55th PGA Merchandise Show Set to Start

The 55th PGA Merchandise Show is set to start January 17, and will continue through the 19th in Orlando, Fla. The show will be attended by more than 45,000 golf professionals and retailers from around the world. The show will boast exhibits, equipment testing, fashion shows, merchandising programs, best practices and special events.

Pre-registration for the world's largest golf exhibition is up 5% two weeks before it starts. Golf professionals from some 80 countries will be on hand to preview hundreds of thousands of merchandise items from more than 1,250 companies. The show will feature 10 miles of aisles and more than 500,000 square feet of interactive exhibit space at the massive Orange County Convention Center.

"Since 1954, the PGA Merchandise Show has held the promise of a prosperous New Year for the golf industry," said PGA of America president Brian Whitcomb. "As a launch pad for innovation, a catalyst for golf business and an industry forum for the growth of golf participation, this year's PGA Merchandise Show will significantly impact every sector the golf business."

The PGA of America and PGA Golf Exhibitions have developed new events and programs. Market leaders such as PING and Cleveland Golf will mark their returns, while continuing their participation will be Callaway Golf, Nike Golf, adidas, the Titleist Performance Institute, Srixon, Ahead, Cutter & Buck, Antigua, Bridgestone, Gear For Sports, Tehama, Bobby Jones, POLO, Club Car, Greg Norman, Fairway & Greene, E-Z Go, EP Pro, Ashworth, Yamaha, Wilson Staff, Nickent, Imperial, Adams, Mizuno, Tommy Bahama, Bugatchi, Harry Vardon, PING Collection, Byron Nelson and other businesses.

Many of companies will host PGA and LPGA stars at the show. Expected to attend are Jim Furyk, Greg Norman, Annika Sorenstam, Charles Howell III, Paula Creamer, Justin Rose and Fuzzy Zoeller. Additionally, teachers such as PGA Director of Instruction Rick Martino, Butch Harmon, Rick Smith, Jim McLean, Jim Hardy, Todd Sones and Suzy Whaley will offer workshops and special appearances at manufacturer presentations.