Welcome to the August issue of MPlus, where we start to reflect on the 2024 golf season and some successful best practices used at Merchandiser of the Year award-winning facilities across the nation.
For example, Jason Ballard, a national winner from Oak Hill Country Club, talks about using innovative strategies to set his shop apart, like creating a fun High Noon headcover display as well as a line of custom wood products made from oak wood procured from the championship East Course. Also celebrating great displays is Brian Riddle of TPC Sawgrass, who uses a large, round table in the shop entryway to highlight special occasions or feature particular products and promotions.
At the same time, Bob Hennefer of Laurel Creek Country Club discusses using accessories as well as logo variations to increase the retail operation’s success, while Michael P. Tuohy of Esplanade at Azario Lakewood Ranch has added an “elevated element” to his product mix to help customers see his shop in a new light.
Also in this issue, AGM member Katie Gates shows how she balances tradition with innovation at Interlachen Country Club (pictured above), and we look at the recent PGA Buying Summit at Omni PGA Frisco (Texas) Resort and the spring collections unveiled during this exciting annual event.
Thank you again to our sponsors 2Hemispheres, Payne Stewart Collection, SanSoleil, Signs by the Sea and Vanguard Pro Shop for their continued support of MPlus. I hope you enjoy this issue.