PGA TOUR Shops Recognized as the Industry’s Best

Golf Shop Magazine, formerly Golf World Business, a Golf Digest Publication, has once again recognized PGA TOUR Shops, operated by The Paradies Shops, among the 100 Best Golf Shops for 2006. Selecting golf shops that demonstrate “a commitment to being extraordinary – and having the talent to pull it off,” Golf Shop included private, resort, public and off-course shops in its selection of winners.

Measuring three key strengths — marketing and promotion, shop layout and design, and financials — six PGA TOUR Shops were recognized as big winners. Operated by The Paradies Shops, an Atlanta-based concessionaire specializing in airport retail, locations included: Ft. Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, Jacksonville International Airport, Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center in Orlando, Nashville International Airport, Pittsburgh International Airport, and Palm Beach International Airport.

“Our relationship with The Paradies Shops is almost 15 years old now, and it continues to raise the bar on airport retail,” said Leo McCullagh, PGA TOUR Vice President for Retail Licensing and Consumer Marketing. “In order to have six of our PGA TOUR Shops named to this prestigious list along with the likes of TPC Sawgrass, Pebble Beach and Pinehurst, to name a few, really says it all. The Paradies people have positioned our brand at the top end of the market for millions of travelers to experience. We are thrilled that they have once again been chosen for this great recognition.”

“This year's win marks the 11th year in a row the PGA TOUR Shops have been recognized in this annual competition, and we are extremely proud to once again be chosen,” stated Gregg Paradies, President and CEO, The Paradies Shops. “With our partnership with the TOUR, we strive very hard to offer a world-class shopping experience for the golf enthusiast as well as the leisure traveler at all our locations, and we are honored to be held in such high regard, keeping company with such notable locations as TPC Sawgrass, the Ritz Carlton in Orlando, and Pinehurst.”