3-Minute Business Insights
Momentum across the recreational side of the U.S. golf industry remained broadly positive in 2025. Indicators continue to point to sustainability in both participation and play amid a recalibrated, higher baseline for the game – perspective that’s highlighted in NGF’s annual Golf Industry Report.
NGF President & CEO Greg Nathan will deliver a must-see presentation entitled, “2026 State of the Golf Business – How Sustainable and Resilient is our Industry?” on the Main Stage at the Orange County Convention Center on Thursday, Jan. 22 at 9:30 a.m.
Greg Nathan joins Golf Business Live host Michael Williams for a conversation reflecting on the state of the golf business and economy in 2025, and a look ahead to the game's future.
At a time when more people are playing more golf in more ways than at any time in history, NGF President and CEO Greg Nathan shares a few observations about the game's momentum and growth, and expresses immense gratitude for the tens of thousands of friends and members throughout the industry.
Examining Golf Engagement Further ‘Off-Course’
While not included in off-course participation measures, mini golf, VR golf and video games see notable growth
Outside the current definition of "off-course participation," a number of golf-related activities that engage participants away from the golf course continue to grow. And they expand the game's reach, reinforce awareness, and help serve as a gateway to participation with other forms of off-course golf and even traditional, green-grass play.
Is Private Golf Driving Record Rounds?
The golf industry is on the verge of another record for rounds-played for the fourth time in five years, and it could be the play at private clubs that pushes the industry over the top.
The Perception Revolution
Topics: Business Management, Events & Tourism, Facility Services, Media & Marketing, Specialized Services, Technology & Innovation
Strategic Outlook for Golf’s Growth
Topics: Associations, Business Management, Course Operations, Design & Construction, Equipment & Gear, Events & Tourism, Facility Management, Facility Services, Off-course Facility, Retail, Technology & Innovation
Greg Sits Down With The Fried Egg’s ‘Designing Golf’ Podcast
Greg joins The Fried Egg's 'Designing Golf' podcast to take stock of the U.S. golf course industry.
Topic: Media & Marketing
Golf Apps and Tech’s Growing Footprint
As the traditional game continues to modernize and evolve, mobile apps are an increasingly important part of the golf experience, on and off the course. More than three quarters of Core golfers say they use golf-specific apps, with the most notable recent increases in usage coming in several main areas.
