The cost of Shooting

As everyone will be more than aware, in recent years, the pheasant and partridge shooting industry in the UK has undergone significant changes, driven largely by rising costs and shifting consumer behaviours. These factors have not only influenced sales dynamics but have also sparked a growing interest among shooting enthusiasts in exploring opportunities overseas.

Over the last three seasons, the cost of shooting across the UK has very significantly increased. To provide you with evidence of this, during the 2021/2022 season, our average price for a driven low-ground bird was £42 plus VAT. Our average price for a driven low-ground bird this coming season is £57.98 plus VAT. This is an increase of 38%. While this has been caused by a number of factors, this upward trend is arguably most attributed to the following.

Input Costs

The Russia invasion of Ukraine dramatically increased global commodity prices, impacting shoot input costs. Rising costs for fuel, feed, fertiliser etc necessitated adjustments in pricing structures for commercial shoots to still be viable.

Avian Influenza

The avian influenza outbreaks heightened biosecurity measures and disease management protocols, both increasing the cost of raising pheasant and partridge poults. In addition to this, following the supply issues experienced, we saw a significant hike in poult prices and this has never settled down to where it previously was. 

Significant inflationary pressures

Inflation has impacted all aspects of life and the shooting industry is not exempt. Costs across the board have increased from land/equipment maintenance, wages, supplies, hospitality, increased environmental compliance etc. 

The impact of these price increases has been significant as they are of course passed through the supply chain to the final client, the Guns. The results of this on domestic sales of shooting has been multifaceted. Established shoots catering to affluent clientele have generally maintained a stable demand, as loyal customers are willing to pay higher prices for these exclusive experiences. Previously these Estates could have let their shooting several times over, while they might have lost some clients, others have since filled any voids. However, it is apparent that smaller and the mid-range shoots which have faced more significant challenges. Some have struggled to justify increased costs to price-sensitive guns, resulting in reduced bookings or a move towards more affordable alternatives. This can often be in the form of smaller bags or mini driven walked-up shooting which lets well, but is often not as financially viable for the shoots.

In addition to these price increases, Guns are now increasingly evaluating the value proposition beyond cost alone. Factors such as the quality of the shooting experience, conservation efforts and social aspects now play a crucial role in decision-making, influencing where Guns choose to spend their money. In response to the domestic challenges, there has been a notable trend towards considering shooting opportunities overseas. 

Several factors contribute to this growing interest:

Cost Considerations

Shooting abroad, particularly in destinations like Morocco, South Africa, Argentina, and Spain, often proves more cost-effective compared to UK shoots. Favourable exchange rates, lower operational costs and competitive pricing for comprehensive shooting trips attract those looking for value for money.

Diverse Experiences

Overseas destinations offer a wide array of shooting which is not usually found in the UK. From extreme partridges in Morocco, high-volume dove shooting in Argentina, driven game shooting in Spain and partridges in France, each location provides unique challenges and opportunities to explore and immerse in. To many Guns these are totally new opportunities to try.

Extended Seasons and Accessibility

Many of the offered opportunities have seasons that extend beyond the traditional UK shooting calendar. This allows Guns to pursue their chosen game year-round.

Cultural and Social Benefits

Shooting abroad offers cultural immersion and opportunities with like-minded enthusiasts from around the world. It provides a chance to engage with diverse shooting traditions which would otherwise not be possible to enjoy.

As the pheasant and partridge shooting industry in the UK adapts to economic pressures and changing consumer preferences, the allure of shooting overseas continues to grow. Whether driven by cost considerations or the quest for diverse shooting experiences, game shooting enthusiasts are increasingly looking beyond our domestic borders. In navigating these changes, Guns are presented with a wealth of options to explore. I would be more than delighted to assist you with this process.

If you might be at all interested in either shooting here in the UK or Overseas, please don’t hesitate to contact one of the William Powell Sporting team.

Article written by Ollie Severn