Rocklin, CA – A new episode of The Fairway to Retail Success: An AGM Podcast is now live. In this inspiring conversation, host Justine Gray, AGM’s Director of Membership and Education, welcomes Katie Gates, Director of Retail at Interlachen Country Club in Edina, MN—recognized as one of AGM’s 2025 Top 10 Best of the Best Platinum Award recipients.
With a foundation in menswear retail and a passion for member-centric experiences, Katie has elevated the Interlachen shop by blending classic country club tradition with bold innovation. From crafting compelling visual displays to leveraging digital tools and curating high-impact campaigns like the club’s Holiday Gift Guide, she shares her strategies for increasing revenue, enhancing member loyalty, and staying ahead of retail trends in a private club environment.
Katie also dives into the story behind Interlachen’s commemorative emblem project, her approach to adapting for a younger demographic, and how thoughtful merchandising can reflect a club’s heritage while embracing what’s next.
“Katie’s ability to pair creativity with business-savvy strategy is truly inspiring,” says Justine Gray. “This episode is packed with real-world takeaways for anyone looking to elevate their retail operation with intention and innovation.”
This episode is now available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and the AGM website.
The Fairway to Retail Success: An AGM Podcast is your go-to resource for all things golf retail, bringing together the voices that shape the industry. Whether you’re seeking fresh marketing ideas, merchandising inspiration, or operational strategies, you’ll find it here. Launched in January 2025 at the AGM Retail Conference in Orlando, FL, the podcast was created as a new way to connect the AGM community and highlight the insights and innovations that drive our work forward—while celebrating the respected leaders who’ve paved the way and the rising voices shaping the future of golf retail.
To learn more about the AGM and access tools to support your retail journey, visit the AGM website.
About the Association of Golf Merchandisers
The Association of Golf Merchandisers (AGM), a leading global professional organization, boasts over 850 buyers and 200 vendors committed to advancing the golf merchandising industry. Recognized for excellence, AGM aims to elevate retail standards, enhance industry relationships, and deliver continuous education. Our focus lies on key metrics, visual merchandising, promotions, and buying strategies, fostering profitable collaborations between golf retail buyers and vendors.
For more information, visit https://agmgolf.org/membership-2/
Media Contact:
For media inquiries, contact: Megan Fidler, AGM Director of Marketing – megan@agmgolf.org – 916-717-4138.
