Exclusive NGF Articles and Reports
Full Shots
A summer resurgence showed 2022's slow start was attributable to poor golf weather rather than a softening in demand
“We were down significantly in April and not exactly sure what to expect... and then it came roaring back.”
Topics: Engagement, Facilities, Golf Courses, Golf Facilities, Participation
Strong summer pulls 2022 rounds totals closer to record 2021
August of 2022 yielded the third straight peak-season month of year-over-year play increases at U.S. golf courses.
Topics: Engagement, Facilities, Facility Operations, General Interest, Golf Courses
The Differentiation in Golfer Age Groups
How the unique characteristics of age cohorts groups pertain to consumer engagement

The meaningful differences between age cohorts can be of particular relevance and importance for those in the golf business, helping to understand the wants, needs and motivations of customers.
Topics: 18-34, 35-49, 65+, Beginners, Engagement

An Inside Look at the Golf Management Space
The evolution and growth of MCOs in the U.S. golf market

Topics: Course Owners, Facilities, Facility Operations, Golf Courses, Golf Facilities

June, July Rebound Suggest Rounds Retention
Play continues to trend ahead of recent pre-pandemic years

After strong play totals in June and July, YTD play entering August was trailing the record pace of 2021 by only 4%. And there are clear signs of retaining recent gains.
Topics: Engagement, Facilities, Golf Courses, Golf Facilities, Golfers

Peak season play saw a slight increase for second straight month
July rounds continued June's momentum, with a slight increase even over the record-setting pace of 2021
Topics: Engagement, Facilities, Golf Courses, Research, Rounds Played
8 best practices to help your business
The past several years have been generally very positive for golf operators, thanks to the "Covid boom." But how should we be improving the customer experience to ensure we're prepared and positioned for the future?
Topics: Economy, Engagement, Facilities, Facility Operations, Golf Courses
What is golf's pandemic dividend?
With the June 2022 national rounds report out, we now have a full 24 months of supporting data since golfers have been unencumbered by pandemic restrictions. Here's a closer look:
Topics: Engagement, Facilities, Golfers, Participation, Research
The midway point for rounds follows one of the highest-volume months of the year
June rounds saw a slight YOY uptick after three months of declines in national play
Topics: Engagement, Facilities, Golf Courses, Golfers, Participation
Equipment Market Remains Strong Midway Through '22
Member look: Golf club & ball shipments up significantly compared to pre-pandemic

Topics: Consumer Spending, Economy, Equipment, Golf Clubs, Research

Golf Course Closures Still Trending Downward
Member report: Closures on pace for lowest total in 17 years

The ongoing correction in the world's richest golf market began in 2006 after an unprecedented, and unsustainable, 20-year golf course building boom. The recent slowdown in closures may indicate the market is moving closer to equilibrium.
Topics: Closures, Economy, Facilities, Facility Supply, Golf Courses

How Does 2022 Rounds Momentum Compare to Pre-Covid?
A member-only look at rounds comparisons to previous years

In assessing play levels, it can be helpful to look beyond year-over-year comparisons. Here's how May 2022 stacks up against recent years just before the pandemic-driven play surges.
Topics: Facilities, Golf Courses, Participation, Rounds Played
