Field Notes

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.

Click here to view a digital catalog of Imperial’s 2025 new arrivals. Last month, Imperial introduced the 2025 collection, featuring new headwear, apparel and embellishment techniques, to sales representatives across the nation. 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. Highlights from this collection include: The Genome (S1507) is a lightweight evolution of the Alpha (S1502) that features NuYarn® fabrics that provides a revolutionary performance merino wool sweatband that is naturally anti-microbial, moisture-wicking and thermoregulating designed with a unique camo perforated pattern. The Harrison (5054U) is a throwback relaunch of our original 5-panel unstructured rope design (The Harris) that features a mesh stand up stay.   The Ballast (90925) and The Cypress (90927) elevates our sweatshirt line with the inclusion of  organic cotton and recycled poly with 5% spandex to provide luxurious comfort and super-soft feel to these midweight fleece sweatshirts.   At Imperial, every design is founded on our commitment to high quality, sustainability, and purpose. Customers now expect more from their headwear and apparel. The 2025 Collection is our latest effort to provide superior products that resonate whit a broad audience, emphasizing quality craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail. Dan Parenti, SVP of Product Development Domestically produced embellishment enhancements include: Headwear Transfer Twill that produces higher definition and truer and brighter colors compared to standard printed twill. 3D Insignia EMB which provides an embroidered look to 3D insignias Apparel Embellishments now include Micro Patches, Chenille Patches and Felt Letter Appliques to provide our customers with multiple customizable options. Direct to Film Transfer applications now available in up to 18 locations including a full sleeve We are continuously evolving our offerings to meet the needs of our customers. While maintaining our leadership role in the golf industry with innovative headwear and casual apparel, we are also expanding our efforts into the destination and leisure markets. Our focus is to continue to bring value and solutions for our customers now and into the future. David Shaffer, SVP of Sales Other notable highlights from Imperial’s 2025 collection include:• Colorful prints and colorways Palm trees, flamingos, hotdogs and margaritas can be found throughout the 2025 line by Imperial, along with pastel colorways in our The Original Performance (X210P). Creative micro prints comprised of pool party toys, moon men, and 90’s splatter paint designs enhance the Golden Hour (DNA014) line. • Patterned Fabrics The Sophisticate (X210X) is a 6-panel structured mid-crown profile hat that is made of 100% recycled performance plum blossom grid fabric providing UPF 50+ protection which resembles a houndstooth pattern. • New Mid-Crown Pro Profile The Sensei 6 (X210G), The Aperture (1440), The Aperture Meshback (1440M) and The Passenger Side (4074) will feature the new Mid-Crown Pro Profile.