Rental electric trolleys are proving to be one of the most effective revenue generators available to golf clubs and on-course retailers, with more venues than ever investing in reliable, premium PowaKaddy fleets to increase profitability while enhancing the golfer experience.
The brand has reported a 35 per cent year-on-year increase in the number of golf clubs and resorts purchasing rental fleets, while orders for rental trolleys with GPS have risen by 34 per cent compared to last year thanks to the introduction of the CT10 GPS.
The figures highlight a significant shift in the market, with many on-course retailers increasingly recognising that rental fleets offer more than just convenience for golfers. With consistent daily usage, low operating costs and strong residual values, rental trolleys have become a reliable recurring revenue stream, while premium GPS models are helping operators command higher rental rates and encourage future retail sales.
One venue that has taken advantage is the St Andrews Links Trust, which has recently enhanced its rental fleet, replacing its previous Powakaddy CT6 GPS models with 70 CT10 GPS trolleys across eight courses at the Home of Golf.
Kevin MacKay, General Manager at St Andrews Links Trust, said: “For the last fifteen years we have grown our fleet of PowaKaddy trolleys and we now have a fleet of 70 available to our customers across the eight courses. The latest and most advanced model, the CT10 GPS has proven very popular and an essential offering to complement any golfer’s round when playing here at St Andrews. The large screen display and enhanced course information options make the CT10 GPS a very popular addition to any golfer experience.”
The growing demand for the CT10 GPS rental has been driven by golfers’ increasing appetite for premium on-course technology. Features including PowaKaddy’s intuitive Full Hole View portrait touchscreen display enhance course navigation and decision-making, while providing first-time and occasional golfers with greater confidence and a more enjoyable playing experience.
Another venue that has recently enhanced its rental offering for golfers is Trump International Scotland, replacing its fleet of 16 CT6 GPS rental trolleys with the new CT10 GPS model.
Ross McKen, Head Professional at Trump International Scotland, said: “We have experienced fantastic customer feedback after changing to the PowaKaddy CT10 GPS model for our rental fleet. This is due to the vastly improved larger display that now has capabilities to view the hole in its entirety, as well as overall ease of use and mobility. In turn, the upsell of these features has led to an increase of electric trolley rental sales for the business.”
According to PowaKaddy, most retailers recover their investment in rental fleets within just a few months, with annual fleet replacement programmes and strong resale values further increasing profitability. Some clubs are also introducing seasonal subscription models, creating guaranteed recurring revenue while maximising utilisation of their rental fleets throughout the year.
“Golf clubs are increasingly looking at every opportunity to maximise revenue, and rental fleets continue to be one of the smartest commercial investments they can make,” said Graeme Wigham, Sales Director at PowaKaddy.
“Not only do they generate consistent income throughout the season, but they also allow golfers to experience our latest technology before making a purchase.
“This year we’ve seen more venues invest in PowaKaddy rental fleets, while orders for our CT10 GPS rental model have increased. It’s clear that more clubs are recognising the value of offering a premium GPS experience that enhances the golfer’s day while delivering stronger commercial returns,” he added.
