golf range business plan

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Golf Cart Report

#1 Rated Golf Cart Consumer Guide

How To Start A Driving Range Business (Step-By-Step Guide)

June 29, 2020 by Brittany Olizarowicz Leave a Comment

If you are a golf fanatic, you may have thought about opening up your own driving range.

By the time you pay for your current practice habit at a range, it may make sense for you to start your facility.

Like any business venture, there is quite a bit that goes into starting a driving range.

Luckily we have put together a basic plan that will help you understand what is involved.  

How To Start A Driving Range Business

Step 1: research.

If you talk to any successful business owner, they will tell you that they probably spent years researching and dreaming up their business before it launched.

Research is an essential part of starting a driving range business.

If you skip this step, you may end up losing quite a bit of money.

You need to research the area where you are considering building your range.

Are there enough people that will come and use it?

Even if you are not in a highly-populated area, you may have enough interest to support the range.

Try and look at several different locations and see how they are affected by commute times, local businesses or schools in the area, etc.

Try to talk to other driving range owners.

These don’t have to be your direct competition.

Talk to an owner in another state (with a similar climate to yours), ask them what they think about starting a business.

Ask them if they have any advice or words of caution.

There could be factors about the driving range business that you are not aware of, both from a positive and negative standpoint.

Do some research on the startup and ongoing costs of being a driving range business owner.

There will likely be loans and funds available to help you start, but is this a feasible idea for you.

Put together some estimates based on various levels of profitability as to how long it will take you to break even on your investment.

It may be longer than you think, and these are useful concepts to have in mind before you start.

Spend a lot of time considering your target market.

Are you starting this range because there are no other driving ranges or because you think you can do better?

Are other people looking for better places to practice?

Make sure your market is large enough for you to see the profitability you are looking for.

Step 2: Planning

Once you have done all of your research, you can start putting together the plan for your driving range.

You will need a business plan in place before looking for financing for your operation.

When you put together the plan, an essential factor is going to be the financial side of it.

Of course, the setup, design, marketing, etc. are all key factors, but the number is going to matter the most.

Think about what it will cost to purchase and build, what it will cost to maintain, what it will cost to acquire new customers, and more.

Step 3: Financing

If you are self-funding this startup, the financing part is going to be quite easy for you.

However, not everyone is this fortunate.

Once you have a solid business plan in place, you need to look for backers and investors to support your plan.

You may have luck with large banks, small business administration, or a private investor.

Make sure that your business plan is error-free and that you can answer every and any question about your projections.

If you don’t have this in place before looking for financing, you will end up missing out on some key investors.

Step 4: Purchasing

When you have your financing in place, you are likely ready to purchase your new driving range.

This is the point that we highly recommend having a lawyer take a look at your entire venture .

Make sure there are no restrictions on the land you are purchasing.

Try to see how many cars you can park at the location, or restrictions on operating times, etc.

The last thing you want to find out is that there is a potential hold up that will affect your profit.

Now is the time to spend the money to make sure everything will work out in your benefit for years to come.

A lawyer will help you understand what you need to have in place to protect yourself as well.

You will likely need several insurance policies as the owner of a driving range business .

Make sure that you have yourself, your business, and your assets adequately protected.

Step 5: Setup & Design

This is where things start to get fun.

Now that you have your driving range, you can start setting it up and building it out for the customers.

Pay very close attention to the distance between the stalls.

It will be most profitable for you to have many stalls, but if people can’t swing freely, you will have safety issues on your hands.

You will also want to make sure that golfers have lots of targets to aim to.

Unfortunately, three flags in the middle of a field are not going to cut it.

You can use other targets and aiming tools as opposed to just greens with flags.

Just make sure there are lots of things to aim at.

A huge factor that goes into driving range setup and design is the flow of people.

When people park their car, you will want them to know precisely where they need to go, how to get golf balls, and what stall to go to after that.

When they are finished with their golf balls, which way should they exit the building?

Having the proper signage around your driving range is imperative.

In addition to the flow of people, safety is another huge concern.

As your lawyer will probably inform you, you will need to have lots of signs posted about safety.

Many driving ranges will paint the lines behind the hitting booths.

These are safety lines that they do not recommend crossing over unless the hitting booth is empty.

Consider where you will want lefty players to hit from as this can be a bit of an issue sometimes at driving ranges.

When you first get your driving range, things will be overwhelming.

Work as quickly as you can to get part of your range setup and functioning so that you can start to make some profit.

You can add in other features and extras later.

Step 6: Hiring

Although you have had to probably hire some people to help with the setup and building out of the range, now is the time to hire full-time employees.

It is generally a good idea to have people who have some golf knowledge as staffers.

There are a few reasons behind this.

Customers will see your entity as being a knowledgeable and respectable institution where they can come for real expert advice.

People who know and love golf will also know how to talk to other golfers.

Hiring people that know enough about golf to teach lessons can be an essential source of revenue .

Another great benefit of hiring golfers is that you can give them access to free range balls.

This will be a perk of the job that they will willingly take.

Any time you can keep your employees happy by giving them some extra benefits, you will see significant results in their performance.

If you can’t be at your driving range at all times, make sure you have people on staff that know how to operate and fix any potential errors.

Employee management and retention will probably be some of the bigger issues you face as a driving range owner.

If you have a local college nearby that has a golf team or a golf management program , this is an excellent source for potential employees.

Another source is retired professionals that love golf.

Step 7: Marketing

Now that your driving range is up and running and you have the right employees in place, its time to ramp up the number of customers.

Very few businesses will survive without doing some kind of marketing.

You will need to start to build up your social media presence as well as your community presence.

Some great ways to start to get a name for yourself are to get involved in the community.

Can you sponsor a local baseball team?

Can you hold a charity event at the driving range?

There are hundreds and hundreds of ways to market your driving range and help your business grow.

If you did the proper research when you first decided on this venture, you know there are plenty of people out there that want to hit golf balls.

Now you just need to prove to them that your facility is the best possible place to do that.

How Much Money Does A Driving Range Make?

How much money your golf driving range makes will depend entirely on the size and type of the operation.

Some driving ranges like Top Golf are becoming more and more popular.

These ranges have lots of electronics, high prices, dine-in facilities, and more.

A driving range like this can gross millions of dollars per year.

If you put it in a place where people can’t play golf for part of the year because of weather, the driving range facilities (with heat) can generate very high levels of income.

Some Top Golf Franchises gross three or more million per year.

Not everyone is going to be looking at starting a driving range at this level.

If you are looking at more of a simple grass range with limited hitting booths and no electronics, you could gross as little as $30,000 per year.

You must consider all revenue streams when figuring out how much driving ranges make.

Does the range also have a bar?

Does it have a mini-golf course?

Do they host parties?

Is there a restaurant or just a soda machine?

All of these things will significantly affect the amount a driving range is capable of making.

How Many Acres Do You Need For A Driving Range?

For a perfect size driving range, you will want about sixteen acres.

Yes, if you have more than this, it’s only going to help make your range more appealable.

How many acres you need for your range will depend on the size of the range you want to build.

Generally speaking, you need about three hundred yards in length.

This is about as far as most golfers will be able to hit.

However, with the recent changes in technology and the increases in the distance, some players can hit closer to 400 yards.

Another 300 yards in width is also important to make sure you have ample room.

What Is The Average Income Of A Driving Range?

The average income of a driving range will depend heavily on the location.

An outdoor range in Alaska is going to have different levels of income than an outdoor range in South Carolina.

Some driving range business owners will make an average salary of $50,000 a year operating their range, and others will make hundreds of thousands of dollars a year.

In addition to the number of people that frequent your driving range, you also have to consider profit margins.

Some ranges will sell 50 golf balls for $6.00, and others will sell that same bucket for $10.00

What Are Some Golf Driving Range Franchise Opportunities?

Potentially the most well-known driving range franchise opportunity is the Top Golf franchise.

This is going to be a high-level investment that will likely take a group of people to get started.

Top golf is great for golfers, but it is a place where anybody can go and have fun, regardless of your golfing ability.

In addition to Top Golf, here are a few other golf driving range franchise opportunities.

What Are The Biggest Expenses For A Driving Range?

Once your property is purchased and you are up and running, you may be wondering what expenses you have coming your way.

A golf driving range picker is a pretty big expense that will cost you some money initially.

These should be appropriately maintained and serviced as not to break down often.

If your picker breaks down, you won’t have any golf balls for customers to hit.

That brings us to our next large expense; golf balls and mats.

Golf balls are going to go missing.

Unfortunately, people take them, they get destroyed, they get hit outside of the hitting area, and they deteriorate over time.

Golf driving range owners need to budget to replace their golf balls every year or every few years.

Another expense is the golf hitting mats.

These will get holes in them and have weak spots based on where people are hitting.

One way to help prolong the life of your golf mats is to rotate them.

If you spin them every few weeks, they will get less wear in the same spot over and over again.

For both golf balls and golf mats, it is worth establishing a relationship with a golf manufacturer so that you can get bulk discounts.

What Other Features/Services Can Driving Ranges Add For Additional Revenue?

Golf driving ranges do not only have to be about hitting golf balls.

There are lots of other ways that you can increase your revenue.

Some of these options are simpler than others.

If you have strengths in any of these categories, it pays to stick with your strengths.

Here are some ideas to help you bring your driving range business to the next level.

Food and Beverage

You can get as straightforward or as complicated as you would like with the food and beverage side of your driving range business.

Simply add a soda machine or build out a full restaurant.

Somewhere in between these two options is probably the best thing for golfers using a range.

Having the ability to get a cold drink and a sandwich may make the customer more likely to stop by your range every day for lunch.

Even better, offer a special that gives you a bucket of balls and a sandwich.

This is a great way to attract a lunch crowd, and that can typically be a tough time of day to fill your range.

If you want to start selling equipment, a driving range can be a great place to do so.

You will need some capital to get this side of your business up and running, but it can be worth it.

Make sure that you understand a great deal about golf equipment before doing this.

Also, consider selling used golf clubs and doing trade-ins.

You may want to see how many people you are getting through the door of your range before buying large volumes of equipment.

Golf Lessons & Fitting

Getting custom fit for golf clubs has become a massive trend in the golf industry.

Golfers don’t want to spend thousands of dollars on a set of golf clubs that do not fit them properly.

If you happen to sell equipment at your range (and even if you don’t), offering custom fittings can be a great source of revenue.

People will often pay between $50 and $100 for a fitting.

They generally take about ½ hour, and you can use technology and launch monitors to help you get all the numbers you need.

Yes, the initial purchase of the launch monitor will be quite high, but you should recoup it pretty quickly.

Golf Club Repair

Setting up a small golf club repair shop is not expensive.

You need a few very essential tools to get it up and running.

Customers are going to break golf clubs from time to time while practicing.

It’s a great idea to be able to help them.

Regripping is something that people are always looking to have done, as well.

Regripping clubs takes a matter of minutes, but you can make money on both the labor and the markup on the grip.

Owning a driving range business can be an excellent venture for a golf enthusiast.

If you have business skills and golf skills, you will likely find yourself quite successful.

Taking the time, in the beginning, to make sure that your plan and location are perfect will pay off in the end.

Be patient when it comes to success, as it will take time for people to recognize you as the leading driving range in the area.

Continually work to improve your driving range so that people know you care about them as a customer.  

Related Posts

About Brittany Olizarowicz

Britt Olizarowicz started playing golf at the age of 7. She played Division 1 College golf at St.Johns University, where she won two tournaments at the collegiate level. After college Britt went on to become a Class A PGA Professional. Her love for the game spans almost her entire life. Today Britt loves sharing her knowledge of golf through her writing. After all, to teach the game of golf, you must first have a love for it.

