I would guess most bowlers buy more equipment then needed. Since gone are the days of one rubber or plastic ball, most bowlers feel the need to buy new bowling balls more often. Many don't use proper maintenance on what they have, and when the performance starts to fade then it is on to the next bowling ball.
Information is everywhere these days, but understanding it all isn't as easy. No matter your skill level, or understanding of the game and equipment it can be easy to fall into the trap of the "next best thing". Want is always more enticing then need. So as long as bowlers continue to want more, and buy into the idea of the next ball being the answer sells will be fine.
If more bowlers took better care of what they had, and bought less then bowling companies would have problems.
Be good, or be good at it.