Indoor Golf Franchise Back Nine Expands to Richmond Area
A new competitor is entering the local indoor golf scene. Back Nine, a franchise that operates self-serve golf simulator venues, plans to launch its first two locations in Richmond this year.
New Locations in Chesterfield and Henrico
Back Nine has agreements with local franchisees to set up facilities at the Shops at Stonehenge in Chesterfield and the West Broad Marketplace in Henrico. These locations will feature indoor hitting bays equipped with advanced simulators, allowing patrons to play on virtual replicas of famous golf courses worldwide.
The Johannsens Take the Helm in Chesterfield
Chris and Kelly Johannsen, who reside in Powhatan, will manage the Chesterfield franchise. Chris, who also runs CreativeScapes, a landscaping business, expressed that the family’s growing interest in golf motivated their decision to invest in Back Nine. His son is currently a member of the Powhatan Middle School golf team.
Self-Serve Model and Unique Features
According to Chris, the self-serve nature of Back Nine venues means customers can reserve tee times and unlock the facility via an app, providing a more flexible experience. The franchise also allows guests to bring their own food and drinks, unlike many competitors that offer in-house dining options.
Upcoming Henrico Location
The Henrico venue, managed by Tom Rawlyk, will open in a 2,200-square-foot space at West Broad Marketplace. Rawlyk, who works in cybersecurity, was drawn to Back Nine by the rising popularity of indoor golf, especially due to the TGL, a simulator league established by golf legends Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy. His location will also feature three hitting bays.
A Competitive Market
Back Nine, which originated in Utah in 2021, is expanding rapidly with several locations under development nationwide, including four more in Virginia cities like Virginia Beach and Norfolk. The implementation of leagues and tournaments could further elevate local interest in indoor golf, according to Rawlyk, creating room for multiple venues in the area.
Conclusion
The two new Back Nine locations will contribute to a growing competitive landscape of indoor golf simulators in the Richmond area. As interest in leagues and competitions rises, the demand for such facilities is likely to increase, making this an exciting time for local golfers.