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Important Info

Safety Disclaimer

Privacy Policy

How to Start a Driving Range

A driving range offers golfers of all skill levels a place to practice their swing by allowing them to practice many repetitions of their swing without having to travel the length of a golf course. Driving ranges can be located indoors or outdoors, and most ranges also offer the retail sale of golf equipment and a snack bar or restaurant. A driving range can be located almost anywhere. Your range will appeal to people of all ages from kids who are interested in learning golf and businessmen looking to sharpen their game on their lunch breaks to old folks who still have a love for the game. Many golfers choose to practice at a driving range as the range gives them the opportunity to practice their swing many times without having to cover the golf course. Adding cutting-edge technology, such as golf simulators, can make your range unique and highly desirable to those most passionate about golf.

Learn how to start your own Driving Range and whether it is the right fit for you.

Ready to form your LLC? Check out the Top LLC Formation Services .

Start a driving range by following these 10 steps:

• Plan your Driving Range
• Form your Driving Range into a Legal Entity
• Register your Driving Range for Taxes
• Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
• Set up Accounting for your Driving Range
• Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Driving Range
• Get Driving Range Insurance
• Define your Driving Range Brand
• Create your Driving Range Website
• Set up your Business Phone System

We have put together this simple guide to starting your driving range. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas .

STEP 1: Plan your business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

What will you name your business?

• What are the startup and ongoing costs?
• Who is your target market?

How much can you charge customers?

Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

Choosing the right name is important and challenging. If you don’t already have a name in mind, visit our How to Name a Business guide or get help brainstorming a name with our Driving Range Name Generator

If you operate a sole proprietorship , you might want to operate under a business name other than your own name. Visit our DBA guide to learn more.

When registering a business name , we recommend researching your business name by checking:

• Your state's business records
• Federal and state trademark records
• Social media platforms
• Web domain availability .

It's very important to secure your domain name before someone else does.

Want some help naming your driving range?

Business name generator, what are the costs involved in opening a driving range.

This depends wildly on location. Opening an indoor local  in a metropolitan area can cost millions on the property alone, while one removed from the city can be a fraction of the cost. Regardless of your geographic location, simple, outdoor ranges will be most cost efficient. High-tech, indoor golf simulators can cost six figures per simulator unit, so these types of ranges are best suited for those who have already made a large amount of money in the business already. Go low-tech with no amenities, and the entire range can be set up for around $100,000.

What are the ongoing expenses for a driving range?

Property maintenance is key for an outdoor facility. Such maintenance includes mowing the range, maintaining grass, and keeping tee areas clean. For an indoor facility there are more daily cleaning, payroll, and simulator repair/replacement issues to take into consideration.

Who is the target market?

Your customers will include golf lovers of all ages and skill-levels. Students and young professionals will use your facility to improve their golfing game, teens will enjoy hitting a few balls with their friends, and dedicated lifelong golfers will enjoy the convenience of a driving range when they don't have time for an entire game. Indoor facilities can target companies and families to sell parties that include a meal and use of the facility for a specific amount of time.

How does a driving range make money?

Driving ranges make money by charging customers for the use of golf balls and a tee area where they can practice their swing. While a bucket of balls can cost you $20 as an initial investment, you'll be re-selling the balls over and over before you'll need to replace them through loss or damage. The trick for finding real profit is generating enough traffic such that you sell a sufficient number of balls over the year to cover payroll, insurance, cost of property and maintenance. The retail sale of golf equipment can generate a substantial portion of your income.

The more services you offer, the more you can charge for a bucket of balls. Most ranges offer 50-80 balls for $5-$8. Monthly memberships go for $50 to $100 for valued customers.

How much profit can a driving range make?

An indoor facility with full-service restaurant and rental space in a high-traffic urban environment can see a net profit of up to $2.9 million a year. However, if you have a low-tech field in the country, you could see an income as low as $40,000 a year.

How can you make your business more profitable?

Provide more services for each customer, such as snack foods that require minimal preparation and reserved parking for members. Monthly memberships collect money upfront from regulars who may not use the entire value of their membership. Golf lessons require no extra equipment, but you'll need to hire a knowledgeable pro who will build a perception of better value for your clients.

Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC's free Small Business Startup Guide - a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!

STEP 2: Form a legal entity

The most common business structure types are the sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC) , and corporation .

Establishing a legal business entity such as an LLC or corporation protects you from being held personally liable if your driving range is sued.

Form Your LLC

Read our Guide to Form Your Own LLC

Have a Professional Service Form your LLC for You

Two such reliable services:

You can form an LLC yourself and pay only the minimal state LLC costs or hire one of the Best LLC Services for a small, additional fee.

Recommended: You will need to elect a registered agent for your LLC. LLC formation packages usually include a free year of registered agent services . You can choose to hire a registered agent or act as your own.

STEP 3: Register for taxes

You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.

In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It's really easy and free!

You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website . If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?

There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.

STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card

Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil .

Open a business bank account

Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:

• Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
• Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.

Get a business credit card

Getting a business credit card helps you:

• Separate personal and business expenses by putting your business' expenses all in one place.
• Build your company's credit history , which can be useful to raise money later on.

Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.

STEP 5: Set up business accounting

Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.

Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.

STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.

State & Local Business Licensing Requirements

Certain state permits and licenses may be needed to operate a driving range. Learn more about licensing requirements in your state by visiting SBA’s reference to state licenses and permits .

For information about local licenses and permits:

• Check with your town, city or county clerk’s office
• Get assistance from one of the local associations listed in  US Small Business Associations directory of local business resources .

Most businesses are required to collect sales tax on the goods or services they provide. To learn more about how sales tax will affect your business, read our article, Sales Tax for Small Businesses .

Release of Liability

To avoid liability and potential lawsuits, driving range businesses should have their clients sign a release of liability. Here is an example of one such form.

Recommended: Rocket Lawyer makes it easy to create a professional release of liability form for your driving range when you sign up for their premium membership. For $39.95 per month, members receive access to hundreds of legal agreements and on call attorneys to get complimentary legal advice.

Certificate of Occupancy

A driving range is usually run out of a storefront. Businesses operating out of a physical location typically require a Certificate of Occupancy  (CO).  A CO confirms that all building codes, zoning laws and government regulations have been met.

• If you plan to lease a storefront :
• It is generally the landlord’s responsibility to obtain a CO.
• Before leasing, confirm that your landlord has or can obtain a valid CO that is applicable to a driving range.
• After a major renovation, a new CO often needs to be issued. If your place of business will be renovated before opening,  it is recommended  to include language in your lease agreement stating that lease payments will not commence until a valid CO is issued.
• If you plan to purchase or build a storefront :
• You will be responsible for obtaining a valid CO from a local government authority.
• Review all building codes and zoning requirements for you business’ location to ensure your driving range will be in compliance and able to obtain a CO.

STEP 7: Get business insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.

There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance . This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.

Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance . If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers' Compensation Coverage.

FInd out what types of insurance your Driving Range needs and how much it will cost you by reading our guide Business Insurance for Driving Range.

STEP 8: Define your brand

Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.

If you aren't feeling confident about designing your small business logo, then check out our Design Guides for Beginners , we'll give you helpful tips and advice for creating the best unique logo for your business.

Recommended : Get a logo using Truic's free logo Generator no email or sign up required, or use a Premium Logo Maker .

If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator . Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.

How to promote & market a driving range

You can partner with local gyms, batting cages, sports bars, and other businesses with to promote the existence of your new driving range. Cross-promotion will get feet in the door, then it is up to you to keep them coming back. Mid-week discounts help to drive sales during off-periods.

How to keep customers coming back

Golfers need to know you exist. Work with sporting goods stores, local sporting events, and wine bars to create cross-promotions to drive new faces to your range. A clean, well-lit range with extended operating hours will keep them coming back. Heated tee areas can increase your business during the colder months.

STEP 9: Create your business website

After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business .

While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.

Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

• All legitimate businesses have websites - full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
• Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
• Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.

Recommended : Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders .

Other popular website builders are: WordPress , WIX , Weebly , Squarespace , and Shopify .

STEP 10: Set up your business phone system

Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.

There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2023 to find the best phone service for your small business.

Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com

Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it's fair pricing.

Is this Business Right For You?

Ideal driving range owners are those interested in golf and experienced in customer service. Great customer service is a vital part of your business, as you will be having personal encounters with your customers, and satisfied customers have the potential to become regulars. It is also important for owners to feel comfortable managing property maintenance, maintaining food-service standards, and running basic business operations.

Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?

Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!

Entrepreneurship Quiz

What happens during a typical day at a driving range?

Your own list of daily duties can depend on whether you open an indoor or outdoor facility with or without food services, but the average day of a driving range owner includes:

• Maintaining the driving range which can include collecting balls, removing debris, mowing, and maintaining night lighting
• Checking ball dispensers or golfing simulators for proper operation
• Standard money handling and banking procedures
• Providing assistance for customers who might need help with simulators or ball dispensers
• Maintaining clean golfing stations
• Conducting property surveys of parking area
• Providing clean restrooms for your clients
• Serving food items offered on your menu

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful driving range?

Successful owners will have excellent business skills and they will be able to adjust their marketing plan to meet the needs and demands of their local customers. Creativity in marketing is needed to attract new customers, while attention to detail in maintaining a welcoming environment will bring your old customers back. Knowledge of golfing etiquette and culture will assist the entrepreneur in responding to desires of your target audience.

What is the growth potential for a driving range?

The location of your driving range will determine how much business you can generate. While property values in rural areas lower your initial investment, urban settings bring in more customers. The increased number of customers may open up opportunities to offer golfing lessons, sell more golfing equipment, or expand your snack-shack into a larger restaurant.

TRUiC's YouTube Channel

For fun informative videos about starting a business visit the TRUiC YouTube Channel or subscribe to view later.

Take the Next Step

Find a business mentor.

One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.

Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.

Learn from other business owners

Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.

Resources to Help Women in Business

There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:

If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a driving range?

Know your area and target popular golf courses as a place to reach out to potential customers. If you are the tenth driving range to open, you're fighting an uphill battle. Look for an area without a driving range in which golf is highly popular.

How and when to build a team

If you're just loading the ball dispenser, emptying change machines, and mowing the lawn yourself, you can operate a driving range on your own. Once you have a retail shop, restaurant, and rental space, you'll need to start building your team as soon as you make your first business proposal. You'll need a property and food service manager, along with crew, chefs and servers.

Useful Links

Industry opportunities.

• Franchise opportunity
• Golf Range Association of America
• Franchise opportunity (simulated driving range)

Real World Examples

• Michigan driving range
• Atlanta driving range
• D.C. driving range

Further Reading

• Tips For Starting Your Driving Range
• Starting a Driving Range

Have a Question? Leave a Comment!

Driving Range Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Are you looking to break into the golf business? Starting a driving range is one of the most exciting and lucrative ways to do so. But getting started can be intimidating—which is why it’s essential to have a foolproof plan. The #1 Driving Range Business Plan Template & Guidebook provides all the resources you need to make your dream a reality: from launching to financing, marketing, and growing your business. Read on for everything you need to know about this essential resource.

Get worry-free services and support to launch your business starting at $0 plus state fees.

• How to Start a Profitable Driving Range Business [11 Steps]
• List of the Best Marketing Ideas For Your Driving Range Service:

How to Write a Driving Range Business Plan in 7 Steps:

1. describe the purpose of your driving range business..

The first step to writing your business plan is to describe the purpose of your driving range business. This includes describing why you are starting this type of business, and what problems it will solve for customers. This is a quick way to get your mind thinking about the customers’ problems. It also helps you identify what makes your business different from others in its industry.

It also helps to include a vision statement so that readers can understand what type of company you want to build.

Here is an example of a purpose mission statement for a driving range business:

The purpose of our Driving Range business plan is to provide a safe and convenient indoor/outdoor golfing practice experience to golfers of all skill levels, while making a fair profit. We strive to create a welcoming environment that fosters relationships with our customers, creates value for them, and encourages them to return.

