EighteenGlobal, the innovative new, golf retail venture, focussed on bringing value back to the golfing community, has chosen to launch its new UK business in Leeds.
Its chief proposition is to use the power of the Internet to allow golf clubs and golf professionals to provide a far broader range of products than previously possible within the confines of their golf shops and to compete with the off-course superstores, which have taken a massive share of the golf retail market over recent years.
Furthermore, some 50% of EighteenGlobal’s profits are then driven back into golfing community, to golf clubs, club professionals and associations who, by sharing in the company’s success, can ensure that the revenue is used at grass roots level to further the game of golf.
Richard Lane, club professional at the Moor Allerton Golf Club in north Leeds, comments, “EighteenGlobal is a very exciting development, which has the capacity to revolutionise the UK golf retail industry. Over the past decade, the might of the high street superstores has threatened the livelihood of many professionals.
“EighteenGlobal will enable pros to compete, by offering an unrivalled selection of golfing equipment, apparel and accessories. As the site expands, there will also be opportunities for consumers to purchase golf holidays anywhere in the world, timeshare and golf real estate, and to access a variety of information services, such as local and global golf news. Golfers don’t need to visit pro-shops to benefit. Once registered, they can make purchases from the EighteenGlobal site on their home or office computer. Any purchase will be linked back to the customer’s club pro who will receive 50% of the profits and everyone will benefit.”
“We chose to set up the new UK operation from Leeds because of the city’s reputation as a growing e-commerce and financial centre,” said Paul Fullerton, European Business Development Director for EighteenGlobal, “We have also got tremendous support from within the Yorkshire golfing community. Over fifty golf clubs and club professionals across the county, along with 500 nation-wide, have already signed up and they are reaping the benefits now.
“EighteenGlobal has a tried and tested business model. In South Africa, 95% of golf clubs and 99% of Club Professionals have signed up to become partners in EighteenGlobal and I expect the company will enjoy similar success in this country.”