Nicklaus Companies Announces License with Smathers & Branson
“Golden Bear” to be featured on high-end accessories line
Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. (November 5, 2019) – Nicklaus Companies and Smathers & Branson-the greatest name in golf and the leading manufacturer of custom needlepoint accessories-have signed a licensing agreement for a collection of Jack Nicklaus branded products. The collection showcases the iconic Jack Nicklaus and Golden Bear logoed trademarks, and they will be available in green-grass shops, resorts, and specialty stores across the country. The first products to debut in the Nicklaus Collection include belts, bar wear, and key fobs.
“Jack Nicklaus is one of the most respected names and brands in the game and in sports, and we are proud to be a partner,” said Chris Piper, Smathers & Branson. “The Golden Bear trademark is recognized around the world, and we have created a special Nicklaus Collection that will feature this iconic logo and be available at green grass shops, special stores, and online.”
Smathers & Branson-begun while founders Peter Carter and Austin Branson were college roommates 15 years ago with a line of attractive needlepoint belts crafted by skilled artisans. The company has since expanded into putter headcovers, key fobs, hats, wallets, and other high-end accessories bearing needlepointed logos, names, and images. Its other licensees include some of the most prestigious organizations in sports, among them the NFL, NBA, Major League Baseball, and NCAA.
“What Peter and Austin have created at Smathers & Branson in such a short time is simply remarkable,” said Andy O’Brien, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Licensing & Communications at the Nicklaus Companies. “The high-end quality and obviously very popular products are the perfect fit for our brand and a key part of our expansion into more lifestyle products around the world.”
For additional information about Smathers & Branson, access the web site at www.smathersandbranson.com. To learn more about Nicklaus Companies, go to www.nicklaus.com.
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About the Nicklaus Companies & Nicklaus Design
For 50 years, the mission of Nicklaus Companies has been to enhance the golf experience and to deliver quality branded products and services on a global basis that mirror the high standards established in the career and life of its Founder, Jack Nicklaus. The Nicklaus Companies businesses include golf-course design, the development of golf and real estate communities, and the marketing and licensing of lifestyle products worldwide under the iconic Jack Nicklaus and Golden Bear brands. Nicklaus Design, recognized as the world leader in golf course design, has created over 420 courses worldwide, open for play in 45 countries and 40 U.S states. In 2007, Jack Nicklaus partnered with Howard Milstein to further the growth of the company and expand the branded businesses. In addition to institutionalizing the Nicklaus brands for the future, Milstein has instilled a personal philosophy of “A Brand That Gives Back” with products and partners committing to donations to help the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation and other charities. A leading entrepreneur in the golf industry, Milstein also created 8AM Golf, a family of companies that also includes GOLF Magazine and GOLF.com, Miura Golf, Club Conex, True Spec Golf and GolfLogix. All share a common mission to help players at all levels enjoy the game more.
Media Contacts
Andy O’Brien
Nicklaus Companies
561-227-0442
Karen Moraghan
Hunter Public Relations
kmoraghan@hunter-pr.com
908-963-6013