We have unveiled our comprehensive 2024/25 Golf Clubs Report, offering critical insights into the financial, operational, and membership dynamics shaping the landscape of members and proprietary golf clubs across the UK. This year’s findings showcase encouraging growth and resilience in the sector, despite evolving challenges in a post-pandemic era.
Key highlights from our comprehensive 2024 Golf Clubs Report include:
- Membership levels have grown steadily, with 59% of members clubs and 55% of proprietary clubs boasting over 600 members, up from 2023.
- Flexible membership options have gained traction, with 40% of members clubs and 64% of proprietary clubs offering adaptable packages tailored to individual needs.
- 77% of members clubs and 73% of proprietary clubs reported turnovers exceeding £1 million, showcasing a robust recovery from the pandemic’s financial strain.
- Bar revenues hit record highs, with 81% of members clubs generating over £150,000 annually.
- Clubs are grappling with rising wage costs due to living wage increases, with 64% of members clubs and 89% of proprietary clubs reporting substantial impacts.
- Energy cost inflation has slowed significantly, with clubs anticipating average increases of just 3% (members clubs) and 9% (proprietary clubs), compared to 35% and 100% last year.
- Continued focus on course upgrades, with 60% of members clubs updating fairway irrigation systems.
- Social media and member referrals dominate marketing strategies, with over 70% of clubs leveraging these tools effectively.
- 95% of members clubs and all proprietary clubs expressed a willingness to update rules and regulations to modernise their appeal.
- Growing adoption of gender- and age-inclusive membership incentives reflects a shift towards broader demographic engagement.
Members clubs lead in overall financial performance, with higher bar revenues and subscription fees. However, proprietary clubs are catching up, driven by stronger membership growth and innovative marketing strategies.
The report underscores challenges such as membership retention, cost management, and environmental sustainability. Clubs anticipate increased pressure to:
- Adapt to water security concerns with efficient irrigation and reservoir investments.
- Address demographic shifts, particularly with ageing memberships.
- Embrace technology, including AI and automation, for operational efficiency.
Despite these hurdles, the outlook remains positive, with 75% of members clubs and 78% of proprietary clubs reporting growth.
Recent headlines have spotlighted UK golf clubs facing closures and financial instability, particularly smaller clubs unable to compete with larger establishments. In contrast, the Hillier Hopkins report paints a nuanced picture of growth among well-managed clubs, underscoring the importance of strategic adaptation and investment.
The report aligns with broader industry trends, including the focus on sustainability and inclusivity highlighted during the 2024 PGA and R&A conferences. Additionally, the increase in flexible memberships mirrors efforts across the UK to make golf more accessible to younger and diverse audiences.
We urge clubs to leverage the insights provided in this report to benchmark performance, refine strategies, and prepare for a sustainable future. By focusing on member engagement, financial prudence, and innovation, the UK’s golf industry can continue its upward trajectory.
The Golf Club Survey Report 2024/25 will be published in the coming weeks and if you would like to receive a copy straight to your inbox please register via the button below:
For any questions about the content of this article or if you’d like to speak to one of our golf club experts, please contact Sam Hodson on the details below.
