Arcis Golf, an operator of public and private golf clubs in the U.S., has announced that Atairos, a private company focused on supporting growth-oriented businesses, will acquire a substantial ownership position in the company.
"We're very excited to welcome Atairos as a new partner," said Blake Walker, founder and CEO of Arcis Golf. "This investment will accelerate our vision for Arcis Golf — allowing us to expand our premier offering to more clubs around the country. I'm equally pleased that Fortress Investment Group will remain an investor. They have been a vital contributor to our growth and success over the past several years."
Arcis started as a small start-up six years ago, and it now has nearly 60 private, resort and daily-fee golf clubs in 13 states and more than 5,000 employees. It has invested more than $60 million across its portfolio in property upgrades, new amenities, personnel, training and systems to maximize growth and future success, the company said in a statement.
"Arcis Golf is an innovator and one of the most distinguished names in the golf industry," said Rachael Wagner, a managing director at Atairos. "The company is reinventing the golf club experience by tailoring its amenities to contemporary consumer lifestyles, while hiring best-in-class talent and creating family-friendly signature experiences.”
Arcis Golf’s management team, led by Walker, will continue to run the company.
"The management team of Arcis Golf has demonstrated strong leadership in executing a disciplined growth strategy over the past several years," said Suvin Malik, managing director in the Fortress Credit Funds business. "We look forward to working with Atairos and Arcis Golf management as the company takes this next step forward."
Atairos plans to support Arcis Golf’s expansion around the country, as well as management’s continued enhancements of the company’s member amenities. Funds managed by affiliates of Fortress Investment Group will maintain a significant ownership stake in the company.
Fortress has been the central financial backer of Arcis Golf since 2013, overseeing a period of growth and expansion through new course acquisitions and growth.