As one of the world’s oldest and most esteemed sports with origins dating back to 15th century Scotland, golf has continually evolved and captured the interest of millions of participants around the globe. Currently, the sport is enjoying a renaissance largely due to an overwhelming demand for indoor golf facilities that offer year-around accessibility and technology that is shaping the way today’s golfers practice, train, and play the game. At the forefront of the golf explosion is Golf Envy, one of the nation’s fastest-growing indoor golf franchises that combines a high-end private club atmosphere with cutting-edge simulators to create an immersive golf experience.
“We’re witnessing a golf resurgence, especially with Gen-Z and younger demographics who value experiences, technology, convenience, and social connection. Golf is evolving in all of these areas,” said Cole Arranaga, Golf Envy’s Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer. “Simulators, social venues, creator driven golf content, and shorter play formats have made the sport more accessible. Golf is no longer viewed as an all-day commitment. It is now an experience that fits into modern lifestyles.”
With the ambiance of a prestigious country club and a membership-based approach, Golf Envy provides an unparalleled environment for golf enthusiasts who eschew traditional outdoor courses with unreliable weather conditions, crowded fields with slow play, and limited tee times. Focused on serious golfers aiming to improve their skills, Golf Envy offers members access to world-class coaches across multiple time zones through a partnership with GOLFZON Leadbetter Academy, the global leader in golf simulator technology.
“Our facilities are open 24/7 so members can practice any time it’s convenient for them,” Arranaga explained. “We have the ability to bring hundreds of the world’s most renowned golf courses, including the famed Pebble Beach or the Old Course in St. Andrews, for our members to play in under an hour. This flexibility, along with GOLFZON Leadbetter Academy instruction and advanced swing analytics from GOLFZO simulators, positions Golf Envy as the premier destination for golfers to improve and refine their game.”
With the global simulator market estimated at $1.92 billion in 2025 by Forbes Business Insights, Golf Envy expanded rapidly with sales of 19 franchises nationwide. Founded in 2023 with its headquarters in La Verne, California, locations are opening in Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, New Mexico, Pennsylvania and Texas. At least 20 to 40 additional locations are slated to open in 2026 with strong demand in the Midwest, Southeast, Northeast and on the West Coast. Franchise fees are $45K for one territory, $75K for two territories, and 100K for three territories. Qualified veterans can receive a 10 percent discount on initial franchise fees.
“Our franchise business model ensures low overhead and streamlined operations, making it a financially sound investment,” said Arranaga. “The growing popularity of year-round indoor golf combined with our unique offering provides a lucrative opportunity for passionate golf enthusiasts eager to turn their love for the game into a rewarding business.”
Golf Envy franchisees receive comprehensive training and ongoing support from initial setup to daily operations. An assigned team works with franchisees every step of the way to help deliver an unparalleled golfing experience for customers.
“Years ago, it would have been impossible to offer privacy and a premium club feel without the cost of a traditional country club.” Arranaga added. “Our locations feature a distraction-free environment that is quite different from social entertainment golf venues with food, beverages, and games. Our members also benefit from a realistic and challenging golfing experience, including dynamic moving plates that simulate various terrains. They can focus and train with real data that allows them to improve faster than on a driving range.”
As interest in off course golfing continues to surge, one of the trends for 2026 is that indoor golfing memberships will come with bragging rights, particularly for younger golfers. For those accustomed to gaming with friends indoors for hours, the allure of playing golf on a simulator is often intriguing. Golf Envy franchisees and staff members have noticed junior golfers as well as members new to the sport admitting they are less intimidated by learning to play indoors instead of on a traditional course.
“Golf Envy will remain committed to offering new or experienced players a comfortable, controlled environment where they can learn at their own pace,” said Arranaga. “Our simulators and coaches can help build confidence before transitioning to a traditional course.”
For more information about Golf Envy franchising, check out www.golfenvy.com