The Swing Bays, a Colorado-based indoor golf franchise that has just announced a significant milestone: their first expansion beyond state lines is in development.
Franchisees, Nancy and Phil Gugliotta have selected Wake Forest, North Carolina, as the location for their first location. The new facility, set to open at 3615 Rogers Branch Road by Summer 2026, represents more than just geographic expansion—it signals the growing appeal of indoor golf facilities nationwide.
The franchise opportunity attracted The Gugliottas, experienced franchise consultants who bring both business acumen and genuine passion for golf to their new venture. Their decision to invest in The Swing Bays wasn’t just about the numbers; it was about finding a brand that aligned with their values and family interests.
“We just loved the customer service. We loved the white glove service that they give to their customers, and we decided it was a good fit, and we went for it,” Phil Gugliotta explained after visiting The Swing Bays leadership team in the Denver metropolitan area.
The Gugliottas have a unique advantage in their golf industry venture—their son currently works as an assistant golf professional, providing them with insider knowledge and operational support that could prove invaluable as they launch their Wake Forest location.
A Complete Golf Experience Under One Roof
The Wake Forest facility promises to deliver a comprehensive golf experience that goes far beyond traditional indoor golf facilities. The location will feature six golf bays equipped with Trackman simulators, technology that provides precise data on ball flight, club performance, and swing mechanics. This level of detail allows golfers to make data-driven improvements to their game.
Professional instruction will be available through PGA-certified professionals, ensuring that golfers receive expert guidance tailored to their skill level and goals. Additionally, fitness programming developed by Titleist Performance Institute professionals will address the physical aspects of golf performance, recognizing that modern golf improvement requires both technical skill and physical conditioning.
The facility’s amenities extend beyond golf instruction and practice. Members will have access to short game practice areas for putting and chipping, an on-site gym for comprehensive fitness training, and a bar serving beverages and snacks for post-round socializing.
Perhaps most notably, The Swing Bays has structured their membership options to serve a broad demographic. With monthly memberships ranging from $35 to $595, the facility aims to make indoor golf accessible to casual players and serious golfers alike. Unlike many indoor golf franchises, The Swing Bays is extremely community-focused. Similar to private country clubs, they offer programming like couple’s nights, youth clinics, special club fitting nights with high-demand brands, and retail experiences exclusive to their membership.
Leadership Perspective on Growth
Dustin Miller, PGA professional and co-founder of The Swing Bays, expressed enthusiasm about the North Carolina expansion and the franchise partners they’ve selected. “We’re thrilled to partner with Phil and Nancy to bring The Swing Bays to Wake Forest,” Miller stated. “The Gugliottas’ experience in franchise consulting and love for golf makes them ideal partners to introduce our concept to North Carolina golfers.”
The Swing Bays is continuing its national growth and is looking for franchise partners who understand both business operations and the golf industry’s unique culture and customer expectations.
The Growing Indoor Golf Market
The timing of this expansion aligns with broader trends in the golf industry. Indoor golf facilities have experienced significant growth as consumers increasingly embrace the convenience of year-round play and the insights provided by technology-enhanced experiences. These facilities offer weather independence—a particularly valuable benefit in regions with harsh winters or unpredictable weather patterns.
Moreover, indoor golf addresses a key challenge facing many golfers: time efficiency. Traditional golf rounds can take four to five hours, while indoor sessions can provide focused practice and play in much shorter timeframes. Most days at The Swing Bays, you can find beginner golfers in a clinic, amateur players perfecting their swing in a bay, folks working at the bar in between bay sessions, and a group of friends playing a round of nine before they get back to work or their family commitments.
Looking Ahead
The Wake Forest location represents just the beginning of The Swing Bays’ expansion plans. As the indoor golf industry continues to evolve and grow, franchises like The Swing Bays are positioned to meet increasing demand for accessible, technology-driven golf experiences.
For the Gugliottas, the next year will be exciting as they get out and meet the Wake Forest golf community. Their combination of franchise expertise, golf passion, and family support provides a strong foundation.
For more information about The Swing Bays franchise opportunities, visit www.swingbaysfranchise.com.
