Golf Related Supplies
The economic value created by golf-related supplies consists of three components: (1) retailer’s net revenue from sales; (2) manufacturing cost of materials; (3) manufacturing value added.
Golf Retail Impact
Retail sales of golf equipment, apparel, and accessories represent a significant and direct component of the golf industry's economic footprint. This spending by golfers on consumer-facing goods, from clubs and balls to shirts, shoes and golf-related gear fuels a vital segment of the local economy. It is estimated that golfers spent $387 million on apparel, equipment, and accessories used primarily for golf in New York in 2023. These items were purchased at golf courses and other golf retail outlets, including specialty stores, sporting goods stores, etc. Of this, $170.7 million was driven by off-course retail outlets, while on-course golf shops accounted for $216.4 million in sales (included in total consumer spending within facility operations).
The following table summarizes the estimated direct retail revenue for New York's golf industry based on 2023 market data. The "Gross Retail Sales Output" corresponds to total consumer spending, while "Retail Margin Value" represents the portion of that spending that constitutes local value added.
Approach
What is assessed
This data provides estimates for the direct retail revenue attributable to the golf industry in New York. The methodology involves establishing a national baseline for total U.S. golf retail sales, which is then allocated to New York based on its share of the nation's active on-course golfers. This approach ensures that the state-level estimates are grounded in broad, verifiable market data. The final figures, presented as Gross Retail Sales and a corresponding Retail Margin Value, are prepared for direct use in determining off-course retail and economic impact ripple affect modeling.
How it’s measured
The analysis uses a national golf retail baseline, adjusted with New York’s share of active golfers to estimate state-level sales. Retail margin data from the U.S. Census Bureau is then applied to ensure figures reflect in-state economic contributions. The resulting sales and margin estimates, excluding on-course retail, are factored into the economic impact model.
Services and Manufacturing Impact
New York’s golf economy adopts a “hub-and-spoke” model: corporate leadership and media expertise are based in New York City, while manufacturing and services are spread statewide contributing $542.6 million to the New York economy in 2023. The “hub” includes Summit Golf Brands and premier publications like Golf Magazine (Golf.com) and Golf Digest, leveraging the city’s global media and fashion infrastructure. The “spokes” comprise long-standing manufacturers like Nassau Precision Casting in Freeport and innovators such as OnCore Golf in Buffalo. These producers are supported by service providers, from turf and irrigation companies to architects and event planners, collectively 108 manufacturers and service providers sustaining New York’s diverse and far-reaching golf industry.
Approach
What is assessed
This section evaluates the off-course commercial ecosystem of golf in New York — companies whose revenue and employment are fundamentally tied to the sport. These include manufacturers, apparel brands, architects, technology firms, service providers, and event planners whose businesses would be materially affected without the golf industry. The goal is to capture the broader economic contribution beyond on-site facility revenues.
How it’s measured
Companies were identified through targeted searches, industry directories, and cross-referencing supply chains. Revenue and employment estimates were derived from company websites, business data platforms (e.g., Dun & Bradstreet, Data Axle Reference Solutions, ZoomInfo), industry benchmarks, and public filings. Export percentages were applied to isolate economic impact.
Golf Buys Local! Local Sourcing & Regional Flavors
New York golf clubs are deeply connected to their communities, supporting local small businesses. From Long Island’s farms and fisheries to the Hudson Valley’s orchards, Western New York’s breweries, and the Finger Lakes’ vineyards, clubs are weaving regional flavor into their operations.
Nearly one in four surveyed facilities report regularly purchasing local produce, seafood, wine, beer, or specialty goods.
Examples include fresh-caught fish from Montauk, maple syrup from upstate family farms, and orchard-grown apples from the Capital Region.
Many courses supplement with on-site gardens, supplying vegetables, herbs, and honey for their kitchens and creating sustainable supply chains.
Others extend support to local bakers, breweries, distilleries, and family markets, ensuring that golf facilities serve as steady customers for regional producers.
The PGA of America works with local, small, and diverse-owned businesses to support supply chain opportunities for its PGA Championship events - companies like Stacy K Florals, Image360, and Zweigle’s Inc. of Rochester were sourced for the 2023 PGA Championship.
