1 in 6 Golf Clubs in Britain Face Potential Closure

A comprehensive whitepaper study has found that there is an urgent need for action in the golf industry, as rising maintenance, insurance, and operational costs immediately threaten the closure of 433 clubs in Great Britain.

Released by Custodian Golf, the whitepaper "Securing the Future of Golf: From Challenge to Opportunity" addresses the critical challenges facing the golf industry and proposes strategic, data-driven solutions to ensure its survival and growth.

The whitepaper provides a detailed analysis of the economic pressures, demographic imbalances, and environmental risks confronting golf courses and clubs across the UK. It outlines innovative strategies for creating sustainable, engaging, and profitable golf facilities, leveraging comprehensive data and extensive industry experience.

Custodian Golf aims to work with golf clubs across England to support them in transitioning to lasting success. They plan to work in partnership to help optimise a club's potential and grow the game of golf through innovative strategies and a commitment to putting back better.

Key Findings:

• Rounds booked by electronic booking systems have increased by 90% since 2019.
• There is approximately one course for every 10,000 people in Scotland and one course for every 30,000 people in England and Wales.
• 346 British golf clubs have 50 or more other golf clubs within a 30-minute drive time (off-peak).
• 85% of members are male, and only 15% are female, with a mere 1% of female members aged 20-50.
• 1 in 6 clubs in Britain identified as so so distressed they could face closure.

(Whitewebbs Park Golf Course is Now Closed in London)

Leading Custodian Golf are four directors: Phil Grice, Philip Atkinson, Chris Leeming, and Alasdair Rae. Together, they bring a wealth of expertise in golf course management, strategic planning, accountancy, and spatial data analysis, all united by a shared passion for the game.

Phil Grice, Director of Custodian Golf, comments, "We are thrilled to officially launch this revolutionary whitepaper that’s been eighteen months in the making, we are dedicated to revolutionising the golf industry at a time when it is needed the most. Our vision is to create sustainable, inclusive, and engaging golf facilities that adapt to the evolving needs of today's golfers. By leveraging comprehensive data and our collective experience, we aim to grow the game and ensure that golf courses remain vibrant and accessible for future generations. The need for change is urgent, and at Custodian Golf, we are committed to making a positive impact on the golfing community and the environment."

Custodian Golf invites golf enthusiasts, club managers, and community members to join them in a mission to grow and improve the game of golf.

For more information and to access the whitepaper, please visit https://www.custodiangolf.co.uk/.

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