Trump reinforces commitment to investing in Scotland despite Aberdeenshire course losses

The latest annual accounts showed the resort had endured an 11th consecutive year of losses
-Credit: (Image: Michal Wachucik/Getty Images)


The Trump Organisation has declared it remains 'unwavering' in its commitment to investing in golf in Scotland, despite recording losses for an 11th consecutive year at their Aberdeenshire resort.

The Balmedie venue is currently in the final stages of building a second championship links golf course, which is due to open in summer 2025.

Organisers are also planning to stage further tournaments following the success of the Staysure PGA Seniors Championship, which was held this summer.

READ MORE:Aberdeen's King George VI Bridge to shut for seven days next week

READ MORE:Caledonian Sleeper pays out almost £1million in compensation in less than a year

Earlier this week, Trump International Scotland published its annual accounts to year-end December 2023 which recorded an increase in turnover to £3.7million, a gross profit of £871,000 and a loss of £1.4million after operational expenses.

But Sarah Malone, Executive Vice President for Trump International Scotland, said they remain committed to their plans to create the 'greatest 36 holes in golf' and their continued investment in the resort.

She commented: "We are crystal clear about our vision for the future. We are in the process of creating the greatest 36 holes in golf. Anyone with an interest in golf business knows only too well creating such a resort is a multi-phased, long-term investment project.

"The financial statements reflect the fact substantial investment is being made on an ongoing basis. This includes expenditure across all our operations and the investment we are making in hosting tournaments on an annual basis.

"From the outset this development was driven by the Trump family’s love of Scotland and their great love of golf. The Trump Organisation's dedication to this property and its investment in golf in Scotland - and by extension the Scottish economy - remains unwavering and has not faltered at any stage.

"Such a commitment is something that should be celebrated. This investment – at the family’s own expense - has been a key factor in ensuring that the north-east of Scotland is on the world golf map.

"Furthermore, Trump International, Scotland has in the last year secured coveted golf rankings including top 10 and top 100 rankings. Notably, Golf Week ranked the championship links No 2 in the top 50 Modern Courses in Great Britain and Ireland and the World Golf Awards named the resort, Scotland’s Best Golf Course.

"Our next phase of investment includes another world-class championship links, further resort facilities and accommodation. Establishing a new world-class championship golf destination requires considerable up front and continuing investment and no other developer is more committed than Trump."