Public Merchandiser of the Year
For more than 25 years, merchandising has been a point of pride for Derrick DeHart, PGA. That dedication, paired with his eye for detail and commitment to customer service, earned him the 2025 Southern Ohio PGA Public Merchandiser of the Year Award. DeHart, now at Dayton Country Club, received the honor for his outstanding work at The Golf Club at Stonelick Hills.
At Stonelick Hills, DeHart oversaw a transformation of the golf shop that resulted in both elevated customer experiences and record-breaking sales. In 2024, Stonelick saw a gross merchandise sales increase of 251% from the year before thanks in part to a renewed emphasis on maximizing the golf shop’s square footage. Derrick also took advantage of Stonelick Hills being one of the premier public golf facilities in Ohio and made a point to emphasize a ‘sales per round’ approach whether players were regulars or one-time visitors.
DeHart’s merchandising philosophy centers on honesty, fairness, and efficiency, while creating a welcoming environment that enhances every golfer’s experience. His introduction of premium brands like Peter Millar, Holderness & Bourne and Smathers & Branson were smash hits, and paired well with the regular industry leaders.
Recognizing the power of branding, he also incorporated high-quality logoed products like leather bags and headcovers that quickly became favorites with those visitors who traveled across the midwest to play Stonelick Hills.
Key to DeHart’s success was his ability to keep the shop fresh and dynamic. Rotating displays monthly, stocking seasonal patterns and colors, and ensuring a four-times-per-year turnover kept the inventory relevant and engaging. Beyond sales, he emphasized creating a warm, inviting atmosphere where members and guests could enjoy shopping as part of their golf experience.
For DeHart, merchandising is more than business, it’s a craft. His passion for providing quality products and elevating customer service continues to define his career and inspire those around him.