GBR Weekly | Oregon Golf Industry Soars: 5.3 Million Rounds, 18,000 Jobs, and a $2.4 Billion Impact
Connecting the dots across golf’s business, media, and professional landscape.
October is at an end, and with two months remaining of 2025, thoughts are turning towards 2026.
January offers us the PGA Show, which, next year, promises an even bigger education program for attendees looking to get a competitive edge in 2026.
Oregon will look forward to 2026 to continue its strong golf industry, which is worth $2.4 billion to the local economy and gives 18,000 locals employment.
We bring you full details on these stories as we take a look at the key golf industry stories at the end of this week.
Happy Halloween, and enjoy your weekend.
PGA SHOW 2026 EDUCATION PROGRAM EXPANDS WITH NEW BOOTCAMP AND KEYNOTE SERIES
The PGA Show Education Program will return with its most comprehensive schedule yet at the 2026 PGA Show in Orlando, Florida (January 20–23), offering more than 80 sessions and workshops designed to elevate professional expertise and leadership across the golf industry. Now in its 73rd year, the program introduces several new features, including the Golf Industry Bootcamp, Lunch & Learn Keynote Series, and an enhanced All-Access Education Experience, alongside a lineup of core sessions developed in partnership with the PGA of America.
Debuting on Tuesday, January 20, the Golf Industry Bootcamp will deliver a series of workshops focused on merchandising, operational excellence, and strategic relationship building, tailored for retailers, sales representatives, exhibitors, and golf industry professionals. Topics will include retail math, inventory planning, visual merchandising, pricing, and social media strategy, all aimed at helping attendees strengthen business performance and profitability in today’s consumer-driven marketplace.
The new Lunch & Learn Keynote Series, running January 21–22, will feature acclaimed speakers such as Randi Braun, best-selling author and leadership coach, and Johnny Guidry, renowned career strategist. Both will share actionable lessons on leadership and personal growth in an interactive, conversational setting. Attendees with an All-Access Education Pass can enjoy these sessions in the All-Access Lounge, where networking and collaboration continue throughout the week, including a Cocktail Reception on Wednesday, January 21, following the day’s final session.
Additional professional development opportunities will also run throughout PGA Show Week, including expert presentations on the PGA of America Industry Stage presented by CapTech, specialized workshops in the PGA of America Member Business Center, and complimentary sessions across the Fitness, Health & Wellness, Clubhouse, and Racquet Sports stages. Co-located events, the NGCOA Golf Business Conference (Jan. 19–21) and the AGM Golf Retail Conference (Jan. 20), round out the week.
Attendees can earn PGA Professional Development Requirement (PDR) credits. Early registration discounts available through November 11 at PGAShow.com.
OREGON GOLF INDUSTRY DRIVES $2.4 BILLION ECONOMIC IMPACT AND SUPPORTS 18,000 JOBS
Oregon’s golf industry generated a $2.4 billion total economic impact in 2024, supporting more than 18,000 jobs and contributing $252 million in state and local tax revenue, according to the new Oregon Golf Economic Impact Report conducted by Buffalo Groupe on behalf of the Golf Alliance of Oregon.
The findings show a 52% increase in direct economic activity since 2019, equating to a 4.8% annual compound growth rate after inflation, driven largely by gains in tourism, real estate, and capital investment. “Golf stands as one of Oregon’s most cherished recreational activities and a substantial economic catalyst,” said Rick Rangel, CEO of the Golf Alliance of Oregon. Rangel continued, “This expansion highlights the sport’s deep community integration, environmentally responsible practices, and outstanding destinations attracting worldwide participants.”
Key highlights from the study include:
$1.6 billion in direct golf-related activity from facilities, tourism, retail, real estate, and affiliated businesses.
$838 million generated from tourism alone — representing 36% of total golf-related output.
A more than threefold rise in golf-related real estate, from $58 million in 2019 to $184 million in 2024.
5.3 million rounds played statewide by 390,000 golfers, up nearly 19% since 2019.
86% of facilities are maintaining or reducing water use, with 10% converting turfgrass to native vegetation, reinforcing Oregon’s leadership in sustainable course management.
Home to 172 golf facilities, from coastal links to high-desert resorts like Bandon Dunes, Sunriver, Pronghorn, and Tetherow, Oregon’s golf sector remains a powerful economic driver.
CGCS RECOMMENDS 4.8% SALARY INCREASE FOR GOLF CLUB STAFF IN 2026
The Committee for Golf Club Salaries (CGCS) has issued its latest remuneration guidance, recommending a 4.8% overall pay increase for key golf club staff in the UK from January 1, 2026, in response to rising inflation, cost-of-living pressures, and ongoing challenges in retaining skilled personnel.
In addition, the CGCS urges clubs to consider a further 2% enhancement to overall compensation packages through non-salary benefits such as private health insurance, professional development budgets, and strengthened governance structures — measures designed to boost morale and retention.
“Whilst our sport continues to thrive, it is clear that challenges remain in finding and retaining the right people to maintain this momentum,” said a CGCS spokesperson.
