Topgolf IPO Could Value Company at $4 Billion

Topgolf International Inc., an operator of driving ranges with a party atmosphere, has selected banks for an initial public offering that could value the company at about $4 billion, according to people familiar with the matter.

The Dallas-based company is working with banks including Morgan Stanley, JPMorgan Chase & Co. and Bank of America Corp., said the people, who asked to not be identified because the matter is private. Its IPO could come as soon as this year, they said.

Topgolf, led by Chief Executive Officer Dolf Berle, has $525 million in outstanding debt, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.

Representatives for Topgolf, Morgan Stanley, JPMorgan and Bank of America declined to comment.

The company’s driving ranges, which bring the spirit of a bowling alley to the golf course, have bays that can accommodate up to six players who can track their balls electronically while ordering food and drinks. Some venues feature rooftop bars, restaurants, shops, pools and concert halls. The company has locations in the U.S., the U.K. and Australia, with others opening soon in Canada, Mexico and the United Arab Emirates, according to its website.

Private equity firm Providence Equity Partners made a “sizable minority investment” in Topgolf in 2016, according to a statement at the time.

The company’s backers also have included Callaway Golf Co., which acquired a minority stake with other investors in a deal completed in 2017. Callaway’s shares were already up Monday and climbed further on news of Topgolf’s plans. The shares, which rose as much as 2.3%, were up 1.8% to $21.67 at 2:42 p.m. in New York trading.

Source: Bloomberg

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