2. Products & Services Offered by Your Driving Range Business.

The next step is to outline your products and services for your driving range business. 

When you think about the products and services that you offer, it's helpful to ask yourself the following questions:

• What is my business?
• What are the products and/or services that I offer?
• Why am I offering these particular products and/or services?
• How do I differentiate myself from competitors with similar offerings?
• How will I market my products and services?

You may want to do a comparison of your business plan against those of other competitors in the area, or even with online reviews. This way, you can find out what people like about them and what they don’t like, so that you can either improve upon their offerings or avoid doing so altogether.

3. Build a Creative Marketing Stratgey.

If you don't have a marketing plan for your driving range business, it's time to write one. Your marketing plan should be part of your business plan and be a roadmap to your goals. 

A good marketing plan for your driving range business includes the following elements:

Target market

• Who is your target market?
• What do these customers have in common?
• How many of them are there?
• How can you best reach them with your message or product?

Customer base 

• Who are your current customers? 
• Where did they come from (i.e., referrals)?
• How can their experience with your driving range business help make them repeat customers, consumers, visitors, subscribers, or advocates for other people in their network or industry who might also benefit from using this service, product, or brand?

Product or service description

• How does it work, what features does it have, and what are its benefits?
• Can anyone use this product or service regardless of age or gender?
• Can anyone visually see themselves using this product or service?
• How will they feel when they do so? If so, how long will the feeling last after purchasing (or trying) the product/service for the first time?

Competitive analysis

• Which companies are competing with yours today (and why)? 
• Which ones may enter into competition with yours tomorrow if they find out about it now through word-of-mouth advertising; social media networks; friends' recommendations; etc.)
• What specific advantages does each competitor offer over yours currently?

Marketing channels

• Which marketing channel do you intend to leverage to attract new customers?
• What is your estimated marketing budget needed?
• What is the projected cost to acquire a new customer?
• How many of your customers do you instead will return?

Form an LLC in your state!

4. Write Your Operational Plan.

Next, you'll need to build your operational plan. This section describes the type of business you'll be running, and includes the steps involved in your operations. 

In it, you should list:

• The equipment and facilities needed
• Who will be involved in the business (employees, contractors)
• Financial requirements for each step
• Milestones & KPIs
• Location of your business
• Zoning & permits required for the business

What equipment, supplies, or permits are needed to run a driving range business?

• Equipment: Golf balls, golf clubs, golf tees, mats, ball washers, tees, water buckets, range mats
• Supplies: Advertising materials, golf gloves, range markers
• Permits: Business license, zoning permit

5. Management & Organization of Your Driving Range Business.

The second part of your driving range business plan is to develop a management and organization section.

This section will cover all of the following:

• How many employees you need in order to run your driving range business. This should include the roles they will play (for example, one person may be responsible for managing administrative duties while another might be in charge of customer service).
• The structure of your management team. The higher-ups like yourself should be able to delegate tasks through lower-level managers who are directly responsible for their given department (inventory and sales, etc.).
• How you’re going to make sure that everyone on board is doing their job well. You’ll want check-ins with employees regularly so they have time to ask questions or voice concerns if needed; this also gives you time to offer support where necessary while staying informed on how things are going within individual departments too!

6. Driving Range Business Startup Expenses & Captial Needed.

This section should be broken down by month and year. If you are still in the planning stage of your business, it may be helpful to estimate how much money will be needed each month until you reach profitability.

Typically, expenses for your business can be broken into a few basic categories:

Startup Costs

Startup costs are typically the first expenses you will incur when beginning an enterprise. These include legal fees, accounting expenses, and other costs associated with getting your business off the ground. The amount of money needed to start a driving range business varies based on many different variables, but below are a few different types of startup costs for a driving range business.

Running & Operating Costs

Running costs refer to ongoing expenses related directly with operating your business over time like electricity bills or salaries paid out each month. These types of expenses will vary greatly depending on multiple variables such as location, team size, utility costs, etc.

Marketing & Sales Expenses

You should include any costs associated with marketing and sales, such as advertising and promotions, website design or maintenance. Also, consider any additional expenses that may be incurred if you decide to launch a new product or service line. For example, if your driving range business has an existing website that needs an upgrade in order to sell more products or services, then this should be listed here.

7. Financial Plan & Projections

A financial plan is an important part of any business plan, as it outlines how the business will generate revenue and profit, and how it will use that profit to grow and sustain itself. To devise a financial plan for your driving range business, you will need to consider a number of factors, including your start-up costs, operating costs, projected revenue, and expenses. 

Here are some steps you can follow to devise a financial plan for your driving range business plan:

• Determine your start-up costs: This will include the cost of purchasing or leasing the space where you will operate your business, as well as the cost of buying or leasing any equipment or supplies that you need to start the business.
• Estimate your operating costs: Operating costs will include utilities, such as electricity, gas, and water, as well as labor costs for employees, if any, and the cost of purchasing any materials or supplies that you will need to run your business.
• Project your revenue: To project your revenue, you will need to consider the number of customers you expect to have and the average amount they will spend on each visit. You can use this information to estimate how much money you will make from selling your products or services.
• Estimate your expenses: In addition to your operating costs, you will need to consider other expenses, such as insurance, marketing, and maintenance. You will also need to set aside money for taxes and other fees.
• Create a budget: Once you have estimated your start-up costs, operating costs, revenue, and expenses, you can use this information to create a budget for your business. This will help you to see how much money you will need to start the business, and how much profit you can expect to make.
• Develop a plan for using your profit: Finally, you will need to decide how you will use your profit to grow and sustain your business. This might include investing in new equipment, expanding the business, or saving for a rainy day.

Frequently Asked Questions About Driving Range Business Plans:

Why do you need a business plan for a driving range business.

A business plan for a driving range business is necessary to establish a clear vision, strategy and goals for the business. It helps to define the type of business and its structure, identify target customers, analyze the competition, and create a budget for marketing and operating expenses. Additionally, it serves as a crucial tool when seeking funding from lenders or investors.

Who should you ask for help with your driving range business plan?

A business consultant or small business advisor would be a great resource to help you create a driving range business plan. They can provide you with guidance and advice on how to develop a successful plan and help you navigate through any potential pitfalls. Additionally, you may also want to reach out to local driving range owners for their insights and experiences, which could prove to be invaluable when creating your plan.

Can you write a driving range business plan yourself?

Yes, you can write a driving range business plan yourself. It is important to have a comprehensive plan that outlines your business strategy, marketing tactics, operational plans, financial goals and objectives. You should also include any relevant industry research to support your plan. Writing a business plan requires dedication and research, so make sure you give yourself plenty of time to create an effective plan.

Related Business Plans

Home Inventory Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Home Inspection Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Home Decor Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Health And Wellness Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Hauling Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Hardware Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Handyman Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Hair Extension Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Handbag Business Plan Template & Guidebook

I'm Nick, co-founder of newfoundr.com, dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs succeed. As a small business owner with over five years of experience, I have garnered valuable knowledge and insights across a diverse range of industries. My passion for entrepreneurship drives me to share my expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to turn their business dreams into reality.

Through meticulous research and firsthand experience, I uncover the essential steps, software, tools, and costs associated with launching and maintaining a successful business. By demystifying the complexities of entrepreneurship, I provide the guidance and support needed for others to embark on their journey with confidence.

From assessing market viability and formulating business plans to selecting the right technology and navigating the financial landscape, I am dedicated to helping fellow entrepreneurs overcome challenges and unlock their full potential. As a steadfast advocate for small business success, my mission is to pave the way for a new generation of innovative and driven entrepreneurs who are ready to make their mark on the world.

Golf Course Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Golf Course Business Plan

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their golf courses. On this page, we will first give you some background information with regards to the importance of business planning. We will then go through a golf course business plan step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What is a Golf Course Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your golf course business as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategy for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan for a Golf Course

If you’re looking to start a golf course, or grow your existing golf course, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your golf course in order to improve your chances of success. Your business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for Golf Courses

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a golf course are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans and angel investors. With regards to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to confirm that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business.

Personal savings is the other most common form of funding for a golf course. Venture capitalists will usually not fund a golf course. They might consider funding a golf course with a national presence, but never an individual location. This is because most venture capitalists are looking for millions of dollars in return when they make an investment, and an individual location could never achieve such results. With that said, personal savings and bank loans are the most common funding paths for golf courses.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

How to write a business plan for a golf course.

If you want to start a golf course or expand your current one, you need a business plan. Below we detail what should be included in each section of your business plan:

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of golf course you are operating and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a golf course that you would like to grow, or are you operating golf courses in multiple markets?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan. For example, give a brief overview of the golf industry. Discuss the type of golf course you are operating. Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers. Provide a snapshot of your marketing plan. Identify the key members of your team. And offer an overview of your financial plan.  

Company Analysis

In your company analysis, you will detail the type of golf course you are operating.

For example, you might operate one of the following types of golf courses:

• Membership Only Golf Course : this type of golf course is available to patrons who purchase a membership to the golf course and tends to be more exclusive and high-end with a pro shop.
• Community Golf Course: this type of business is located in an upscale community whose residents are at a higher income level and is often on an invite-only membership option.
• Public Golf Course: this type of golf course is open to the public and accepts golfers from all walks of life. It may also include a driving range.

In addition to explaining the type of golf course you will operate, the Company Analysis section of your business plan needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to question such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of members signed up, number of positive reviews, complete construction of all 18 holes, etc.
• Your legal structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry analysis, you need to provide an overview of the golf industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the golf industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your strategy, particularly if your research identifies market trends.

The third reason for market research is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your business plan:

• How big is the golf industry (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential market for your golf course? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: families, retirees, avid golfers.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of golf course you operate. Clearly, prospective golfers would respond to different marketing promotions than retirees, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, include a discussion of the ages, genders, locations and income levels of the customers you seek to serve. Because most golf courses primarily serve customers living in their same city or town, such demographic information is easy to find on government websites.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can understand and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

Finish Your Golf Course Business Plan in 1 Day!

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your business plan?

With Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template you can finish your plan in just 8 hours or less!

Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other golf courses.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t direct competitors. This includes country clubs, community centers and recreation centers. You need to mention such competition as well.

With regards to direct competition, you want to describe the other golf courses with which you compete. Most likely, your direct competitors will be golf courses located very close to your location.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their business and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ business, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as:

• What types of golfers do they serve?
• What types of club house services and products do they provide?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you provide better accommodations?
• Will you provide services that your competitors don’t offer?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.  

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a golf course, your marketing plan should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of golf course company that you documented in your Company Analysis. Then, detail the specific products you will be offering. For example, in addition to a golf course, will you provide tennis, racquetball, a restaurant, etc?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your marketing plan, you are presenting the services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the location of your golf course company. Document your location and mention how the location will impact your success. For example, is your golf course located in a new up-and-coming high-end neighborhood, etc. Discuss how your location might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part of your golf course marketing plan is the promotions section. Here you will document how you will drive customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertising in local papers and magazines
• Reaching out to local websites
• Social media marketing
• Local radio advertising

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your golf course, including daily landscaping, cleaning equipment, cleaning and maintaining golf carts and holding staff meetings with employees and caddies.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to sell your 50th membership or tee time, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your golf course to a new city or area of town.  

Management Team

To demonstrate your golf course’ ability to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing golf courses. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act like mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing golf courses or successfully running small businesses.  

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statements.

Income Statement

An income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenues and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

Balance Sheets

Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your golf course, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a bank writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement

In developing your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a golf course:

• Location build-out including golf course design fees, construction, etc.
• Cost of equipment and supplies
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Taxes and permits
• Legal expenses

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your golf course land lease or architectural renderings of the golf course.  

Putting together a business plan for your golf course is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will really understand the golf course industry, your competition, and your customers. You will have developed a marketing plan and will really understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful golf course.  

Golf Course Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my golf course business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily complete your Golf Course Business Plan.

