Following a jam-packed AGM Retail Conference, hundreds of attendees moved over to the Product Preview Reception, where a diverse group of vendor/partners provided a sneak peek at what they will be showing at the PGA Show over the next few days.
“We have 112 companies showing highlights of their collections, an 11 percent increase over last year,” said Association of Golf Merchandisers (AGM) CEO Jennifer Morton. “Our goal is to allow our vendors to get face to face with merchandiser/buyers in a very social atmosphere that allows for conversation and dialog.”
According to AGM member Taylor Ramiz, Golf Shop Manager & Merchandiser at Manasquan River Golf Club in Brielle, New Jersey, the Product Preview is a great opportunity to see some of the brands making a statement in golf.
“While the actual show and booth can get overwhelming, this is easier to browse and find some items that really stand out,” she said.
The event featured brands from across the industry showing everything from men’s and women’s and kid’s apparel, to headwear, shoes, jewelry, leather goods, eyewear, technology solutions and more. This included established apparel brands like Ahead, Antigua, Dunning, Golftini, J. Lindeberg and Turtleson; up and comers like A. Putnam, Williams Athletic Club, Featherie, Rhone and Vybewear; and accessories brands like Dashclip, Haas Jordan, Oars + Alps and Hot Girls Pears.
“I think it’s the best event to get in front of buyers and merchandisers, especially ones of this quality, and a nice warmup for the PGA Show,” said Evelien Lauwers, Duca del Cosma’s Managing Director of North America, whose footwear line blends cutting-edge technology with fashion-forward design.
Among the first-time exhibitors was IZIPIZI, a sunglasses line entering the golf market with colorful designs, comfortable fits and a commitment to sustainability. Co-founder Jonathan Crespo said the Product Preview Reception was a perfect way to introduce his brand to the golf world, adding, “The AGM has buyers from across the globe. We want to be a long-term partner with the industry, and this is a great way to start.”