- October 21, 2022
- Construction,Courses,Design,Mini Golf,Opportunities,
- Geoff Bennell
Interested in running your own mini golf business in 2023 but don’t know where to start? At Mini Golf Creations we know just how difficult it can be for entrepreneurs to get started so we prepared this helpful guide to aid you on your path.
Research
The best place to start…is at the start! Before thinking about the clubs and the balls and all the fun obstacles, you need to first do research. It sounds boring but as the saying goes, fail to prepare, prepare to fail.
Ask yourself the following questions:
- Is there already a mini golf course in the area?
- What’s the population of the area?
- Are there many families and potential customers in the area?
- Are there any other businesses that might provide competition for customers?
Create a Business Plan
Business Plans are key for any business. Factoring in everything from start-up costs to projected revenue to staffing requirements puts you in the best position for success.
Pricing Strategy
Establishing a pricing strategy is a critical step in business planning for your mini golf course. The goal is to set a price point that strikes a balance between affordability and profitability. Research the demographics of your target audience to understand what they consider reasonable. Offering group and family discounts can attract larger crowds and encourage repeat visits. Flexible pricing options, such as off-peak discounts or seasonal promotions, can help fill quieter times. Additionally, consider bundling packages with refreshments or merchandise to increase per-customer spending. The right pricing strategy not only ensures steady revenue but also enhances customer satisfaction by providing perceived value.
Competitor Research
Before launching your mini golf course, it’s essential to understand your competitors. Visit other courses in your area to evaluate their strengths and weaknesses. Take note of their layouts, themes, and unique selling points. Pay close attention to how they market themselves and what strategies they use to attract customers. Are they targeting families, tourists, or corporate groups? What promotions or packages do they offer? By analysing their operations, you can identify opportunities to differentiate your course. Whether it’s offering better pricing, unique themes, or a more engaging customer experience, competitor research provides valuable insights for your business plan.
Design
The design phase is where your mini golf course begins to take shape. Collaborate with experts like Mini Golf Creations to create a course that is visually stunning and highly functional. Design should consider not just aesthetics but also playability and accessibility. Include a mix of challenges to cater to all skill levels, from novice players to seasoned enthusiasts. The layout should encourage a natural flow from one hole to the next, avoiding bottlenecks. Incorporate themes or features that resonate with your target audience, such as local landmarks or custom branding. Thoughtful design ensures that your course stands out and keeps players coming back for more.
Building
Once the design is finalised, it’s time to bring your vision to life. The construction phase requires precision and expertise to ensure the course is built to last. Partnering with professionals like Mini Golf Creations streamlines this process, as we handle both design and construction seamlessly. High-quality materials and skilled craftsmanship are essential for a durable and visually appealing course. Building also involves planning for practical aspects such as drainage, lighting, and pathways. A well-built course not only enhances the player experience but also minimises maintenance issues in the long term, saving you time and money.
Marketing
No matter how incredible your mini golf course is, it won’t succeed without effective marketing. Begin by generating buzz with a grand opening event that showcases your course to the community. Use a mix of online and offline strategies to reach your audience. Social media platforms are ideal for sharing photos, videos, and customer reviews to engage potential visitors. Consider partnering with local businesses or influencers to broaden your reach. Loyalty programs, email newsletters, and seasonal promotions help retain customers and encourage repeat visits. Consistent and creative marketing ensures your mini golf course becomes a beloved local attraction.
If you are looking to build and run a Mini Golf business and find our offering of interest, don’t hesitate to contact us at Mini Golf Creations. We would be happy to help you on your exciting project.