The committee noted that while inflation has steadied after sharp increases in 2023, pay inflation remains at its lowest level in two years, creating pressure on employers and employees alike. The CGCS also warned that the widening gap between skilled staff and rising National Living Wage levels remains “a significant problem.” The body emphasized that its recommendations should serve as a benchmark for fair and sustainable pay decisions, ensuring that golf clubs continue to attract and support high-quality professionals across the sector. A copy of the full statement issued by the CGCS can be read here.
GOLFMANAGER PARTNERS WITH GOOGLE TO ELEVATE CLUB VISIBILITY AND DRIVE DIRECT BOOKINGS
Golf club operations specialist, Golfmanager, has announced an official integration with Google Appointments, allowing golf facilities to display a “Book online” button directly on their Google Business Profile. The new feature, available on request for Golfmanager users, gives golfers a faster, more seamless way to reserve tee times in just a few clicks while helping clubs increase visibility and direct revenue through their own booking channels.
By connecting directly to a club’s online booking portal, the system reduces friction in the reservation process and significantly boosts conversion rates. Although full in-Google booking functionality is not yet active, this rollout marks a key step toward that goal. “After more than a year of development, this integration with Google reinforces our commitment to providing clubs with the most advanced tools to enhance their visibility and boost direct sales,” said Daniel Sillari, Co-founder and Co-CEO of Golfmanager. “In a sector moving rapidly towards full digitalisation, we want golf clubs to be the true drivers of their own growth.”
Golfmanager joins a select group of global technology providers authorised by Google to enable this feature, ensuring verified, secure integration supported by ongoing maintenance from Golfmanager’s technical team. More details of the partnership can be found here.
HERITAGE GOLF GROUP EXPANDS FLORIDA PORTFOLIO WITH THREE NEW PRIVATE CLUB ACQUISITIONS
Heritage Golf Group, the fastest-growing owner and operator of golf and country clubs in the United States, has strengthened its presence in Florida with the acquisition of three premier private clubs, The Plantation Golf & Country Club in Fort Myers, The Country Club of Ocala, and The Palencia Club in St. Augustine, from managing partner MG Orender. The move brings Heritage’s national portfolio to 46 clubs, including 12 across Florida.
“We wanted to ensure each of these clubs was positioned for long-term success, and after a meticulous search, we are excited to have selected Heritage Golf Group as the ideal fit,” said Orender.
The Plantation Golf & Country Club, designed by Michael Hurdzan and Dana Fry, features a championship course, expansive practice facilities, and an elegant clubhouse known as The Great House.
The Country Club of Ocala, set among oak-lined terrain, offers a Steve Nugent–designed course, seven tennis courts, pickleball, and a fitness and aquatics complex.
The Palencia Club, by Arthur Hills, includes an 18-hole layout and a 33,000-square-foot clubhouse with multiple dining venues and event spaces.
“Each property, while unique, reflects the core qualities of our portfolio — exceptional golf and vibrant member experiences,” said Mark Burnett, CEO of Heritage Golf Group. “It has been a privilege to work collaboratively with MG and Hampton Golf throughout this transition, and we look forward to building upon the strong foundation they’ve established.” Heritage confirmed that capital improvement plans are already in discussion, guided by member and staff feedback to ensure future enhancements align with each club’s individual culture. Further details of the acquisition and future plans for all three courses can be found in the press release issued by the Heritage Golf Group.
DP WORLD TOUR ENTERS FINAL STRETCH AS TOP-10 CHASE PGA TOUR CARDS
The DP World Tour postseason is underway, with just two tournaments remaining before 10 players earn dual membership on both the PGA TOUR and DP World Tour for 2026. Following a brief break, the top 70 players in the Race to Dubai standings will compete in the Abu Dhabi Championship, where only the top 50 will advance to the season-ending DP World Tour Championship. At the top of the leaderboard sits Marco Penge, whose three victories have secured him a comfortable lead and a likely place in The Players Championship if he maintains his position.
The current top 10 in the Race to Dubai standings includes Penge, Kristoffer Reitan, Adrien Saddier, John Parry, Alex Noren, Laurie Canter, Haotong Li, Daniel Brown, Keita Nakajima, and Jordan Smith. Englishman Laurie Canter boosted his position with a runner-up finish at the Genesis Championship, while Japan’s Nakajima, a former world No. 1 amateur for a record 87 weeks, continues to impress in his rookie season. Most of the contenders are veterans, with seven aged 30 or older. Noren, currently 117th in the FedExCup, could retain his PGA TOUR card via U.S. standings, potentially freeing an extra qualification spot for Martin Couvra in 11th place. PGA Tour.
LIV GOLF OPENS OFFSEASON TRANSFER WINDOW AS TEAMS REBUILD FOR 2026
LIV Golf has officially entered its offseason roster window, giving team captains and general managers the opportunity to reshape their lineups ahead of the 2026 season through contract extensions, trades, and free-agent signings.