What is the Goal of a Business Plan's Executive Summary?

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of golf course business you are operating and the status; for example, are you a startup, do you have a golf course business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of golf course businesses?

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your Golf Course business plan?

OR, Let Us Develop Your Plan For You

Since 1999, Growthink has developed business plans for thousands of companies who have gone on to achieve tremendous success.   Click here to see how Growthink’s professional business plan consulting services can create your business plan for you.

Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

Free Download

Golf Driving Range Business Plan Template

Download this free golf driving range business plan template, with pre-filled examples, to create your own plan..

Or plan with professional support in LivePlan. Save 50% today

Available formats:

What you get with this template

A complete business plan.

Text and financials are already filled out and ready for you to update.

• SBA-lender approved format

Your plan is formatted the way lenders and investors expect.

Edit to your needs

Download as a Word document and edit your business plan right away.

• Detailed instructions

Features clear and simple instructions from expert business plan writers.

All 100% free. We're here to help you succeed in business, no strings attached.

Get the most out of your business plan example

Follow these tips to quickly develop a working business plan from this sample.

1. Don't worry about finding an exact match

We have over 550 sample business plan templates . So, make sure the plan is a close match, but don't get hung up on the details.

Your business is unique and will differ from any example or template you come across. So, use this example as a starting point and customize it to your needs.

2. Remember it's just an example

Our sample business plans are examples of what one business owner did. That doesn't make them perfect or require you to cram your business idea to fit the plan structure.

Use the information, financials, and formatting for inspiration. It will speed up and guide the plan writing process.

3. Know why you're writing a business plan

To create a plan that fits your needs , you need to know what you intend to do with it.

Are you planning to use your plan to apply for a loan or pitch to investors? Then it's worth following the format from your chosen sample plan to ensure you cover all necessary information.

But, if you don't plan to share your plan with anyone outside of your business—you likely don't need everything.

More business planning resources

Industry Business Planning Guides

How to Create a Business Plan Presentation

10 Qualities of a Good Business Plan

Business Plan Template

How to Start a Business With No Money

Simple Business Plan Outline

How to Write a Business Plan

How to Write a Business Plan for Investors

Download your template now

Need to validate your idea, secure funding, or grow your business this template is for you..

• Fill-in-the-blank simplicity
• Expert tips & tricks

We care about your privacy. See our privacy policy .

Not ready to download right now? We'll email you the link so you can download it whenever you're ready.

Download as Docx

Download as PDF

Finish your business plan with confidence

Step-by-step guidance and world-class support from the #1 business planning software

From template to plan in 30 minutes

• Step-by-step guidance
• Crystal clear financials
• Expert advice at your fingertips
• Funding & lender ready formats
• PLUS all the tools to manage & grow

The quickest way to turn a business idea into a business plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

No thanks, I prefer writing 40-page documents.

Discover the world’s #1 plan building software

• Call Us At (888) 300 3090

The contents of a golf driving range business plan should include an inclusive summary of the Company’s services, company history, a marketing plan, and a target market analysis. The industry background will provide readers information to better understand industry trends and the overall market.

The following are a few questions to consider when starting a golf driving range business plan:

• What legal structure will the Company have?
• Where will the driving range be located?
• What is the target market?
• What is the pricing strategy?
• Has the Company identified an accountant?

Capital West Advisors has developed several hundred business plans since launching in 2006 and can develop a world-class business plan and financial plan for you. You can call us at (888) 300-3090.

Get a Price Quote

• Business Plans Handbook
• Business Plans - Volume 09
• Golf Driving Range Business Plan

Golf Driving Range

BUSINESS PLAN     MOUNTAIN CEDAR GOLF CLUB

1175 Mountain Cedar Drive Kerrville, Texas 78028

Mountain Cedar Golf Club is a driving range located in the suburbs of San Antonio, Texas. This plan raised $1.5 million in capital for the company's owners.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Business description, competition, risk factors.

Mountain Cedar Golf Club (MCGC) is a state-of-the-art golf driving range to be located on the southeast side of Kerrville, Texas. This metropolitan San Antonio area has no golf driving ranges to compare to this one. Most of the ranges are located in out-of-the-way areas and are operating on a short-term basis until the land is developed for some other use. Our intent is to build a golf driving range that will become the premier range in the United States.

Locating the range in San Antonio's northern development corridor provides many opportunities for revenue growth as it is close to many of the various tourist attractions that make this city one of the most popular vacation and convention cities in Texas as well as the Southwestern U.S.

A typical driving range operates on a "Mom and Pop" basis with much manual labor and very little revenue other than that produced by the buckets of balls sold. MCGC will operate with a multi-tiered 50-station deck, debit card ball dispensing, integrated POS computer, a pro shop, batting cages, restaurant, professional PGA and LPGA instruction, corporate memberships, plus targeted e-mail and Internet marketing.

MCGC is pioneering a concept in corporate sponsorship of the range. By soliciting corporate sponsorship from noncompeting companies, the additional revenue is expected to be $500,000 the first year with significant increases the following years.

Another aspect, only practiced by a handful of ranges, is that of selling memberships to the range. This is very similar to traditional golf club memberships. The membership will include perks and special advantages for the golfer. The benefit to MCGC will be a steady stream of revenue as well as a target audience for marketing.

The bottom line for this company is as follows: First year revenue $4,102,287 with expenses of $1,170,614 and a net profit before taxes of $2,931,623. We are seeking start-up financing of $1.5 million dollars in return for a 30 percent equity position in the company.

As a benefit to MCGC and the community, MCGC will offer low-cost/free lessons to children in the greater San Antonio area. We want to promote the advantages of golf to all in the community, which will create long-term value and enhanced quality of life.

MCGC's home page is located at www.mountaincedargolf.com. Its phone number is (210) 730-1839. E-mail: [email protected].

In the United States there are more golf courses than there are McDonald's restaurants. There are over 26 million golfers in the U.S., and of these more than six million are avid golfers and play an average of 25 or more rounds per year. Since 1996 the number of golfers has increased by two million (8.2%), yet the number of practice facilities has grown by only 3 percent. These numbers show an incredible opportunity upon which to capitalize.

The golf range industry has gone through major changes over the last 10 years. What used to be a "mom and pop" dominated industry has given way to large, automated ranges owned by publicly traded companies. From 1994 to 1999 the number of large ranges (51 or more tee stations) has grown from 336 to 495 (8.1%). The number of customers has increased 9.3 percent, yet the number of tee stations has grown by only 3 percent. The company believes that these numbers combined with the limited availability of practice facilities in metropolitan San Antonio has created a market that is "primed" for a state-of-the-art, centrally located facility. MCGC is to be located on a 15-acre tract in a southeastern region of Kerrville called Jalapeno Junction, situated just north of San Antonio. It's part of a 300-acre mixed-use development that includes retail, office, hotel, and residential units. Specifically, the plan is highlighted by a new Town Center, as well as 1.9 million square feet of office space, a 625-room hotel, 135,000 square feet of neighborhood retail space, and approximately 1,900 residential units. Six thousand residential units already have been built on a site across the street from Jalapeno Junction. There are approximately 50,000 people within walking distance of the proposed site of MCGC.

MCGC will be located north of I-604, one of the busiest highways in the state, and will serve a market of nearly 1.5 million people with a golf range that is state of the art, featuring the following:

• Multi-tiered tee stations served by automatic ball and debit card systems•PGA and LPGA professional golf instruction for all ages
• Heated grass and turf tees
• Water and sand hazards
• Putting green
• Corporate and individual memberships
• Pro shop and club repair
• Family-oriented environment

MCGC will provide the surrounding neighborhoods with wholesome activities and create long-term value and enhanced quality of life. The design will complement the surrounding hill country park land and fit within the city of San Antonio's historic tradition.

Traditionally, golf ranges have relied solely on revenue generated by ball sales. While MCGC will derive a major portion of its revenue from buckets of range balls, it will use new and innovative ways to increase revenues.

With the usual golf range very little thought goes into other ways to capitalize on the captive market. There are thousands of ways to increase revenue with a little extra planning and thought. At MCGC, we are planning to increase the revenue substantially by adding additional services. These services include corporate sponsorship advertising on the grounds of MCGC, PGA and LPGA professional instructors, a pro shop, food service, leagues, and corporate and individual memberships.

The largest increase in revenue will come from advertising sales at MCGC. Advertising at MCGC will serve two purposes: 1) to increase revenues, and 2) reduce costs through innovative, new programs, and media.

Advertising revenue will come from several innovative sources.

• The range balls will have sponsorship directly on the balls. This will reduce and perhaps eliminate the cost of range balls.
• With so many corporations headquartered or operating within 25 miles of MCGC we will have plenty of "official sponsors" of MCGC. Potential sponsors include airlines, phone companies, Internet providers, hotels, car dealers, well-known restaurants, credit cards, delivery companies (i.e., FedEx), etc.
• Between each tee is a tee divider. These dividers provide excellent opportunity for smaller companies to advertise. Potential advertisers include local restaurants, florists, newspapers, etc.
• Our website will be state of the art, also. Golfers will be able to sign up for tee times and purchase memberships and gifts online. Targeting advertising from golf companies and MCGC will increase revenues.

Ninety-three percent of golf ranges in the U.S. have some sort of golf instruction program. At MCGC we will offer only the best in PGA and LPGA trained professionals. Programs will include group, individual, team lessons, and a golf school. Golf has become a way of life for many, and a great way to reduce stress and have fun. We do not think this should be limited to people in the mid-to upper-income brackets. As a benefit to the community, we will offer free or reduced cost lessons to children in the city of San Antonio.

MCGC's facilities will include a pro shop that caters to all levels of golf. In addition to traditional golf items, gift certificates will be available. Approximately 1,000 square feet of the facility will be used for the pro shop. The pro shop's merchandise will available for sale on our website, giving an additional avenue for increased revenue.

Food Service is often overlooked when developing a golf range. At MCGC, food service will be tied directly to our golf services. The close proximity of MCGC to many of the major tourist attractions will afford it many lunchtime customers. Daily specials that include lunch and golf will be offered as well as "a la carte" items.

An additional source of revenue to supplement buckets of balls and increase attendance at the facility is league play. At MCGC we will offer lunch-time and weekend leagues for all levels. While increasing revenue for MCGC, it will also foster a sense of community for the players.

Membership Packages

One of the newest concepts in golf ranges is to offer memberships in a manner similar to golf clubs. This is an exciting concept not only because it initially increases revenues, but also because it ensures a steady income flow throughout the year. Golfers who are members are more likely to come to practice when they have a financial tie to MCGC.

We see memberships growing exponentially in years two through five as MCGC becomes more popular, and at the same time tee times become more difficult to secure.

Although membership will not be required, we will offer comprehensive membership packages, each with a variety of privileges. Below is a sample of our membership packages.

Masters Member ($1,000 per year; initiation fee of $150)

• 60-day advance booking for tee-time
• 50 percent discount on pre-paid ball cards
• 10 percent discount at the Golf Pro Shop
• 10 percent discount on lessons at the Mountain Cedar Golf Club
• Complimentary locker and bag storage

Tour Member ($500 per year; initiation fee of $75)

• 7-day advance booking for tee-time
• 20 percent discount on pre-paid ball cards
• 5 percent discount at the Golf Pro Shop
• 5 percent discount on lessons at the Mountain Cedar Golf Club

Standard Member ($200 per year; initiation fee of $50)

• 48-hour advance booking for tee-time

Corporate Member ($3,000 per year; initiation fee of $500)

The corporate membership program will enable companies to entertain clients, host business meetings and special events, and allow their employees to practice their games year-round. Corporate privileges include:

• 25 hours free tee-time with unlimited balls (10 percent off after first 25 hours)
• No minimum on number of stalls reserved
• 20 percent discount on pre-paid ball cards (limit $2,500)
• Access to locker rooms
• One free Ryder Cup Room rental (9 A.M. to 5 P.M.)
• 50 percent discount on one Ryder Cup Room rental (9 A.M. to 11 P.M.)

