Worldwide Golf Shops (“WGS” or the “Company”), one of the largest and most well-known golf retailers and e-tailers in the U.S., has completed a majority recapitalization led by Capitol Hill Group, a private diversified investment firm, among others.
Founded by Craig McCallister in 1984, Worldwide Golf Shops has engendered a loyal community of golfers by offering an unparalleled assortment and best in class customer service over its 35-year history. WGS has grown from one retail store in San Diego to 81 stores nationwide through successful acquisitions and select greenfield developments. The Company operates under seven regional retail sub-brands—Edwin Watts, Roger Dunn, Golf Mart, Van’s Pro Golf Shops, Golfers’ Warehouse, Uinta Golf, and Las Vegas Golf Superstore—as well as under two e-commerce platforms—including WorldwideGolfShops.com and BudgetGolf.com.
WGS has become a leading supplier to golf enthusiasts and their aspirational lifestyles of leisure. The Company develops lifetime relationships with its customers through its broad selection of golf products from all major golf brands, unparalleled customer service, community, and expertise in the golf industry.
“Choosing the Sage team to represent the company through our sale process was one of the best business decisions we have ever made. The Sage team really dug into our business, found the right partner and transaction for us, and managed every step of the process from the very beginning up to and including post close follow-up assistance. They always had our best interests in mind and became true friends. I would highly recommend Sage to any business looking for a sale or liquidity event,”said Al Morris, CEO, Worldwide Golf Shops. Morris has retained significant equity in the Company and will remain on the Board and as CEO.
Worldwide Golf Shops has performed exceptionally well over the last many years, and particularly as of late, benefiting from positive industry momentum. The Company will leverage Capitol Hill Group’s expertise and reach to maintain its leadership position in existing markets and expand into new markets, domestically and abroad.
The Sage Group initiated the transaction and served as exclusive financial advisor to Worldwide Golf Shops.