I believe indoor golf has evolved beyond mere trends and should be recognized as a valuable innovation. The trend remained prevalent in 2023, with 18.4 million individuals in the United States engaging in off-course golf activities.
One of the rising stars of the indoor golf business is Five Iron Golf. Five Iron Golf opened its new club in Dubai last month. The venue is 32,038 square feet and houses 17 Trackman Golf simulators.
I had the opportunity to ask Matt Csillag, the Owner and Franchisee of Five Iron Golf UAE, to share insights about this business and, of course, Five Iron Golf.
Why are indoor golf clubs gaining traction?
There are several reasons why indoor golf clubs continue to grow in popularity. First, the technology used in today’s indoor golf experiences has advanced significantly.
The 2024 systems, like the Trackman simulators used at all of our locations, are vastly improved compared to just five years ago.
The latest generation offers multi-angle cameras, real-time feedback, and enhanced data accuracy. Most notably, the new Trackman Virtual Golf 3 (VG3) system, launching in November, will deliver more lifelike graphics, improved course rendering, and realistic ball flight physics.
Players can also enjoy the opportunity to play some of the top golf courses in the world virtually, giving them a truly immersive experience from anywhere.
Another reason for the rise of indoor golf is its time efficiency. Indoor golf can be played year-round, at any time of day, and in any weather.
A full 18-hole round can be completed in about two hours, compared to the typical four hours needed for an outdoor round. With increasingly busy lifestyles, this flexibility is critical.
Many Five Iron Golf locations are also conveniently located in city centers, eliminating the need for long commutes to and from traditional golf courses. Players can walk from their office or apartment to tee off.
Additionally, they can enjoy watching their favorite sport on a big-screen TV while playing, something not typically available with traditional golf.
Finally, indoor golf offers a lower barrier to entry for new players. Our pricing is competitive with traditional golf, but we provide a much more welcoming and less intimidating environment for those learning the game.
This accessibility has been vital in attracting a broader audience and fostering a growing community of golfers.
What are the primary distinctions between Five Iron Golf & its competitors?
We offer a casual yet elevated environment that appeals to golfers and non-golfers alike. Five Iron Golf provides an inclusive space to play, practice, and party, bringing out the golfer in everyone.
Whether you are entertaining clients, bonding with colleagues or teammates, or spending time with family, Five Iron Golf provides the perfect backdrop.
For the serious golfer, we feature high-tech Trackman simulators, access to teaching professionals, practice time, leagues, club storage, showers, and top-of-the-line Callaway clubs that are free to use during your booking.
We also offer in-house Callaway Tour club fitting services and a membership option for those seeking to take their game to the next level. Access to teaching professionals has proven to be a critical factor for our customers when we’ve surveyed them.
Despite our success in this area, we still have room for growth and improvement.
For the entertainment seeker, we provide a sports bar-like atmosphere with multi-sport simulators, flexible event spaces, a full-service bar, locally crafted food menus, table games like ping pong and shuffleboard, and widescreen TVs perfect for watching the big game.
Our Dubai location offers additional entertainment options, including mini golf, augmented reality darts, multiple bars, and a fitness center.
As we approach 2025, we are very focused on promoting Five Iron Golf as a place for accessible fun and socializing.
How do indoor golf club guests differ from traditional golf clubs?
Five Iron Golfers differ from traditional golf club members in several key ways, including a broader range of ages and interests.
Our guests tend to be younger, primarily between the ages of 21 and 40, and are drawn to both the social and entertainment aspects of the experience.
Unlike traditional clubs, which often attract an older, more game-focused audience, Five Iron Golf appeals to individuals looking for flexibility—whether practicing their swing, socializing with friends, or enjoying a night out.
Located in urban centers and accessible year-round, Five Iron removes barriers like weather and long travel times, making golf more convenient and inviting.
As the demand for flexible, casual golf experiences grows, our model seamlessly blends professional instruction, club fittings, and leagues for serious golfers with multi-sport simulators, table games, and a full-service bar for those seeking entertainment.
This unique mix creates a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere, appealing to golfers and non-golfers and setting us apart from the traditional, more singularly focused golf clubs.
Who is a suitable candidate to obtain an indoor golf company license?
When looking for an ideal Five Iron Golf franchisee, we seek individuals with
- substantial operational experience,
- the capacity to scale across multiple locations,
- and a passion for growing the game of golf.
A successful franchisee will create inclusive environments that appeal to serious golfers and those seeking a social, entertainment-driven experience.
Franchisees should be committed to fostering community engagement, delivering exceptional customer service, and introducing golf to new audiences, all while maintaining the unique blend of golf, entertainment, and hospitality that defines Five Iron Golf.
What strategies can be employed to maximize revenue in indoor golf venues?
At Five Iron Golf, our strategy is to maximize revenue by offering an inclusive space for both serious golfers and those seeking social entertainment.
For golfers, we offer memberships, league play, lessons, and club fittings, as well as top-tier simulators and professional instruction.
At the same time, we create a welcoming environment for everyone, making golf accessible regardless of skill level or barriers like climate.
Our growing franchise program is expanding this unique blend of golf and socializing into new markets, offering diverse experiences that cater to all interests.