Page 26 - GBC Spring 2023 Eng

Jay Ashton
Jay is the Business Resources & Activation Manager, with Sysco Canada, as well as the Producer & Host of the Sysco Canada’s Virtual Kitchen (SVK) Podcast Network. SVK provides helpful information on topics such as budgeting, marketing, and leadership coaching, as well as featuring guests ranging from Bo Jackson to celebrity chefs. Contact Jay at ashton.jay@corp.sysco.ca or 780-566-8900.
Are you looking to add extra income to your bottom line, particularly in the long off-season? Let’s think beyond the box and make your course real-estate work for you. In today’s competitive golf and hospitality market, it is increasingly important for you to think differently in order to stand out from your competition and attract customers. This is especially true for golf courses, which often cater to a clientele with high expectations for both the quality of their dining experience and the convenience of on-course options. You will succeed by providing a unique and outstanding experience.
TIME TO INNOVATE
Golf courses looking to increase revenue, particularly during the off-season, may want to consider innovative strategies such as hosting dining experiences in fun mini domes on your property, or using your kitchen as a “ghost kitchen” to rent out to other foodservice businesses. You can create a unique dining experience by setting up dinner domes on the course and offering a distinctive menu, while renting out the kitchen during the off-season to inject a new source of income. Additionally, you can leverage your kitchen to offer catering services for events, such as weddings or corporate meetings.
The Box
Another way that your course can stand out in the food and beverage industry is by offering a diverse and convenient menu that caters to a range of dietary preferences and tastes. Convenience is key for golfers so have a variety of grab-and-go options available, such as pre- packaged sandwiches and salads, fruit cups, and protein bars.
Remember that unique and outstanding experience I mentioned? This might be the time to host wine tastings or cocktail- making classes, offer farm-to-table dining options with locally sourced ingredients, or exclusive cooking classes with your executive chef.
These experiences can provide an additional source of revenue and help to differentiate your golf course in a competitive market.
Sustainability is also top of mind for Canadians. Your golf course has the opportunity to set an example by offering eco-friendly options such as compostable containers and utensils, as well as locally sourced and organic food options. These efforts appeal to environmentally conscious customers, and minimize your golf course’s impact on the environment.
DINNER DOMES 101
At the 2022 Golf Business Canada Conference & Trade Show, I had the opportunity to host a workshop with a large group of golf course owners and operators, challenging them to think strategically about introducing dinner domes to generate new revenue. These dome- shaped enclosures, which can be set up on the golf course during the off-season, provide a unique dining experience for customers looking for something memorable and out- of-the-ordinary.
During the workshop, we discussed the various benefits of offering dinner domes, such as the ability to attract a new customer base and generate additional income during the slower months. We talked about the importance
26 Golf Business Canada
Think Beyond