New style of networking gathers pace in the UK

Professionals are shunning the ‘forced’ nature of traditional networking groups for a more relaxed approach on the golf course. New networking group “FORE” Business, which was only launched in spring this year, is quickly gathering support for this more ‘natural’ approach to doing business.

Started at Basingstoke Golf Club, “FORE” Business has taken the old-fashioned notion of the ‘old boys network’ and rejuvenated and updated it to fit with modern life and modern business practices. The group has already expanded to include Donnington Grove in Newbury and Sand Martins in Wokingham with additional clubs due to be announced in Hampshire, Surrey and Berkshire in the coming weeks. This growth is set to continue with “FORE” Business expected to have 15 groups across the UK by April 2014.

Already shortlisted for New Business of the Year at the 2013 Inspire Business Awards, it’s no wonder that the group has already got the attention of, and partnered with, the PGA Euro Pro Tour and national asset finance business, Asset Advantage.

So what makes this new version of a very old model so appealing to today’s professionals? For a monthly fee of £45 members meet once a month at their local golf club and build worthwhile relationships with like-minded professionals over 18 holes. Within this monthly fee, members also get a presence on the “FORE” Business website, a 4-ball to use with clients, friends or family, as well as preferential rates at the clubhouse and pro shop. They also have access to exclusive offers from “FORE” Business partners.

Sean Fergusson, founder of “FORE” Business, explained: “People are fed up with the pressure, cost and inflexibility of the modern networking group. Networking is about meeting people, sure – but you’ll not recommend someone until you’re convinced they are trustworthy and competent. This takes time and can’t be forced. Historically a lot of useful business contacts have been made on the golf course. We’re just helping to break down the barriers that have curtailed this model for benefiting today’s professionals.”

-          ENDS   -

Media contacts

Hana Ballard - Hana@thebridgemarketing.co.uk | 07810 448319

Notes to Editors:

“FORE” Business is a new and informal way for professionals to network in the relaxing and natural surroundings of a golf course. The aim of the groups is to create a relaxed and natural networking environment that builds awareness and trust amongst local professionals and facilitates the exchange of quality business leads and referrals. It benefits all parties from Golf Clubs to SMEs, sole-traders and national businesses. It works on a monthly membership so its success relies on delivering value to its members on a regular basis.  Find out more at http://www.fore-business.com/

Golf stats overleaf…

Golf – a growing and inclusive market

With the 2011 KPMG study showing that The UK & Ireland alone have the highest share of demand in Europe with 30% of players and the highest share of supply with 44% of courses[i]. There are good business reasons why this would take off in the UK and could have a significant draw in the US and Asia too. Indeed, although there are no official figures, an estimated 80 million golfers worldwide play on close to 40,000 courses across the planet[ii]. Plus, with Female and Junior golfers increasing in the UK, which already boasts the highest percentage (30%) of all golfers in Europe, it looks as though golf is set to remain popular. Indeed, the Active People Survey shows increased participation in the 16-24 age group, which builds on huge increases in the number of schools now offering golf to their students.[iii].

[i] https://www.golfbusinesscommunity.com/article/golf_participation_in_europe_2011  

[ii] http://thefuturescompany.com/free-thinking/the-future-of-golf/

[iii] http://www.ukgcoa.com/golf/overview/news/england-golf-to-boost-adult-participation-rates.htm

Tags: