Field Notes

PGA Tour player and Imperial brand ambassador, Keith Mitchell, is known not only for his athletic prowess but also for his commitment to give back to the community. We’re thrilled to announce an exciting partnership between Keith Mitchell, Imperial, Cisco, and Mizuno to bring golf fans a Charity Game Imperial Tour Visor®. This special visor is inspired by the iconic tournament visor that Keith Mitchell wears on Tour and is designed to raise awareness and funds for a cause close to Keith's heart: the Nantz National Alzheimer Center. In our recent interview, Keith shared with us his personal connection to the Nantz National Alzheimer Center, the inspiration behind the Charity Game Imperial Tour Visor®, and how this collaboration came to life. The proceeds from this project will support the center's vital work in Alzheimer's research and patient care, a cause Keith is proud to champion. What is your personal connection to the Nantz National Alzheimer Center? "The Nantz National Alzheimer Center has been an invaluable resource for my family," Keith explained. “They provide state of the art care, and are on the cutting edge of research in fighting the battle against Alzhiemers disease” Keith's connection to the center is rooted in his family’s experience with Alzheimer's disease. "I have had four members of my family affected by Alzheimer's.” he shared. “The Nantz National Alzheimer Center is the leader in its field and has given our family great care and results in fighting the disease.” This firsthand experience has shaped Keith's deep admiration for what the center does. In your experience, how is The Nantz National Alzheimer Center leading the charge in Alzheimer's care? "The center invests in the world's best doctors, researchers, and facilities to fight Alzheimer's, with the desire to detect and beat the disease before its symptoms ever arise. The technology and advancements they have made in the last few years is truly incredible.” Tell us about your idea for The Charity Game Imperial Tour Visor®. In your mind, how is this a symbol of both support and style? “We wanted to give access to our Tour Visor, but do it in a way that positively impacts a cause that means so much to me and my family," Keith said. "This visor represents my on course headwear and our commitment to supporting the Nantz National Alzheimer Center and its mission to help those impacted by Alzheimer’s.” This edition of Charity Game Tour Visor® was inspired by the iconic visor Keith wears on the PGA Tour and is designed to combine style with a powerful message. Featuring Keith's signature look, the visor represents more than just a piece of golf equipment; it serves as a symbol of the fight against Alzheimer's and a call to action for all who wear it. This special visor is made possible through the partnership of four organizations: Keith Mitchell, Imperial, Cisco, and Mizuno. Each partner has come together with a shared vision of supporting Alzheimer’s research and patient care.  "Working with these great partners has been a dream come true.” Keith said. “Imperial’s craftsmanship, Cisco’s foresight in technology, and Mizuno’s focus on performance and design, are companies and values that I am honored to represent,” The visor will be available for purchase and all proceeds will benefit the Nantz National Alzheimer Center. It’s a unique opportunity for golf fans to support Alzheimer's research while showing their love for the game and for a meaningful cause. You’re well known for your personal style, what is your connection with The Imperial Tour Visor®? “My connection to the tour visor runs deep,” he shared, explaining that his love for the style dates back to his childhood, where he was often seen wearing a visor similar to the ones his father wore. “I have old pictures of myself as a kid wearing a visor just like the one I wear on Tour today,” Keith said with a smile. “My dad always wore one, and I as a kid, I always wanted to follow in his footsteps. It became part of my style, and it’s something I’ve kept most of my golf career.” For Keith, the visor is more than just a piece of golf equipment; it's a link to the past when golf to him was the time for father and son bonding. This personal connection adds even more meaning to the Charity Game Tour Visor®, as it carries the essence of tradition, family, and giving back. What advice would you give to someone wanting to get involved with supporting Alzheimer’s disease research and care? “The first edition of Charity Game Tour Visors® is now available for purchase, and by wearing it, you are showing your support by helping the Nantz National Alzheimer Center in its mission to fight Alzheimer's disease. This project is directly supporting the center’s research and patient care programs. We want to make a big difference, and this is just one small way we can do that,” Keith said. “The support from golf fans, our partners, and everyone involved will help the Nantz National Alzheimer Center continue its important work.” Conclusion: A Legacy of Giving Back Keith Mitchell’s partnership with Imperial, Cisco, and Mizuno to support the Nantz National Alzheimer Center through the Charity Game Tour Visor® is a testament to the power of sports in making a positive impact. With his personal connection to the disease and his family’s experience with the center, Keith is using his platform to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s research and care. By purchasing the visor, you're not only supporting Keith's charitable efforts but also contributing to a brighter future for those affected by Alzheimer's. Join us in this important cause and help make a lasting difference in the fight against Alzheimer's disease.