Off-Peak Member ($1,295 per year; initiation fee of $150)

• Unlimited balls year-round
• Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 11 A.M., and 2 P.M. to 5 P.M.

Marketing is divided into two categories: start-up and ongoing.

Start-Up Marketing

Start-up marketing will include print and radio advertising, PR, direct market mailing, and a "killer" website.

Beginning one month before the opening we will begin running ads in San Antonio's major newspapers, culminating in full-page ads three days before opening. Also one month before opening, we will run strategically placed radio ads. The most likely stations are the top four FM stations (including the classical station) in the market; while the best time slots for us are during National Public Radio broadcasts. A flood of press releases should garner plenty of free coverage in local press.

Direct marketing will produce the largest immediate return. Every corporation and office within a 25-mile radius will be targeted. The mailing will announce our opening, encourage purchase of corporate memberships, and include discounts for the grand opening.

The website will be used to build the MCGC brand. By offering grand opening specials available only online, the site will generate traffic that will be used later for targeted advertising from golf companies and MCGC. The site will be visually appealing, database driven, and dynamically produced. Content (instructional and coupons) will encourage users to return again and again.

Ongoing Marketing

As the MCGC brand develops, we want to emphasize that golf is a way of life and a family sport. Marketing will concentrate on targeted direct marketing to current MCGC golfers and corporate memberships. Targeted advertising to businesses within 25 miles of MCGC will increase. Local print and radio advertising will become a small percentage of total advertising. The location in Jalapeno Junction allows what we call incidental advertising. The total traffic passing by on I-604 will provide tremendous "free" advertising to entice new customers to practice at MCGC. Once we have a customer, we do not plan to let go. The customer base will be monetized as much as possible.

On the surface, competition with MCGC appears to be significant. There are five golf ranges within 15 miles of the planned site of MCGC. The ranges are West Bitters Golf Course and Driving Range, Top Hills Golf Club, Ruling 10 Golf Center, Red Peppers Golf Course, and Clemray Golf Center. On closer inspection, the competition from these existing ranges is small. These ranges serve some of the projected customers of MCGC; however, the location and accessibility of each is not ideal. MCGC will have one of the best locations of any golf range in Texas or the Southwest.

Key Discriminators for MCGC

• Location: Situated in or near Jalapeno Junction are one million people within a 50-mile radius. Over 50,000 people are within walking distance to the facility. MCGC is located on I-604, one of the highest traveled roads in the area. It is in close proximity to the major theme parks, park lands, riding ranches, shooting ranges, large public cave systems, a plethora of shopping malls and restaurants, and many other unique tourist attractions which make San Antonio a prime vacation and convention city.
• Multi-tiered heated tee stations
• Grass and turf tees
• Debit card payment and disbursement systems
• Reduced fee/free lessons for students and disadvantaged players
• PGA and LPGA class A professionals
• Start-up cost; location is very expensive
• New concept in revenue production; few driving ranges sell advertising space. No models to follow
• High salaries required for top talent
• State-of-the-art driving ranges are new and reliability unproven

MCGC realizes that human resources are vital to the start-up and growth of MCGC. Our employees will drive the success of the company. MCGC management structure will require several key people to oversee operations.

With the diverse operations of MCGC, the General Manager will oversee a facilities manager, head golf professional, and sales manager. Each of these managers will have several employees to oversee. Recruitment for these managerial positions is a challenge. We expect to hire above-average people to fill each position and significant recruitment costs will occur. Also, compensation will be above the norm for these positions. Our philosophy is that hiring the best will only produce the best for the company and we are willing to pay higher salaries for higher performance.

Expenditures for professional support services are expected to be significant at start-up with a major reduction in these expenses once the business is operational. The only continuing professional expenditure is predicted to be accounting services with minor expenditures for legal advice.

The facilities to be built and maintained will house a pro shop, dining area, kitchen, locker rooms, meeting rooms, multi-tiered tees stations, storage sheds, and offices. Finished interior space is to be approximately 3,000 square feet. The final facilities design requires review and approval by several city agencies.

Following are tables with details of the projected financial performance of MCGC. The numbers for revenue are extremely conservative. The table showing performance comparisons illustrates the performance of driving ranges from average and top 5 percent of all ranges in the U.S. We are projecting MCGC to perform above the 5 percent range. Because of the location and love for golf in the San Antonio area we are projecting MCGC to be one of the top performing ranges in the U.S. There are no numbers for rent or mortgage expense because MCGC expects to operate with no long-term debt.

The Mountain Cedar Golf Club versus Other Driving Ranges

An investment in MCGC involves a high degree of risk. Prospective investors should carefully consider the following risk factors before making any investment:

Limited Operating History

MCGC is not yet operating as a golf practice facility. MCGC is currently in negotiations with the city for surplus park land in the Jalapeno Junction area. There are no guarantees that these negotiations will be successful. Failure to obtain land in Jalapeno Junction will significantly hinder the ability of MCGC to go forward with its plans. Further, there can be no assurance that MCGC will be able to achieve significant revenues or any net income in the future. Accordingly, any investment in MCGC involves a high degree of risk, and purchasers should be prepared to lose their entire investment.

Technological and Market Uncertainty

The development of MCGC's products and services may be impeded by problems relating to the development, production, distribution, or marketing of its products and services, which problems may be beyond the financial and technical abilities of MCGC to solve. Further, there can be no assurance that services and products developed by competitors of MCGC will not significantly limit the potential market for MCGC. Finally, there can be no assurance that laws, rules, or regulations will be adopted in such a manner as will materially adversely affect MCGC.

Competition

MCGC is attempting to entire a highly competitive business which is dominated by two already established golf ranges (Clemray and West Bitters). Additionally, there are three other ranges farther away that may influence the business performance of MCGC. The golf range in Top Hills is operated by the National Park Service and as such has limitless resources. The Red Peppers Golf Course has significant resources at its disposal. There is no assurance that MCGC will be able to compete against the other golf ranges.

Dependence on Location

MCGC's success is based on being able to successfully negotiate with the city for surplus park land. If the land is acquired, there are no assurances that MCGC will be successful. There are a number of factors which are beyond the control of MCGC. With its proximity to many tourist hot spots and employment centers, the business plan is based on the assumption that there will be many mid-day golfers. There are no assurances that midday golf will become a reality. Finally, MCGC will be located near three neighborhoods. There is a possibility that the neighborhood associations could attempt to limit the lighting at night or shorten the business hours of operation.

User Contributions:

Comment about this article, ask questions, or add new information about this topic:.

Driving Range Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business ideas » Sports Industry » Driving Range

Do you want to start a driving range ? If YES, here is a detailed sample golf driving range business plan template & FREE feasibility report.

A driving range is where golfers of all level go to practice or fine tune their golf swings. The difference between a driving range and an actual golf course is that golfers in a driving range do not need to retrieve their golf balls, no matter how many they hit.

A driving range business can be started by an entrepreneur who knows about the game and is also business savvy. It is however not an easy business to run and it also requires huge capital to start off as you would need to buy or lease a land and build or renovate the houses and stalls that should be on the range.

However, there are necessary items that would need to be in place if you intend starting this kind of business, such as determining where to build your driving range and also designing the layout. This might not be an easy task and so you would need the help of someone experienced to help you do this. Most entrepreneurs who go into this business usually hire a business consultant.

Hiring a business consultant who is reputable on knowledgeable in this field will be of a great help to your business. Next is in writing a business plan.

However, while it might not be so easy for you to write a business plan as it would need to cover financial aspects as well, you might engage the services of a professional business plan writer. Below is a sample of a driving range business plan for you.

A Sample Driving Range Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

The golf driving ranges have no dominant companies with a huge market share according to IBIS World; however, the industry sees revenue of $10 billion yearly and it was projected to have an annual growth of 3.1% between 2011 and 2016. In the United states of America, there are about 50,369 golf driving ranges that employ more than one hundred and twenty one thousand people.

During the period between 2011 and 2016, the industry’s revenue has improved even though many consumers seem not to have the time to practice their golf swings. What boosted the industry’s revenues were increase in leisure activities and fitness issues.

Revenue for 2016 to 2022 has been projected to grow as more driving ranges continue to enhance their products and improve in innovations so as to attract more customers to use the driving ranges even those that have less spare time to do so.

Also, to attract customers who operated on a budget, many driving ranges introduced coupons and discounts. Also, more driving ranges have started incorporating other fun activities like bowling into their businesses so as to bring in more customers.

According to statistics, the demand in the golfing industry is not only healthy but on a surge as well as more participation even in the PGA Junior League Golf has increased to 223% since 2013. Also, there has been an increase in more people wanting to learn golf and a retention rate of 73%.

However according to the National Golf Foundation, there has been a slight decline in the number of golfers in America but crucial areas such as pro golfers, novice golfers and those just interested in the game had their demand numbers remaining strong.

Golf courses asides from working to better manage resources such as labor and water more efficiently, are also making use of data and technology, this is to afford them the ability to innovate rapidly and also make better decisions.

More people not playing the sport are also watching as television ratings have gone up by more than 22%, which means more than 110 million people were tuning in to watch golf whenever a tournament was on.

2. Executive Summary

Green Swing Driving Range is a top driving range that is located at a strategic location here in West Palm Beach Florida that intends to serve our local, corporate and national clients. We would be offering several services to our clients asides from the membership deal that would see them practice their swings which includes trainings from a PG Pro as well as sales of practice balls and equipment.

We also have plans in place to ensure that we offer our consultancy services to those who are looking to start this kind of business as well for a fee. Our vision as a world class dedicated driving range is to ensure that we are the preferred driving range here in West Palm Beach and be amongst the top ten ranges in the United States of America by 2025.

We have strategic plans in place to ensure that we stand out from our competitors by engaging in intense publicity and advertising strategies.

Some of the strategies that we would use in standing out from our competitors include offering special contests and promotion to increase awareness about our driving range; we would also ensure that we install our bill boards in strategic locations.

Technology is going to be incorporated into a huge part of our activities here at Green Swing Driving Range. We intend to build our own app that will ensure that our customers can still connect to us when they are not at the range physically.

We intend to create and generate interest for the game of golf by participating in local school programs and other community programs here in West Palm Beach Florida. We would ensure that we carry out our social corporate responsibility ethically.

We are going to source for and employ only competent and experienced employers who we know can well handle our business and take it to the height which we intend. Our employees will be well paid and well trained as well to better communicate our values to our customers.

We know the importance of customers to any business and so we intend to treat our customers with the utmost respect. Our loyal customers will get special discounts from us as we will do all we can to ensure that we retain our customers whilst seeking to attract new ones.

Finally, our Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Frank Cubacini is a businessman and entrepreneur with several successful businesses and will ensure that our business attains the height which it is intended for.

3. Our Products and Services

Green Swing Driving Range intends to offer world class service to all intending and pro golfers who are looking for a place to practice their shots. Our strategic location has made it very easy for us to be able to attract the kind of clients we want to our driving range.

However, we intend to offer other products and services as well in addition to our core service. This is because we believe in creating multiple sources of income so as to help boost and ensure that we have a healthy bottom line as an organization.

We however would not conduct any sell any products or services that does not fall under our category of incorporation or that is not permissible under the laws of the United States of America. Therefore some of the products and services we intend to offer at Green Swing Driving Range are;

• Membership fees
• Sales of practice balls
• Sales of golf equipment and clothing
• Offering of golf lessons/instructions
• Snack bar and café
• Consultancy and advisory services

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

Our vision is to ensure that we become a first class driving range for advanced and novice golfers in West Palm Beach – Florida, and amongst the top ten driving ranges in the United States of America by 2025.

