Name: John Holodinski
Age: 41
Facility: Branchburg Family Golf Center in Branchburg, N.J.
Title: Owner

Tell us a little bit about your background/family: My wife Shannan and I own the facility and we always have help from our four children, Samantha, 9, Jack, 7, Joey, 5, and Sheri, 2. Shannan and I both grew up locally, Shannan in Hillsboro, N.J. and myself in Manville, N.J. We currently reside in Montgomery, N.J.

Tell us a little bit about your facility: We have a two-tiered driving range, with 36 holes of miniature golf, batting cages, a snack shop, and golf pro shop. Our driving range has been recognized as a Top 100 Range for the seven-plus years we have owned the facility. The golf shop is also recognized by all major vendors as one of the top custom fitting facilities in central New Jersey. We carry all major brands of golf equipment as well as fitting carts to get each golfer fit with the clubs that are best for them. We also have a full repair and re-gripping center for customers.

How did you arrive at your current facility/position: About eight years ago I was looking to get out of the finance business and my wife Shannan and I wanted to get involved with a family business. Things just fell into place and Branchburg Family Golf was born.

What are the favorite things you like about your facility/position: Seeing the wide range of customers that we satisfy--from the serious golfer to parents playing mini golf with their children.

Who were the most influential people in your life (past or present): My father, Mike, and my wife, Shannan. My father has taught me many things--from how to be a man, to how to be a good husband and father and how to understand business ideas. My wife has always kept me grounded and is the emotional backbone of our family life, as well as our business. I am blessed to have both of these wonderful people in my life.

What impact is the economy having on golf and, specifically, your facility/position: The golf business has been down that last for years. Consumers have choices on where they can purchase their equipment, as well as where they can practice. We are dedicated to making every customer’s experience great. All our managers have been trained on how to fit and do a phenomenal job with customers. After over seven years of operation we seem to be doing this quite well. Sales and overall customer flow have been up two straight years. Our referral business is stronger than ever.

What are the future plans for your facility/position: We plan to build new sand traps this fall for inclusion in our grass tee area, and possibly build out an online store. We may also expand into another facility.

Parting Shots: We have always looked at our facility as a business not a golf business. We always consider how do we differentiate ourselves from the competition and how do we create the best experience possible for our customers? These are two focal points that we do not take for granted. Customers do not need us, we need them. To all of our customers, old and new, we truly appreciate your business. Thank you for trusting us with your golfing needs.