The indoor golf industry is booming — but not every brand is thriving.
Topgolf, once the leader in golf entertainment, is starting to show cracks. Recent reports reveal an 8.2% drop in same-store sales and an 11% decline in just one month (July 2024). With construction costs between $15 to $50 million per location, Topgolf’s expensive “eatertainment” model is becoming harder to sustain. Customers are also feeling the pinch — spending upwards of $150 for a night out — leading to fewer events and lighter foot traffic.
But there’s good news:
A new generation of indoor golf franchises is emerging — offering smarter models, lower costs, and a stronger focus on real golfers.
The Swing Bays is leading that charge.
How The Swing Bays Beats Topgolf (and Why It’s a Better Investment)
1. Lower Investment, Faster Ramp-Up
While a Topgolf venue can cost tens of millions, opening a Swing Bays franchise requires an investment of just $226,400 to $924,000 — making it accessible for entrepreneurs and investors looking for a high-demand concept without massive risk.
2. Focused on Golf and Fitness, Not Food and Nightlife
The Swing Bays was built by PGA teaching professional Dustin Miller, and it’s designed around what golfers actually want: better training, lessons, TPI-certified fitness, and a private, tech-driven golf experience.
No expensive kitchens. No nightclubs. Just pure, profitable golf.
3. Multiple Revenue Streams
Swing Bays franchise owners earn through:
- Private lessons and memberships
- Golf fitness programs
- Corporate events
- Club repair services
- Merchandise and retail
This diversified model drives steady, year-round revenue — without depending on food sales.
4. Smaller Footprint, Higher Efficiency
Unlike a massive multi-acre site, The Swing Bays locations operate in smaller, more affordable spaces — making site selection, buildout, and management easier and cheaper.
5. Community and Customer Loyalty
Swing Bays customers aren’t just looking for a night out — they’re serious about improving their game. That creates a loyal, recurring customer base instead of chasing new partygoers every weekend.
Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Invest in Indoor Golf
The indoor golf industry is projected to grow to $3.2 billion by 2028, fueled by growing interest in year-round golf, flexible training, and experiential entertainment.
As Topgolf’s expensive model struggles, the demand is shifting toward affordable, player-focused experiences — exactly what The Swing Bays delivers.
For entrepreneurs and investors, getting in early with a scalable, low-cost indoor golf franchise like Swing Bays could be the best move of the decade.