FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Joint Ventures
How many bays can you install?
GolfPod is designed to be delivered at a commercially viable scale of either 10 or 20 bays. This ensures the best balance of return on investment, operational efficiency, and customer experience. The choice between 10 or 20 bays depends on the available footprint and the commercial goals of the site
Can the investment be financed?
Yes, GolfPod works with multiple finance providers, allowing partners to spread the investment through tailored finance packages. This makes entering into a JV flexible and accessible for a wide range of operators
How much does it cost to set up a GolfPod JV?
A standard 10-bay GolfPod requires around £200,000 per partner (50% each), covering build, installation, and planning costs. This ensures both parties are equally invested from day one
How long is the commitment, and what happens if circumstances change?
Our JV agreements typically run for 15–20 years, giving both parties long-term stability and confidence. Should circumstances change, agreements are structured to ensure fairness, protect the asset, and maintain clarity for both sides
What support will GolfPod provide after launch?
GolfPod HQ provides ongoing support across technology, marketing, and operations. This includes Toptracer integration, training for staff, joint marketing campaigns, and regular performance reviews to maximise usage and profitability
What kind of returns can we expect?
Returns vary by site size, location, and usage, but a 10-bay GolfPod is designed to deliver strong six-figure annual revenues. With a 50/50 split, both parties benefit equally, making this a high-yield, low-risk investment compared to traditional facility upgrades
Who owns the GolfPod facility and equipment?
GolfPod retains ownership of the pods and technology to ensure consistency, quality, and long-term support. The site provides the land and operational oversight, with revenues shared equally between both parties.
How is the investment structured in a GolfPod JV?
In a typical joint venture, both GolfPod and the site operator share the capital expenditure 50/50, including build and planning costs & legals. This ensures both parties are equally invested in the project. GolfPod manages the technology, planning support, and build process, while the site oversees day-to-day operations.
Fully Funded
Who is the Fully Funded model best suited for?
This model is ideal for clubs, leisure operators, or landowners who want the benefits of a GolfPod — increased footfall, new customers, and steady revenue — without the capital investment of a joint venture
What facilities are required on site?
A 40m x 40m flat footprint, plus electricity and water supply. Food & beverage options are recommended to maximise revenue opportunities
What support does GolfPod provide?
GolfPod manages planning, design, construction, installation, and launch, and also covers technology and system costs. We provide ongoing HQ support across marketing and operations to ensure success
What is the length of the agreement?
Fully Funded agreements typically run for 15–20 years, giving both parties long-term stability and confidence
How does the revenue share work?
The site receives up to 20% of ball revenue with no financial risk. This creates a brand-new income stream while GolfPod retains responsibility for the investment, build, and technology
What are the costs to the site?
There are no upfront capital costs. The site is only responsible for providing utilities (electricity and water) and a small amount of daily upkeep, typically around an hour a day.
How does the Fully Funded model work?
GolfPod covers 100% of the capital, planning, and installation costs to deliver a turnkey, technology-led driving range. You provide the space and basic upkeep, while GolfPod manages everything else
Operations
What support does GolfPod HQ provide?
Our HQ team provides ongoing operational support, including training, marketing materials, performance reviews, and technology updates. We’re on hand to ensure the site runs efficiently from launch and throughout the partnership
How do customers pay and play?
GolfPod facilities use a cashless, digital booking and payment system. Customers can pre-book online (Selected sites) or pay on site, with all transactions integrated into reporting for clear revenue tracking
What if balls, mats, or nets wear out?
GolfPod supplies premium balls and mats, which are replaced on a regular schedule to ensure the best customer experience. Nets and other infrastructure are also monitored and maintained under planned cycles
How is maintenance handled?
GolfPod covers technology maintenance and provides regular system updates. The site team is only responsible for light daily upkeep (approx. one hour a day), such as ball collection, cleaning, and basic checks
What SLAs are in place?
We work with all key suppliers under agreed SLAs covering response times, replacement parts, and remote troubleshooting. This ensures reliable performance and clear accountability for resolving any issues
What happens if the technology breaks down?
GolfPod has service level agreements (SLAs) in place with technology partners such as Toptracer and Range Servant. If an issue arises, support is available both remotely and on-site to ensure downtime is minimised and operations resume quickly
Who manages day to day operations?
