Select from any one of the general categories listed below to find the report you are looking for. Be sure to read the Golf Industry Report for the latest information and insights on the business of golf. Also check the NGF's online Publications Catalog, which contains over 150 publications that address your business information needs. And don't miss the NGF's News Releases page which gives top-line information from many NGF research reports.

• Latest Research Reports
• Golf Facility Operations
• Consumer Research
• Industry Trends
• FREE Research Reports

The research reports can be read online or printed using Adobe Acrobat Reader. If you do not have this software installed on your system, you may download it from Adobe's website using the link found below.

Latest Research Reports
	Golf Consumer Buying Profiles (PDF: 775 K / 24 pages)
	Many golf industry professionals have a need for customer profiles - manufacturers, marketers, retailers (from big box to pro shop), membership directors, course managers, salespeople, travel and tour operators, media pros, etc. This report contains golf consumer buying profiles for 17 different types of golf consumers, from equipment and apparel buyers to golf media users. Data in the report is based on a survey of 2,400 Core golfers.
	Technology Habits of Today's Core Golfer (PDF: 75 K / 16 pages)
	Technology Habits of Today's Core Golfer (PPT: 220 K / 16 pages)
	As with the general population, golfers are joining online social networks, reading blogs on their PDAs, listening to podcasts, etc. But to what extent? This report profiles Core golfer use of technology, including what they do online, what electronic equipment they own, how they use it, and more. The study is based on a survey of over 1,600 golfers in March 2009.
	2008 Rounds Played Report (PDF: 437 K / 6 pages)
	This report is based on rounds played data provided by operators of approximately 4,000 golf courses per month nationwide. The report was produced by Golf Datatech. Data was collected by Golf Datatech, NGF, PGA of America and NGCOA. The report shows the percentage change in the number of rounds between 2007 and 2008.
	Golf Industry Overview - 2009 (PDF: 246 K / 2 pages)
	U.S. Golf Industry Overview summarizes recent trends in golf participation, rounds played, golf course development and equipment sales. It is intended for NGF members only, so we ask that you not forward this presentation to anyone outside of your organization. However, we encourage you to incorporate all or part of this report into reports of your own.
	Rounds Played in the U.S. - 2008 (PDF: 116 K / 1 page)
	This one-page overview of rounds played volume in the U.S., updated annually, is a quick reference for NGF members.
	Golf Facilities in the U.S. - 2008 (PDF: 85 K / 1 page)
	This one-page overview of golf facilities in the U.S., updated annually, is a quick reference for NGF members.
	Golf Travel in the U.S. - 2009 Edition (PDF: 245 K / 13 pages)
	NGF's Golf Travel in the U.S., 2009 edition, focuses on the demographic profile (gender, age, income) of golfers who played at least one round of golf while traveling in 2007. Profiles are broken out by business vs. vacation golf travelers. The report details the total number of golf travelers, the number of trips taken, the number of rounds played and the number of days away while traveling. Trends in the number of golf travelers from 1989 to 2007 are also presented. The report also describes the media habits of frequent golf travelers with respect to golf-related magazines, viewing golf on TV and visiting golf-related Web sites.
	Golf Facilities in the U.S. - 2009 Edition (PDF: 417 K / 31 pages)
	This report is NGF's annual tally of U.S. golf course development and total golf supply. It shows the number of golf course openings in the most recent calendar year as well as the number currently in planning and under construction. The nation's total supply of daily fee, municipal and private clubs is shown by state and metro area.
	Golf Participation in the U.S. (PDF: 88 K / 1 page)
	This one-page summary shows how the number of golfers has changed from 1985 to present. It includes breakouts for Occasional, Core, Avid, Female, Junior and Minority golfers.
	The Future of Private Golf Clubs in America (PDF: 1114 K / 8 pages)
	Much was written in 2007 about the challenges facing private club operators. Reports cited declining memberships, decreased utilization and even club closures. But we wondered, just how common are these problems? Are they narrowly contained to the relatively few clubs that were being written about, or are the problems much more widespread? To answer these questions, the NGF undertook a national study of private golf clubs. We surveyed hundreds of club operators in order to determine the scope and seriousness of the problems facing private golf. The results of our study are contained in this report.
	Golf Industry Report (PDF: 2493 K / 12 pages)
	SYMPOSIUM ISSUE NGF held a golf business symposium on May 15, 2008, at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center in Dallas. The symposium was designed to update attendees on the latest NGF industry research as well as to provide a fresh look at some key areas of interest. This issue of summarizes of all of the research and information presented at the symposium: The Future of Private Golf Clubs in America; Trends in the Future of Golf; The Golf Business During Recessions; Golf Industry Overview 2008; and Golf Opportunities Created by Boomers.
	The Golf Business During Recessions (PDF: 275 K / 25 pages)
	The Golf Business During Recessions (PPT: 838 K / 25 pages)
	A look at how the golf industry fared during the recessions of the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s, as well as how the industry may perform during the 2008-2009 economic slow-down. This report was prepared by NGF in association with Allen K. Lynch, Ph.D., director of graduate studies and associate professor of economics and quantitative methods in the Eugene W. Stetson School of Business and Economics of Mercer University in Macon, Georgia. In the report we compare golf club and golf ball unit sales vs. recessionary periods. When viewing this presentation you should turn on the "Notes Pages" feature to see the comments that we have attached to each of the slides.
	Strategic Perspective Report (PDF: 1600 K / 12 pages)
	An update of NGF's landmark 1999 study which was conducted in collaboration with McKinsey & Company. The 2007 edition includes: an examination of changes in the industry over the past eight years, a forecast of the potential future for the industry to the year 2025, historical and future perspectives regarding supply and demand, expected growth in rounds played attributable to the baby boomers and population changes in the years ahead.

