New research gives a clear insight on how the drone market in the U.S. is developing. Skylogic Research and BZ Media have released a new research report on drone sales and distribution in North America titled “Drones in the Channel: 2016 Market Report.” Colin Snow, CEO and founder of Skylogic Research and known in the industry under the sobriquet “the Drone Analyst,” says the report – based on research and a large-scale survey of drone buyers – will help the industry identify opportunities: “We are excited to offer insights on the varied and growing reseller distribution channels in the drone industry,” he says. “As the drone industry grows and evolves, it’s important for all to identify and understand who the major brands are and what opportunities and relationships are in the supply chain.”
In addition to discussing the impact of FAA regulation and offering a primer on drones as part of the “Internet of Things,” the report offers some real surprises for the industry – and blasts a few commonly held myths. Drones aren’t just for kids; over 90% of buyers are over the age of 31. And don’t look for a fleet of drone hobby stores to take over a mall near you soon – most drones are purchased online, with professionals buying the majority of their drones directly from the manufacturer or a dedicated drone dealer.
The report’s section on manufacturers information held some bombshells, too – while DJI has been widely believed to hold over 70% of the drone market, the devil is the details: DJI does hold over 65% of the market in higher end drones, but only 21% of the market in drones that cost less than $1,000.
In discussing the future size of the drone market, the report makes clear the potential effect of regulations on the industry; while analysts say that 2016 unit sales could top $1.5 billion, they point out that much depends upon the final FAA Small UAS rule, which the FAA says will be published by “late spring.”
The report covers other topics in detail:
- U. S. market size for all drones and growth projections by segment
- the major drone distributors (who they are, what they carry, how many, major customers, customers by industry segment)
- what drones are used for—for hobby or racing or photography purposes, or for their employer?
- the most popular drone brands by price point
- commercial applications for drones
- drone services
More information about the report and other drone industry analysis can be found here.
Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
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