Mark Pfingston, PGA,Head Professional,The Golf Club at Bear Dance,Larkspur, Colorado
In this business, every PGA of America Golf Professional and golf shop buyer has their go-to vendors – the trusted partners you’ve been with for years. But if you never look beyond those relationships, you may risk missing opportunities that can surprise you in the best way.
A few seasons ago, Mark Pfingston, the PGA of America Head Professional at The Golf Club at Bear Dance in Larkspur, Colorado, was encouraged by his staff to give Branded Bills (pictured) a chance among their headwear assortment.
“At first, I was hesitant,” admits Pfingston, the national 2017 Merchandiser of the Year for public facilities and a three-time Colorado PGA Section Merchandiser of the Year. “I was locked in with my core brands and didn’t see a reason to change. But Branded Bills opened my eyes.”
Their creativity, flexibility and willingness to bring any idea to life – such as blending their icon Bear Paw logo with U.S. flags and Colorado mountain ranges – was inspiring, Pfingston says. The product turned out better than he expected, and the brand quickly moved into the regular rotation.
Furthermore, the business impact has been real.
“In year No. 1, we brought in 48 pieces. The next season, we jumped to 350. The third year, we did 1,350, with a scheduled drop every month throughout the season. In 2025, we’re at 1,800 units,” explains Pfingston. “That growth came from simply being open to trying something new.”
PGA of America Professionals are always looking for ways to keep their shops fresh and exciting for members, guests and daily golfers. Sometimes that means giving a new vendor an opportunity to show what they can do.
“Don’t be afraid to see what’s on the other side of the fence,” says Pfingston. “You may be pleasantly surprised.”
