Golf Course Operation Service Market Size
The global golf course operation service market size was valued at USD 25.6 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow from USD 26.7 billion in 2025 to USD 33.34 billion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.5% during the forecast period (2025-2030).
The golf course operation service market encompasses services such as course management, maintenance, marketing, food and beverage operations, and catering to private, public, and municipal golf facilities worldwide. The market is driven by rising disposable incomes, particularly in Asia-Pacific, and the growing popularity of golf as a recreational and professional sport. Key drivers include increased participation among millennials and women, fueled by inclusive initiatives and golf tourism, with North America holding a 41% market share due to its robust golf culture. Trends such as technology integration (e.g., AI-driven course management software) and sustainable practices, like solar-powered carts, enhance operational efficiency and appeal. Leading players like Troon Golf and Marriott Golf leverage luxury resort integrations and global expansions to capitalise on tourism-driven demand, positioning the market for steady growth amid evolving consumer preferences and technological advancements.
Key Market Insights
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Turf & Grounds Maintenance segment leads the market with a projected CAGR of 5.8% during the forecast period.
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Private golf clubs dominate the end-user segment, generating high recurring revenue through memberships and premium services, with a CAGR of 5.5%.
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North America holds the largest market share at 42%, supported by over 15,000 golf courses and a wealthy golfing population.
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Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing region, with a CAGR of 8.2%, driven by a rising middle class in China, India, and South Korea.
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Europe accounts for 25% of the market, growing at a 5.2% CAGR, fueled by golf tourism in Spain, Portugal, and Scotland, contributing USD 5 billion annually.
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Latin America holds a 6% market share, with growth led by emerging golf-tourism markets such as Brazil and Mexico.
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Middle East & Africa (MEA) captures a 5% share, driven by luxury tourism and expatriate communities in UAE and Morocco.
Golf Course Operation Service Market Trend
Tourism-driven development
The integration of golf courses into luxury resorts and tourist destinations is a dominant trend, transforming golf facilities into comprehensive leisure experiences. As travellers seek exclusive golfing experiences paired with wellness and cultural activities, the market is projected to grow. Resorts in Europe (e.g., Spain, Portugal) and Asia-Pacific (e.g., Thailand, Vietnam) are embedding world-class courses to attract high-net-worth tourists, with 65% of golf tourists preferring luxury-integrated travel.
- For example, the Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort’s September 2024 launch of themed events, including night golf, is a strategic move to attract a wider range of tourists. By offering unique and engaging experiences beyond traditional golfing, the resort aims to broaden its appeal and increase visitor numbers.
These developments align with the trend of hybrid golf-vacation models, where courses serve as anchors for resort ecosystems, enhancing market growth by attracting international and millennial golfers seeking immersive experiences.
Golf Course Operation Service Market Driver
Rising disposable income
The steady rise in global disposable incomes, particularly across Asia-Pacific, is a key driver fueling the growth of the golf course operation service market. As Asia-Pacific’s middle-class population is expected to surge by nearly 60% between 2021 and 2040, more individuals are allocating higher portions of their income towards recreational and luxury experiences. This growing affluence translates into increased demand for golf memberships, upscale resort-based golf experiences, and personalised services such as private coaching, custom fittings, and exclusive course access.
- For example, in October 2024, Marriott Bonvoy hosted its 3rd Annual Charity Golf Day at Blue Canyon Country Club in Thailand, raising THB 2.8 million (approximately USD 80,000) highlighting the region’s increasing enthusiasm for premium golf experiences.
These developments encourage operators to invest in advanced maintenance technologies, eco-friendly course management, and luxury amenities, accelerating growth in established and emerging golf markets.
