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Imperial Named No. 1 Headwear Brand by Association of Golf Merchandisers for Ninth Straight Year

Imperial earned the top spot in the Association of Golf Merchandisers’ annual membership study, reinforcing its leadership in golf headwear, customization, and embellishment innovation
Published: May 11, 2026

BOURBON, Mo. — Imperial Headwear has once again been named the No. 1 headwear brand for private and resort golf facilities by the Association of Golf Merchandisers (AGM), marking the ninth consecutive year the company has earned the distinction.

Imperial Continues Dominating the Golf Headwear Market

According to AGM’s annual membership study, Imperial captured 36% of total votes, nearly three times the share of the next closest competitor at 13%, further strengthening the brand’s leadership position in the golf headwear category.

The company attributed its continued momentum to ongoing investments in product development, embellishment innovation, customization capabilities, and modern headwear styling.

Imperial said its success has been driven by advancements in performance fabrications, updated silhouettes, and decoration techniques designed to help golf retailers differentiate their assortments while maintaining fast turnaround times and low minimum order quantities.

The brand also continued to perform strongly across all golf facility categories, particularly among private clubs, where it remained the top-selling headwear brand among respondents. The company additionally noted its leadership position in combined on- and off-course retail golf channels, according to Golf Datatech.

Imperial Focuses on Fast Turnarounds and Retail Flexibility

“Being recognized by AGM members year after year speaks volumes about the strength of our partnerships and the consistency of our product,” said David Shaffer, president of Imperial. “We’re proud to lead the category by such a meaningful margin.”

Shaffer added that continued investments in product and embellishment innovation allow the company to help retail partners respond quickly to evolving consumer demand.

“By continuing to invest in product and embellishment innovation, while offering quick turnarounds and low minimums, we’re able to help our retail partners react quickly, stand out on the shelf, and better serve their members and guests,” he said.

Founded in 1916 and headquartered in Bourbon, Missouri, Imperial produces premium headwear across golf, promotional, corporate, and destination markets. The company said it remains focused on balancing heritage craftsmanship with modern performance and retail-driven design.

Blank versions of select Imperial Headwear College Collection styles are distributed nationwide through Sportsman Cap & Bag
for use within the promotional products industry.

Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series