In reading Western Horseman's article in November's issue it seems that the big Western breed associations are concentrating on developing the interest of younger riders. That is good, but, unless their parents buy for them, that market is some time away. What are the 80 or so % of people who now live in urban areas (Canadian statistic, don't know the US stat) now doing (besides going to the darned malls!)? Are most of our opportunities for horse/pony/mule sales to people on hobby farms on the outskirts of cities? If so how do we get these folks out to our farms, which are often away from cities and those appalling land prices. Are mature immigrants with money interested in equines at all or are they entirely urban? Are their children wanting to ride English as that is what may be most available on the urban outskirts? What are the possible markets to Europe/India/China, to the nouveau riche in developing countries, and how do we differentiate ourselves from their breeders? Should we combine horse sales with services to bring people out: riding lessons, horse boarding, picnics, fishing... And is it worth it? What buyer trends should we be attending to: besides what are boomers buying and are they buying for their grandchildren?
Ann Hatfield, Maple Leaf Mules: competition/sport mules and recreational, spotted, gaited mules