USPA Membership Pricing
When I heard that there is a lifetime membership, my first reaction was: “Damn, I wasted my money. I should have gotten the lifetime membership directly”.
After checking the price, I was stunned. In my mind, lifetime membership usually means more savings. But this may not be the case.
($2,500 - $78) / $66 = 37 years if you are American
($4,000 - $78) / $66 = 60 years if you are not American
First
I think most people don’t stay in this sport for 37 years (life/injuries/etc) to justify getting a lifetime membership.
Second
Why is international lifetime membership 60% more expensive than standard lifetime membership?
USPA shouldn’t incur extra costs since it is a digital product.
USPA insurance only applies to the USA dropzones. Most international jumpers are unlikely to enjoy this benefit.
I think international lifetime membership should not cost more than standard lifetime membership.
Third
I may be very wrong, but I think many members don’t renew their memberships annually. They do it only when they need it.
What is a reasonable price then?
If we set the average skydiver lifespan to 20 years:
$78 + $66 * 20 years = $1,398
Would I pay that price? Tough sell. I may pay for it if the average lifespan is set to 15 years:
$78 + $66 * 15 years = $1,068
These benefits should be add-ons:
- online digital membership credentials via Merit → I don’t know why I need this. Can someone explain?
- special recognition in Parachutist
- a special engraved lifetime membership card
But USPA needs revenue to continue operation!
Without USPA revenue data, I can’t speculate if my suggested pricing will increase/decrease USPA’s overall revenue.
At least I wouldn’t pay for an international lifetime membership at the current price, this is coming from a guy who digs lifetime things.
Here are some ways the USPA can generate more revenue
- Allow “Ads” on Parachutist
- Merchandise
