Club Board Perspectives
Boardroom Insights:
Capital, Dining, Governance, and Membership Strategies Shaping the Future of Private Clubs
Board members in private clubs influence decisions that shape the member experience and establish the strategic direction for long-term success. From funding the next generation of facilities to managing food and beverage expectations, controlling access, and ensuring effective governance, today’s boards face a complex and interconnected set of priorities.
The 2025 Club Board Perspectives Study, conducted in partnership with the National Club Association, captures the insights of board members from private clubs across the United States and North America. The research highlights how boards are approaching four key areas: capital planning and funding, food and beverage philosophy and performance, governance best practices, and membership access strategies.
Results show that while board members share a clear vision for flexibility, strategic alignment, and long-term sustainability, gaps remain in planning integration, philosophy alignment, and data-driven decision-making. These perspectives offer a unique look at what boards consider most important today—and where they see the biggest opportunities to strengthen their clubs for the future.
CAPITAL CONFIDENCE
Capital planning is how clubs write the next chapter in their story—preserving their legacy while preparing for what’s ahead. This article examines how club leaders are handling long-term planning, funding strategies, and member engagement to maintain their clubs’ relevance, resilience, and preparedness for the future.
FOOD & BEVERAGE IN PRIVATE CLUBS
Private club boards are reevaluating their food and beverage (F&B) strategies to address rising costs and evolving member expectations. Results reveal key differences in philosophy and preferences, highlighting opportunities to transition from assumptions to alignment through data-driven strategy.
BUILDING BRIDGES TO CONNECT GENERATIONS
Private clubs face growing generational divides due to differing priorities. Older members often focus more on value for dues, while younger members seek modern amenities and new experiences. Clubs can create connections through social events and effective communication to bridge these gaps.
RETHINKING MEMBER ACCESS
As demand for club access continues to grow, boards are rethinking traditional membership limits in favor of more flexible, data-driven models. They are adopting a more sophisticated approach to re-evaluate their membership structures to better align with evolving demand and usage.
The Authors
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