Michael Francisco
MKT 344
November 21, 2011

Golfsmith Golfsmith is a retail store that specializes in the distribution of golf supplies to the everyday recreational golfer. The Golfsmith chain operates with 75 retail stores in 21 different states providing not only golf but tennis equipment as well. Carl Paul founded Golfsmith in 1967 with the intention to create a retail service that helped golfers improve their games with custom club fitting as well as market all sorts of equipment in the golf industry. The golf industry is a large one where technology is always evolving along with the techniques and strategies to being a successful golfer. Golfsmith is one of the few chains that can cater to the various needs of golfers throughout the country. The chain defines its core purpose as “To inspire people to play better and live life more.” The golf market is more of an exclusive one compared to other sports such as basketball or football. Golf is a sport more played by wealthier consumers that reside in suburban neighborhoods. Therefore the marketing strategies of a chain such as Golfsmith can be narrowed down to specific demographics. About 85% golfers tend to be white males that fall into the age 18-65 ranges. Over half of the golf consumer market are some sort of manager, professional or executive and have some sort of college degree. The average household income for a golf consumer is over $80,0000. Also, 90% of them tend to be homeowners. These statistics show that golf is an expensive sport played by the more wealthier and high-end customers. However, the number of consumers who take up the game of golf expands every year regardless of economic status. Golfsmith is a chain that holds products from the top of the line to the cheaper and more efficient so all customers are welcomed. Golfsmith can be categorized as a franchise. It also