Golf equipment retailer on growth path after £350k loan package

St Helens-based Trade Golf Supplies has secured £350,000 in funding from Liverpool’s River Capital Business Growth Loan Fund.

Trade Golf Supplies is an independent golf equipment retailer which was established in 1976 and operates under the retail name Clarkes’ Golf.

It is led by father and son duo, Dave and Chris Clarke.

The company has three retail locations across the region in Rainford, Formby, and Wigan, as well as a thriving e-commerce business that generates around 70% of its sales through www.clarkesgolf.co.uk, both domestically and globally.

With the business having grown significantly in recent years, aided by investments in its online platform, retail locations, and training facilities, the funding will be used for working capital and stock purchases to meet the growing demand of its customers.

The company currently employs 48 staff, including several registered PGA professionals, and expects to create a further five jobs as a result of the support provided by River Capital.

Founder and majority shareholder, David Clarke, said: “This funding from River Capital will allow us to streamline our borrowing and move away from short term online lending facilities.

“It provides working capital to ensure we can meet supplier payments and maintain our large product inventory, which is key to our success in this competitive market.”

River Capital Investment Manager, Jim Moore, said: “We’re pleased to support the continued growth of this long standing family business.

“Trade Golf has an excellent reputation for customer service and has positioned itself well to capitalise on the rising popularity of golf through its retail locations and e-commerce capabilities.”