Topgolf
American sports entertainment company combining golf venues with technology, food and beverage, and entertainment experiences at locations across North America and internationally.
Company Type
private
Founded
2000
Headquarters
Dallas, Texas, USA
About Topgolf
Leonard Green & Partners is a leading American private equity firm founded in 1977, specializing in investments in middle-market companies across various sectors including consumer, retail, and entertainment industries. The firm is known for its operational approach to private equity, working closely with portfolio companies to drive growth and improvement.
With headquarters in Los Angeles, California, Leonard Green & Partners has a track record of successful investments in consumer-facing businesses and entertainment companies. The firm's acquisition of Topgolf represents its investment in the growing sports entertainment and experiential entertainment sector.
Leonard Green & Partners provides portfolio companies with strategic guidance, operational expertise, and access to capital for expansion while maintaining focus on long-term value creation and business development.
History of Topgolf
Topgolf was founded in 2000 by brothers Steve and Dave Jolliffe in the United Kingdom, introducing an innovative concept that combined golf with technology and entertainment. The original Topgolf venue featured driving bays with microchipped golf balls and point-scoring games, making golf more accessible and entertaining for players of all skill levels.
The concept proved successful, leading to expansion across the UK and eventually introduction to the United States market. Topgolf's American operations began in 2005, and the company established its headquarters in Dallas, Texas, to support North American growth.
Throughout the 2010s, Topgolf experienced rapid expansion across the United States, combining golf, food and beverage service, and social entertainment into a unified venue experience. The company's technology-driven approach appealed to younger demographics and non-traditional golfers, contributing to its growth.
In 2021, Topgolf merged with Callaway Golf Company to form Topgolf Callaway Brands, creating a combined golf and entertainment company. The merger aimed to integrate Topgolf's entertainment venues with Callaway's golf equipment and retail operations.
In 2026, Callaway sold a majority stake in Topgolf to Leonard Green & Partners, allowing Callaway to refocus on golf equipment while Topgolf continued expansion under private equity ownership.
Brands Owned by Topgolf
Topgolf owns 0 brands in our database.
Topgolf Ownership: Pros & Cons
Advantages
- +Innovative sports entertainment concept with broad demographic appeal
- +Technology-driven experience differentiating from traditional golf
- +Multiple revenue streams (golf, food, beverage, events)
- +Strong growth potential in experiential entertainment sector
- +Private equity backing for expansion and development
Considerations
- -High capital requirements for venue development and expansion
- -Dependence on consumer discretionary spending on entertainment
- -Competition from other entertainment venues and leisure activities
- -Seasonal factors affecting outdoor venue operations
- -Need for continuous technology investment and innovation
Frequently Asked Questions About Topgolf
Is Topgolf owned by Leonard Green & Partners?
Yes, Leonard Green & Partners owns a majority 60% stake in Topgolf following the acquisition in early 2026. Callaway Golf Company retains the remaining 40% ownership.
Is Topgolf publicly traded?
No, Topgolf is a privately held company. While it was previously part of publicly traded Topgolf Callaway Brands, it is now privately owned following the sale to Leonard Green & Partners.
When was Topgolf founded?
Topgolf was founded in 2000 by brothers Steve and Dave Jolliffe in the United Kingdom, introducing the innovative concept of technology-enabled golf entertainment.
Who created Topgolf?
Topgolf was created by Steve and Dave Jolliffe, who developed the concept of combining golf with technology and entertainment to make the sport more accessible and social.
What is Topgolf's market position?
Topgolf holds a leading position in the sports entertainment sector, operating 80+ venues that combine golf technology with food, beverage, and social entertainment experiences.
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