A new social hub and store for golf enthusiasts on Blouberg beachfront
Golf lovers who want to fit a quick game into a busy social life have a new venue at Bogie Golf Spa, which offers a state-of-the-art golf simulator, a gym and retail store. Owner, Robert Scherman tells us more.
How did your business start?
I used to play professional golf on tour in South Africa and Europe before a broken leg put an end to my golf career. After accepting I could no longer play the sport, I wanted to remain in the golfing industry and saw a gap in the market for something different; a way to fit golf into your social life and enjoy it in a relaxed environment for an hour or two when you don’t have time to commit the whole day to it.
Why did you choose this area for your business?
After scouting, I saw that there’s a triangle of golf enthusiasts here, between Durbanville, Milnerton and Melkbosstrand, and no other pro golf vendors housing an adequate selection of hardware and apparel. There’s also a large social hub in the area, so it’s ideal for a clientele who want to actively play golf as part of a social get-together, perhaps playing a game in the simulator then sitting on the balcony over a drink before going out for a movie, so linking golf to their social lifestyles.
How did you find your premises?
Long-term searching and Google. We went through multiple agencies and eventually found it. Honestly it was out of our budget, but we are hoping that the beauty of the location will add to the attraction for our clientele.
Why are the premises ideally suited to your business?
We’ve got a beautiful location and ocean view, plenty of space for retail, social lounge and gym plus a balcony to sit out on.
Who are your neighbours?
Golden Fish restaurant and a dentist.
What are the rental/sales prices like in this area?
On the high side because of the beachfront location.
How many people go through your store each day?
Being on a main road, there is little passing foot traffic as there would be in a mall, so we have to work harder at marketing ourselves.
Do you have any expansion plans?
We would like to open an in-house cafe, so our customers can relax over a meal after a game. We currently have a relationship with nearby restaurants who deliver. We have applied for a liquor license. Our aim is to become a social hub: a real 19th hole away from the 19th hole. We are planning an in-house physio or reflexologist to provide clients services on nurturing past injuries, advice on stretching and flexibility, as well as core golf strengthening. Having recently moved down from Pretoria, I would like to become involved in the local community by getting golf into schools, hosting charity events and so on.
Do you operate online as well?
Our website includes an online shop and online booking for the simulator.
What’s your most popular item/service?
Golf simulation and golf apparel
See for yourself:
Bogie Golf Spa
076 834 4490
bogie.co.za
Words: Kit Heathcock | Images: Supplied
