A new golf entertainment venue has helped to tackle youth unemployment by bringing 300 jobs to the area.

Topgolf Glasgow opened last year and offers a range of high-tech golf games in climate-controlled bays, as well as food and drink and other activities. 

When the Rutherglen venue was confirmed, the developer assured that it would deliver local jobs and opportunities for local suppliers.

Topgolf worked with Clyde Gateway, South Lanarkshire Council, Skills Development Scotland, Routes to Work South and Job Centre Plus in the months leading up to the opening of the facility to ensure the employment of 300 people.

Glasgow Times:

Niki Spence, head of sustainable communities at Clyde Gateway, said: “Clyde Gateway and partners have been working hard to secure local jobs at Topgolf and we are so excited to see the venue now up and running, providing recreation and job opportunities for local people in Rutherglen and further afield.

“We are delighted that so many Rutherglen and Clyde Gateway residents have gained employment with such a fantastic international company and look forward to continuing our partnership with Topgolf for years to come."

Simon Green, Director of Operations at Topgolf Glasgow, added: “Topgolf is Glasgow’s premier entertainment venue, and we have a brilliant team made up primarily of local people. 

“We are proud that we have created over 300 jobs and are working with a number of local suppliers to support the local economy.

“Topgolf is for everyone – no matter your golfing ability – and it’s great to see so many people enjoy what we have to offer since opening.”

Glasgow Times:

Many of the new jobs were ring-fenced for young people aged between 16 and 17 in a bid to combat youth unemployment in South Lanarkshire.

Since launching, the partnership has helped over 100 people who were out of work.

Another aspect of the partnership was to ensure that local suppliers were supported as much as possible, with 30 local businesses attending a bespoke “meet the buyer” event.

Alastair Gillen, growth and inward investment manager at Skills Development Scotland said: “Working with Clyde Gateway and partners, Skills Development Scotland have supported Topgolf in engaging and benefitting from a wide range of skills support across the region aligned to the company’s needs. 

“This has resulted in developing relationships with schools, skills specialists and apprenticeship providers that will ensure high-quality training opportunities for Topgolf’s current and future workforce.”

Stephen Barr, chief executive at Routes to Work South, added: “Topgolf brought a wide range of opportunities to the local area and it was a pleasure to support them with their recruitment.

"It has been fantastic to see so many of our clients secure employment as a result of the partnership.”