General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) Radios Market Size, Share, Growth by 2030

The General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) Radios Market is projected to expand from US$ 133.23 million in 2023 to US$ 162.88 million by 2030, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.9% during this period.

As defined by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), GMRS radios facilitate short-range two-way voice communication. In the United States, GMRS operates as a licensed radio service utilizing frequencies between 462 megahertz (MHz) and 467 MHz. Conversely, in Canada, users can operate GMRS radios without a license. GMRS functions as a land-mobile ultra-high frequency (UHF) radio system. The theoretical communication range between two handheld devices is approximately one to two miles (about 1.5-3 km), while mobile units equipped with taller antennas can achieve ranges of around five miles (8 km). Furthermore, GMRS repeaters, positioned at elevated locations, can significantly extend communication distances, potentially reaching up to 20 miles (32.2 km) around the repeater, thus enabling long-range communication capabilities.

GMRS radios find applications in various activities such as vehicle racing, camping, hunting, skiing, and other off-road recreational pursuits. These activities often take place in remote locations where mobile network coverage is sparse or nonexistent. The demand for GMRS radios in these contexts stems from their ability to provide reliable communication over longer distances and superior signal penetration compared to standard walkie-talkies. For instance, during hunting expeditions, GMRS radios can offer more dependable communication than cell phones, especially in wooded areas. Additionally, in skiing scenarios, these radios are crucial for two-way communication to relay information about severe weather conditions. Consequently, the use of GMRS radios is vital for enhancing safety for individuals and groups, which is a significant driver of growth in the GMRS radios market.

In agricultural settings, where farms often span vast areas and are located in remote regions with limited cellular service, real-time communication is essential for farmers and operators to make timely decisions regarding farm management. GMRS radios provide a reliable means of long-range communication for discussing crop conditions, livestock management, irrigation planning, weather updates, and other agricultural matters, enabling swift decision-making. This reliance on GMRS radios for effective farm management further fuels the demand and growth of the GMRS radios market.

The global GMRS Radios Market is divided into regions including North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Rest of the World. North America held the largest market share in 2023 and is expected to continue its leadership throughout the forecast period. Manufacturers in the Asia Pacific region are concentrating on technological innovations within the GMRS radios market. For example, in April 2021, Midland introduced two new high-wattage GMRS radios, the MXT500 and MXT575, both designed for users seeking extended range capabilities. Additionally, Europe and the Asia Pacific regions are anticipated to experience significant growth in the GMRS radios market, driven by evolving lifestyle standards and the increasing popularity of recreational activities.

The COVID-19 pandemic had a notable impact on the GMRS radios market, particularly in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) and South America (SAM). Various governments implemented lockdown measures to mitigate the spread of the virus, leading to the temporary suspension of numerous activities across different sectors. In early 2020, outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and off-road competitions were halted to minimize human contact, adversely affecting market growth. However, as restrictions eased, these regions resumed outdoor recreational activities, and interest in sports and recreation surged as individuals sought to maintain their physical and mental well-being. This resurgence in outdoor activities subsequently increased the demand for two-way communication devices like GMRS radios, contributing to the market's recovery and growth.

In Mexico, FRS radios are not permitted, and even dual-mode FRS/GMRS devices are not authorized. The Mexican Secretary of Communication and Transportation has allowed the use of FRS frequencies through GMRS radios, with devices under 2 watts being permissible without a license, while those exceeding 2 watts require licensing. Mexico's diverse landscapes, including national parks, dense forests, and active volcanoes, attract hiking enthusiasts, thereby driving the demand for GMRS radios for safety and effective communication in areas lacking mobile network coverage, further supporting the growth of the GMRS radios market.

Key players in the GMRS radios market include Tidradio, Rugged Race Products Inc, Quanzhou Chierda Electronic Telecom Co Ltd, WOUXUN ELECTRONICS CO., LTD., Midland Radio Corp, Hongkong Retevis Trade Co Ltd, Fujian Baofeng Electronics Co Ltd, Sainstore Inc, Iradio Electronics Co Ltd, and QYT Electronics Co Ltd. These companies, along with several others, have been analyzed in this market research study.

The GMRS Radios Market is categorized by type into Handheld and In-Vehicle segments. The handheld segment dominated the market in 2022.

Handheld GMRS radios are portable and wireless, commonly utilized by large enterprises and small to medium-sized businesses for internal communications. They are also popular for recreational activities such as skiing and camping, allowing groups or families to stay connected. Additionally, these devices can assist elderly individuals with mobility issues or cognitive impairments in quickly reaching out for help. Market players offer GMRS radios tailored for various applications, including agriculture, off-road activities, and recreational use.

Notable manufacturers of handheld GMRS radios include MIDLAND Radio, Rexon Technology Co., Ltd., and Rugged Radios, among others. These companies provide a range of handheld GMRS radios equipped with features that cater to consumer needs.