Source: REUTERS/Bazuki Muhammad
[Saba Sports News] Since last year, badminton has gone through several price hikes. Facing the high cost of new badminton balls, consumers are starting to look for more economical alternatives — second-hand badminton balls. On China’s second-hand trading platform Xianyu, second-hand badminton balls in good condition (at least 80% new) are priced at around $4 per can. Some shops with high sales have received over 210,000 views on the platform. According to the price trend page on the platform, the average transaction price of second-hand badminton balls in June increased by nearly 20% compared to the beginning of this year. According to a seller from one shop, they mainly sell used badminton balls that were retired after professional players’ training and matches. Selling these second-hand balls is more profitable than selling new ones. Due to the strict requirements of professional players for ball feel, even slight performance decline leads to their removal, but they are still suitable for recreational or training use by amateur players. In the view of the editor, the current situation of the second-hand badminton ball market reflects a more rational consumer attitude. Consumers, under the condition of not affecting their playing experience, are more inclined to choose high-value-for-money alternatives like second-hand badminton balls, being more careful in spending and focusing on the actual value of the product.