Transforming Traditional Golf

Transforming Traditional Golf

How are people from all walks of life transforming the game of golf… and breaking barriers?

The customary game of golf and traditional driving ranges are quickly becoming catalysts to other activities. Across the USA and the UK, masses of traditional golf venues are taking the plunge by diversifying their existing offering into enhanced technology, high-energy… and a serious focus on the “entertainment” factor.

It certainly is no secret that golf venues are thinking about the social aspects of the experience, too. From Gareth Bale’s Par 59 venues in the UK (think indoor adventure golf teamed with cocktails and delicious street food), to Drive Shack’s Puttery (taking indoor adventure golf up a notch with themed courses and exclusive themed drinks) there is a huge market to be tapped into when it comes to creating social environments around games. Gone are the days of the typical food and drinks with friends… when some good old competitive fun comes into the equation!

And the best part? Golf games with a twist just continue to grow. The global mini golf industry has seen such a tremendous expansion over the past few decades, with an estimated value of $9.9 billion in 2019 and a projected market size of $633.1 million by 2028 in the US alone.

But why?

Combining golf with more fun and exciting activities isn’t just for adults… and it’s not just for a particular demographic, either. Take The R&A’s new venture – GolfIt! as an example. This newly launched inclusive venue in Glasgow promises activities for fun, for families, for foodies and for friends – all centred around the beautiful game, of course. With such an extensive offering of golf courses, driving ranges, adventure golf courses, a nursery, information centre, cycling, padel games and delicious street food… there is plenty on offer to increase visitor dwell time and create a fun day out for the entire family.

Braving the elements

Where weather can be totally unpredictable, such as the UK in the height of summer, there is a lot that can be said about bringing the game of golf inside. Take Mulligans, for example – who have created, alongside Greenspan Projects, an 18-hole innovative technology-infused adventure golf within a venue at Norwich’s Riverside Park. Whether people are checking out the shops, enjoying bars and restaurants or just escaping the confines of the house for a while… the rain can’t dampen spirits when you’re in a toasty covered venue!

We’ve even heard news of the recent inclement weather improving visitor numbers dramatically within indoor adventure golf venues… so visitors can still enjoy the summer holidays with some competitive fun without braving the wind and rain.

Demographic shifts 

Around a third of all golfers in the U.S. are now millennials, which could be a shock to the golfing community given its clear appeal to an older demographic. However, younger golfers like Rory Mcllroy are proving the stereotype that golf is a sport for the older segments of the population wrong. In 2019, over 14 million millennials indicated they would be interested in playing a game of golf this year.

Another noteworthy demographic shift is the increasing interest in golf from women. In 2019, women were about a quarter of all golfers!

This bodes well for the future of golf and the vision to become a more inclusive sport enjoyed by all. It will also provide more business opportunities as chances to appeal to the female demographics in golfing equipment, social entertainment and fashion can be expected to increase.

Staying social

Social media and media coverage are essential parts of the adventure golf and social entertainment strategy to reach more segments of the population, especially the younger crowd. Given that over 60% of millennials are active Instagram users, venues will be looking to reach this crowd by providing more coverage of fun-filled activities… and more highlights of amazing shots.

Whether it is Instagram, Tik Tok, or Facebook, users will create content that will market itself – and that’s before influencers even come into play. For example, at Boom Battle Bar, influencers with thousands or even over a million followers frequent the venues to try out all the latest games and themed nights. It’s certainly a marketing dream!

How can Greenspan help transform your venue?

Simple. By adding an attraction that will entice your target audience! Our team have decades of experience in this area and have delivered multiple projects to increase dwell time, provide excellent ROI and make your destination the talk of the town.

Contact our team today on: sales@greenspanltd.com or call:

📱 +44 (0) 2380 476 737 (UK) 📱 +1 682-282-0720 (USA) 📱 +357 2503-0250 (Europe)

 

 

Latest Project

Alltid Opplett Indoor Mini Golf, Bergen, Norway

Greenspan Projects is proud to have been part of the design and build of Bergen’s largest activity bar, Alltid Opplett!

This exciting indoor mini golf attraction was created in collaboration with Paul Havnevik, owner of The Prisoners at Fort Bergen, Megazone Bergen and The Cube Bergen. After meeting us at IAAPA Expo Europe, Paul chose Greenspan Projects as his mini golf provider to transform a 20,000 sqft space into a high-energy, multi-attraction venue catering to all ages.

Premium mini golf course design & build 

Our aim for Alltid Opplett was to create a mini golf experience that balances sophistication with fun, offering a challenge for players while maintaining a sleek, high-end design. And we delivered! The venue boasts two incredible two 9-hole courses, thoughtfully designed with features that elevate the gameplay and overall experience:

  • Luxury black hole designs complete with hardwood capping for a sleek, high-end finish.
  • Vibrant turf colours & interactive gameplay for an engaging player experience
  • A Puttify hole as the final hole on each course, adding a unique challenge
  • Digital scoring technology for seamless gameplay
  • Multi-language options to accommodate all visitors

 

More than just mini golf

While mini golf is undoubtedly the star attraction at Alltid Opplett this venue is much more than just a golf course. It’s a complete social entertainment hub, where guests can also enjoy a wide range of activities and services in a vibrant, energetic setting:

  • Street Curling, offering a fun and unique way to play a winter sport indoors.
  • Flyby. Darts powered by The Social Gaming Group, providing a high-tech and interactive twist on traditional darts.
  • Two Bar Areas, serving up a wide range of beverages for guests to unwind and socialise.
  • Private Meeting Rooms, ideal for corporate groups looking to host business meetings, presentations or team-building events in a relaxed, yet stylish environment.

 

Designed for everyone: from families to corporate groups 

Paul’s vision for Alltid Opplett was to create a venue that welcomes everyone—from toddlers to grandparents, date night to team-building events. With a blend of innovative mini golf course design, immersive gameplay and multi-attraction offerings, Alltid Opplett is redefining leisure in Bergen. This venue offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit for locals and tourists alike.

Check out the Alltod Opplett in full swing!

 

Looking for a world-class mini golf course with cutting-edge features? Contact us today!

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