Country clubs are some of the most elite and exclusive businesses within the hospitality industry. In recent years, hospitality software companies have been allowing golf and country clubs to maximize revenue and streamline operations.

There are numerous ways that country clubs are so profitable, to begin with, from using online ordering apps to implementing a customer rewards program. But as restaurant tech solutions continue to unfold, there are many business features to monitor. If you're looking into how to open a country club, we highly recommend you invest in such solutions sooner than later.

Before we jump into eight reasons why country clubs are a profitable business venture, let’s define the term.

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Country Club: Definition

A country club is a membership-based organization that offers various amenities to guests. Most country clubs include golf courses, restaurants, pro shops, and more.

People join private clubs primarily to engage in recreation and social activities. It’s a successful way for a niche market or group of people to socialize.

8 Reasons Why Country Clubs Are Profitable

Golf and country clubs are some of the most profitable business models out there. Are you ready to learn which aspects of a country club can help generate more revenue? Keep reading to find out!

1. Preorder Food and Beverages  

It’s the responsibility of country clubs to offer the ultimate experience to their members. In many scenarios, this means that hungry customers shouldn’t wait long periods of time for their meal.

Whether members are ordering golf course food for curbside pick up or prefer on-course dining, delivery integrations from a restaurant POS platform can do the trick. Plus, online ordering helps to ensure accuracy.

It’s important to remember that tech solutions don’t diminish the luxury of a business. If anything, it enhances it since customers are served much faster. The best part? Software can help cut various overhead expenses.

For instance, an inventory management app can let staff take inventory with ease. In doing so, they can reduce the risk of food spoilage and overspending.

These solutions are also vital in demand planning, which can assist financial projections. Over time, you'll save money, boost customer service, and earn more profits.

Don't forget that country club POS systems can simplify food ordering processes. So, ensure that you're using all the right integrations to establish the best experience possible.

2. Custom Memberships

Everyone lives an entirely different lifestyle. So, why not allow members to customize their membership around their preferences?

Use the POS system from one of the best POS partners to list every service that your country club offers. Upon signing up, customers can pick and choose which services and facilities they’d like to use.

The flexibility financially benefits the members, as they won’t be paying for club amenities they’ll never use. In turn, it’s an effective way for the country club to enhance customer satisfaction.

3. Online Booking Channels

One of the best perks of using innovative restaurant technology at a country club is taking advantage of reservation software. Members can book time on the golf course, at restaurants on club grounds, and for any other activity.

If members plan a vacation or long-term stay at a country club, this feature will come in handy. Members will have the luxury of booking their visit ahead of time while the revenue is secured on the business’ end.

Learn more here about how Revolution Ordering is bringing group reservation management to the restaurant industry.

4. Branded Country Club Merchandise

Since country clubs offer a sense of exclusivity, branded merchandise may be appealing to members. Items like clothing apparel, golf equipment, accessories, glassware, and home decor are just a handful of ideas to combine with your logo.

Plus, members sporting their country club’s merchandise will serve as walking billboards and brand ambassadors. Over time, this strategy can direct new traffic to your business.

It’s always a good idea to throw in a gift for members who spend a certain amount of money. One study shows that 79% of people who receive a free gift from a brand are more likely to visit again.

This figure is massive when you consider the markup on country club facilities. By extension, every business owner and country club manager can increase the ROI by gifting products. Remember, the ROI meaning refers to the amount of revenue generated vs. invested in the business.  

5. Customer Rewards Program

Rewards can go far beyond a country club’s restaurant loyalty program. In fact, it might be advantageous to offer an all-inclusive program that combines rewards across all facilities. For instance, if members gain a lot of points on the golf course, allow them to redeem them when you're hosting brunch.

Private club perks are a foolproof way to enhance the sense of luxury at your club. Plus, it’ll serve as promotional content. 

Joining a country club isn’t cheap, and members are constantly spending money. Creating an extensive rewards program that spans several tiers will be ideal for customer retention (see: customer retention strategies).

6. Cross Selling Opportunities

Cross-selling and upselling examples are revenue streams that business owners should focus on. The booking process and country club management software are two areas to implement such strategies.

When members are booking their visit to the golf course or another facility, present them with country club food, merchandise, and equipment. These may be items they think of later, making this part of the process an immediate solution for a future concern.  

Members can also choose to order meals far in advance. That’s right, they can schedule on-course deliveries during the booking process. It’ll save time for both parties later while adding an extra touch of convenience.

7. Package Deals

Similar to custom memberships, country clubs can also offer package deals. The main difference would be that packages include multiple services at a discounted price.

If customers are indecisive about joining, packages are an effective way to introduce them to the organization. Then, the upselling, cross-selling, and promotional strategies can begin.

8. Targeted Country Club Marketing Campaigns

Hospitality and restaurant marketing strategies pair well together. Many tactics you’d use for one entity can apply to the other.

For instance, you’ll have to learn how to find a target audience before promoting your country club to a new crowd. Then, you can onboard segmentation tools to analyze consumer data to unveil your ideal customer profile.

Try promoting features like amenities and country club dining options to attract members. Items from the country club menu can inspire great visual assets. Or, if you focus on the importance of sustainability, add this to your marketing initiatives. It's sure to draw attention.

One of the best ways to market a country club is by investing in paid ads on social media and Google. In doing so, you’ll be able to use customer data to target a specific audience, which is imperative for such an exclusive business model. Just be sure to calculate the social media ROI to ensure that your efforts are practical.

Contact us for a demo now to see how our off-premise solutions can help grow revenue and earnings of restaurants.

Frequently Asked Questions About Country Clubs

Now that you’ve learned about the profitability of operating a country club, it’s time to discuss some of the basics, such as country club management. From knowing what members should wear to which details distinguish them from golf courses, read on to learn more.

What Is the Purpose of a Country Club?

The purpose of a country club is to provide members with golf, recreation, and social activities. Most country clubs offer various amenities, including dining options, shops, and golf courses.

What’s the Difference Between a Golf Club and a Country Club?

A golf club has the same features as a country club, whereas country clubs can offer more activities than just golf. The interests and traits of the members can differ from one business to another. Using the right golf course management software, such as a golf course POS system, can also differentiate one from the other. With this in mind, consumers should expect the country club culture to be slightly different than golf courses.

What Do You Wear to a Country Club?

Country club members should wear attire that abides by business formal or business casual standards. Members can also wear golf-appropriate clothing on the course. Such attire can include slacks, khakis, polo shirts, and button-downs.

How Much Do Most Country Club Memberships Cost?

Consumers can expect to pay anywhere from $300-$2,000 for a country club membership. Prices range depending on a handful of factors, which include:

• Location
• Membership type
• Club facilities and amenities
• Perks and rewards

What Is the Hardest Country Club to Get Into?

The Cypress Point Club in Pebble Beach, California, is one of the world’s most elite and competitive country clubs in the world. Membership costs a whopping $150,000, in addition to over $18,000 in dues. It is one of the most exclusive clubs in the United States and is frequented by several members of Congress.

The Cypress Point Club only has 250 members. It’s one of the most desirable and sought-after private clubs of all time, as its stunning location is a major selling point.