A New Era of Tech, Experience, and Efficiency on the Greens
Why Is Golf Course Management Changing So Rapidly?
Golf has experienced a modern renaissance in recent years. With younger demographics showing interest, and properties increasingly focused on maximizing revenue per square foot, golf course operators are rethinking everything—from tee time bookings to F&B operations.
As we move into 2025, the game remains the same—but the business of managing a golf course is changing fast. Whether you’re running a standalone course or part of a resort property, keeping up with the latest trends is essential for growth, guest satisfaction, and profitability.
So what should you expect this year and beyond?
1. How Is Technology Enhancing the Guest Experience?
Digital convenience isn’t just for hotel rooms anymore—it’s now a baseline expectation at the course.
Trends to watch:
Mobile-first tee time booking with real-time availability
In-app payments and check-in (skip the pro shop line)
Digital scorecards and on-course ordering from smartphones
GPS-enabled golf carts that display course info and drive targeted ads
Guests want faster, easier, more personalized experiences—and tech makes that possible without adding staff.
2. What’s New in Revenue Optimization?
In 2025, golf course operators are thinking like hoteliers: every time slot, rental item, and F&B interaction is an opportunity for incremental revenue.
Smart operators are:
Using dynamic pricing models for tee times (just like hotel rooms or airline tickets)
Offering package bundles (e.g., round + lunch + range balls) to boost spend
Encouraging upsells like cart rentals, upgraded clubs, or post-round dining
Leveraging guest data to drive repeat visits through personalized offers
Maximizing revenue isn’t about charging more—it’s about delivering more value at the right moment.
3. How Is Data-Driven Management Improving Operations?
Operational data is no longer just “nice to have”—it’s central to strategy.
Top golf operators are turning to real-time dashboards and reporting tools to:
Track tee time utilization and peak hours
Forecast staffing based on weather or booking trends
Monitor inventory (clubs, balls, F&B) in real time
Understand guest behavior across the full resort, not just the course
This kind of insight helps reduce waste, optimize labor, and increase efficiency—all while improving guest satisfaction.
4. What About Food, Beverage, and Events?
Golf is increasingly a lifestyle activity, not just a sport. That means F&B and events play a bigger role than ever.
Trends include:
On-course ordering: Guests can order snacks, drinks, or lunch right from their cart or phone
Post-round dining: Clubs are investing in their restaurants as gathering spots, not just grab-and-go cafés
Event packages: Tournaments, weddings, and corporate outings are growing sources of revenue—and require tailored tech tools for group bookings and itineraries
Integration with POS and PMS systems: So food, event space, and tee times are all synced for smoother experiences
It’s all about delivering a cohesive, connected guest journey across the property.
5. How Is Sustainability Factoring into Golf Course Strategy?
Today’s travelers and golfers are paying more attention to sustainability—and so are operators.
Expect to see:
Smarter irrigation systems tied to weather forecasts
Electric carts and solar-powered facilities
Waste reduction efforts in F&B and retail
Promotion of local, eco-conscious vendors
Certifications and marketing aligned with environmental stewardship
Sustainable operations are not just good for the planet—they’re increasingly a selling point for eco-minded guests.
What Role Will AI and Automation Play?
AI is just starting to tee off in golf management—but expect more growth in 2025. Some early applications include:
Predictive analytics for demand and pricing
Automated staff scheduling based on tee sheet forecasts
Personalized marketing messages based on guest preferences
Smart maintenance schedules using IoT sensors and turf data
These tools help reduce manual overhead and allow staff to focus more on service and experience.
Key Takeaways
Tech adoption in golf is accelerating—mobile bookings, digital scorecards, and dynamic pricing are becoming standard
Data is key to managing labor, inventory, and guest behavior across departments
Revenue growth depends on packaging, personalization, and upselling—not just green fees
F&B, events, and sustainability are now core parts of the guest experience
AI and automation are emerging as next-gen tools for smarter, leaner operations
Looking to modernize your golf course management and connect every touchpoint of the guest journey? Agilysys delivers integrated tools for tee times, dining, mobile ordering, and guest data—all designed to help you Go Beyond the traditional golf experience.