Imperial will be the Official Hat Supplier of the U.S. Solheim Cup Team. For the second consecutive year, Imperial and its team of designers worked with U.S. Team Captain Stacy Lewis to create custom headwear inspired by the patriotism of the Solheim Cup.   “We worked with the team at Imperial for the last two years on the design of custom hats that fit the look we wanted for the U.S. Team,” said U.S. Solheim Cup Team Captain Stacy Lewis. “We appreciate their support to help the U.S. Team look and feel great.” “Imperial is honored to be the Official Hat Supplier for this renowned event,” says David Shaffer, President of Imperial. “We’re proud to support women’s golf and we’re looking forward to outfitting Team USA for this competition.” In June, Imperial introduced the 2025 collection, featuring new headwear, apparel and embellishment techniques. This collection marks a bold new direction in the brand’s product development featuring original styling and fabrics.  Imperial’s unique fabric techniques and embellishments partnered with a robust collection of colorways and patterns drives this year’s stunning collection. Fans can purchase limited-edition Solheim Cup hats here. About the Solheim Cup The Solheim Cup combines the tradition and prestige of the game of golf with passion for one’s country and continent. This biennial international match-play competition features the best U.S. players from the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour and the best European players from the Ladies European Tour (LET). The Solheim Cup is named in honor of Karsten and Louise Solheim and family, the founders of Karsten Manufacturing Corporation, which makes PING golf equipment. In 1990, the Solheim family, in conjunction with the LPGA and the LET, developed the concept and became the title sponsor for the Solheim Cup. Today, the Global Partners of the Solheim Cup are PING, Hilton, Skyscanner, Virginia Tourism Corporation and Rolex. Held every two years, the event has grown into the most prestigious international women’s professional golf team event. The 2024 Solheim Cup will be held Sept. 13-15 at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club in Gainesville, Virginia. The U.S. Team leads Team Europe, 10-7-1, all-time in Solheim Cup competition. For more information, visit www.solheimcup.com.

Imperial announced today golf industry veteran David Shaffer as its new President. In his new role, Shaffer will manage Imperial’s Golf, Corporate, Destination & Leisure, Direct-To-Consumer (DTC) and Licensing businesses. “I am excited for my new position and the future of Imperial,” said Shaffer. “Leading the Imperial brand and our team is an honor. I’m looking forward to developing our business, great products and strong partnerships for years to come.” Shaffer has been with Imperial for more than 13 years. He has held various positions at the Company, including Director of Marketing, Vice President of Sales & Marketing, and most recently Senior Vice President of Sales. Shaffer also played a major role in the sale of Imperial to CPC in 2021, the acquisition of JT Spencer in 2022, establishing the Imperial Foundation in 2023, and the acquisition of Pukka in 2024. “David is a dynamic executive with a strong track record of building the Imperial brand,” said Todd Johnson, CEO of Imperial. “He embodies all the qualities and characteristics we look for in a leader, as well as the Imperial brand. I have no doubt David will continue to grow our brand, while delivering value to our customers and positively impact the communities we serve.” David Shaffer is a graduate of Northwestern University, with a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and a Master of Science in Marketing. He was also a NCAA Division I Scholarship Athlete on the Men’s Varsity Golf Team at Northwestern. Shaffer resides in Charlotte, North Carolina with his wife Amy and three daughters: Addison, Hadley and Reid.

Imperial is excited to welcome Andrew to the team. His extensive experience in growing revenue and strategic planning in the green grass sector will be invaluable as he leads the Peter Millar business. David Shaffer, President of Imperial. Andrew comes to Imperial from Oak Hill Country Club, where he served as the PGA Director of Retail Operations. His previous experience also includes roles at Pinehurst Resort & Country Club and Wannamoisett Country Club. Andrew holds dual Bachelors degrees in Hospitality/PGA Golf Management and Finance from Florida State University and is a member of the Professional Golf Association of America and the Association of Golf Merchandisers. Andrew is relocating to Scottsdale, AZ where he can enjoy his hobbies including golf, hiking, fitness and travel.