Day-to-day operations are managed by the site. This typically involves basic upkeep, customer service, and ensuring the facility is clean and welcoming. GolfPod provides training and operational guidance to make this as smooth as possible
Technology
How do bookings and play sessions work?
Customers book a time slot in advance or on site. Each bay is linked to the booking system, providing unlimited balls during the session. Once the time ends, both the technology and ball supply automatically stop, ensuring a seamless, strapless experience for the customer and efficient operations for the site.(Selected sites)
How reliable is connectivity?
All sites are supported by Starlink satellite internet, ensuring high-speed, reliable connectivity even in rural or hard-to-reach locations. This guarantees that Toptracer and Sweetspot run smoothly at all times
What is Sweetspot and how does it work?
Sweetspot is our integrated booking and management platform. It allows customers to book bays online, manage their sessions, and make payments seamlessly, creating a modern and hassle-free user experience
What technology powers GolfPod?
Every GolfPod is powered by Toptracer Range, the market-leading ball-tracking system used by major golf venues worldwide. This delivers an interactive, data-driven experience that appeals to both serious golfers and beginners
Other
Can GolfPod work in non-golf environments?
Absolutely. GolfPod is designed to thrive in golf clubs, leisure parks, retail destinations, hospitality venues, and even repurposed sports areas anywhere there’s space and ambition to attract new customers
What size sites do you work with?
GolfPods are designed for 10 or 20 bays to ensure commercial viability. Sites need a 40m x 40m footprint, along with electricity and water supply
How long does it take to install a GolfPod?
From planning approval to opening day, a GolfPod typically takes 3–4 months to deliver. Timelines can vary depending on local planning and site-specific requirements
Is GolfPod available internationally?
Yes — while we are launching in the UK, GolfPod is designed to be scalable and adaptable for international markets. We are already exploring opportunities abroad and welcome discussions with global partners
Can I buy a GolfPod outright?
GolfPod is not currently available for outright purchase. Instead, we work with partners through our Fully Funded or Joint Venture models, ensuring the facility is delivered, supported, and operated to the highest standards while sharing in the long-term success
Planning
What happens if planning is refused?
In the rare event that planning is refused, GolfPod will work closely with our planning consultants to address feedback, revise the application, and resubmit. Thanks to our proven model and strong track record, we are well placed to secure approvals. We also carry out thorough due diligence before committing to any application to minimise risk
What documents are needed for planning?
Typical requirements include site layouts, design specifications, lighting plans, biodiversity reports, and drainage details. GolfPod provides and manages all of these on behalf of our partners
How long does planning take?
To produce the planning application will take 4-8 weeks depending on location. The Planning process usually takes 8–16 weeks, depending on the local authority and whether any additional surveys (e.g. ecology, lighting, drainage) are required.
Who manages the planning process?
GolfPod and our specialist planning partners (including Weller Designs) manage the entire process, from drawings and applications through to negotiations with local councils. This ensures a professional, efficient approach with the best chance of approval
Do I need planning permission for a GolfPod?
Yes GolfPod installations typically require a full planning application. This covers the modular structure, lighting, and site usage
Pricing
Are hire clubs available?
Yes — leisure sites typically offer club hire for juniors, ladies, and men. Pricing varies depending on location
Who sets the final pricing?
Pricing is tailored to each location. Factors such as site type, local demand, and demographics will determine the most effective structure. GolfPod provides guidance and market benchmarking to help operators optimise pricing and maximise revenue
Are balls unlimited during timed sessions?
Yes — when booking by time, customers enjoy unlimited balls within their slot. Once the booking ends, both the technology and ball supply automatically stop for a seamless, managed experience.
How does pricing work at leisure sites?
Leisure and non-golf sites generally run on a time-based model. Customers book bays for 30, 60, or 90 minutes, with unlimited balls included during their session. This creates a social, entertainment-style experience that appeals to wider audiences
How does pricing work at golf courses?
Golf courses typically use a basket model, where customers purchase balls in bundles of 30, 60, or 100. This mirrors the traditional driving range experience while integrating seamlessly with GolfPod’s technology