Landscapes Golf Management Leads Golf Industry Transformation

VP Mark Mattingly discusses tech, infrastructure, and the rise of lifestyle clubs

Mar. 25, 2026 at 4:49am

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In this episode of the Chicago Golf Report Podcast, Mark Mattingly, Vice President of New Business at Landscapes Golf Management, explores how golf course operators are adapting to shifting consumer expectations, aging infrastructure, and the growing role of technology in the game. Landscapes Golf Management has quietly become one of the most influential operators in the country, managing approximately 75 courses across 27 states while maintaining a boutique, family-owned approach focused on making a meaningful impact at each property.

Why it matters

The golf industry is evolving rapidly, with course operators having to rethink everything from clubhouse design to programming to appeal to a wider, lifestyle-driven audience. Aging infrastructure, particularly irrigation systems, also presents a major challenge that operators must strategically balance against visible course upgrades. Additionally, technology is reshaping both golf operations and the customer experience, requiring operators to provide seamless mobile booking, real-time communication, and other conveniences that are now expected by today's golfers.

The details

Landscapes Golf Management's philosophy is to focus on making a meaningful impact at each property rather than pursuing rapid, large-scale expansion. This has guided their growth, including an expanding presence in the Chicago market where they now manage multiple courses. The company is adapting to industry shifts by creating more casual, welcoming environments that appeal to a wider audience beyond just golfers. They are also leveraging technology to provide enhanced customer experiences and make more dynamic, data-driven operational decisions.

  • Landscapes Golf Management currently manages approximately 75 courses across 27 states.
  • Many golf courses built during the 1990s boom are now reaching the end of their lifecycle, requiring major infrastructure investments.

The players

Mark Mattingly

Vice President of New Business at Landscapes Golf Management, a leading golf course operator managing approximately 75 courses across the country.

Landscapes Golf Management

A boutique, family-owned golf course operator that has become one of the most influential in the country, managing properties with a focus on making a meaningful impact at each location.

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What they’re saying

“Focus on making a meaningful impact at each property rather than pursuing rapid, large-scale expansion.”

— Mark Mattingly, Vice President of New Business

What’s next

Landscapes Golf Management continues to evaluate new opportunities in the Chicago market, looking to expand its presence and impact in the region.

The takeaway

The golf industry is undergoing a significant transformation, with course operators like Landscapes Golf Management leading the way by adapting to changing consumer preferences, addressing aging infrastructure challenges, and leveraging technology to enhance the overall golf experience.