The downturn in the economy has had an impact on the private club industry and clubs have taken action to remain not only viable, but also a place where members want to come. This is just one of the findings included in the 2009 Private Club Operations Report from the National Club Association. More than 68 percent of respondents have increased membership marketing and 60 percent have put greater focus on retention. On the cost-cutting side, 50 percent have reduced staff and 40 percent deferred capital expenses. In addition, of all survey respondents, 70 percent anticipate increasing their dues in the next year.
The 2009 Private Club Operations Report provides private club leaders with more than a hundred charts and tables that indicate benchmarks on all aspects of club operations. Data compiled and analyzed is based on an August 2009 National Club Association survey of club managers and controllers.
Report findings cover information about how clubs are dealing with the economy -- now and in the future. Club policies, such as minimums, dress codes, cell phones and significant others are presented. Club leaders can learn how other clubs are adapting to ever-evolving technology with information about club Web sites, software and technology budgets. Golf course operations information, such as the average number of rounds of golf played in the last year, average greens fees, and the change in member rounds in the past three years is presented.
The food and beverage operations section features average annual total covers, change in average menu prices in the past year and food and beverage department sales net profit or loss information, among other information. In addition, the report provides revenue and expense breakdowns of the responding clubs and operating ratios.
The publication was partially underwritten by the National Club Association Foundation. It’s available at the NCA online bookstore at www.nationalclub.org or by calling 800-625-6221. The price is $129 for members or $199 for nonmembers.
