Air Arms is currently the only airgun manufacturer represented on the GTA Council. What encouraged you to become involved, and why is it important for the airgun sector to have a voice at that level?

Claire West: I wanted to get involved because I felt it was important that the airgun sector had a direct voice within the GTA. Airguns are a significant part of the shooting industry, but we also face some unique challenges and it’s important those are understood when discussions are taking place.

If we are not in the room, we are relying on others to speak on our behalf. By being involved, I can help make sure the views of airgun manufacturers, distributors and retailers are represented and that the GTA has a good understanding of the issues that affect our sector.

What have you learnt about the GTA’s work since joining the Council, and how has your involvement changed your understanding of the challenges facing the wider gun trade?

CW: I’ve probably been most surprised by how much work goes on behind the scenes. The GTA spends a lot of time engaging with government, the police and many other organisations on behalf of the trade, often without most people realising it’s happening.

It has also made me realise that many of the challenges facing the wider gun trade have an impact on the airgun sector in one way or another. Whether it’s regulation, compliance, public perception or commercial pressures, we are all affected by many of the same issues.

Being involved has reinforced the importance of working together, sharing knowledge and presenting a united voice wherever possible. More than anything, it has shown me how important it is for all parts of the industry to be represented and engaged in the conversations that shape our future.

What prompted the formation of the GTA Airgun Focus Group, and what does the group hope to achieve for manufacturers, distributors and retailers?

CW: The Focus Group was created because we felt there was a need for airgun businesses and experts to come together and discuss the issues that specifically affect our sector more widely.

One of our biggest aims is preparation. We want to build a strong evidence base with reliable data, statistics and market information so that if legislation or regulation becomes a threat to the industry, we are not starting from scratch. We can respond quickly, with facts and evidence to support our position.

The group is also about improving communication across the sector and making sure the GTA has direct access to the experience and knowledge of businesses working in the airgun market every day.

Which regulatory, political and commercial issues affecting the airgun trade are currently receiving the greatest attention from the Focus Group?

CW: At the moment there isn’t one single issue dominating the agenda, which is actually why the work of the Focus Group is so important.

A key priority for us is making sure we’re prepared for any future regulatory or legislative developments that could affect the airgun sector. That means building a strong evidence base, gathering reliable market data and statistics, and ensuring we have access to accurate information when it’s needed.

Equally, it is important that we look at how we can improve understanding of the airgun sector among policymakers and other stakeholders, while keeping an eye on the commercial challenges facing manufacturers, distributors and retailers.

The main objective is to make sure we are prepared rather than reactive. If future legislation is proposed, we need robust data, market intelligence and evidence already available so we can respond quickly and effectively on behalf of the industry.

How can the GTA encourage more airgun businesses to become involved in its work and ensure that the Focus Group represents the different parts of the sector effectively?

CW: The best way is to show businesses that their involvement can make a difference. The more people who contribute, the better informed the GTA becomes and the stronger our voice will be.

It’s important that the Focus Group represents all parts of the sector, from manufacturers and importers through to distributors and retailers. Everyone sees different challenges and opportunities, and we need those different perspectives if we’re going to be effective.

What role should the GTA play in explaining the airgun trade to government, the police and other decision-makers, particularly when new legislation or regulation is being considered?

CW: I think the GTA has a vital role to play. It’s important that decision-makers understand how our industry operates and that any decisions are based on facts rather than assumptions.

The GTA can provide reliable information, evidence and industry expertise, helping government and regulators understand the likely impact of any proposed changes. Having those relationships in place before issues arise is incredibly important.

What tangible progress would you like the Airgun Focus Group and GTA Council to make over the coming year, and what message would you give to airgun businesses that are not currently involved?

CW: I’d like to see the Focus Group build a strong foundation of industry data and intelligence so that we are properly prepared for any future challenges and opportunities.

I would also like to see a broader understanding of the issues that matter most to airgun businesses, ensuring the sector has the evidence and insight needed to represent its interests effectively.

My message to businesses across the sector is simple: if you want the airgun trade to remain strong, protected and future-proofed, it is important to be part of the wider industry conversation. Becoming a member of the GTA is the first step. A strong and representative trade association depends on the support and engagement of the businesses it represents, and the more united we are, the stronger our collective voice will be when addressing challenges, influencing decision-makers and promoting the interests of the airgun trade. The more businesses that get involved, the better equipped we will be to safeguard the sector for years to come.

Related articles

A united voice for the trade – The previous GTA Voices interview, with Sean O’Driscoll.

Speaking from experience: Tony Belas on the state of the airgun sector – Tony Belas on the state of the airgun sector.

GTA leader sets out a vision of renewal at Bisley AGM – The GTA’s renewal plan, as set out at its AGM.

Air Arms goes direct – The earlier move that reshaped how Air Arms sells to the trade.