Field Notes

Imperial is proud to announce a new partnership with Folds of Honor. This partnership aims to further enhance the impact and reach of Folds of Honor's mission within the golf community and beyond. Imperial simultaneously introduces a unique collection available on their retail website, as well as exclusive event assortments for green grass facilities in support of their Folds of Honor's programs and events. The longstanding collaboration between the PGA of America and Folds of Honor is centered on honoring fallen heroes' legacies through the vehicle of golf, showcasing the enduring connection between the two organizations in this noble cause. This partnership offers a meaningful way to give back to military heroes, first responders, and their families while amplifying the collective efforts of the golf community, the PGA of America, and its professionals in advancing Folds of Honor's mission. David Shaffer, Senior Vice President of Sales The Folds of Honor Foundation, renowned for providing life-changing scholarships to the spouses and children of fallen or disabled U.S. service members was founded by Lieutenant Colonel Dan Rooney, Founder and CEO of Folds of Honor, and member of the PGA of America. Since its inception in 2007, Folds of Honor has awarded over 52,000 scholarships, totaling over $200 million. These scholarships benefit the dependents of America’s fallen and disabled service members and first responders, representing diverse backgrounds and communities. Minority recipients account for 45% of all scholarships awarded.

Imperial, the #1 headwear brand in golf as reported by the Association of Golf Merchandisers (AGM) for 7 years in a row, and #1 headwear brand in combined on and off course retail golf channels as reported by Golf Datatech, announces Jerry Biag’s hire as Director of Marketing. “Imperial is excited to welcome Jerry to the team.” said David Shaffer, Senior Vice President of Sales at Imperial. “In the newly created role, Jerry will lead all marketing efforts as Imperial continues to bring luxury, authenticity and individuality to the apparel market.”  Jerry joins Imperial with over 20 years of sales and marketing experience working at Alert Services, PepsiCo (Gatorade, Propel and Quaker Oats) and various marketing agencies executing promotions for clients such as Callaway Golf, McDonalds, Microsoft, and Jim Beam. Biag added:  “I have long admired Imperial as the quintessential golf headwear brand.  I’m honored to be part of an iconic company and entrusted with building our marketing capabilities as we continue to grow as an apparel brand.” Jerry is an avid golfer and is married to his wife Sarah.  Together they love to travel and experience different cultures with their two daughters, Ella and Vivian.

Today, Imperial announced a new partnership and licensing agreement with Barstool Golf, serving as their new headwear partner in the green grass market for licensed Barstool Golf products. This innovative collaboration between Imperial and Barstool marks the first time that green grass golf facilities will have the opportunity to access the suite of Barstool Sports brands individually and also through dual-branded headwear and apparel. Outside of their local golf shops, Barstool fans and golfers can find the collection directly via Imperial’s e-commerce site. “For over a century, Imperial’s unwavering commitment to style, quality, and innovation has forged a brand that the golf world and consumers unmistakably recognize as Imperial. This partnership is an incredible opportunity to inspire and connect with a broader sport and golf audience,” said David Shaffer, Senior Vice President of Sales at Imperial. This partnership promises a dynamic fusion of Imperial's timeless quality and craftsmanship with the vibrant and energetic spirit of Barstool Sports. The result is a distinctive lifestyle headwear and apparel assortment that is set to revolutionize the golf fashion landscape.

Imperial awarded Alan Hyman ‘Salesperson of the Year’ last week at the 2024 PGA Show. I’m beyond excited to announce Alan as our salesperson of the year. He had tremendous growth in overall sales from 2022, while also expanding the customer base in his territory. We couldn’t ask for a better Imperial ambassador in the Carolinas. John Anderson, VP Sales – Golf Hyman, sales representative for the Western Carolinas territory, is entering his third year with the company and this is the first time he has been awarded this honor. His past experience as a merchandiser and buyer places him in a unique position to partner with his customers on creative ideas for new product assortments, decorations, and facility first branding. Imperial also awarded Jim Maitland, sales representative for South Florida, with the 2023 Customer Service Award for excellence in service and communication. Jim has been a steadfast representative and brand ambassador since 1978 when he joined the sales team at Imperial. Driven by a natural passion for sales and service. Jim knows each of his accounts by heart, right down to logo numbers and approvals. You can rely on Jim for supporting his accounts and daily appreciation of our inside team. Nicole King, Customer Service Manager