The Hydra Cooler would belong to the athletic and sporting goods manufacturing industry in the US. This industry registered approximately $9 billion worth of sales in the most recent year of data. The same information indicated the industry was actually declining in size by about 5/10 of a percentage point and that there are approximately 1300 businesses, which compete in this industry in the US. The principal reason for the decline in sales in the industry is that overseas competitors are continuing to take market share from US manufacturers. However, industry experts also note the individual manufacturers can compete successfully against overseas competitors by developing niche-marketing programs that specifically target underserved portions of the marketplace. Thus, it is very possible that many businesses will be able to register significant growth in revenue by developing products that are not widely available in the current marketplace. Additionally, it should be noted the industry experts have noted that many of the products in this industry are in significant demand as more consumers are seeking a healthier lifestyle.1

A product such as the Hydra Cooler could move into the marketplace through a few different methods. One of the main methods for moving into the marketplace would be to utilize a wholesaler who would be able to supply the product to a variety of users in the marketplace. These wholesalers would sell directly to places such as high schools, colleges, as well as professional or amateur sports teams. Many of these products are sold directly to the end consumer, either from the manufacturer or from a wholesaler. It is possible that the product could be sold directly to the consumer through online resources or direct marketing methods of the company. However, these direct marketing methods will require a higher marketing budget in order to develop sufficient brand recognition and draw attention to the product from the marketplace. Finally, it is possible that this product could be sold through retailers throughout the country, although now is hard to say with certainty whether many retailers and end general consumers would see the benefit of utilizing a multiple faucet water cooler.

1 https://www.ibisworld.com/industry/default.aspx?indid=895 MARKET RESEARCH

Examining the current marketplace for competing products there were no water coolers that had more than one faucet or drain on those coolers. In fact, none of the market research indicated that there were any water coolers that had multiple faucets or valves. In general, the average water cooler that would be utilized by a sports team retails for prices ranging from about $45 on up to about $65, with the main price variance being the size and shape of the water cooler. For example, some water coolers are only meant for 5 gallons while others are developed for 10 gallons. Thus, now, there is no direct comparison to indicate with certitude price comparisons from competing products.