Written by Ken Morton, Jr.
For golf merchandisers, staying ahead of trends and continuously improving your promotional ideas and visual displays is crucial. Leveraging outside resources, such as industry-specific magazines and podcasts, can be a game-changer. These resources provide insights into the latest products, merchandising strategies, and promotional techniques. Here are some key educational resources that every golf merchandiser should consider:
Magazines for Golf Merchandisers:
1. PGA Magazine
- Content: PGA Magazine is a premier publication for golf professionals, offering insights into industry trends, new product launches, and best practices in golf merchandising.
- Benefits:
- Stay Updated: Regular updates on the latest equipment, apparel, and accessories.
- Expert Advice: Articles from industry experts on improving sales and customer engagement.
- Networking Opportunities: Information on industry events and networking opportunities with fellow professionals.
2. Seaside Retailer Magazine
- Content: This magazine focuses on retailers in coastal regions, providing unique merchandising ideas and product recommendations that can be tailored to golf shops.
- Benefits:
- Niche Market Insights: Tips for targeting tourists and seasonal shoppers.
- Creative Displays: Ideas for eye-catching displays that draw customers in.
- Retail Strategies: Practical advice on inventory management and boosting sales.
3. Souvenirs, Gifts & Novelties Magazine
- Content: A publication dedicated to the gift and novelty retail sector, offering inspiration for golf-themed gifts and souvenirs.
- Benefits:
- Product Ideas: Discover unique items that can be added to your shop.
- Trends Analysis: Insights into popular trends in the gift and souvenir market.
- Vendor Connections: Information on suppliers and manufacturers.
4. VMSD Magazine (Visual Merchandising + Store Design)
- Content: This magazine covers the latest in visual merchandising and store design, offering practical advice and innovative ideas.
- Benefits:
- Visual Impact: Techniques to create compelling visual displays.
- Design Trends: Updates on current trends in store layout and design.
- Case Studies: Real-world examples of successful merchandising strategies.
Podcasts for Golf Merchandisers:
The Boutique Chat Podcast
- Content: A podcast featuring interviews with boutique owners and retail experts, discussing strategies for running a successful retail business.
- Benefits:
- Expert Interviews: Learn from successful boutique owners and retail experts.
- Business Strategies: Insights into effective business practices and growth strategies.
- Trendspotting: Stay ahead of trends in retail and customer preferences.
If magazines and podcasts are not your preferred method of receiving information, try these additional educational resources:
1. Retail Minded.
- Content: Focuses on small business retailing, providing practical insight and technical resources for businesses.
- Benefits:
- Small Business Focus: Tailored advice for smaller retail operations.
- Marketing Tips: Effective marketing strategies to increase foot traffic and sales.
- Operational Guidance: Practical tips on managing a retail business.
2. The Association of Golf Merchandisers
- Content: AGM provides training and strategies for management, marketing, and merchandising for both merchandisers and vendors.
- Benefits:
- Certified Retail Manager (CRM) Program: Strategic management training and certification for those in golf retail.
- Weekly Blogs: Practical education, insightful tips, and creative ideas for both merchandisers and vendors.
- Video & Photo Gallery: View past webinars and merchandising display photos.
The Benefits of Drawing on Outside Resources:
Utilizing these magazines, podcasts, and other resources offers numerous benefits for golf merchandisers:
- Continual Education: Stay informed about the latest industry trends, new products, and best practices.
- Inspiration: Gain new ideas for visual displays, promotional strategies, and product offerings.
- Networking: Connect with industry professionals, suppliers, and thought leaders.
- Competitive Edge: Stay ahead of competitors by being the first to implement innovative ideas and strategies.
- Professional Growth: Enhance your skills and knowledge, leading to improved performance and career advancement.
The resources we’ve highlighted here are just a glimpse of the many educational opportunities available to help you thrive as a merchandiser. Whether you’re looking to enhance your skills, stay ahead of industry trends, or connect with fellow professionals, there’s a wealth of knowledge and support at your fingertips.
To join a merchandiser community and gain weekly educational opportunities and resources, sign up to become a member of the AGM.
Elevating Customer Service to Hospitality in Private Golf Shops
In private golf shops, great service is expected, but true hospitality is what makes members [...]
May
Trust Your Edit: The Power of Being Decisive as a Merchandiser
If you’re feeling pressure to stock even more choices, this is your reminder that the [...]
May
The Do’s and Don’ts of Constructive Feedback in 2025
Silence isn’t golden when it comes to leadership—constructive feedback is the lifeline of a thriving, [...]
May
Maintaining Your Props and Hangers: Small Details, Big Impact
Could small details like hangers and props be holding your shop back? Find out how [...]
May
Sharpen Your Strategy: A Vendor’s Take on the Certified Retail Management Program
Think the CRM Program is just for merchandisers? Vendor Jeff Pitch proves it’s a powerful [...]
May
How to Run a Successful Retail Team Meeting
Turn your team meetings into momentum for your golf shop with seven practical strategies to [...]
Apr
Smart Strategies for Transferring Merchandise Between Locations
When merchandise moves, your records should too. Read on to streamline your transfers and protect [...]
Apr
Setting the Bar: Why Sales Goals and Metrics Matter in Golf Shop Success
Empower your staff and increase your golf shop's bottom line all by setting the right [...]
Apr