Nicklaus Companies, the golf empire named for one of golf’s greatest names, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.
Before we go off half-cocked, please note that this is not Jack Nicklaus filing for bankruptcy. It is Nicklaus Companies, the house that Jack built and ultimately tore down after winning a $50-million lawsuit against the company he founded.
Sound confusing? Let’s see if we can clear it up a bit.
What is the Nicklaus Companies?
The Nicklaus Companies is a global business built on Jack’s name. It includes Nicklaus Design, one of the world’s largest golf architecture and golf real estate development firms. Nicklaus Design has created more than 420 courses worldwide. The Nicklaus Companies also includes the lifestyle, marketing, licensing and golf equipment businesses under the Nicklaus and Golden Bear brands.
More importantly, it represents the commercial side of Jack’s legacy. Basically, anything you can buy with Jack’s name, image or likeness on it comes from the Nicklaus Companies. That includes everything from Jack Nicklaus wines and calendars to Jack Nicklaus headwear, apparel and golf balls. Collaborations using Jack’s name with companies such as Vice Golf and Stix also fall under the Nicklaus Companies purview.


















