A venture to help golf clubs around the country harness their collective buying power to negotiate discount deals with suppliers has been set up in Greater Manchester.

Golf Management Group (UK) is the brainchild of Phil Aitken and former golf professionals Scott Partington and David Valentine.

The trio, based at Lakeside on the Cheadle Royal Business Park, have signed up 45 north west clubs in their first few weeks and aim to roll out the venture nationally over the next few months.

They have negotiated deals with more than 60 suppliers of goods and services ranging from food and drink, scorecards, buggy sheds and grounds maintenance machinery to legal advice, insurance and telecoms.

Among those to have signed up so far are Daniel Thwaites Brewery, telecoms provider Opal, ADT Security, 3663 First for Foodservice, Office Depot and law firm Russell Jones & Walker.

Golf Management Group (UK) charges a membership fee which then allows clubs to access discounts organised on their behalf with suppliers looking to increase their market share.

Scott, a former pro at Altrincham and Flixton's William Wroe Golf Clubs, said the venture would offer a lifeline to cash-strapped clubs suffering from a decline in membership income during the downturn.

He said: "Previously clubs have operated independently but we can help to ease the pressure on annual costs.

"This business was borne out of frustration. I knew hotel chains and multi-national golf courses were getting a far better deal than standalone clubs. I didn't like that scenario and decided to address the balance.

"For instance, a particular golf club doesn't just splash out £2,000 a year on sand any more, they are part of a £1.2m spend. That's the difference and that's where they will benefit.

"We charge clubs £299 a year and if we don't save them double their money we offer them a full refund. Every club we've visited has either signed up or agreed in principle. "With so many struggling financially we can save them thousands. We are planning to roll out nationally next year."

David was a professional at Chorlton-cum-Hardy Golf Club while Phil has extensive experience of the business side of golfing.

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