Rounds booked by electronic booking systems have increased 90% since 2019. Golf’s growth is undeniable.
So where’s the problem?
THE PROBLEM:
Our unique data has identified 433 clubs in Britain that we believe are so distressed they could face closure.
ONE in SIX
WHAT'S HAPPENING?
The modern challenges facing golf clubs are multifaceted and severe.
Environmental headwinds
Out of 1,988 English golf courses, 117 are at high risk of flooding, which equates to about 6% of all courses. This flood risk significantly impacts playing time and revenue, making it difficult for clubs to retain members and maintain financial stability.
Moreover, water resource management has become a pressing issue, with the cost of advanced irrigation systems necessary to mitigate drought conditions often exceeding a million pounds—an unattainable expense for many clubs.
6% AT RISK OF FLOODING
Cultural complications
Cultural shifts further complicate the situation. Modern lifestyles, characterised by time constraints and changing leisure preferences, have reduced the appeal of traditional 18-hole golf.
Younger generations seek shorter, more flexible formats and diverse recreational activities. Yet many clubs have been slow to adapt, maintaining outdated membership procedures and policies that deter potential new members.
Economic struggles
The economic landscape is troubling. Rising maintenance, insurance, and general operations costs, coupled with the impact of the cost-of-living crisis, have placed additional financial burdens on clubs.
The increased running costs are compounded by fluctuating membership numbers and have led to a situation whereby 433 clubs in Britain are identified as vulnerable to closure without urgent intervention.
433 CLUBS VULNERABLE
JUST 1% FEMALE MEMBERS AGED 20-50
Demographic imbalance
Data shows that 85% of members are male, and only 15% are female, with a mere 1% of female members aged 20-50.
The median age of members skews towards older generations, highlighting an urgent need to attract younger players.
This demographic imbalance not only limits the diversity of the sport but also jeopardises its long-term sustainability as the older generation eventually phases out of active play.
Technological impact
Technological advancements offer both challenges and opportunities for golf clubs.
While innovations such as golf simulators and apps for shot tracking have made golf more accessible and appealing, they also pose a threat to traditional clubs that fail to integrate these advancements. The top-performing clubs have embraced digital transformation, whereas the bottom tier, struggling to adapt, faces an uncertain future.
THE SOLUTION
The solution? Insights and strategies powered by data.
To navigate such challenges, golf clubs must undergo strategic transformations rooted in robust data analysis and forward-thinking planning.
No-one else but Custodian Golf has access to the unique and powerful data that drives our strategies. Learn more about the state of British golf and how we help clubs not only survive but thrive, in our 2024 White Paper.
"The ability to tap into the bespoke software that Custodian Golf has developed, and the savings of time and cost, is significant – Custodian is defining what risks there might be so much earlier in the research process than I’ve seen achieved previously. It’s a game-changer.”
Jeremy Slessor, Managing Director, European Golf Design
WHAT NEXT?
Download the 2024 White Paper
Custodian Golf has conducted an in-depth study of every golfing facility in Britain. Our analysis reveals:
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The impact of climate change and urbanisation
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Demographic shifts affecting membership
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Insights from 100 recently closed clubs
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How to identify your club’s risk/potential profile
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The risks of inaction
Questions? Get in touch: