After a full day of inspiring keynote addresses and informative seminars, AGM members attending the annual AGM Retail Conference were treated to a sneak peek at fall 2024 apparel collections at the annual Product Preview Reception in the Orange County Convention Center.
More than 100 AGM vendor partners presented highlights from the new collections they will present at the PGA Show over the next three days – giving PGA of America Golf Professionals and buyers a chance to see, touch and feel some of the standout pieces from their new lines.
“This year, we had more than two times the number of people pre-register for the Product Preview as last year,” said AGM CEO Jennifer Morton. “The event continues to grow and is considered by many the start of the PGA Show.”
Hundreds of conference attendees were able to see some of their favorite vendors – as well as discover some new ones – during the event, including Steven Cryan, PGA of America General Manager of Longleaf Golf and Family Club in Southern Pines, North Carolina, who is attending his 34th PGA Show this year.
“It gives a snapshot of what the companies you know – and the companies you don’t know – are presenting for the new season,” he says. “And it’s also a place to rejuvenate your love of the business year after year.”
According to Steve Smith, PGA of America Director of Golf at Greystone Golf & Country Club in Hoover, Alabama, PGA of America Members and buyers feel they can get a little more in-depth with vendors at this event, away from the busy Show floor. “It’s easy to have a conversation and not feel like 10 people are behind you waiting for you to get out of the way,” he said.
From a vendor standpoint, tasc VP of Marketing Dave Leveille said the AGM represents an elite group of merchandisers at many of the top golf facilities in the country, which makes it a great group to get your line in front of in a more intimate setting.
“We see people, say hello and hope to see them at our booth at the show, and it’s also a great way to support the AGM,” Leveille said.
“It’s not a commercial space, but more of a dialoguing space,” added Thomas Bates, who presented the latest and greatest in the TB Phelps line of upscale footwear and accessories. “And it’s always good to get greater knowledge of what’s important to merchandisers.”
Along these lines, Morton emphasized the networking piece and how important that is to both AGM members and vendors, saying, “The opportunity for new and emerging brands to get in front of buyers who may not make it down every aisle of the PGA Show is invaluable. What a great venue for new discoveries.”