Golf Course Operation Service Market Restraint
High operational costs
High operational costs significantly restrain the golf course operation service market, with expenses for maintaining greens, fairways, water systems, and skilled staff impacting profitability. The average maintenance costs for an 18-hole course are approximately USD 500,000–USD 1 million annually, driven by labour, equipment, and water usage, particularly in water-scarce regions. These fixed and variable costs and seasonal dependency affecting 40% of courses challenge operators’ ability to maintain competitive pricing. Smaller facilities and new entrants face heightened pressure, as 25% of operational budgets are allocated to sustainability compliance, such as eco-friendly irrigation systems, further straining finances.
For instance, in the Middle East, courses like those managed by Troon Golf face elevated water costs due to desalination needs. Overall, operational costs restrict scalability, forcing operators to balance quality with affordability, potentially limiting market penetration in emerging regions despite growing demand.
Golf Course Operation Service Market Opportunity
Emerging golf markets
Emerging golf markets across Latin America, Southeast Asia, and Eastern Europe are creating significant growth avenues for the golf course operation service market. In Asia-Pacific, rapid course development, rising golf tourism, and government-backed infrastructure projects fuel expansion, making it the fastest-growing region globally. Latin America is also witnessing growth, with disposable income projected to increase by 60% by 2040, driving demand for premium golf facilities and resort experiences. Meanwhile, Eastern Europe is benefiting from EU-supported sports and leisure infrastructure investments, opening up new markets for golf operators.
- For instance, in July 2024, Troon announced a regional partnership with SMARTSCORE to provide technical and advisory services across five premier golf clubs in Asia, including three in Thailand, one in Malaysia, and one in South Korea.
These strategic initiatives underscore the role of leading companies in actively capitalising on emerging market opportunities, leveraging rising affluence and favourable development conditions to expand operations.
Service Type Insights
Turf & Grounds Maintenance dominates the market, with a projected CAGR of 5.8% during the forecast period. The market growth is driven by rising demand for aesthetic, playable course conditions, fueled by eco-conscious practices and advanced technologies like robotic mowers and water-efficient irrigation. North America and Europe lead demand, with high-end courses investing in precision turf management. The trend toward eco-friendly solutions boosts the adoption of AI-driven maintenance tools. Additionally, sustainability mandates, golfer expectations for pristine conditions, and cost-saving automation are positioning this segment for robust expansion.
End User Insights
Private Golf Clubs dominate the end-user segment, generating high-value, recurring revenue through memberships and premium services. The segment grows due to affluent golfers’ demand for exclusive experiences, with a 5.5% CAGR. Private clubs benefit from multiple revenue streams, including food, beverage, and retail, with 60% of members prioritising luxury amenities. North America, with players like Troon and ClubCorp, leads, while Asia-Pacific sees growth from new clubs in China. Technology, such as mobile booking apps used by 50% of members, enhances engagement. Overall, growth factors include high-spending demographics, investment in premium facilities, and personalised experiences, ensuring private clubs’ market dominance.
| By Service Type | By End User |
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Regional Insights
North America Golf Course Operation Service Market holds a 42% market share, driven by high course density (over 15,000 courses) and an affluent golfing population. The U.S. leads the market, which is supported by a strong sports culture and operators like Troon and KemperSports. Government initiatives, like the U.S.’s 2025 “Active America” program, offer tax incentives for sports facilities, enhancing course upgrades. Technology adoption, including GPS-equipped carts, is prevalent in 70% of courses. For example, ClubCorp’s 2024 automation initiatives cut maintenance costs by 12%. Moreover, the market is driven by robust infrastructure, diverse golfer demographics, and sustainability trends, with 40% of courses adopting eco-friendly practices.
Asia-Pacific: Fastest-growing region
Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing region with an 8.2% CAGR, driven by a rising middle class in China, India, and South Korea. The R&A noted 26.2 million golf engagements in 2023, with India’s golfer base growing 15%. Government initiatives, like Thailand’s 2025 “Tourism 2030” plan, fund golf-centric resorts, adding 10 new courses. Real estate projects like Vietnam’s Vinpearl resorts integrate golf facilities, attracting tourists. For example, Troon’s November 2024 Ho Chi Minh City course management contract targets luxury tourism. Growth factors include urbanisation, disposable income growth, and mobile app usage. The region’s young demographics and tourism focus ensure rapid market growth.
