New Bedford, MA, June 22, 2010 – AHEAD, the leader in branded headwear and apparel, has announced today that it has re-signed legendary golfing great Arnold Palmer to represent the company’s headwear line.
“We are thrilled that Arnold Palmer has re-signed with AHEAD,” said Ken Shwartz, President, AHEAD. “We appreciate his loyalty and support of AHEAD over the years. It is a testimony to the quality of our product line and leadership role in the industry. Arnie’s magnetic personality and outpouring of kindness to everyone he encounters over the years has endeared him to millions throughout the world. He is a true asset to AHEAD and we look forward to continuing our relationship with him.”
Palmer, nicknamed “The King,” is one of golf’s most popular stars. His incredible charisma helped him become a trailblazer in establishing golf as a compelling television sports event in the late 1950s. Palmer, one of the most decorated golfers in history, has 92 worldwide wins, including 7 majors. His accomplishments off the course are just as impressive. He is a highly-successful executive, prominent advertising spokesman, skilled aviator, talented golf course designer and consultant and devoted family patriarch.
Palmer, whose licensing rights are managed cooperatively by Arnold Palmer Enterprises (APE) and IMG, will continue to appear in AHEAD’s headwear catalog, point of sales materials and website. Additionally, AHEAD is planning to develop an Arnold Palmer label within its golf assortment.
“We are excited to renew this relationship between Arnold Palmer and AHEAD, one of our long-time partners,” added Cori Britt, Vice President, Arnold Palmer Enterprises. “Because of his success on and off the course, Arnold Palmer is a fan favorite with all generations, and we’re pleased to pair that success with a company like AHEAD.”
In addition to the program with Arnold Palmer, AHEAD headwear is also represented on the 2010 PGA TOUR by Retief Goosen, Aaron Baddeley and Jim Furyk.
About AHEAD
AHEAD® is a designer and marketer of branded headwear, apparel and accessories. Headquartered in New Bedford, Mass., the company operates four distinct business units: the AHEAD® men’s apparel line; AHEAD® Headgear, AHEAD® “Heavy Metal™” line of golf accessories and the Kate Lord™ Collection of ladies hats, ladies apparel and ladies accessories. AHEAD is a supporting partner of PGA Golf Retirement Plus, a licensee of the USGA, PGA of America, PGA TOUR and the official headwear of the AJGA. For information on AHEAD, visit www.aheadweb.com.
About IMG Licensing
IMG Licensing is the premier independent licensing agency in the world. Since 1962, IMG Licensing has been one of the core business units of IMG and with nearly 50 years of experience IMG Licensing offers an unparalleled resource in the licensing of sporting brands. IMG Licensing also offer expertise in a number of different markets and services outside of sports, including corporate trademarks, brands, and entertainment and celebrity properties. In April 2009, IMG Licensing was voted the No. 1 Licensing Agent in the annual Top 20 List in License Magazine.
Contact:
Jackie Beck, 860.304.3643, jackiebeck00@hotmail.com
Tricia Hornsby, 770-618-8418, tricia.hornsby@imgworld.com
