National Golf Course Owners Association (NGCOA)’s Post

Is it time for a golf channel manager? For over twenty years, hotels have used a channel manager to manage room inventory and rates in real-time across online distribution channels to maximize revenue. Yet, in 2024, a golf channel manager doesn’t exist, where owners can simultaneously control pricing and distribution to their websites, social platforms, online travel agents, tour operators, tee time marketplaces, metasearch, GDS, and other seller channels. In 2022, $31 billion was spent on golf tourism-related expenditures. Golf courses deserve to have their tee time inventory available to travelers at the point of booking, whether for an upcoming golf trip or an impromptu round of golf. Consumers can book a tour or a fishing trip with an airline and hotel on Expedia, but not a tee time. How does this make sense? This is an opportunity for a golf course to obtain a full rack rate as the schedule outweighs the price. Channel managers are valuable because they allow the golf course to control pricing and inventory across all distribution channels it selects. They also benefit tee sheet software providers and distribution partners by reducing the number of companies they integrate with and lowering server and resource costs. To be successful, all suppliers and sellers must work together. Restricting access to golf courses based on their tee sheets must be abandoned, as it creates a closed and biased market that limits growth. Software should provide solutions for golf course owners and not control how they run their businesses. U.S. courses generated over $37 billion in operating revenue in 2022 and should have the same software and marketing opportunities afforded to hotels, airlines, rental cars, and other activities. The future is bright as new innovative technology companies will drive positive change for golf course owners by opening up the market and bringing golf technology on par with travel. It’s time.

Golf and Fishing Why Luxury Hobbies Like Golf and Fishing Are Struggling to Attract Event Participants Golf and fishing are often seen as luxurious hobbies, enjoyed by those seeking a blend of relaxation and challenge. As someone who enjoys both, I recently planned an event combining these activities, confident that the overlap would appeal to a wide audience. However, the response has been underwhelming, and this has led me to reflect on why these luxury experiences might not be resonating as expected. Here are a few key insights: 1. Target Audience Mismatch While both golf and fishing are popular pastimes, the overlap between those who engage in both may be smaller than anticipated. Many enthusiasts prefer to focus on one activity at a time, and combining both may feel too ambitious or specialized for a broader audience. 2. Cost and Time Sensitivities Both activities require a significant investment of time and money. In today’s fast-paced world, participants may find it challenging to commit to an event that involves both golf and fishing, especially if they perceive it as a major financial or time burden. 3. Impact of Economic Conditions Economic uncertainty can play a significant role in people’s decisions to participate in leisure activities. When financial pressure is high, even those who enjoy luxury hobbies may reduce spending on non-essential activities, especially those involving travel, equipment, or participation fees. 4. Need for Clearer Promotion While the concept of combining golf and fishing is appealing to a select group, it’s essential to communicate the unique value of such events effectively. Ensuring that potential participants understand the benefits and the memorable experiences they’ll gain can make a significant difference. 5. Timing and Location Considerations The timing or location of the event may not align with the preferences of your target audience. Golfers and anglers often have specific times or places they prefer, and if the event doesn’t match those preferences, it might not attract the desired turnout. Looking Ahead Reflecting on these factors, it's clear that even well-planned luxury events require careful attention to audience preferences, economic realities, and clear communication. By addressing these points—whether through more targeted marketing, flexible pricing options, or better timing—I believe we can adapt to the changing needs of participants and make these events more attractive, even in uncertain times.

Golf Revenue Above PAR and POR for Hotels. https://lnkd.in/gfnsC8dJ #hotels #golfrevenue #par #por #hotelbooking #directbooking #onlinebooking #hotelrevenue #revenuemanagement #revenuestrategy #hotelrevenuemanagement #onlinemarketing #digitalmarketing #hotelmarketing #sales #marketing #reservations #bookingengine #channelmanager #otas

Buyers of golf resort real estate are younger and acting more decisively, according to new research. They are also prepared to pay on average 19% more to live inside a golf resort than outside, and a further average premium of 16.5% to have a view of the course. These are the findings of the latest study conducted by European Tour Destinations, a network of world-class golf venues, and explained in a new multimedia feature: A Changing Landscape: Golf Real Estate in 2024. Sandra Ruttle, European Tour Destinations’ real estate consultant, said: “We felt it was the right time to conduct this new study to understand the market post-pandemic. “Having undertaken similar research in 2018, it made sense to update our earlier findings and get a clearer picture of the current golf property market, premiums, buyer profiles and any new sector trends.” The report, based on the completed sales of 138 plots, villas, townhouses and apartments during 2023, gives a clear picture of the market and highlights the shifts in consumer behaviour. It also reveals the sales and marketing tools driving success for venues in the network. “It’s heartening that real estate within European Tour Destinations resorts still commands higher prices than equivalent homes outside the venues,” continued Ruttle. “This demonstrates our venues’ determination to stay ahead of the curve and deliver services and value that outstrip the local competition. “Other insights from this research include the average age of buyers, which is now in the early fifties, down from around retirement age – something that can be attributed to rising wealth in younger people and the trend for working from home. “And they are making decisions quicker. In the past, it would take typically three to four visits before buying; now it’s one or two visits for the vast majority of sales, with an average buying period of 12 weeks from initial contact to purchase completion.” A Changing Landscape: Golf Real Estate in 2024 also shares insights from Camiral Golf & Wellness in Catalonia, Pirin Golf & Country Club, Bulgaria, Estonian Golf & Country Club and Quinta do Lago in Portugal.

