PGA officials cheer Titleist's return to PGA Merchandise Show

After sitting out the last few years, Titleist returns to the PGA Merchandise Show floor this year to show off its latest products as well participate in the Outdoor Demo Day at the Orange County National Golf Center.

Titleist, which last occupied floor space at the PGA Merchandise Show in 2003, has announced that it is returning to the Orange County Convention Center in January to show off its latest equipment.

"In recent years, the PGA Merchandise Show has evolved significantly, as The PGA of America has shifted the show's emphasis to a more educational platform for its membership," said Jerry Bellis, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing, Titleist Worldwide. "Our decision to participate in the PGA Merchandise Show is the result of these positive changes, our desire to strengthen the connection with our partners, and to showcase our exciting new products.

"Our PGA Show plans will enhance the numerous grass roots initiatives that Titleist already has in place for our dedicated staff members and golf shop partners."

The return of Titleist, which along with Cobra, FootJoy and Pinnacle falls under the Acushnet Company and Fortune Brands umbrella, also will participate in the Outdoor Demo Day at the Orange County National Golf Center on January 28.

Titleist's announcement was cheered by PGA of America officials and industry insiders alike.

"We are delighted that Titleist is joining us for the largest annual gathering of PGA Professionals, at the 56th PGA Merchandise Show," added Remy. "Titleist has been a loyal friend to PGA Professionals for many years and we look forward to helping them further connect our members to the Titleist brand."

The Titleist Experience will be located in the PGA Equipment Forum at the Orange County Convention Center. The Titleist Performance Institute is also participating for the third consecutive year with a stand-alone location adjacent to the Titleist Experience.

Titleist is a Platinum Sponsor and the leading supporter of PGA members through its sponsorships of PGA Section Professional Championships, the PGA National Professional Championship, education initiatives, personal use equipment and staff programs. Titleist is also the single largest contributor and Founding Partner of the PGA Golf Retirement Plus program.

Since its inception in 1954, the PGA Merchandise Show has served the golf industry as an important forum for its business leaders to gather and become the world's most comprehensive golf trade show. In January 2009, the PGA Merchandise Show will once again welcome more than 46,000 industry professionals to discover the newest golf merchandise, test the latest equipment, enhance careers and business in classrooms and through real-life business models, network among peers and conduct the business of the game.