To achieve our intended vision, we would ensure that we help all levels of golfers regardless of their abilities develop their games by hiring PGA Teaching Pro to give out daily lessons, thereby ensuring that each customer’s fees are well utilized.

Our Business Structure

Green Swing Driving Range is a standard driving range in West Palm Beach Florida and to maintain a certain standard we know how it is important to get it right from the beginning especially as regards the business structure. It is for this reason that we have gone out of our way to ensure that we hire only the right employees who know what it means to run a driving range and who are willing to ensure that we succeed.

Due to our future goals and objectives, it is very important to us that we source correctly for only the right staff. Our management staffs for instance are all experienced and competent at what they do and have the required experience to make Green Swing Driving Range attain its vision and objectives of being amongst the top ten driving ranges in the United States of America by 2025.

Due to the fact that we intend to offer varied products as well as services to our customers, this will require us to hire more hands to fill in these positions than a conventional driving range that offers less products and services. Therefore the business structure that we intend to build at Green Swing Driving Range is;

Chief Executive Office

Range Manager

Human Resources and Admin Manager

Purchasing Manager

Inventory Manager

Marketing Executives

Accountants

Customer Service Executives

Range Drivers

Security Guard

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

• Creates the overall strategic direction for the company
• Recruits and selects the right management personnel to communicate the company’s goals and objectives to lower end staff
• Responsible for representing the company in high stake deals
• In charge of overseeing all the day-to-day tasks that goes on in the driving range
• Settles complaints for customers on behalf of the organization
• Ensures that the driving range runs smoothly without any hitches
• Responsible for sourcing for and recruiting new employees on behalf of the company
• Responsible for carrying out trainings and assessment of employees
• In charge of overseeing that the administrative tasks are run smoothly
• Responsible for sourcing for reliable vendors and suppliers on behalf of Green Swing Driving Range
• Responsible for negotiating and reviewing contracts with vendors
• Drafts the purchasing budget after liaising with all the necessary departments
• Checks the inventory level of products stored and ensures that it correlates with documented figures
• Monitors incoming and outgoing inventory and ensures that it is correctly documented
• Liaises with the purchasing manager on the correct stock to get for the organization
• Is responsible for conducting marketing research and survey that will allow the company better penetrate the target market
• Carries out direct marketing that will boost the revenue of the company
• Identifies new markets and demographic information
• Prepares financial reports, financial statements, budgets, general ledger accounting and any other reports needed by the organization
• Prepares accurate tax documents and ensures that that it is submitted to tax authorities
• Ensures that all the accounts of the company is reconciled with that of the bank at the end of the month
• Carries out interaction with customers physically and on the phone and uses very opportunity to communicate the brand of the company to the customer
• Responsible for ensuring that the database for customers is accurate and constantly updated
• Carries out any other duties as assigned by the administrative manager
• Ensures that players are driven round during practice
• Drives round the range before and after practice to ensure that no items were left behind
• Any other duties as assigned by the driving range manager
• Ensure that the driving range is kept clean before customers arrive
• Ensure that the rest rooms are kept clean before and after use
• Ensure that there is sufficient cleaning supplies at all times
• Ensures that everyone within the property is secured at all times
• Monitors the surveillance cameras to check out for any abnormality

6. SWOT Analysis

Even though we know how fine our business concept is, we intend to hire a business consultant to look through our business concept using a professional analysis and help us know if the business concept would sustain our business and help us be able to compete favorably with others in the industry.

The business consultant we hired was able to carry out a thorough SWOT (Strength, Weakness, Opportunities and Threats) analysis that allowed us know how we were going to fare in the Driving Range Business here in Florida and in the United States of America. Below is the result of the SWOT analysis that was conducted on behalf of Green Swing Driving Range;

Our strengths at Green Swing Driving Range are numerous. Firstly, our strengths lay in the fact that we have competent staff on ground to take our business from where we are to where we intend it to be. We also have several products and services in place to ensure that whenever there is a down time for golfing, our business still moves on.

Another advantage we have is the fact that our owner Mr. Frank Cubacini is an entrepreneur and businessman, who has the expertise in ensuring that our business gets to the desired level.

Florida has enough golf courses and so there are also plenty driving ranges that would pose as a challenge to our driving range business here in West Beach Palm. Nevertheless, we have strategies in place to ensure that we overcome whatever weakness we are likely to face whilst running the business.

• Opportunities

More people are now developing interest in golf which means the opportunities that abound in this field is limitless. There are a lot of people looking for how to perfect their golf swings and novices and children looking to play the game either as leisure or as a build up to something more serious.

We know that as a business we are likely to face certain threats during the course of running and starting our driving range business, we are however prepared to face whatever threats that might crop up for Green Swing Driving Range.

The threats we are likely to face are other entrepreneurs starting up a driving range close to our location and offering similar products and services that we are offering. Also, there is the threat of having an economic downturn which is likely to affect how customers spend their money and how many would be willing to spend.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

The market trend for golf has changed as more people – children, young adults, adults and middle-aged – are now becoming interested in the sport. This has led to driving ranges becoming more innovative as regards what products and services they intend to offer their customers especially to the children as they intend to catch them at a young age.

Any driving range that intends to make profit as well as favorably compete with other driving ranges must always remain proactive and innovative in the offering of services to its customers.

One trend that has enveloped driving ranges is how to keep its door open by offering different services to its customers. This usually includes adding extra conveniences such as aesthetics, which will not only ensure that the customer is retained but that they refer others as well, and making it easier for customers to locate their balls in the range.

Lastly, technology has also made a great impact on driving ranges, as a number of driving ranges now have apps that offer theoretical teachings to their clients. Also, the internet and social media platforms has caused most driving ranges to be able to penetrate other target markets that would not otherwise have been penetrated through conventional advertising means.

8. Our Target Market

Golf is no longer a sport for a certain group of people but is increasingly becoming a sport for everyone even children. Florida is known as a sport loving state and so we are perfectly located at West Beach Palms to attract the kind of customers we would need for our driving range business.

After conducting a thorough research, we have decided on three target market segments –Children, Adult, and Schools – for Green Swing Driving Range.  The market research was essential as it allowed us know what we should expect from the target market and what would be expected of us. We therefore are in business to cater to the following group of people:

• Young Adults
• Corporate Executives
• Government Officials
• Celebrities
• Advanced golfers
• Business People

Our competitive advantage

At Green Swing Driving Range we intend to build a business that will not only generate income, and compete favorably with other driving ranges but also become the preferred driving range here in West Palm Beach Florida due to its world class facilities and also be amongst the top ten driving ranges in the whole of United States of America by 2025.

The above is the reason that we have come up with competitive advantage strategies that will help us stand out in the industry.

First off, we intend to ensure that we use real grass instead of artificial turf so that golfers – novice and advanced – who come to practice their swings will have a real feel of how a golf course should be. We also intend to make sure we have affordable rates and packages for all our various customers.

Another competitive advantage we intend to have against our competitors is to ensure that we have a solid business structure. A solid business structure will allow us hire only competent and experienced employees that not only know how to run the business but also understand the vision we seek to attain and work towards attaining it.

One thing we do not intend to compromise on is our excellent customer service. We know that our customers are the reason for our existence and so due to this we will employ several strategies that will ensure that we retain more of our customers.

Our customer care executives will be trained in handling our different customers no matter the situation that might crop up.

Lastly, we intend to ensure that our employees are well taken care of by paying them attractive remuneration and ensuring that they undergo constant training that will enhance their skills and make them better than their colleagues in the marketplace.

Also, we will ensure that our employees work in a conducive environment and that they have great welfare packages so as to enhance their productivity.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Green Swing Driving Range is a world class facility that has been established with the aim of ensuring that golfers both old and young practice their golf swings and become better.

Even though this is a service oriented business, we intend to also derive income from products we intend to use in catering to all our various customers. Therefore, Green Swing intends to generate income by providing the following product and services;

10. Sales Forecast

Golf is no longer seen as an elite sport as more people are now playing the sport which means demand is rising for driving range for either novice or advanced people seeking to practice their golf swings.

Our strategic location at West Palm Beach Florida is very favorable as we are very close to several golf courses, where Pros play, and are therefore optimistic about generating, meeting and even exceeding our target within a period of a year.

Before arriving at our sales projection, we carried out a critical analysis of the market in joint efforts with a hired business consultant, who analyzed our chances at succeeding in this market and then came up with the sales projections.

The date and information used were accurate and were obtained in relation to similar start-ups here in West Palm Beach and in the whole of Florida State. The sales projection for Green Swing Driving Range located in West Palm Beach Florida and based on certain assumptions is stated below;

• First Fiscal Year-: $1,900,000
• Second Fiscal Year-: $3,800,000
• Third Fiscal Year-: $7,600,000

N.B-: The above sales projection is based on the available data and the information obtainable in the industry right now.

Should there be a shift in interest to other sports, an economic meltdown that will ensure that people no longer have money to spend, or the arrival of a major competitor; within the above stated period, this might result to a change in the sales projection, which might cause it to go wither up or down.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

Marketing serves a dual purpose as it not only generates revenue for the company but also communicates the brand of the company for customers – both existing and potential. This is why we hired a marketing consultant to conduct a thorough marketing survey for us that will allow us determine how best we would penetrate the market.

The intention of this market survey is so that we could draft the right marketing strategies that will be effective in getting a share of the target market. Our marketing executives have been empowered to also create the right marketing strategies and also monitor, review or remove strategies that were not effective for Green Swing Driving Range.

We know the importance of the internet especially when it comes to marketing and so we intend to use our website to ensure that we market our products and services. We also intend to create a mobile app that will help golfers especially novices learn more about golfing and tip on how well to better their games.

We also intend to network with golf courses here in West Palm Beach Florida so that they could refer golfers who are looking for a driving range to practice their game at to us. Therefore, the marketing strategies we intend to adopt for the Green Swing Driving Range in delivering our products and services are;

• Throw a catered grand opening party and give out freebies
• Introduce our driving range business to corporate organizations, golf courses, and other stakeholders here in West Palm Beach Florida
• Sponsor relevant programs in schools in West Palm Beach Florida and in the local community as well
• Ensure that we use the internet as well as our social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn to market our products and services
• Give out discount coupons especially for frequent visitors
• Encourage our loyal customers to refer us to others
• Engage in direct (word of mouth) marketing
• Place adverts in local media outlets (newspapers, magazines, radio and television)

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

The aim of establishing a dedicated driving range that is of the world standard and offering several golf related services is so that we can become the preferred driving range here in Palm West Beach Florida and in the whole of Florida as a whole.

To however achieve our purpose, we intend to increase the level of awareness for our Green Swing Driving Range by engaging in several publicity and advertising strategies.

Our plan at Green Swing Driving Range is to grab a huge share of the market and hold in to it for a long time. We also intend to stand out from amongst our competitors and will therefore develop intense and proactive publicity strategies dedicated to promoting our brand while also increasing our bottom line; ensuring that we stay in business for a very long time.

Therefore some of the platforms we intend to use in promoting Green Swing Driving Range include;

• Place bill boards in strategic and prominent places all around West Beach Palms and in the whole of Florida as well.
• Use an attractive signage to garner attention from prospective customers
• Print colorful brochures and place them in strategic places especially in places where golfers frequent
• Launch a website and use the online presence to promote Green Swing Driving Range
• Conduct special contests and promotions, as well as special rates so as to spread the word about your driving range.
• Sponsor relevant programs in the community
• Distribute our fliers and place them in strategic places
• Leverage on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn to promote our driving range

12. Our Pricing Strategy

When it comes to setting the price for your driving range, your price would depend on several factors; such as if your practice bay is artificial turf or just grass, and how big your driving range is. If you decide to use grass as your practice bay, you might want to charge your customers a bit higher especially as grass is more expensive to maintain.

Therefore in setting a price, you would need to have a detailed strategy so that you do not operate at a loss in the long run. Especially if you intend to offer additional services as well.

