SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO.com) -- The City's new golf course concessionaire says things are going well as they pass the halfway mark of their first season.
Landscapes Unlimited's Justin Arlt says poor spring weather slowed things down but business has picked up.
Arlt answered a number of questions KELO.com News posed about how the transition was going. That response is below.
-----
How is LU doing?
We feel that the transition has been very smooth and positive despite a late start to the season. The City and the avid Golfers of Siouxfalls have been very welcoming and very supportive of change and it's been a very positive and rewarding partnership so far.
How do rounds of play look so far vs last year?
Unfortunately, mother nature hasn't been a big help with open/playable golf days this season. The spring had record snow levels and created a very late start to our season. A rainy summer has also had a negative impact on playable days and rounds played. However, when the weather cooperates we are seeing very strong numbers and activity at the City courses. Rounds overall are down because of the brutal spring weather but our revenue per round numbers are up 10% on the season meaning golfers are spending more at the course when on property in Food and beverage and in the golf shop.
Overall the number of member rounds played are down on the year but the paid rounds from non-pass holders are up. This is an encouraging sign showing that we are seeing new faces and golfers at the city golfers so far in 2018.
Are revenues up?
Despite the fewer days available to play and poor golf weather overall revenues are strong and up over last season. We are driven and pleased with the results so far and are cautiously optimistic on our end results and goals being met in 2018.
Any changes to the course and operations?
Many things have changed in all areas. Here are a few:
All three courses have a new website with an online tee time module.
All courses have a new Point of Sale System in place to help customer service and manage business operations efficiency
Elmwood and Prairie Green no longer have a help yourself service model or grab & go. Staffing and services have been increased to provide more of a personalized service model. Menu options and variety has been expanded for golfers to enjoy before they golf, at the turn or after the round at each clubhouse.
Live scoring for golf events hosted at the City courses is being used through the purchase and training of new Tournament software in conjunction with the USGA Golf course grooming and agronomy practices have changed creating firmer, faster playing surfaces more consistent with what is seen at private facilities. Bunkers faces at Prairie Green have been fixed and countless other projects at all three facilities have been completed to provide a better golf experiences and conditions for patrons.
Customer service training has been put into place and is being developed so that pass holders and golf patrons have a great experience highlighted by personalized service A new patron thank you and survey system has been put into place so that all patrons receive an opportunity to review and provide feedback and rankings each time they play so we can constantly improve
The Elmwood clubhouse has had some enhancements made with a new rear wall, new doors, new bar area, new service counter, new carpet, wood pillars and flat-screen TVs
Are things going well?
We receive many appreciative comments and suggestions from golfers weekly.