The Association of British Climbing Walls (ABC) has published the fifth edition of its bi-annual climbing wall survey.
This year’s survey had its highest ever number of respondents representing all regions of the UK as well as Ireland. It offers important insights into the size, shape and confidence of the UK market.
ABC’s CEO Kath Hipwell said:
“The report reflects a fascinating time for indoor climbing, with the industry changing shape and form arguably quicker than ever before. At the ABC, our mission is to support the professionalisation, safety, growth, and diversity of indoor climbing. Providing high-quality research like this report for our members and the wider sector is a key part in helping drive the industry forward. I’m particularly pleased to see the upward trend in professionalising the workforce, with more wall staff on secure contracts. Thank you to all the walls that contributed.”
Key trends…
Group walls have a bigger market share
ABC membership data shows the proportion of group walls increasing from 29% in 2023 to 36% in 2025. The average group size is now 4.5 walls.
Bouldering outpaces roped climbing in new walls
New walls are more likely to offer bouldering than roped climbing, with 62% of walls opening within the last four years offering bouldering only. Across all walls surveyed, 46% are bouldering only.
The workplace is professionalising
The percentage of PAYE wall staff has increased from 55% in 2023 to 71% in 2025. This is a good indicator of a more professionalised, secure and equitable job market.
The market is maturing
The sector continues to mature with the average age of survey walls increasing from 9.6 years in 2023 to 10.3 years in 2025.
Buy the full report here – first 20 orders get a free hard copy with your download!
- If you’re an ABC member, you will save 50% – that’s £250 – off the standard price. Join today to access this and many other benefits.
A free research sample of the research can be downloaded here.
For further information please contact [email protected].
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