4591 - Sporting Goods, Hobby, and Musical Instrument Retailers

When it comes to retail businesses that specialize in sporting goods, hobby supplies, and musical instruments, NAICS code 4591 serves as a vital classification. This industry classification helps define the scope of businesses that cater to enthusiasts of sports, hobbies, and music, playing a key role in the broader retail trade sector. Whether you’re a business owner, government contractor, or market researcher, understanding NAICS 4591 is essential for navigation, compliance, and opportunity identification in this vibrant marketplace.

What Is NAICS Code 4591?

NAICS code 4591 covers establishments primarily engaged in retailing sporting goods, hobby goods, and musical instruments. This classification includes businesses that sell a wide range of products such as:

Sports equipment and apparel
Bicycles and cycling accessories
Toys and games
Musical instruments and related supplies

The code groups together retailers that serve a variety of customer needs, from athletes and outdoor enthusiasts to hobbyists and musicians.

Sector and Typical Business Activities

NAICS 4591 is part of the larger Retail Trade sector. The businesses classified under this code commonly engage in:

Sporting Goods Stores
Retailers offering products like athletic shoes, sports apparel, fitness equipment, and outdoor gear.
Hobby and Toy Stores
Establishments focusing on toys, games, craft supplies, model kits, and other hobby-related merchandise.
Musical Instrument and Supplies Stores
Shops selling guitars, pianos, drums, sheet music, and accessories for music professionals and hobbyists alike.

Small Business Size Standards for NAICS 4591

To qualify as a small business under this NAICS code, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) sets size standards based primarily on annual receipts:

The size standard for NAICS 4591 businesses is usually $30 million in average annual receipts.
This threshold determines eligibility for small business programs, including government contracting and assistance initiatives.

Small businesses that meet this criterion can leverage various opportunities designed to support growth and competitiveness.

Examples of Businesses Under NAICS Code 4591

Here are some well-known and common examples of businesses classified under NAICS 4591:

Dick's Sporting Goods – A leading sporting goods retailer with an extensive inventory of sports equipment and apparel.
The Hobby Lobby – A store offering hobby products, crafts, and supplies.
Guitar Center – One of the largest musical instrument retailers in the U.S.
Toys “R” Us (in its operational forms) – Toy retailers that fall under the hobby and toy store classification.
Local bicycle shops – Retailers specializing in bicycles and cycling gear.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What products are included in NAICS 4591?

NAICS 4591 includes sporting goods such as balls, bats, and fitness gear; hobby goods like model kits and craft supplies; toys and games; and musical instruments including guitars, keyboards, and related accessories.

Is NAICS 4591 only for physical retail stores?

Primarily yes, this NAICS code covers establishments with a physical retail presence. However, some businesses with online retail operations may use this classification if their primary business activity fits the description.

How do I determine if my business falls under NAICS 4591?

If your primary business activity involves retailing sporting goods, hobby items, or musical instruments and accessories, then NAICS 4591 is the appropriate classification. You can also use SBA’s NAICS lookup tools for confirmation.

What is the importance of NAICS codes for government contracting?

NAICS codes help government agencies identify and classify businesses for contract eligibility, size standards, and set-aside programs. Using the correct code like 4591 can open doors to bidding on relevant government contracts.

Can businesses in NAICS 4591 operate online and still qualify?

Yes, businesses primarily engaged in selling the products defined in this code, whether online or brick-and-mortar, may be classified under NAICS 4591, provided their main activity matches the retail trade of sporting goods, hobby, and musical instruments.

Conclusion

NAICS code 4591 - Sporting Goods, Hobby, and Musical Instrument Retailers is a crucial classification within the retail trade sector. It encompasses a diverse array of businesses focused on supplying high-demand sports equipment, hobby supplies, toys, games, and musical instruments. Understanding the specifics of this NAICS code, including its size standards and typical business activities, is essential for accurate business classification, accessing government contracting opportunities, and market research.

Whether you’re launching a new retail store or seeking government contracts, knowing your NAICS code is your first step toward success in this dynamic and rewarding industry.

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