At EMERGING, we’re excited to work with some of the biggest names in the social competitive entertainment category. One of those is the Jolliffe brothers, the founders of Topgolf and the creators of two additional emerging concepts—Puttshack and Poolhouse.
Currently, Topgolf has 96 locations in the U.S. In 2021, it merged with Callaway in a deal placing the brand’s value at $2.1 billion.
Puttshack, a high-tech miniature golf concept, is expanding rapidly, with an expected 25 locations by the end of 2025. In 2022, it raised $150 million from Blackrock.
Poolhouse is just entering the fray and doing it in a big way.
Starting with $34 Million
Poolhouse, a concept focused on the game of pool, high-tech, and upscale food, recently raised $34 million. Dave and Steve Jolliffe plan on bringing pool to the mainstream in much the same way they did with golf. Topgolf not only became a hit, but it also created an inclusive, high-tech sports entertainment complex.
So, where did this $34 million come from?
Sharp Alpha and DMG Ventures, venture capital firms focusing on early-stage investments, led the seed round. Additional investors include EMERGING Fund, a growth capital fund at the forefront of the technology-driven transformation in the entertainment and restaurant sector, and Blackstone executive David Blitzer.
According to Forbes, Sharp Alpha spent over one year analyzing companies in this segment, looking for brands that incorporated high food and drink spend and could draw in corporate events and repeat, brand-loyal customers. They were also looking for proprietary software that was licensable to third parties.
Pool Redefined
As they did with golf, the combination of pool and technology is expected to elevate the sport, giving it a broader market appeal and enhancing the experience. The smart technology transforming pool includes superimposing images on the table, providing numerous interactive pool games. The spectacular vintage Las Vegas-like aesthetics will take people back in time, adding to the incredible experience.
The Venning brothers are developing the brand’s world-class beverage program. Max and Noel Venning are owners of Three Sheets, the multi-award-winning bar commonly listed in the World’s 50 Best Bars list. A former executive chef of the Gordon Ramsay Group leads the culinary team with a menu featuring globally inspired tapa-style, shareable foods.
Opening Over the Pond
The Jolliffe brothers are opening their first Poolhouse location in England, slated for early 2026. The 21,348-square-foot building is located in London and will be the home of 20 tech-infused pool tables.
The first U.S. locations are expected to open in late 2026, with four to five opening every year after that. Some potential locations include Chicago, New York, Boston, Nashville, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C.
Australia’s Signature Hospitality Group struck a franchise agreement, with more franchise and joint venture agreements expected in other countries. The brand is also considering licensing its technology to pool halls, apartment complexes, and homes; basically, anywhere a pool table exists.
In a news statement, Steve Jolliffe said, “Poolhouse is the most ambitious and scalable concept my brother and I have created, representing the pinnacle of our lifelong work. Today, more people play at Topgolf than on traditional golf courses in the U.S, and we aim to make an even greater impact on the world of pool. Whilst we have a strong track record of incorporating technology into golf balls, this project has been our most challenging endeavor yet.”
Andrew O’Brien, CEO and co-founder, said, “The Poolhouse experience heralds the most significant transformation in the history of a near 700-year-old sport. The Jolliffe brothers changed the landscape of golf with Topgolf, and they are set to do the same to pool.”
At EMERGING, we’re excited about what Poolhouse brings to the market and to be a part of their expansion plans. We anticipate that a sport that about 1 in 10 people play about twice a year will gain tremendous ground and interest from both pool sharks and first-time players.
To learn more about our growing portfolio, contact EMERGING.