Europe Golf Course Operation Service Market
Europe, with a 25% market share, grows at a 5.2% CAGR through 2030, driven by golf tourism in Spain, Portugal, and Scotland, contributing USD 5 billion annually. The EU’s 2025 “Green Sports Initiative” provides grants for sustainable course upgrades, supporting growth. Operators like Marriott Golf enhance luxury offerings. For example, Spain’s Costa del Sol added three resort courses in 2024, boosting tourism. Growth factors include strong tourism infrastructure, affluent travellers, and eco-innovations like drought-resistant turf used in 15% of courses.
Latin America
Latin America, with a 6% market share, is driven by under-penetrated markets like Brazil and Mexico, emerging as golf-tourism hotspots. Brazil’s 2025 “Esporte Verde” program offers subsidies for eco-friendly sports facilities, supporting course development. For example, Marriott Golf’s October 2024 PGA-standard course in Brazil targets affluent tourists. Growth factors include rising disposable incomes, resort integrations, and social media-driven golf interest among youth, with 25% of new golfers under 35. Challenges include infrastructure costs, affecting 30% of projects. Strategic investments and government support position the region for steady expansion.
Middle East & Africa
The Middle East & Africa (MEA), with a 5% market share, is driven by luxury tourism and expat communities in the UAE and Morocco. Desert-themed resorts, like Dubai’s Els Club, attract 30% more tourists annually. The UAE’s 2025 “Vision 2030” initiative funds 10 new golf projects, boosting infrastructure. For example, Troon’s 2024 management of a UAE resort course enhanced luxury offerings. Growth factors include high-net-worth visitors, government-backed tourism (USD 1 billion allocated), and eco-innovations like solar-powered carts in 20% of courses. Challenges include water scarcity, impacting 25% of courses.
| North America | Europe | APAC | Middle East and Africa | LATAM |
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Key Company Market Share
The global golf course operation service market is highly competitive, characterised by diversified portfolios and recurring innovation among top players. These companies aggressively pursue vertical integration they offer agronomy, F&B, technology, and membership platforms while expanding via management contracts and strategic partnerships. Their strength lies in combining premium global brand presence, proprietary sustainability and operational tools, and recurring service models that appeal to private clubs and resort operators.
Troon International: Troon International, the world’s largest third-party golf and club management company, continues to expand through strategic partnerships and sustainability-focused innovations. Operating over 900 facilities in 45 US states and 35+ countries, Troon leverages its integrated services from agronomy and marketing to boutique hospitality to capture market share in premium course operations.
Latest News:
- In September 2024, Troon expanded its partnership with NBC Sports Next, renewing its 25-year collaboration. This agreement enhances Troon’s digital and booking services, tapping GolfNow’s platform to boost tee time bookings a move that strengthens Troon’s operational reach and revenue generation in managed golf venues
Key Golf Course Operation Service Company Insights
- Troon International
- ClubCorp (Invited)
- KemperSports
- OB Sports
- Honours Golf
- Western Golf Properties
- NBC Sports Next
- GolfNow
- Accordia Golf
- Cypress Golf Course Services
- International Golf Maintenance (IGM)
- Elite Golf Management
- Davey Golf
- NGC Golf Operations
- Appliedgolf
Recent Developments
- February 2025- The Saudi Golf Federation, under Vision 2030, announced a USD 150 million investment to develop three new golf resorts along the Red Sea coast. These resorts, managed in partnership with Troon, aim to boost golf tourism, targeting a 15% increase in international visitors.
- September 2024- Troon Golf, a leading global golf management company, announced a new management contract for Al Houara Golf Club in Morocco. This deal enhances Troon’s international portfolio, leveraging its expertise to elevate the club’s operations, including maintenance and guest services.