What is the link between Turnberry's Ailsa Golf Course charging £1,000 green fees and the Meetings & Events Industry? 18 holes on the famous Ailsa Course (host to The Open several times) could cost as much as £1,000 for non-residents at the Trump Turnberry Hotel, but there is some logic behind it. Basically, it is to protect peak tee times for their golf club members and hotel residents. Imagine if you had paid several hundred pounds to stay at the hotel but were not able to book a round on the course because non-residents had booked all the peak tee times but were staying elsewhere? What does this have to do with the Meetings & Events Industry you might ask? Well, if you want to book a hotel's largest meeting room for a conference but without accommodation or catering, the hotel is likely to charge you a premium for this. The hotel does not want to be in a position where they have sold their largest meeting rooms but left with lots of unsold bedrooms. It is much harder for hotels to sell individual bedrooms than a large group booking. This is particularly true of midweek events as these are usually premium dates for hotels. If you can hold your conference on a Monday, Friday, Saturday or Sunday, then hotels will usually be more flexible towards your needs and work with you to find a Win-Win solution. Trump Turnberry Hotel is a fantastic hotel that offers more than just golf. You can go horse riding on the beach, do some falconry, visit the excellent Spa and so much more! Oh and for what it's worth, the Ailsa Course at Turnberry is without doubt a fantastic golf course which I have had the pleasure of playing a few times, without having to pay anywhere near £1,000 for the experience! #perksoftheindustry 😉 ⛳ Trump Turnberry Paul Hutton https://lnkd.in/e-cw2akA

Few Canadian #tourism brands — let alone golf brands — have been as successful as Cabot. Its newest property, Cabot Citrus Farms, punctuates its stature by transforming a once-renowned club into a luxury resort destination with spectacular golf experiences. Check my feature article on Vacay.ca that explains why golfers will be drawn to Cabot's first U.S. location, which is an hour's drive north of Tampa. https://lnkd.in/eduJAti5

Love to see Omni Hotels & Resorts shining a spotlight on our world-class golf courses through the inaugural Generation Cup, a premier event that not only showcases our stunning properties like The Omni Grove Park Inn but also emphasizes the deep-rooted connection to the game of golf. As highlighted in the Forbes article, this initiative isn't just about sports; it's about creating exceptional experiences that blend luxury, hospitality, and top-tier amenities, making, rather, proving, Omni Hotels & Resorts to be a standout choice for for both business and leisure travel, or #Bleisure. https://lnkd.in/ecQFhpJx 🔹 Why This Matters for Corporate Business Travel: Elevated Guest Experience: Omni's focus on golf is more than just a recreational offering—it’s a strategic enhancement that elevates the guest experience, appealing especially to business travelers looking for relaxation and networking opportunities in a premium setting. Enhanced Loyalty and Rewards: By integrating unique experiences and exceptional service, Omni strengthens its appeal to frequent business travelers. Omni Hotels & Resorts Select Guest® loyalty program provides tailored benefits that are particularly attractive to corporate guests who value recognition and personalized service. At Omni, it’s about more than just a stay—it’s about offering an unparalleled lifestyle that merges work, play, and community impact seamlessly. #AttheOmni #BusinessTravel #CorporateTravel #BizTravel #OmniHotels #GenerationCup #GolfTravel #LuxuryTravel #Forbes #AlwaysLookingUp