Other things that would determine your pricing would be your overhead as well as running expenses. We intend to lower our prices in the first three months than what is generally obtainable here in Florida, this is so as to be able to attract the number of customers we would need for our driving range business.

• Payment Options

Having the right payment options is very vital especially as our diverse customers would prefer not to be limited to just one or two options but to have several options that would be quite convenient for them. Therefore our all inclusive payment options for our various customers at Green Swing Driving Range are:

• Cash payment
• Payment via check (especially for quarterly and yearly subscribers)
• Payment via Point of Sale (POS) Machine
• Payment via credit card
• Payment via online banking

The above payment platforms were carefully chosen for us by our bank and we have been assured that these plans will be hitch-free.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

Driving range might look so easy to start up but it is a difficult business especially if one intends to ensure that it reaches an international standard.

In generating capital for our driving range business, the bulk of it will be spent on overhead as well as some of the operating expenses, such as leasing a land for use which should be at least 275 yards, also we intend to pay our employees and utility bills for at least a certain period of time till the business is able to sustain itself.

The key areas we therefore expect to spend our start-up capital on are;

• Total fee for registering the business – $1,000
• Licenses, zoning permits and other legalities – $5,000
• Accounting services and software – $2,000
• Cost of hiring business consultants – $25,000
• Insurance coverage (general liability, property insurance and workers’ compensation) – $10,000
• Cost of buying a land for use – $600,000
• Cost of putting up houses and stalls on the land – $200,000
• Operational cost for the first 6 months (employee salaries and utility bill payment) – $300,000
• Purchase of tractor and golf carts – $150,000
• Purchase of golf clubs, balls, tees, tee mats and golf ball picker – $50,000
• General marketing promotions as well as promotion for the grand opening event – $50,000
• Other start-up expenses (furnishing the offices and stalls with stationeries, phones, computers, furniture, and printers) – $100,000
• Purchasing world class security gadgets – $50,000
• Cost of storage equipment (racks, lockers, shelves and bins) – $17,000
• Setting up the drink and café bar – $50,000
• Cost of launching a website – $1,000
• Cost of throwing a catered opening party – $20,000
• Miscellaneous – $69,000

From the above report, we would need an estimate of $1,700,000 to be able to start up and successfully run a driving range business here in West Palm Beach Florida. The amount covers most of the overhead expenses as well as several operating expenses such as the payment of employee salaries for the first 6 months of business.

Generating Funding / Startup Capital for Green Swing Driving Range Business

Green Swing Driving Range is owned by businessman and entrepreneur Mr. Frank Cubacini. Mr. Cubacini is a well renowned businessman in Florida as well as in the whole United States of America. He intends to bring in more investors during the course of generating capital so that a world class driving range can be achieved for West Palm Beach Florida.

Therefore the areas which Mr. Cubacini intends to generate his start-up capital from are:

• Sales of stock and properties
• Seek for loan from private investors in exchange for equity
• Approach a commercial bank for loan

N.B: From the above three sources, the sum of $400,000 was realized from the sales of personal stocks and properties. From the different private investors that Mr. Cubacini approached, he was able to secure the sum of $600,000 in exchange for 10% equity in the company.

Finally, the bank has approved the sum of $700,000 as all documents for the loan were just signed off last week. We expect our account to be credited at any moment from now.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

Any business that is established with the purpose of making money and also competing with others, will always seek for means by which it can sustain itself and grow or expand at its own pace. There are several factors – such as business structure, loyalty of customers and re-investment strategies – that ensure that a business’ is sustained and eventually expanded.

First off, a company’s business structure is very important as it lays the foundation for how the business will eventually turn out. Most businesses that fail usually started off with the wrong business structure by assigning the wrong employees to the wrong position and also not employing competent employees to handle various tasks and assignments.

Secondly, the securing the loyalty of customers is very important, because a business that has more loyal customers than new one is getting certain things right. According to research, a company spends less in retaining its loyal customers and more in acquiring new ones.

To this effect, we intend to ensure that we offer our customers excellent services by quickly resolving complaints and giving out discounts or extra bucket of balls monthly to our loyal customers.

Even though we intend to generate revenue from our core as well as additional services so as to have a healthy bottom line, this will not stop us from re-investing certain amounts of money back into the business so as to ensure that the business is sustained.

Check List / Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check: Completed
• Business Registration: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts: Completed
• Securing Point of Sales (POS) Machines: Completed
• Opening Mobile Money Accounts: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Conducting feasibility studies: Completed
• Generating capital from family members: Completed
• Applications for Loan from the bank: In Progress
• Writing of Business Plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents and other relevant Legal Documents: In Progress
• Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
• Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging Marketing / Promotional Materials: In Progress
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Creating Official Website for the Company: In Progress
• Creating Awareness for the business both online and around the community: In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement (License): Secured
• Opening party / launching party planning: In Progress
• Establishing business relationship with vendors – wholesale suppliers / merchants: In Progress
• Purchase of trucks: Completed

Related Posts:

• Golf Simulator Business Plan [Sample Template]
• Martial Arts School Business Plan [Sample Template]
• eSports Team Business Plan [Sample Template]
• Mini Golf Course Business Plan [Sample Template]
• Gymnastics Gym Business Plan [Sample Template]

• Advance Medical Directive Forms
• Affidavit and Declaration Forms
• Arbitration Forms
• Assignment Forms
• Auditor Forms
• Confidentiality Forms
• Court Forms
• Employment Contract Forms
• Energy and Environmental Forms
• Escrow Agreements
• Incorporation and Company Forms
• Independent Contractor Forms
• Intellectual Property Forms
• Landlord and Tenant Notices
• Law Office Management
• Letters of Intent
• Limited Liability Companies
• Marriage and Family Law
• Mergers, Amalgamations and Takeovers
• Partnerships and Joint Ventures
• Personal Guarantees
• Power of Attorney Forms
• Releases and Waivers
• Shareholder Forms
• Software Licensing and Development Forms
• Stock Options and Incentive Plans
• Trust Agreements
• Wills & Estate Planning Forms
• Advertising and Marketing Forms
• Animal Services Forms
• Bids, Tenders and Proposals
• Business and Marketing Plans
• Business Presentations
• Buying or Selling a Business
• Catering Forms
• Cleaning Contracts and Forms
• Construction Industry Forms
• Consulting Contract Forms
• Customer Service Forms
• Distributor and Dealership Agreements
• Equipment Sales and Leasing
• Film and TV Contracts
• Forms for Online Businesses
• Franchise Forms
• Graphic Arts Forms
• Health Services Forms
• Hotel Management Forms
• Information Technology Forms
• Manufacturing Forms
• Music Contracts
• Nanny and Childcare Forms
• Painting Contractor Forms
• Photographer Contracts
• Publishing Business Forms
• Purchasing Forms
• Restaurant Management Forms
• Roofing Contractor Forms
• Sales and Auction Forms
• Security Services
• Service Contracts
• Sports and Fitness Forms
• Starting Up a Small Business
• Storage Contracts and Parking Leases
• Vehicle Sales and Leasing Forms
• Website Development and Hosting
• Workplace Manuals and Policies
• Accounts Receivable & Credit Forms
• Asset Protection and Tax Planning
• Bankruptcy Forms
• Bill of Sale Forms
• Financial Service Contracts
• Insurance Forms
• Investor Forms
• Loan Transaction Forms
• Mortgage Forms
• Promissory Note Forms
• Retirement Planning Information
• Succession Planning
• Commercial Lease Forms
• Condominium and Strata Forms
• Facility Rental Forms
• Farm Land Leases
• Hunting and Fishing Leases
• Mobile Home Forms
• Property Appraisal Forms
• Real Estate Forms
• Rental Property Management Forms
• Residential Lease and Tenancy Forms
• Vacation Property Rental Forms
• Discount Plans
• Subscribers
• UNITED KINGDOM
• UNITED STATES
• NEW ZEALAND
• Civil Actions
• Criminal Cases
• New South Wales
• Northern Territory
• South Australia
• Western Australia
• British Columbia
• New Brunswick
• Newfoundland & Labrador
• Northwest Territories
• Nova Scotia
• Prince Edward Island
• Saskatchewan
• Connecticut
• Massachusetts
• Mississippi
• New Hampshire
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• West Virginia
• District of Columbia
• BRITISH COLUMBIA
• NEW BRUNSWICK
• NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR
• NORTHWEST TERRITORIES
• NOVA SCOTIA
• PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND
• SASKATCHEWAN
• YUKON TERRITORY
• MASSACHUSETTS
• MISSISSIPPI
• NEW HAMPSHIRE
• NORTH CAROLINA
• NORTH DAKOTA
• PENNSYLVANIA
• RHODE ISLAND
• SOUTH CAROLINA
• SOUTH DAKOTA
• WEST VIRGINIA
• Free Celebrity Wills
• Cast and Crew Contracts
• Film Clearance and Release Forms
• Film Distribution and Licensing Forms
• Film Financing and Budget Forms
• Film Production Logs and Forms
• Film Tax Credit Forms
• Rental Contracts for Film and TV
• Script and Screenwriter Forms
• Soundtracks and Scores
• Theater Production Forms
• TV Production Contracts
• Video Production Forms
• Booking Agent & Manager Contracts
• Music Publishing Forms
• Recording Contract Forms
• Songwriter Contracts
• Australian Capital Territory

• Business Forms /
• Business and Marketing Plans /

Indoor Golf Range Business Plan

Is your dream to build an indoor golf range? Do you need a start-up loan to make the dream happen? Then the first thing you need to do is develop a Business Plan with this downloadable template.

• The facility will allow golfers to practice their form indoors during winter months, but the operator plans to rent out the space for other purposes during golfing season, so that it is utilized all year round.
• The facility will also contain other services, such as a pro shop, a restaurant / snack bar, and office space for the business.
• The Business Plan includes a market analysis and marketing strategy, a financial model, and a Confidentiality Agreement to protect against disclosure of your proprietary information, such as financial data.
• Each section contains instructions to help you compete the document.

No bank is going to lend you money unless they can see that you've researched the market and have a realistic and workable strategy. Prepare your business plan and take a big step towards that dream.

High Risk Sport Release and Waiver

COVID Release of Liability for Business | Canada

Business Plan Cover Letter

Send a copy of your business plan to a potential investor for their review and consideration together with this easy-to-use template cover letter..

Business Plan Review and Assessment

• Glossary of Common Legal and Business Terms
• Find a Lawyer
• Legal In A Box
• Privacy Policy
• About MegaDox
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Guest Bloggers
• Exchanges and Refunds
• Save Money with a Subscription or Discount Plan
• Testimonials
• Conditions of Use
• Customer info
• Shopping cart
• Calgary, Alberta, Canada
• [email protected]
• 359-889-23-01-90; 359-889-23-01-90

Academia.edu no longer supports Internet Explorer.

To browse Academia.edu and the wider internet faster and more securely, please take a few seconds to  upgrade your browser .

Enter the email address you signed up with and we'll email you a reset link.

• We're Hiring!
• Help Center

Land use changes in the environs of Moscow

Related Papers

Eurasian Geography and Economics

Grigory Ioffe

komal choudhary

This study illustrates the spatio-temporal dynamics of urban growth and land use changes in Samara city, Russia from 1975 to 2015. Landsat satellite imageries of five different time periods from 1975 to 2015 were acquired and quantify the changes with the help of ArcGIS 10.1 Software. By applying classification methods to the satellite images four main types of land use were extracted: water, built-up, forest and grassland. Then, the area coverage for all the land use types at different points in time were measured and coupled with population data. The results demonstrate that, over the entire study period, population was increased from 1146 thousand people to 1244 thousand from 1975 to 1990 but later on first reduce and then increase again, now 1173 thousand population. Builtup area is also change according to population. The present study revealed an increase in built-up by 37.01% from 1975 to 1995, than reduce -88.83% till 2005 and an increase by 39.16% from 2005 to 2015, along w...

