Deal could bring TruGolf locations to northwest Indiana
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Indoor golf simulator provider TruGolf Holdings Inc. has announced a regional development deal to bring its new indoor venue concept to the Chicago area and northwest Indiana.
The Utah-based company inked the deal with entrepreneurs Bob Early and Ron Rzansa for the TruGolf Links indoor simulator franchise. The agreement includes the rights to open 80 locations, either owned or franchised, TruGolf said in a news release.
The regional development deal follows the company’s first development deal signed in July with a New Jersey entrepreneur following the company’s announcement in June to create a franchise network of retail golf and gaming locations.
TruGolf is a provider of golf simulator software and hardware.
“I believe this technology model is fit for every demographic, no matter their skill level or experience with golf, and all future guests will be able to enjoy the TruGolf facilities,” Early said in the release. “I’m looking forward to opening multiple locations and developing a strong network of franchisees across the broader Chicagoland area.”
Specific locations have not yet been identified.
Early, whose experience includes work in the insurance and construction industries, and Rzansa, whose experience includes work in transportation labor and logistics, are looking to build their flagship location in the Joliet, Illinois, area, the company said. They also are considering franchise candidates across their territory.
Each location will feature five or more simulator bays, a bar and dining area, and a pro shop, the news release said. A flagship location is designed for 5,000 square feet or more and includes a double-size bay and stadium seating for events. Standard facilities will occupy 3,800 square feet.
“As the only company that offers a regional developer model, it allows us to partner with strong local entrepreneurs to quickly and efficiently develop entire markets while allowing them to build a significant business,” Chief Development Officer Ben Litalien said in the news release.
The National Golf Foundation said in 2023 that golf simulator participation climbed nearly 73% over the past four years to a record 6.2 million Americans.
Other indoor golf simulator providers include X-Golf, which has Indiana locations in Carmel, Plainfield and Noblesville, and Five Iron Golf, which has a location in downtown Indianapolis.