Reliability and innovation drive Motocaddy ahead in trolley sector

    Following a strong finish to 2018, the world’s top-selling electric trolley brand has started the year with real momentum as its award-winning M-Series compact range and latest models make a big impact.

    The determination of Motocaddy to offer golfers unrivalled reliability and superior compact-folding on its powered trolleys has proved a profitable strategy for its many stockists across the world – both in terms of retail sales and its growing number of rental fleets.

    For example, since launching the new award-winning M-Series family in the domestic market last summer, Motocaddy has outsold all competitor compact models by 17%, according to recent figures from Golf Datatech that also confirmed the Stansted-based company as the UK’s top-selling electric and push trolley brand across the full year.

    Comprising of five models, the latest M-Series range offers the widest choice of car-boot friendly and easy-to-fold electric trolleys seen on the market since Motocaddy pioneered the compact sector in 2013. Providing features to suit the needs of every golfer, the trolleys offer unrivalled handle stability and the smoothest ride thanks to oversize tubing. It is also powered by a next generation 28V high power system, making it twice as powerful as other compact trolleys on the market.

    “The positive reaction to the M-Series models has had a massive impact on both trolley sales and rental income streams for many of our retail partners,” said Sales Director, Neil Parker. “Sales volume for the second half of 2018 was up 148% compared to the previous season and 2019 pre-orders are also up 30% year-on-year. This really sets us up for a big year after strong market share gains in the second half of 2018.

    “Reliability is always a major factor when choosing a new trolley and we’ve made significant investments in R&D to ensure that our latest product range maintains Motocaddy’s reputation of providing the most reliable products for golfers and stockists alike. We’ve also seen a tremendous response from customers to our most attractive pre-order packages across the full range of electric, push and bag lines,” added Neil.

    The easiest and quickest-folding M-Series family is not just 30% smaller and takes up 40% less floor space than the S-Series entry level range, but it offers a folded footprint 11% smaller than its nearest competitor – making it perfect for easy transportation and storage. In designing a more compact frame, Motocaddy has also incorporated a super-light Lithium battery that’s a third smaller than rival options, while still boasting 30% more power than the previous M-Series battery that it replaced.

    Rental value

    The success of the M-Series range has also had a positive effect in the rental market. Motocaddy has calculated that an impressive 15 folded M-Series rental trolleys can fit into the space taken up by a ride-on buggy, so it’s no surprise that golf facilities are turning to the brand’ space-saving compact models.

    They include former Open Championship venue, Prince’s Golf Club in Kent, where Head Professional Charlie Wilson is clear about the reasoning behind his decision. “The rental market is very competitive and I switched to Motocaddy because I found they were very reliable and cost effective.

    “Ever since I decided to change, the service and experiences I’ve had with Motocaddy are what encouraged us to choose them in the first place. Word travels fast in the golf industry and you get to know the companies that value their customers and offer reliable products.

    “If any other Pro is considering making the switch, then I’d advise them that the initial investment can be repaid within 4-6 weeks and I now work to the philosophy of having a rental fleet which is reliable everyday with no hidden charges for future servicing and maintenance. It’s proved an effective way for us to make a ROI and is proving a vital revenue stream,” added Charlie.

    With more than 30,000 rounds a year played over two courses at Prince’s, there is a high demand for electric rental trolleys that won’t break down during a round.

    “I tried a Motocaddy demo model for a few rounds and the sales support from the brand was very good. We were offered a fleet programme of compact-folding M1 trolleys and off the back of this we then purchased stock for the pro shop.

    “Since then we’ve doubled the fleet size to 10 M1 trolleys and see them all regularly booked out during weekend periods. Last year, we doubled our revenue generated through hire trolleys. I’m now looking seriously at upgrading to the new M5 GPS model, as it’s a feature I really like which also allows us to charge more for a rental product. We’ll review how our M1 rentals perform during the first half of this year and then make the decision based on the potential for increased profit,” he added.

    Attracting newcomers

    Motocaddy has made it more attractive for golfers to enter the electric and push trolley markets this season by unveiling a modernised S1 electric trolley and launching the new Z1 push option – both at entry-level prices.

    The award-winning S1 trolley has received a significant upgrade, while maintaining the reliable construction and eye-catching design that made it the top-selling powered trolley for golfers worldwide.

    Part of the brand’s new S-Series range – which also includes an upgraded S7 REMOTE ‘hands-free’ model – the S1 combines modern styling and graphics with a stunning high-resolution, sunlight friendly LCD screen like the one used on the popular M-Series. It also offers nine-speeds, plus advanced battery meter and speed indicator.

    The Z1 is the newest entry-level push trolley, offering unbeatable value and wide-ranging features, including a simple two-step folding system and an easy-push ergonomic handle adjustable to three heights.

    In addition to an accessory compartment, the handle incorporates drink and scorecard holders; tee and ball holders; plus, an umbrella holder fitting. The oversized wheels are friction free and require no maintenance. plus they include the quick-release mechanism to save storage space if needed.

    Motocaddy innovation continues with the introduction of the AquaFLEX, the brand’s ultra-lightweight stand bag that also fits perfectly onto any Motocaddy trolley. The versatile waterproof bag offers golfers the ultimate flexibility when deciding whether to carry or fit onto an electric or push trolley.

    Weighing just 2.2kg, the stylish bag with a modern design includes several standout features, including a fully-adjustable quick-release carry strap, five spacious pockets and a swivel buckle with ‘Smart Fit’ technology. This allows the strap to automatically re-balance when carrying so that weight is always evenly balanced between both shoulders.

    The ‘rear stand lock’ holds the legs in place when attached to a Motocaddy trolley and the bag is kept firmly in-place by the brand’s innovative EASILOCK™ bag-to-trolley connection system, removing the need for a lower bag strap.

    The new range from the UK’s biggest selling cart bag brand also includes a modernised Pro-Series bag. Some 20% lighter than previous models, it comes with nine spacious pockets and easy-access carry handles ensuring effortless lifting on and off the trolley.

    “This is our strongest ever bag range and the response from our customers has been exceptional,” said Neil. “We’ve seen extra orders being placed and due to high demand from consumers, we’re looking to meet requests for deliveries to be brought forward,” he added.

    For further information on all Motocaddy products contact your Territory Sales Manager, visit www.motocaddy.com or follow Motocaddy on social media – @MotocaddyGolf.

    SHARE
    Previous articleadidas Golf #HERETOCREATE
    Next articleLynx launches Prowler VT Driver Switch-Face Technology
    As an avid golfer since the age of eleven Dan lives and breathes all things golf.  With a current handicap of eleven he gets out and plays as often as his work life (and girlfriend) allows. Dan confesses to still being like a kid at Christmas when it comes to seeing the latest golf equipment. Having served as GolfPunk’s Deputy Editor, and resident golf geek for the past 13 years and working for golf's oldest brand, John Letters Dan brings to GOLF RETAILING an excellent understanding of the sector.