Golf simulation and training facility proposed in Libertyville
What would be the first XGolf franchise in Illinois is being proposed for a vacant spot in the Greentree Plaza retail center in Libertyville.
The business is described as an indoor golf simulation and training facility that would have a light food menu and would serve alcohol. It would be located in a 7,200-square-foot space between the Pho House restaurant and XSport Fitness (not a related business) in the strip center on the west side of Milwaukee Avenue on the far south end of town.
Would-be tenants have signed a lease contingent on village approvals, including a request that the business be listed as a permitted use in that zoning district, said Joe Padorr, principal with Seneca Real Estate Group,
A public hearing on the request before the village's plan commission/zoning board of appeals is expected later this month.
According to information presented to the village, the business would employ accredited Professional Golfers' Association of America pros to conduct lessons, manage leagues and oversee day-to-day simulation play.
XGolf would expect to generate revenue from simulator rentals, golf lessons, food and beverage sales, banquet and events, club fittings and retail sales.
The Los Angeles-based parent company has 12 locations in the U.S. and is focusing on expanding in the Midwest, according to Ryan D'Arcy, director of franchise operations.
An eighth location in Michigan is planned to open by the end of Januarym and there are two locations in Colorado and one each in Minnesota and Alabama, he added.
XGolf also has operations in Korea, Japan, China, Australia and other countries, according to D'Arcy.
"Our ultimate goal is to build a singular brand name in a segmented indoor golf market where a customer can expect superior technology, customer service and operations," he added.
The business features an automated ball-teeing and -feeding system as well as indoor tracking to measure club speed and impact and ball speed, direction, launch angle and spin.
The idea is to offer something for golfers of all skill levels in a controlled environment. Golfers also can simulate playing courses around the world no matter the weather in a much shorter time than the traditional outdoor course.
According to information provided to the village, there are 15 golf courses located within 15 miles of the proposed location but no comparable facilities within 30 miles that cater to golfers during the offseason and serve food and drinks.