New Bedford, MA, October 26, 2006 . . . Ahead, a leader in branded headwear and apparel, has named industry veteran Casey Waid as Apparel Design Director.
"Casey brings to Ahead a strong background in sports apparel, design and fabrication development," stated Ken Shwartz, CEO, Ahead. "As we continue to expand our apparel line for men and women, her vast knowledge and experience in the sports apparel industry will be a true asset to Ahead and our continued growth in this category."
In Waid’s new role, she will work with Bill Godden, Ahead’s director of apparel, on product design and development, color direction and market research for Ahead Men’s Authentic and Kate Lord. She will also work closely with the sales and licensing team to offer account specific designs for tournaments and special events.
"I’m very excited to part of the Ahead team," stated Waid. "Ahead has a strong product and distribution base with a distinct niche in the golf apparel market. I look forward to creating more design synergies between apparel and our unique ornamentation options along with working with our account base on their specific needs."
Waid has spent seventeen years in the apparel industry, with the last eight years in senior design positions within the golf industry including adidas®, where she was responsible for the launch of ClimaCoolâ?¢ in their golf apparel line. A graduate of the University of North Texas, Waid currently resides in Dallas, Texas.
Ahead launched Men’s Authentics apparel in 2002 and since then has experienced double-digit growth each year. In 2004, Ahead introduced the Kate Lord Collection for women and it has been equally as successful. With the addition of Waid, Ahead is positioned to expand both lines significantly in 2007.
Ahead is a designer and marketer of branded headwear, apparel, and accessories. Headquartered in New Bedford, Massachusetts, the company operates four distinct business units: the Ahead Authentic® apparel line, the Kate Lordâ?¢ Collection of fine women’s hats, apparel and accessories, the Ahead® "Heavy Metalâ?¢" line of golf accessories, and the Company’s unparalleled line of Ahead® Headgear. Ahead is a sponsor of PGA Authentic and a supporting partner of PGA Golf Retirement Plus.
Contact:
Jackie Beck
For Ahead
PH: 860.304.3643
