Economic Impact of Golf...

In 2009 the National Allied Golf Association (NAGA) did a study on the “Economic Impact of Golf in Canada.”  They concluded the following results:

 

 An estimated $11.3 billion of Canada’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), which is broken down by:

• 341,794 jobs;

• $7.6 billion in household income;

• $1.2 billion in property and other indirect taxes, and;

• $1.8 billion in income taxes.

 The game of golf in Canada generates an approximate $29.4 billion in total gross production through direct, indirect, and induced spending impacts.

Canmore Golf Club, Alberta

What I find very interesting is the statistics made that of the $13.6 billion that the Canadian Golf Industry brings in with direct economic activity golf courses and their facilities including privately owned driving ranges and practice ranges totals $4.7 billion.  The fact that makes me proud to be in the golf industry is that we are in close to beating all other participation sports and recreation facilities combined with their total being $4.8 billion.

In the year of 2008 it has been estimated that 70 million rounds of golf were played in Canada.  “According to IPSOS Reid, there are an estimated 6 million Canadian golfers.   According to RCGA sources, Canadian golf participation rates are among the highest in the world.”

Any seasoned golfer has played in numerous charity events and the NAGA report states: “Each year there are at least 25,000 charitable events hosted at Canadian courses. Using conservative estimates, these events raise more than $439 million for charitable causes across Canada.”

Cobble Beach, Owen Sound, Ontario

 

We have all heard the term “Snow Birds” in the golf industry those who fly south for the winter to keep their golf game sharp.  However, there are lots of Canadians that are playing within our country.  An estimated $1.9 billion is spent annually on golf-related travel within our beautiful country.   

Thank you to the NAGA and SNG for reporting such important news on the game of golf.  We only hope that we can continue to grow such a popular game one that can be played at all ages and skill levels.