Merchandising

A golf shop should serve as an amenity that enhances the member experience, offering a compelling mix of classic styles and emerging trends. Through attentive service, a well-curated product selection, and a commitment to excellence, I strive to make the golf shop a place where members feel valued and excited to shop year-round.

Merchandising Experience

At each club I have worked, I have played a key role in the buying program, ensuring a well-curated and service-driven retail experience. At Blue Mound Golf & Country Club, I oversee inventory control, buying plans, special orders, and shop displays, utilizing Golf Genius Golf Shop software to streamline operations and enhance member engagement.

Buying Plan & Forecasting

I develop and execute buying plans based on sales history, market trends, and member preferences to ensure a well-balanced and financially sound merchandise assortment. By analyzing past sales performance and forecasting demand, I determine open-to-buy dollars, unit quantities, and product selection to maximize profitability while maintaining fresh and relevant inventory. This strategic approach allows for better inventory control, minimizes risk, and ensures that the golf shop remains stocked with high-quality, in-demand products tailored to member needs.

Online Order Forms

One of the most effective strategies I have implemented is the use of Golf Genius Golf Shop Online Order Forms to increase sales, manage inventory, and provide members with greater access to products. These order forms have been instrumental in:

Clearing Inventory: Successfully moving end-of-season shoe inventory and boosting sunglasses sales.
Introducing New Vendors: Offering brands like Birkenstock without the risk of overstocking.
Junior Apparel: Since custom Blue Mound junior apparel is not stocked in the shop, online order forms offer a seamless way for members to purchase these items, ensuring convenient access.
Golf Ball Promotions: Streamlining the club’s annual golf ball promotion, which generates over 130 orders each year. By using online order forms, we efficiently collect, track, and notify members when their orders arrive.

Birkenstock Order Form

Junior Apparel Order Form

Titleist Golf Ball Loyalty Promotion

Corporate & Event Merchandise

I create Corporate Catalogs featuring popular vendor essentials, allowing members to customize apparel and merchandise with their company or event logo while taking advantage of their member discount. This program offers high-quality custom branding on apparel, golf accessories, drinkware, and more from premium brands such as Titleist, TUMI, and Sterling Cut Glass.

Peter Millar Corporate Catalog

Innovative Merchandising & Member Engagement

Keeping the golf shop fresh and relevant is a key priority. I am always looking for new brands and niche products to elevate our offerings. Since joining Blue Mound, I have introduced:

Faribault Mill Wool Company throw blankets
Flag Bag Co. headcovers and duffle bags
Mitten Supply custom ball markers and divot tools
Tremont Sporting Co. headcovers, scorecard holders, yardage books, and leather goods
Many other unique and sought-after vendors

In addition to introducing new products, I develop seasonal Shopping Guides that highlight curated items in the golf shop. These guides, such as Father’s Day Shopping Guides and Fall Collection Spotlights, help members discover unique offerings they may not otherwise notice.

Fall Shopping Guide

Recognition

My efforts in merchandising have been recognized at a high level. In 2021, our golf shop was honored with an AGM (Association of Golf Merchandisers) Award at Green Bay Country Club, a testament to our dedication to creating a dynamic and engaging golf shop experience. Additionally, my innovative use of Golf Genius Golf Shop was recognized, and I was featured in a Golf Genius Webinar Series, where I shared insights on enhancing member engagement and operational efficiency through the platform.

Strong vendor relationships are essential to successful merchandising, fostering trust and ensuring I am among the first to know about new product releases, exclusive promotions, and special offers. Beyond the business benefits, these connections play a crucial role in inventory management, trend awareness, and collaboration—allowing us to move stock efficiently, stay ahead of industry trends, and provide the best possible retail experience for our members.
Providing personalized special orders ensures that members have access to the best products, even beyond what is regularly stocked in the shop. By leveraging strong vendor relationships and in-depth product knowledge, I take a proactive approach in researching and sourcing items while keeping members informed throughout the process.
The shopping experience should go beyond transactions to include exceptional service and thoughtful details. From complimentary gift wrapping and flexible return policies on non-logoed items to locker delivery for men’s purchases, I believe in creating a seamless, member-first shopping experience that builds trust and loyalty.