This GCAE initiative brings together selected owners, operators, investors, consultants, architects, technology companies and other businesses that help shape the golf experience.
TheGolf Course Association Europe (GCAE) has launched The 19th Room, an invitation-only leadership initiative bringing together selected owners, operators, investors, consultants, architects, technology companies and other businesses that help shape the golf experience.
Edition Zero took place from 15 to 17 June at Victoria Golf Resort & The Els Club in Vilamoura. Leaders from across Europe came together to share what they are seeing in their own businesses and to explore what those developments mean for the future of golf.
“In golf, we often talk in silos,” said Renate Roeleveld, CEO of GCAE. “Owners with owners, suppliers with suppliers and technology with technology. Yet some of the most valuable insights emerge when different perspectives meet. Together, we simply see more.”
Nineteen leaders represented multi course operators and owners, agronomy, architecture, technology, data, hardware and other businesses, each playing a role in creating successful golf businesses.
People, skills, knowledge, changing customer expectations, technology and data surfaced throughout the discussions. Despite representing different businesses, participants often recognised the same challenges within their own organisations.
One participant reflected: “What stood out to me was how many organisations across golf are trying to solve similar challenges, yet often do so independently.”
For GCAE, financially healthy golf facilities start with professional leadership and informed business decisions.
Following Edition Zero, GCAE will continue developing The 19th Room, inviting additional leaders from across the golf industry to contribute to future discussions. The next gathering will take place during the GCAE Golf Business Conference 2026 in Vilamoura.
The Golf Course Association Europe (GCAE) represents golf facility owners and operators across Europe. Through representation, information, connection and inspiration, GCAE strengthens the business of golf and provides golf facilities with a stronger voice within the wider golf ecosystem.