Elena Milanova

Land use/Cover Change in Russia within the context of global challenges. The paper presents the results of a research project on Land Use/Cover Change (LUCC) in Russia in relations with global problems (climate change, environment and biodiversity degradation). The research was carried out at the Faculty of Geography, Moscow State University on the basis of the combination of remote sensing and in-field data of different spatial and temporal resolution. The original methodology of present-day landscape interpretation for land cover change study has been used. In Russia the major driver of land use/land cover change is agriculture. About twenty years ago the reforms of Russian agriculture were started. Agricultural lands in many regions were dramatically impacted by changed management practices, resulted in accelerated erosion and reduced biodiversity. Between the natural factors that shape agriculture in Russia, climate is the most important one. The study of long-term and short-ter...

Annals of The Association of American Geographers

Land use and land cover change is a complex process, driven by both natural and anthropogenic transformations (Fig. 1). In Russia, the major driver of land use / land cover change is agriculture. It has taken centuries of farming to create the existing spatial distribution of agricultural lands. Modernization of Russian agriculture started fifteen years ago. It has brought little change in land cover, except in the regions with marginal agriculture, where many fields were abandoned. However, in some regions, agricultural lands were dramatically impacted by changed management practices, resulting in accelerating erosion and reduced biodiversity. In other regions, federal support and private investments in the agricultural sector, especially those made by major oil and financial companies, has resulted in a certain land recovery. Between the natural factors that shape the agriculture in Russia, climate is the most important one. In the North European and most of the Asian part of the ...

Ekonomika poljoprivrede

Vasilii Erokhin

Journal of Rural Studies

judith pallot

In recent decades, Russia has experienced substantial transformations in agricultural land tenure. Post-Soviet reforms have shaped land distribution patterns but the impacts of these on agricultural use of land remain under-investigated. On a regional scale, there is still a knowledge gap in terms of knowing to what extent the variations in the compositions of agricultural land funds may be explained by changes in the acreage of other land categories. Using a case analysis of 82 of Russia’s territories from 2010 to 2018, the authors attempted to study the structural variations by picturing the compositions of regional land funds and mapping agricultural land distributions based on ranking “land activity”. Correlation analysis of centered log-ratio transformed compositional data revealed that in agriculture-oriented regions, the proportion of cropland was depressed by agriculture-to-urban and agriculture-to-industry land loss. In urbanized territories, the compositions of agricultura...

Open Geosciences

Alexey Naumov

Despite harsh climate, agriculture on the northern margins of Russia still remains the backbone of food security. Historically, in both regions studied in this article – the Republic of Karelia and the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) – agricultural activities as dairy farming and even cropping were well adapted to local conditions including traditional activities such as horse breeding typical for Yakutia. Using three different sources of information – official statistics, expert interviews, and field observations – allowed us to draw a conclusion that there are both similarities and differences in agricultural development and land use of these two studied regions. The differences arise from agro-climate conditions, settlement history, specialization, and spatial pattern of economy. In both regions, farming is concentrated within the areas with most suitable natural conditions. Yet, even there, agricultural land use is shrinking, especially in Karelia. Both regions are prone to being af...

RELATED PAPERS

CRISTIAN JAVIER DOMÍNGUEZ MALPARTIDA

In: N. Raad and C. Cabrera Tejedor, Ships, Boats, Ports, Trade, and War in the Mediterranean and Beyond Proceedings of the Maritime Archaeology Graduate Symposium 2018. BAR publishing

Dimitris Karampas

Argumenta Journal Law

Luis Agostinho

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences

Warren Porter

kayode rowland

Journal of Independent Studies and Research-Management, Social Sciences and Economics

Dr. Shujaat Mubarik

Motoyuki Kido

Zoelkifli Buchari

ernesto screpanti

Hanna Górska

Pustaka Datok Besitang

Hidayat Muhammad

Annals of hepatology

Emmanuel Selvaraj

International journal of Science Culture and Sport

M. Murat KIZANLIKLI

Economía Sociedad y Territorio

Aliosky Camacho Rodríguez

Scientific reports

Barbara Sahakian

Electronics

Mahdi NaghshvarianJahromi

José Carlos Rosales Pérez

Temperature

Sidney Simon

hgjtrgg hjjghyfg

IUB学位证 印第安纳大学伯明顿主校区毕业证

The Journal of pathology

Marco Chilosi

Behavioral Ecology

Janette Boughman

RELATED TOPICS

•   We're Hiring!
•   Help Center
• Find new research papers in:
• Health Sciences
• Earth Sciences
• Cognitive Science
• Mathematics
• Computer Science
• Academia ©2024

Follow Puck Worlds online:

• Follow Puck Worlds on Twitter

Site search

Filed under:

• Kontinental Hockey League

Gagarin Cup Preview: Atlant vs. Salavat Yulaev

Share this story.

• Share this on Facebook
• Share this on Twitter
• Share this on Reddit
• Share All sharing options

Share All sharing options for: Gagarin Cup Preview: Atlant vs. Salavat Yulaev

Gagarin cup (khl) finals:  atlant moscow oblast vs. salavat yulaev ufa.

Much like the Elitserien Finals, we have a bit of an offense vs. defense match-up in this league Final.  While Ufa let their star top line of Alexander Radulov, Patrick Thoresen and Igor Grigorenko loose on the KHL's Western Conference, Mytischi played a more conservative style, relying on veterans such as former NHLers Jan Bulis, Oleg Petrov, and Jaroslav Obsut.  Just reaching the Finals is a testament to Atlant's disciplined style of play, as they had to knock off much more high profile teams from Yaroslavl and St. Petersburg to do so.  But while they did finish 8th in the league in points, they haven't seen the likes of Ufa, who finished 2nd. 

This series will be a challenge for the underdog, because unlike some of the other KHL teams, Ufa's top players are generally younger and in their prime.  Only Proshkin amongst regular blueliners is over 30, with the work being shared by Kirill Koltsov (28), Andrei Kuteikin (26), Miroslav Blatak (28), Maxim Kondratiev (28) and Dmitri Kalinin (30).  Oleg Tverdovsky hasn't played a lot in the playoffs to date.  Up front, while led by a fairly young top line (24-27), Ufa does have a lot of veterans in support roles:  Vyacheslav Kozlov , Viktor Kozlov , Vladimir Antipov, Sergei Zinovyev and Petr Schastlivy are all over 30.  In fact, the names of all their forwards are familiar to international and NHL fans:  Robert Nilsson , Alexander Svitov, Oleg Saprykin and Jakub Klepis round out the group, all former NHL players.

For Atlant, their veteran roster, with only one of their top six D under the age of 30 (and no top forwards under 30, either), this might be their one shot at a championship.  The team has never won either a Russian Superleague title or the Gagarin Cup, and for players like former NHLer Oleg Petrov, this is probably the last shot at the KHL's top prize.  The team got three extra days rest by winning their Conference Final in six games, and they probably needed to use it.  Atlant does have younger regulars on their roster, but they generally only play a few shifts per game, if that. 

The low event style of game for Atlant probably suits them well, but I don't know how they can manage to keep up against Ufa's speed, skill, and depth.  There is no advantage to be seen in goal, with Erik Ersberg and Konstantin Barulin posting almost identical numbers, and even in terms of recent playoff experience Ufa has them beat.  Luckily for Atlant, Ufa isn't that far away from the Moscow region, so travel shouldn't play a major role. 

I'm predicting that Ufa, winners of the last Superleague title back in 2008, will become the second team to win the Gagarin Cup, and will prevail in five games.  They have a seriously well built team that would honestly compete in the NHL.  They represent the potential of the league, while Atlant represents closer to the reality, as a team full of players who played themselves out of the NHL. 

• Atlant @ Ufa, Friday Apr 8 (3:00 PM CET/10:00 PM EST)
• Atlant @ Ufa, Sunday Apr 10 (1:00 PM CET/8:00 AM EST)
• Ufa @ Atlant, Tuesday Apr 12 (5:30 PM CET/12:30 PM EST)
• Ufa @ Atlant, Thursday Apr 14 (5:30 PM CET/12:30 PM EST)

Games 5-7 are as yet unscheduled, but every second day is the KHL standard, so expect Game 5 to be on Saturday, like an early start. 

Loading comments...

• Yekaterinburg
• Novosibirsk
• Vladivostok

• Tours to Russia
• Practicalities
• Russia in Lists

Rusmania • Deep into Russia

Out of the Centre

Savvino-storozhevsky monastery and museum.

Zvenigorod's most famous sight is the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, which was founded in 1398 by the monk Savva from the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, at the invitation and with the support of Prince Yury Dmitrievich of Zvenigorod. Savva was later canonised as St Sabbas (Savva) of Storozhev. The monastery late flourished under the reign of Tsar Alexis, who chose the monastery as his family church and often went on pilgrimage there and made lots of donations to it. Most of the monastery’s buildings date from this time. The monastery is heavily fortified with thick walls and six towers, the most impressive of which is the Krasny Tower which also serves as the eastern entrance. The monastery was closed in 1918 and only reopened in 1995. In 1998 Patriarch Alexius II took part in a service to return the relics of St Sabbas to the monastery. Today the monastery has the status of a stauropegic monastery, which is second in status to a lavra. In addition to being a working monastery, it also holds the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum.

Belfry and Neighbouring Churches

Located near the main entrance is the monastery's belfry which is perhaps the calling card of the monastery due to its uniqueness. It was built in the 1650s and the St Sergius of Radonezh’s Church was opened on the middle tier in the mid-17th century, although it was originally dedicated to the Trinity. The belfry's 35-tonne Great Bladgovestny Bell fell in 1941 and was only restored and returned in 2003. Attached to the belfry is a large refectory and the Transfiguration Church, both of which were built on the orders of Tsar Alexis in the 1650s.  

To the left of the belfry is another, smaller, refectory which is attached to the Trinity Gate-Church, which was also constructed in the 1650s on the orders of Tsar Alexis who made it his own family church. The church is elaborately decorated with colourful trims and underneath the archway is a beautiful 19th century fresco.

Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is the oldest building in the monastery and among the oldest buildings in the Moscow Region. It was built between 1404 and 1405 during the lifetime of St Sabbas and using the funds of Prince Yury of Zvenigorod. The white-stone cathedral is a standard four-pillar design with a single golden dome. After the death of St Sabbas he was interred in the cathedral and a new altar dedicated to him was added.

Under the reign of Tsar Alexis the cathedral was decorated with frescoes by Stepan Ryazanets, some of which remain today. Tsar Alexis also presented the cathedral with a five-tier iconostasis, the top row of icons have been preserved.

Tsaritsa's Chambers

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is located between the Tsaritsa's Chambers of the left and the Palace of Tsar Alexis on the right. The Tsaritsa's Chambers were built in the mid-17th century for the wife of Tsar Alexey - Tsaritsa Maria Ilinichna Miloskavskaya. The design of the building is influenced by the ancient Russian architectural style. Is prettier than the Tsar's chambers opposite, being red in colour with elaborately decorated window frames and entrance.

At present the Tsaritsa's Chambers houses the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum. Among its displays is an accurate recreation of the interior of a noble lady's chambers including furniture, decorations and a decorated tiled oven, and an exhibition on the history of Zvenigorod and the monastery.

Palace of Tsar Alexis

The Palace of Tsar Alexis was built in the 1650s and is now one of the best surviving examples of non-religious architecture of that era. It was built especially for Tsar Alexis who often visited the monastery on religious pilgrimages. Its most striking feature is its pretty row of nine chimney spouts which resemble towers.

Plan your next trip to Russia

Ready-to-book tours.

Your holiday in Russia starts here. Choose and book your tour to Russia.

REQUEST A CUSTOMISED TRIP

Looking for something unique? Create the trip of your dreams with the help of our experts.