Companies

Nairobi sports firm inks Kenya sales deal with US golf equipment maker

GOLF

Golf, an elite sport widely preferred by mostly wealthy Kenyans, is fast gaining popularity in the country. FILE PHOTO | NMG

Kenyan sports equipment seller Craig's Ltd has inked a distribution agreement with American golf equipment maker TaylorMade Golf.

Craig’s, which operates an outlet at Nairobi’s Sarit Centre, said in a statement last week the exclusive deal will see it import and stock golf equipment, including golf balls, clubs and bags from the California-based manufacturer.

“We would like to announce that Craig’s Limited has been officially appointed sole exclusive agents for TaylorMade Golf equipment in Kenya and the East Africa region,” said the firm.

Established in 1930, Craig’s also deals in Tennis and Squash equipment.

The firm also stocks golf accessories, golf balls, and golf footwear from other international brands such as Adams, Adidas, JS International, RAM, Brand Fusion, Golfers Club, NikeGolf, Callaway, Srixon.

The deal gives the US firm a footprint in the region. TaylorMade, formerly the golfing unit of German sportswear maker Adidas, is owned by New York-based private equity firm KPS Capital Partners.

The Kenyan sports equipment market has recorded a surge in growth in recent years.

Analysts link this to increasing the participation in sports activities and growing consumer awareness about health and fitness.

Golf, an elite sport widely preferred by mostly wealthy Kenyans, is fast gaining popularity in the country, according to analysts.

Early this year President Uhuru Kenyatta rooted for the introduction of the sport in public schools as a way of developing the game beyond private exclusive clubs.

TaylorMade is a major feature in the PGA Tour, the organiser of the main professional golf tours played the United States.

Its golf athletes portfolio includes Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods, and six of the current top 15 athletes in the world.