New Post: Troon Teams with Travel Partner - https://lnkd.in/gM3htVt9, United States: The Troon Partners Network, a division of Troon, has teamed up with Ship Sticks, a premier golf club shipping provider. Scottsdale, Arizona, United States: In a move aimed at revolutionising the golf travel landscape, the Troon Partners Network, a division of Troon, has teamed up with Ship Sticks, a premier golf club shipping provider. This partnership unites two companies with a shared mission: to redefine the golf travel experience, prioritising convenience and enjoyment for every golfer’s journey. This multi-year partnership will integrate Ship Sticks’ services across Troon properties worldwide. As a result, golfers will gain access to new, streamlined operations designed to simplify the shipping of their golf clubs to and from Troon’s 850+ world-renowned courses. Golfers who play at Troon properties can take advantage of door-to-door service that ensures their gear arrives on time and without the stress typically associated with travel. In addition to their integration across Troon properties, Ship Sticks will be prominently featured in a comprehensive media campaign, including Troon Magazine \(print and digital\) and Troon Privé Magazine \(print and digital\), reaching over a million golfers worldwide. Ship Sticks will also be a key sponsor at high-profile Troon events such as the Troon Event Series, the Troon Cup, and the Troon Challenge. “Our primary objective is to enhance the overall customer experience for our golfers,” said Ryan Pensy, Vice President, Strategic Partnerships, Troon Partners Network. “Ship Sticks has a proven track record in serving travelling golfers across all levels, making them the perfect partner to elevate the golfing experience at our courses.” Since its inception, Ship Sticks has forged partnerships with thousands of golf facilities, country clubs, and resorts. Their commitment to reliable, efficient, and cost-effective golf travel has solidified their presence in the industry. “We believe that the golfing journey should begin with ease and excitement, even before you reach the course,” said Jonathan Marsico, Ship Sticks’ CEO and co-founder. “Our collaboration with Troon represents more than just a partnership; it signifies our commitment to reshaping the golf travel experience for players around the world. With Troon’s expansive reach and Ship Sticks’ tailored services, we’re perfectly positioned to enhance every golfer’s journey,” added Marsico. *Troon is an Executive Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.

Title: Streamlining Transportation for Successful Golf Events Transportation logistics can make or break a golf event. From ensuring smooth arrivals to managing parking, every detail counts. Here are some key tips to streamline transportation and enhance the participant experience: Pre-Event Planning: Map out transportation routes and options well in advance. Consider factors like proximity to the venue, traffic patterns, and any potential road closures or construction. Shuttle Services: If parking space is limited or the venue is spread out, consider offering shuttle services from designated locations. This not only reduces congestion but also adds a touch of convenience for participants. Parking Management: Efficient parking management is crucial. Clearly designate parking areas and provide clear signage to guide participants. Consider offering valet services for added convenience. Communication is Key: Keep participants informed about transportation options and logistics. Utilize email newsletters, event websites, and social media platforms to share important details and updates. Accessibility: Ensure that transportation options cater to participants of all abilities. Provide accessible shuttle services and designated parking spots for those with disabilities. By paying attention to transportation details, you can enhance the overall experience for participants and make your golf event a memorable success. Happy golfing! 🏌️♂️⛳️ #GolfEvents #EventPlanning #TransportationLogistics

New Post: Troon Teams with Travel Partner - https://lnkd.in/gVZGF9sj, United States: The Troon Partners Network, a division of Troon, has teamed up with Ship Sticks, a premier golf club shipping provider. Scottsdale, Arizona, United States: In a move aimed at revolutionising the golf travel landscape, the Troon Partners Network, a division of Troon, has teamed up with Ship Sticks, a premier golf club shipping provider. This partnership unites two companies with a shared mission: to redefine the golf travel experience, prioritising convenience and enjoyment for every golfer’s journey. This multi-year partnership will integrate Ship Sticks’ services across Troon properties worldwide. As a result, golfers will gain access to new, streamlined operations designed to simplify the shipping of their golf clubs to and from Troon’s 850+ world-renowned courses. Golfers who play at Troon properties can take advantage of door-to-door service that ensures their gear arrives on time and without the stress typically associated with travel. In addition to their integration across Troon properties, Ship Sticks will be prominently featured in a comprehensive media campaign, including Troon Magazine \(print and digital\) and Troon Privé Magazine \(print and digital\), reaching over a million golfers worldwide. Ship Sticks will also be a key sponsor at high-profile Troon events such as the Troon Event Series, the Troon Cup, and the Troon Challenge. “Our primary objective is to enhance the overall customer experience for our golfers,” said Ryan Pensy, Vice President, Strategic Partnerships, Troon Partners Network. “Ship Sticks has a proven track record in serving travelling golfers across all levels, making them the perfect partner to elevate the golfing experience at our courses.” Since its inception, Ship Sticks has forged partnerships with thousands of golf facilities, country clubs, and resorts. Their commitment to reliable, efficient, and cost-effective golf travel has solidified their presence in the industry. “We believe that the golfing journey should begin with ease and excitement, even before you reach the course,” said Jonathan Marsico, Ship Sticks’ CEO and co-founder. “Our collaboration with Troon represents more than just a partnership; it signifies our commitment to reshaping the golf travel experience for players around the world. With Troon’s expansive reach and Ship Sticks’ tailored services, we’re perfectly positioned to enhance every golfer’s journey,” added Marsico. *Troon is an Executive Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.