Europe’s golf markets are showing positive signs of stability and growth, according to KPMG’s Golf Participation Report for Europe 2016. Overall, the study shows Europe is in a period of stabilization following declines from the 2009 global financial crisis.
“Hopefully, what we have observed in some markets is a continuance of meaningful development in the sport as well as a boost to its reputation as a positive contributor, not least to the financial stability of clubs, too,” said Andrea Sartori, KPMG’s Global Head of Sport.
The study shows that 67 percent of local golf associations indicated in 2015 that their level of participation had either stabilized or increased. The remaining 33 percent experienced some decline, including key markets such as England, Spain and Ireland.
In terms of supply of golf courses in Europe, there were 7,097 affiliated facilities in 2015, which increased by over 18 facilities year-on-year since 2014.
As seen earlier, the European golfing family continues to be dominated by male golfers, who, in 2015, represented an estimated 66 percent of all European golfers. Female and junior golfer participation disappointing in 2015, at approximately 25 percent and 9 percent of all registered golfers, respectively.
The Golf Participation Report for Europe 2016 also provides an overview of those initiatives identified and pursued by local golf associations to boost golf in Europe. Among the numerous initiatives implemented by local associations, the most common growth initiatives were greater incentives for higher handicap players, golf course adaptations, improving the social experience of golf, and junior development programs.
Together with other industry research materials, KPMG’s Golf Participation Report for Europe 2016 is available for download on www.golfbenchmark.com.