Golf Facility Operations
	When the Winds Blow (PDF: 42 K / 5 pages)
	This article, written by Roger Mooney of Zurich Insurance, is intended for golf facility operators who want to learn more about windstorm preparedness, response and recovery. Hurricanes and tornadoes wreak havoc on golf courses each year. Learn about safety tips to minimize losses. Also included are several Web-related resources that will assist a business in developing a disaster preparedness plan.
	U.S. 18-hole Golf Facility Employee Compensation Study (PDF: 184 K / 46 pages)
	This publication is based on a 2002 survey sent to the owners/operators of 18-hole golf facilities. The study provides salary data for positions typical to a golf facility, such as Director of Golf; Head Golf Professional; Course Superintendent; Food and Beverage Manager; and General Manager.

Consumer Research
	Golf Consumer Buying Profiles (PDF: 775 K / 24 pages)
	Many golf industry professionals have a need for customer profiles - manufacturers, marketers, retailers (from big box to pro shop), membership directors, course managers, salespeople, travel and tour operators, media pros, etc. This report contains golf consumer buying profiles for 17 different types of golf consumers, from equipment and apparel buyers to golf media users. Data in the report is based on a survey of 2,400 Core golfers.
	Golfer Technology Profile (PDF: 75 K / 16 pages)
	Golfer Technology Profile (PPT: 220 K / 16 pages)
	As with the general population, golfers are joining online social networks, reading blogs on their PDAs, listening to podcasts, etc. But to what extent? This report profiles Core golfer use of technology, including what they do online, what electronic equipment they own, how they use it, and more. The study is based on a survey of over 1,600 golfers in March 2009.
	Golf Travel in the U.S. - 2009 Edition (PDF: 245 K / 13 pages)
	NGF's Golf Travel in the U.S., 2009 edition, focuses on the demographic profile (gender, age, income) of golfers who played at least one round of golf while traveling in 2007. Profiles are broken out by business vs. vacation golf travelers. The report details the total number of golf travelers, the number of trips taken, the number of rounds played and the number of days away while traveling. Trends in the number of golf travelers from 1989 to 2007 are also presented. The report also describes the media habits of frequent golf travelers with respect to golf-related magazines, viewing golf on TV and visiting golf-related Web sites.
	Golf Participation in the U.S. (PDF: 88 K / 1 page)
	This one-page summary shows how the number of golfers has changed from 1985 to present. It includes breakouts for Occasional, Core, Avid, Female, Junior and Minority golfers.
	Golf Industry Report - 4th Quarter 2007 (PDF: 1758 K / 12 pages)
	GOLF CONSUMER ISSUE This issue contains a variety of profiles gleaned from NGF's 2007 online survey of over 2,000 golfers, including: spending habits, buyer profiles, e-commerce, player development, introduction to golf, barriers to play and even the health of golfers from the standpoint of body mass index. Also included is a concise essay on "The Three Ways to Grow Rounds."
	Golf Industry Report - 2nd Quarter 2007 (PDF: 2057 K / 12 pages)
	GOLF PARTICIPATION ISSUE The 2006 golf participation numbers are contained in the second quarter issue. Also included are detailed profiles of Core golfers, a segment of frequent players who drive the industry in terms of rounds and spending. There are also sections on: Golfer segmentation by lifestyle; participation by geography; cross-participation by golfers in other sports and fitness activities; female golfers; and junior golfers.
	Golf Industry Report - 3rd Quarter 2006 (PDF: 814 K / 12 pages)
	GOLF CONSUMER ISSUE Baby boomers are the main subject of this issue. Over the years NGF has kept a keen eye on baby boomers as they have moved through different life stages. Now, with the oldest of the baby boom generation turning 60 this year, their impact on rounds played and spending is about to be felt in big way. Baby boomer golfers are profiled in terms of their golf participation rates, intentions to play in retirement, real estate purchases, golf travel and golf media consumption.
	Golf Industry Report - 3rd Quarter 2005 (PDF: 225 K / 12 pages)
	GOLF CONSUMER ISSUE The lead story of this issue takes an in-depth look at customer satisfaction research, showing that there may be only one question you need to ask your customers in order to grow your business. Other articles focus on the golf consumer and, in particular, the implications of golfer attitudes and perceptions for golf course operations. Topics include golf course trade areas, golf travelers, Internet usage and golf instruction.
	The Spending Report: Sizing the Golf Consumer Marketplace - 2003 Edition (PDF: 182 K / 41 pages)
	This is the source for consumer spending by golfers on both golf-related and non-golf items. Find out who's buying what, including golf's "best customers." You'll learn how much they're spending on playing fees, golf clubs, balls and soft goods. Includes trend analysis and a look at the Internet habits of golfers.
	The Spending Report: Sizing the Golf Consumer Marketplace - 2002 Edition (PDF: 219 K / 45 pages)
	This is the source for consumer spending by golfers on both golf-related and non-golf items. Find out who's buying what, including golf's "best customers." You'll learn how much they're spending on playing fees, golf clubs, balls and soft goods. Includes trend analysis and a look at the Internet habits of golfers.

