Editorial – Golf Club Sales Strength Portends Good Things For Teachers

By: Mark Harman, Director of Education

It has been well established by now that the COVID-19 pandemic which started in early 2020 resulted in a boon for the golf industry. Golf was considered a safe and healthy activity, and not only did many people discover the game, but many who had stopped playing returned in droves. With this influx of people came the need for golf equipment. In the United States, the PGA Tour Superstore chain experienced record sales and continues to do so. According to the National Golf Foundation (NGF), “Despite supply chain constraints, shipments from golf equipment manufacturers in 2022 have remained strong, matching last year’s impressive growth. Through June, golf club dollar shipments are up 10.2%, while golf balls are up 12.1%.” Globenewswire.com reports, “With the substantial growth of the golf tourism industry, the market is anticipated to have a positive outlook in the coming years…At present, more than 200 golf courses are under construction, and over 350 golf courses are in the planning stages, globally.”

All this is good news from the golf industry for a variety of reasons. Golf club manufacturers are overcoming the supply chain issues that plagued them in 2020 and through most of 2021. People are going to be able to find the equipment they need, which will keep them in the game. And of course, with the increase in the number of courses and people playing comes a greater demand for golf teaching professionals.

This is a good time…no, a great time…to be in the golf industry. USGTF members who exhibit a spark of creativity and initiative should benefit exponentially, and for years to come.