Pro Shop Magazine takes a Q and A look at a cross-section of golf courses across Canada. In each issue we will spotlight one club and see how their retail pro shops have come through everything during COVID-19 and, of course, what’s hot and what’s selling.
TORONTO GOLF CLUB
Mississauga, ON
Head pro: Doug Rankin (does the buying along with pros and shop attendants)
How has the pandemic affected the way you’ve done business in the pro shop?
“Both the 2020 and 2021 seasons were unique. 2020 was a presentation of products purchased in the fall of 2019, so it was business as usual, and we took delivery of product in March/April with great expectations, only to find out we’re shut down for COVID,” said Rankin. “We had a better understanding of our purchasing needs for the following season, but we were cautious of our “buy” for 2021.
“Our team, led by head associate Laura MacElwain, scrambled to bring in product in a timely manner, so with ‘eyes wide open,’ she was able to bring in fresh throughout the season. Open to Buy is such an important retail concept and last year was a terrific example of staying flexible.”
Is the way you display items a factor in sales?
“We used to have up to eight sets of irons on the wall, with all our club sales based on fittings. We converted the cabinetry away from club displays to more clothing shelving, hangbars and half-form mannequins. Much better use of soft goods display and merchandising space.”
What drivers do you stock?
“All of the companies produce great equipment, so we focus on the big four: Titleist, Callaway, Ping and TaylorMade.”
Irons?
“TaylorMade fills the need for good players with their P790 series; Ping G425 irons are beautifully engineered and easy to fit, especially for players with special fit requirements. Titleist T100s and Mizuno offer great looks with solid design for consistent results.”
Wedges?
“Vokey SM9s all day long.”
Hybrids?
“TaylorMade, Ping, Titleist.”
Fairway woods?
“A tie between Rogue Max and Stealth.”
Putters?
“Scotty Cameron all day long. Odyssey is also a good option.”
Men’s clothing?
“johnnie-O is strong, as is Peter Millar, Holderness & Bourne, and FootJoy which is a staple for us.”
Women’s clothing?
“Always do well with SanSoleil, Lucky in Love, Daily Sports, Kjus, Foray Golf and Levelwear. One gem for us for a few years has been Vuori, a terrific leisure, lounging brand.”
Golf shoes?
“FootJoy, Puma and Ecco.”
Golf balls – high end and value ball?
“ProV1, ProV1x and AVX are the staples. Tour Soft is a nice option.”
Hats?
“We load up on a few different brands: New Era, Ahead, Levelwear and Imperial are all good.”
Sunglasses?
“Maui Jim are fantastic for golf and fly fishing.”
Gloves?
“Titleist Players, FootJoy StaSof and FJ Custom.”
GPS or yardage electronics?
“Bushnell units and golf watches.”
Golf bags?
“Titleist, Callaway, Ping and Sun Mountain. People love to buy new golf bags at our club, it’s unreal!”
Impulse items?
“Glassware, scotch glasses with TGC logo, Roots hoodies and sweatshirts for fall and Christmas.”