Industry Trends
	The Future of Private Golf Clubs in America (PDF: 1114 K / 8 pages)
	Much was written in 2007 about the challenges facing private club operators. Reports cited declining memberships, decreased utilization and even club closures. But we wondered, just how common are these problems? Are they narrowly contained to the relatively few clubs that were being written about, or are the problems much more widespread? To answer these questions, the NGF undertook a national study of private golf clubs. We surveyed hundreds of club operators in order to determine the scope and seriousness of the problems facing private golf. The results of our study are contained in this report.
	Golf Industry Overview - 2009 (PDF: 246 K / 2 pages)
	U.S. Golf Industry Overview summarizes recent trends in golf participation, rounds played, golf course development and equipment sales. It is intended for NGF members only, so we ask that you not forward this presentation to anyone outside of your organization. However, we encourage you to incorporate all or part of this report into reports of your own.
	Golf Industry Report (PDF: 2493 K / 12 pages)
	SYMPOSIUM ISSUE NGF held a golf business symposium on May 15, 2008, at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center in Dallas. The symposium was designed to update attendees on the latest NGF industry research as well as to provide a fresh look at some key areas of interest. This issue of summarizes of all of the research and information presented at the symposium: The Future of Private Golf Clubs in America; Trends in the Future of Golf; The Golf Business During Recessions; Golf Industry Overview 2008; and Golf Opportunities Created by Boomers.
	The Golf Business During Recessions (PDF: 275 K / 25 pages)
	The Golf Business During Recessions (PPT: 838 K / 25 pages)
	A look at how the golf industry fared during the recessions of the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s, as well as how the industry may perform during the 2008-2009 economic slow-down. This report was prepared by NGF in association with Allen K. Lynch, Ph.D., director of graduate studies and associate professor of economics and quantitative methods in the Eugene W. Stetson School of Business and Economics of Mercer University in Macon, Georgia. In the report we compare golf club and golf ball unit sales vs. recessionary periods. When viewing this presentation you should turn on the "Notes Pages" feature to see the comments that we have attached to each of the slides.
	Strategic Perspective Report (PDF: 867 K / 14 pages)
	An update of NGF's landmark 1999 study which was conducted in collaboration with McKinsey & Company. The 2007 edition includes: an examination of changes in the industry over the past eight years, a forecast of the potential future for the industry to the year 2025, historical and future perspectives regarding supply and demand, expected growth in rounds played attributable to the baby boomers and population changes in the years ahead.
	Strategic Perspective Report (PDF: 241 K / 136 pages)
	The purpose of this study is to provide information and insights about the opportunities for the continued growth and vitality of golf. It also examines the changes in the industry over the past ten years. It represents the culmination of a year-long collaborative effort between NGF and the international management consulting firm, McKinsey & Co. The supply and demand side of golf are analyzed and recommendations are suggested for golf through 2010.
	Golf Facilities in the U.S. - 2009 Edition (PDF: 417 K / 31 pages)
	This report is NGF's annual tally of U.S. golf course development and total golf supply. It shows the number of golf course openings in the most recent calendar year as well as the number currently in planning and under construction. The nation's total supply of daily fee, municipal and private clubs is shown by state and metro area.
	Golf Practice Facilities in the U.S.: A Summary of Supply and Demand (PDF: 388 K / 36 pages)
	This report includes demographic profiles of practice facility patrons and a variety of usage characteristics to better understand this set of golfers. The information is presented for both stand-alone practice facilities and on-course ranges. The growth in the number of practice ranges and in range participation spending is provided along with customer demographic profiles.

