National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers | 7 compliance in every state. They spend a great deal of time ensuring all legislations are met, which are inspected regularly by federal agencies. Everything necessary is done to encourage a safe and responsible use of their products and services to the general public. “It is a significant portion of the industry’s paperwork, if you will,” he says. In facing this challenge, NASGW has achieved tremendous success. Recently, they’ve been informed by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms that their members are exemplary in compliance and co-operation with the regulations. BRIGHT FUTURE The future for the National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers – and the industry they represent – is a bright one. The last four or five years have seen steady growth in sales and new membership. The industry has been making significant upgrades, retooling and investment in modernizing its plants, operations and capacity. Quality control is extremely important with extensive testing of its products. The recent Olympic wins by the U.S. shooting team and increased media coverage during the Olympic Games has created a growing interest and desire by young and old alike to participate in the sport. “The U.S. Olympic shooting team received many medals this year, which provides a lot more coverage of the sport,” Desmarais says. Archery is also gaining interest, particularly among women – a fact that can be attributed, at least partly, to The Hunger Games novels. A lot of the member companies are devoting significant resources to helping schools, colleges and youth groups in developing archery programs. “We’re pleased with the results
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy OTYzNTg=