The Club Industry: The Challenging Years of 2003–2008

Abstract

This article is based on a research project on the U.S. club industry spanning the six-year period of 2003–2008. Those six years saw many events that affected the economy of the world. The results showed the club industry was not immune to larger economic forces. While the financial viability of an individual club is tied strongly to its local economy, the entire industry is closely affected by the general economy. Twenty ratios are reported covering the five general classes of financial ratios. The ratio results suggest 2004 was a banner year for the club industry while the current tough recession has pushed the club business into turmoil, and little relief is in sight.