Pro Shops throughout the UK can expect to experience an uptake in electric trolley rentals this year, according to a survey* of more than 1,600 regular golfers who claim they are increasingly more likely to hire a trolley than carry.
Nearly three out of four golfers (73%) polled in the survey commissioned by Motocaddy – of whom over 80% play at least 45 rounds a year – say they are more likely to hire an electric trolley than carry if they don’t already own a powered trolley.
The survey – conducted by ‘National Club Golfer’ magazine – confirmed that 64% of those willing to hire an electric trolley from a Pro Shop would pay up to £10 for the privilege of doing so for 18 holes, while 7% would be prepared to pay more.
“This survey highlights the opportunity for retail outlets at UK golf clubs to increase their revenue through rental fleets of electric trolleys,” said Neil Parker, Sales Director of Motocaddy. “More and more golfers are looking to rent reliable electric trolleys if they don’t already own one, because it makes the game more enjoyable as well as less strenuous. And many club Pros can testify to the fact that the rental experience can often lead to additional sales,” he added.
St Mellion Golf Club in Cornwall is a case in point, having experienced a dramatic growth in sales following its decision to take on a rental fleet last year.
“The stunning Nicklaus Course here at St Mellion will test any trolley’s reliability and I have been delighted with the rental fleet supplied by Motocaddy,” said David Moon, Golf Operations Manager at St Mellion. “Our guests have enjoyed using them so much, our sales of Motocaddy trolleys have exceeded my expectations.”
* The survey was conducted online in September 2010 by National Club Golfer magazine among a total of 1,678 respondents.
Motocaddy www.motocaddy.co.uk
St Mellion Golf Club www.st-mellion.co.uk
‘National Club Golfer’ www.nationalclubgolfer.com