The transfer period allows teams to retain players who finished in the Top 24 (Lock Zone) of the individual standings, offer new deals to those in the Open Zone (25–48), or recruit from the Drop Zone (49+), the International Series, and LIV Golf Promotions.
“Every team has the chance to re-evaluate and build something special in the offseason, just like in other major sports,” said Phil Mickelson, captain of HyFlyers GC, who confirmed that his team will seek new talent following a roster change. “Losing a player opens the door to bring someone in who further elevates our team and makes us more competitive. I love the culture we’ve built, and I’m excited to add to our camaraderie and commitment to championship-caliber golf.”
The 2025 season concluded with Jon Rahm claiming both the Individual Title and Team Championship with Legion XIII, followed by Joaquin Niemann (Torque GC) and Bryson DeChambeau (Crushers GC). LIV Golf.
HANKOOK TIRE JOINS TGL AS FOUNDING PARTNER AND FIRST-EVER OFFICIAL TIRE SPONSOR
TGL presented by SoFi has announced Hankook Tire as its newest Founding Partner and first-ever Official Tire Partner, marking the league’s second new multi-year sponsorship ahead of Season 2, which tees off Sunday, December 28.
“We are thrilled to join TGL as a global sponsorship partner for Season 2,” said Sanghoon Lee, President & Co-CEO of Hankook Tire & Technology.
Hankook’s partnership will include:
Innovative broadcast integrations tied directly to the TGL competition.
National ad placements and digital activations across TGL platforms.
Hospitality experiences at SoFi Center for Hankook’s partners and guests.
“As momentum builds for Season 2, we’re excited to welcome Hankook Tire as a Founding Partner,” added Jason Langwell, Chief Revenue Officer of TMRW Sports. Hankook joins Best Buy, Businessolver, Genesis, and Shriners Children’s as TGL Founding Partners, alongside SoFi, the league’s Presenting Sponsor and naming partner for SoFi Center. TGL Golf.
ODYSSEY LAUNCHES SQUARE 2 SQUARE TRI-HOT PUTTERS, BLENDING THREE TOUR-VALIDATED TECHNOLOGIES
Odyssey Golf has unveiled its most advanced putter line yet, the Square 2 Square (S2S) Tri-Hot, a fusion of three of the brand’s most celebrated technologies: Tri-Hot, Square 2 Square, and Ai-One.
The new design builds on the original Tri-Hot concept from the early 2000s, combining lightweight aluminum, steel, and dense tungsten, more than 140 grams positioned forward, to create a zero-torque balance and a shaft placement closer to the face for enhanced control and a traditional appearance.
The line also debuts Odyssey’s Ai-Dual insert with Forward Roll Design (FRD) Grooves, developed using advanced AI and machine learning. The dual-layer urethane insert produces a softer feel, muted acoustics, and more consistent ball speed across off-center strikes, while the 19-degree FRD Grooves deliver improved forward roll for tighter distance control, particularly on fast, breaking putts. Complementing these innovations is a new Pistol Plus grip, shaped with sharper corners for better hand alignment and face awareness, and an upgraded SL120 black PVD shaft, heavier and stiffer to match the putter’s enhanced head stability.
The S2S Tri-Hot lineup, featuring the Jailbird, #7, and Rossie models at $549.99 (£419.99, €475.99), and the Jailbird Cruiser at $599.99 (£454.99, €519.99), is available for pre-sale now, with retail sales commencing on November 14. More details, including customization options, can be found at Odyssey Golf.
Weekend Reads
Golfweek’s feature on PXG’s 10th anniversary is a fascinating look at how Bob Parsons, the billionaire tech founder behind GoDaddy, completely rewrote the rules of golf equipment design. It explores how his “no limits” philosophy turned PXG from an audacious startup into a major force in the premium gear market, challenging industry giants with innovation, swagger, and price tags to match.
Tiger Woods turns 50 in December. Will he be joining the PGA Tour Champions, and how is the tour itself already gearing up for what could be a seismic shift? Patrick McDonald’s article for CBS Sports explores his fitness and comeback narrative, the special cart-friendly senior format that could suit him, and how his participation might reshape media, sponsorship, and competition dynamics.
Paul Hodowanic’s piece for the PGA Tour reflects on Michael Brennan’s breakthrough win at the Bank of Utah Championship at Black Desert Resort, where the 23-year-old delivered a dominant performance to secure his first PGA Tour title and leapfrog the typical Korn Ferry Tour route. It digs into how his power game—highlighted by towering drives—and his poise under pressure combined to create a “career-launching” moment. The article also positions his victory as a case study in how fast the modern pathway to golf’s big-time can accelerate when talent, timing, and opportunity align.
Advanced PGA professional, Neil Harvey, outlines eight strategic ways for golf clubs to boost usage of their short course and drive additional revenue, from tailored group/corporate packages to off-peak pricing and perhaps creative event integrations. It highlights how unlocking that under-utilised piece of real estate can complement the main course, build new golfer segments, and diversify income. For course managers, club marketers, or operators looking to squeeze more value out of every inch of turf, it offers actionable ideas rather than just theory.