Bern-Netzwerk Interview: Harry’s Home and RUFF Golf

To start: What three words describe your business?

Roger: Different, bold, modern

Laura: Family-oriented, modern, innovative

And in more than three words: What defines your business and who is your offer aimed at?

Roger: RUFF Golf has been offering a new indoor leisure activity in Bern for a year now. Everyone is welcome – golf is a sport for everyone. The focus is on fun, not athletic performance. We offer special deals for kids, and with tournament mode and mini games, our venue is perfect for team events.

Laura: Our motto is: “Create your stay.” Guests put together their stay in a modular way. We especially target families, couples and business travellers. Spacious rooms, a children’s playroom and a toy display are great for families, while our flexible space serves as a co-working area for business travellers or meeting room for local companies.

Today’s topic is your common ground. One point is that your parent companies are based abroad. How does that affect your daily work?

Laura: The head office is in Innsbruck, with departments like marketing, revenue and HR. We’re in close contact. Differences mainly show in legal requirements and employment regulations.

Roger: RUFF Golf originates from Sweden and they are about two to three years ahead, especially with community events. It’s inspiring to see how our site could develop. A real motivation boost.

You both face the challenge of being located outside the city of Bern. How do you still manage to attract people to your venues?

Laura: It's important to raise awareness that we’re very close to the city centre. Even though we’re outside the city limits, it only takes 10 minutes by public transport to the centre and 15 minutes on foot to the expo area. We attract hotel guests through good prices and positive reviews – and aim to turn them into regulars with our team and service. We also host events or open days to draw in the local crowd and lower the barrier.

Roger: We also focus on events to attract curious people to Ittigen. The goal is to get people to just drop by and try it out. We welcome all types of guests. I think trying something new is always motivating.

Let’s talk about the Bern-Netzwerk. You are both Bern-Vernetzer:innen. How do you benefit from the Bern-Netzwerk?

Laura: We’ve been part of the Bern-Netzwerk for two years. Thanks to the Bern-Vernetzer:innen workshops, we’ve already made many contacts and collaborations that create added value for our guests.

Roger: We joined a year ago. I find the Bern-Netzwerk inspiring. Within a short time, I’ve already developed and implemented ideas with two other Bern-Vernetzer:innen.

You mentioned collaboration within the Bern-Netzwerk. You two have also found ways to cooperate. Tell us more.

Laura: On our website, we offer a package that combines an overnight stay with a visit to RUFF Golf. Especially on rainy days, we’re happy to recommend indoor golf to our guests – your image video even plays on our screens. To try the offer ourselves, this year’s winter celebration will take place at RUFF Golf.

Roger: E-sports tournaments are on the rise. I see further potential for collaboration there – for example, raffling off a night at Harry’s Home during one of those tournaments.

Based on your experience: What would you recommend to businesses new to the Bern-Netzwerk?

Laura: Definitely reach out to people and take time to maintain contacts. It’s best to invite others over, show your offer and brainstorm where synergies exist.

Roger: I agree with Laura. Don’t overthink it – just do it. There are so many great people in the Bern-Netzwerk, you have nothing to lose.

Laura, how are your golf skills, actually?

Laura: Terrible. (laughs) I should practice before the winter event.

Roger: Happy to give you a few lessons beforehand.

The classic image is that of businessmen or politicians doing deals on the golf course. How true is that? Is golf a good setting for networking?

Roger: Absolutely. Golf involves it all – beautiful and stressful moments. You see how the other person reacts – and that reflects how they handle business. So yes, if I play golf with you, I know you afterwards.

Modern golf isn’t as elite as it used to be. Social media made golf more popular and casual. Indoor golf adds to that with lighting and music to create a relaxed vibe.

Golf is a constant challenge, and you never stop learning. Here’s a short golf joke:

Thank you both for your time and the great conversation!