Consumers today are increasingly turning to hands-on, DIY hobbies that encourage creativity, learning, and engagement. In fact, the global DIY and crafts market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.02% between 2023 and 2028, driven by rising consumer interest in creative and skill-based activities (Mordor Intelligence, 2023).
From parents seeking educational STEM kits to hobbyists looking for screen-free entertainment, DIY activities are shaping the retail landscape. Here’s how you can leverage the DIY and experiential learning trend to attract more customers and increase sales.
Why DIY and Hands-On Learning Are Thriving
1. The Shift Toward Experiential Learning
The demand for hands-on, experiential learning is growing as educators and parents recognize its impact on student success. According to The Buck Institute for Education (PBLWorks), students engaged in project-based learning outperform their peers in science and math, demonstrating stronger problem-solving skills and long-term knowledge retention. Studies show that hands-on learning fosters deeper understanding and increases engagement, particularly in STEM subjects.
As a result, schools, after-school programs, and families are actively seeking interactive, STEM-based kits that make learning fun and accessible—making Estes Rockets an ideal tool for hands-on education in classrooms and science fairs.
2. The Push for Screen-Free Activities
With digital device overuse on the rise, 63% of parents worry about their children's screen time and are actively seeking alternative, interactive activities (Pew Research Center, 2022). Hands-on hobbies like model rocketry provide an exciting way to unplug, engage in real-world physics, and create lasting memories.
3. The Satisfaction of DIY and Maker Culture
The DIY and "maker" movement has seen a surge in popularity, especially post-pandemic. A study by The NPD Group found that craft, hobby, and DIY kit sales increased by 22% in 2021 and continue to grow as consumers seek creative outlets (NPD Group, 2023). Estes Rockets kits provide that rewarding “I built this” experience that hobbyists love.
Retailer Tips for Leveraging This Trend
1. Create Engaging In-Store Displays
🛍 Visual merchandising matters! Stores with interactive displays increase product engagement by 60% (Retail Dive, 2023). Feature assembled Estes Rockets builds alongside unassembled kits to show the full experience.
📌 Pro Tip: Our Point-of-Purchase Displays are a great turnkey solution!
2. Host Hands-On Events and Workshops
🚀 Live demos boost customer engagement and sales. Hobby shops that hosted hands-on workshops saw a 35% increase in sales of featured products (Forbes, 2023). Organize in-store rocket-building events to attract families and educators.
3. Use Social Media to Inspire DIY Creativity
📸 Posts featuring DIY content get 78% more engagement on social media (HubSpot, 2023). Encourage customers to share their Estes Rockets builds, offer a “best design” contest, and highlight customer launches on Instagram and TikTok.
4. Market to Educators and Schools
🏫 STEM-based learning is a $6 billion industry and growing (EdTech Magazine, 2023). Position Estes Rockets as a must-have for science fairs, physics classrooms, and extracurricular programs by connecting with local schools and clubs.
📌 Pro Tip: We offer FREE resources for teachers and educators through Estes Education.
Final Takeaway: Give Your Customers the Thrill of DIY with Estes Rockets
The DIY and hands-on learning trend isn’t slowing down—it’s accelerating. By embracing this movement, retailers can boost sales, attract new customers, and create a more engaging, experience-driven shopping experience.
Model rocketry blends DIY creativity, engineering, and hands-on education into one immersive experience. Estes Rockets kits allow users to build, customize, and launch their own creations, making them a perfect offering for retailers catering to hands-on hobbyists.
🚀 Make 2025 your biggest year yet for DIY hobbies! Stock up on beginner-friendly favorites like our Starter and Launch Sets. Or complete your rocket assortment with some of our best-selling kits!
