks promising, with sustained interest in health, wellness, and sustainable travel driving continued growth.

Key trends to watch include:

• Eco-tourism: As consumers become more environmentally conscious, the demand for sustainable, eco-friendly travel experiences will rise.
• Outdoor Fitness: Adventure sports are quickly becoming part of people's regular fitness routines. Activities like trail running, mountain biking, and paddleboarding are gaining popularity as alternatives to traditional gym workouts.
• Adventure Travel: With international travel now back on the table, there is a growing interest in adventure-based travel experiences, from hiking tours in New Zealand to surfing retreats in Bali.

Adventure businesses that continue to innovate and meet these demands will be well-positioned to thrive in the coming years. Companies like Adventure Entertainment , with their focus on both physical and digital experiences, are setting the benchmark for how to successfully navigate this evolving landscape.

Embrace the Opportunity

As the outdoor industry continues to grow, there’s a tremendous opportunity for businesses to engage with this new audience. Whether you’re involved in eco-tourism, adventure sports, or outdoor retail, the key to success lies in understanding these evolving consumer behaviors and adapting to meet their needs.

Adventure Entertainment, is a great example of how businesses can thrive by combining passion for adventure with innovative strategies. By creating meaningful, engaging content and experiences, they’ve been able to connect with a global audience of adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts.

If you’re looking to learn more about how Adventure Entertainment is shaping the future of the adventure industry, connect with their team or check out their latest projects here. Now is the perfect time to tap into the exciting opportunities that the outdoor industry offers.