British trolley manufacturer Stewart Golf has released details of a successful 2020 during which the business almost doubled in size.
The Gloucestershire-based company saw total sales increase by 93%. Against a backdrop of the Coronavirus pandemic, many golfers saw taking to the fairways as their sanctuary. For a number of golf courses, walking the course was the only option and this helped lead to an unprecedented surge in demand for trolleys.
Stewart Golf built 65% more of its X Series electric trolleys than in 2019, and production of the R1-S Push trolley increased by 51%. The company also successfully launched the new Q Follow after four years of design and development.
Staff numbers at Stewart Golf have increased by more than 50% to facilitate this growth, with this number set to grow further in 2021 as the company looks to build on its momentum. The factory will also expand by 50% to 10,000 square feet in February.
While UK sales grew by 33%, exports almost rose significantly and now account for almost 75% of sales. Stewart Golf sold to 45 countries throughout the world, including the USA, Canada, South Africa, Singapore, and South Korea. European sales also increased by 16% despite Brexit uncertainty throughout the year.
CEO Mark Stewart said: “Clearly we’re thrilled with our 2020 performance. It’s been a crazy year in so many ways and we consider ourselves very fortunate that our business has been able to blossom during the pandemic when so many have suffered.
“The team have been nothing short of spectacular. Doubling in size would be a tall order in any year, but to do it with such significant obstacles in the way is exceptional. The international appeal of our machines has been demonstrated by our rising levels of export. Stewart Golf is truly a global brand and we’re excited about what the future holds for the business.”