Free Reports
	2008 Rounds Played Report (PDF: 437 K / 6 pages)
	This report is based on rounds played data provided by operators of approximately 4,000 golf courses per month nationwide. The report was produced by Golf Datatech. Data was collected by Golf Datatech, NGF, PGA of America and NGCOA. The report shows the percentage change in the number of rounds between 2007 and 2008.
	2007 Rounds Played Report (PDF: 272 K / 4 pages)
	This report is based on rounds played data provided by approximately 2,000 golf facility operators per month nationwide. Data was collected by NGF and other allied golf associations. The report shows the percentage change in same-store rounds, by month, between 2006 and 2007. Geographic areas include 11 climate regions, selected states and DMAs (designated market areas) as well as the entire U.S. Data was weighted to be representative of all U.S. golf facilities by type, size, region and price point.
	2006 Rounds Played Report (PDF: 226 K / 4 pages)
	This report is based on rounds played data provided by approximately 2,000 golf facility operators per month nationwide. Data was collected by NGF and other allied golf associations. The report shows the percentage change in same-store rounds, by month, between 2005 and 2006. Geographic areas include 11 climate regions, selected states and DMAs (designated market areas) as well as the entire U.S. Data was weighted to be representative of all U.S. golf facilities by type, size, region and price point.
	2005 Rounds Played Report (PDF: 283 K / 4 pages)
	This report is based on rounds played data provided by approximately 2,000 golf facility operators per month nationwide. Data was collected by NGF and other allied golf associations. The report shows the percentage change in same-store rounds, by month, between 2004 and 2005. Geographic areas include 11 climate regions, selected states and DMAs (designated market areas) as well as the entire U.S. Data was weighted to be representative of all U.S. golf facilities by type, size, region and price point.
	4th Quarter 2004 Rounds Played Report (PDF: 185 K / 6 pages)
	Report shows the percentage change in rounds played, 2004 vs. 2003, for October, November, December, all four quarters and entire year. Broken out by course type, public price point and region.
	2004 Rounds Played Report (PDF: 185 K / 7 pages)
	Report shows the percentage change in rounds played, 2003 vs. 2002. Broken out by course type, public price point and region. Also includes reasons for increases and decreases in rounds played, according to facility operators.
	2003 Rounds Played Report (PDF: 283 K / 15 pages)
	Report shows the percentage change in rounds played, 2002 vs. 2001. Also shows the volume of rounds played for 2002, 2001 and 2000. Includes 2002 and 2001 volume of total revenue, rounds revenue, merchandise revenue, food & beverage revenue, and revenue per round ratios. Broken out by course type, public price point and region. Also includes reasons for increases and decreases in rounds played, according to facility operators.
	2002 Rounds Played Report (PDF: 419 K / 8 pages)
	Report shows the percentage change in rounds played, 2001 vs. 2000. Also shows the volume of rounds played for 2001 and 2000. Broken out by course type, public price point and region. Also includes reasons for increases and decreases in rounds played, according to facility operators.
	Minority Golf Participation in the U.S. (PDF: 1,817 K / 36 pages)
	This is a study of golf participation among Asian-, Hispanic- and African-Americans in the U.S.
	Defibrillators (PDF: 140 K / 29 pages)
	Cardiovascular disease is the nation's leading cause of death. And golf courses are among the most common public places where sudden cardiac arrest occurs. Because of their large area and often remote locations, golf courses are also among the most difficult places for emergency medical teams to reach quickly. Defibrillators improve Golfers' chances of surviving sudden cardiac arrest.

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