Decathlon launches UK first rental scheme

Sports retailer Decathlon has launched a rental service across all of its UK stores, becoming the first sports retailer in the country to do so.

The rental service has been rolled out across all UK stores following a successful trial at four stores, where customers found that the offering allowed them to stay active without investing in new kit whilst overcoming common obstacles like a lack of storage at home.

Bikes, kayaks, paddleboards and all other kinds of sports equipment will be available to rent for a lower price.

Paddleboards and kayaks can be hired for £30 a day whilst tennis rackets are £10, with all rentals being 50% off on the second day.

The company is committing over £1m worth of products to the scheme in 2023.

Rentals can be ordered online and collected in store just an hour later. They can also
be cancelled up to 24 hours in advance to allow for any weather changes.

Chris Allen, sustainability leader at Decathlon UK, said: “Despite having the appetite to try sports, committing to the cost of buying gear is one of the biggest barriers to people taking up something new. Rentals gives customers across the UK the opportunity to overcome this challenge by discovering the joy of different activities at an affordable price and in a sustainable way.

“We are proud to be the first business to offer nationwide rentals and this is a positive step forward for sustainable sports retail.”