Agenda set for Golf Business Forum
July 20, 2012

The agenda for the ninth edition of the KPMG Golf Business Forum is announced today featuring live on-stage interviews with global golf business leaders and celebrities. A new research into Italy's growing golf market will be discussed, along with expert analysis of golf development opportunities in the Mediterranean. The agenda will provide thought leadership on the critical topic of sustainability, and will address the need for innovation in golf operations and resort development.

Live on-stage interviews

CNN's Don Riddell will lead discussions with business leaders and figureheads from the golf industry including Sir Nick Faldo, who will talk about his golfing career and approach to business. Dana Garmany will reveal how he developed Troon Golf into the world's largest international golf course operator managing more than 200 courses in 23 countries, while Sir Rocco Forte will reveal his recipe for successful luxury hotels and golf resorts. The Golf Business Forum will also welcome Constantino Rocca, a trailblazer for Italian professional golf and the first Italian to play in the Ryder Cup.

Italy and the Mediterranean

The market in Italy and opportunities for golf development in the Mediterranean will be a central theme throughout the Golf Business Forum. Andrea Sartori will present the findings of a new KPMG survey on Italy, offering insight and analysis into the key supply and demand characteristics. There will also be detailed discussion on the opportunities for golf development in Italy and the wider Mediterranean region, from the established destinations of Spain and Portugal to emerging markets in North Africa and along the Adriatic.

Sustainability and innovation

Addressing the fall in golf participation highlighted by a recent KMPG study, there will be a special session on trends and innovation in golf course operations, featuring contributions from Bruce Glasco of Troon Golf, Steve Berger of Jonas and Scott Ferrell of Player Design. The Forum will also turn its attention to the future of destinations and resorts, highlighting shifting consumer trends and showcasing three developments that are leading the world with their innovative and advanced approach. And Olympic golf course architect Gil Hanse joins top international experts for a special think tank on the economic, ecological and social impacts of golf, to discuss the many aspects of sustainability in relation to the golf industry and its importance to the future of golf communities worldwide.

View the agenda and speaker list in full, and find out more on www.golfbusinessforum.com .

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