A research project from
The PGA with Ipsos
How is golf being played, who is doing it and what are the opportunities?
16.3
Million
play any form of the game
22.4 million adults in the UK and Ireland are either playing or watching golf. 16.3 million adults are playing some form of the game every year.
But, fewer than 1 in 4 people engaged in golf are playing ‘on-course’.
There is huge scope for the golf industry to be more inclusive of different forms of the game.
Just 4.9 Million are playing traditional ‘on-course’ golf.
“The PGA commissioned Ipsos to conduct surveys, both offline and online, to understand the size of the golfing landscape within the UK and Ireland.
“This research confirms our expectation that golf has changed irrevocably, and that there is huge scope for the golf industry to be more inclusive of different forms of the game and the people who play them. That should be hugely exciting for everyone involved in golf.”
Robert Maxfield, PGA Chief Executive
How is golf being played?
Two-thirds of all those who play golf at least once a year are playing a ‘non traditional’ or off-course form of the game
Who is playing golf this way?
The 11.4 million adults that are playing ‘non-traditional’ forms are very different to the 4.9 million playing on course (full or short course) – a higher proportion are female, are younger and are more diverse in terms of social background and ethnicity.
A perception issue?
Despite the vast numbers of people playing non-traditional form of golf, just 2% consider themselves a golfer
“I have played a few times on a full golf course but have not played often.”
“It comes across as elitist.”
“I have never played traditional golf, only mini golf.”
“I don’t feel I am good enough, am keen to learn.”
