The indoor climbing industry is feeling the pressure – and it’s time for reflection, strategy and positive action.

A victim - The Arch, Acton.

Since March, the sector has faced a perfect storm: extended periods of good weather, continued pressure on household disposable income, and significant cost increases from higher National Insurance, reduced business rate relief, and changes to tax thresholds.

It’s becoming clear that the impact is not evenly spread. City-based gyms appear to be experiencing a greater drop in revenue compared to their rural and town-based counterparts – a trend that’s adding further complexity as we head into the traditional summer slowdown.

On top of this, we’re seeing two contrasting pricing strategies emerge:

1. A race to the bottom to maintain volume

2. A shift toward premium pricing, aiming for stronger margins

Both come with risks. And both require a clearer understanding of your market, margins, and capacity than many operators have previously needed.

What’s emerging is a common theme: many climbing businesses are having to interrogate parts of their operation they’ve never needed to focus on before. Not due to failure, but simply because the industry has seen sustained growth for so long. That growth hid a lot of inefficiencies – now it’s time to address them.

If you’re navigating this shift, here are some things worth considering:

– Identifying your true customer base to improve how and where you spend on marketing

– Reviewing your promotional calendar to bridge seasonal dips in income

– Analysing key business metrics like average customer spend, membership attrition, and conversion from trial to member

– Considering whether now is the time to refine your staffing model – either through upskilling or, if necessary, reducing headcount

– Finding creative ways to reduce your cost base without compromising your offer

The next quarter won’t be easy, but it can be a catalyst for smarter, leaner, more resilient operations. If nothing else, this period is reminding us that indoor climbing businesses are just that – businesses. And like any other, they need thoughtful leadership, robust systems, and data-informed decisions to thrive.#ClimbingIndustry

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