Why the Pins and Aces/Edel Golf Team-Up is a Game Changer

Hey there, golf lovers! We all know how sometimes life can throw a bunch of responsibilities your way. Take Nicholas Mertz, the founder of Pins and Aces and the new owner of Edel Golf. With four kids under five, he’s got motivation in droves!

The Dynamic Duo: Pins and Aces Meets Edel Golf

At first glance, you might think the partnership between Pins and Aces and Edel Golf is a bit like mixing oil and water. One’s all about that flashy, youthful golf lifestyle vibe, while the other’s got a more niche reputation for high-end clubs and custom fittings. But hey, sometimes opposites attract—just ask any successful couple!

Mertz, who took the plunge into golf business ownership last December, is all in. “I loved the product so much that I bought the company,” he quips, mirroring that classic “I liked it so much, I put a ring on it” sentiment.

What’s Cooking at Pins and Aces?

Let’s take a step back and look at what Pins and Aces brings to the table. With its edgy golf bags, unique headcovers, and even the quirky LiquorStick®, this brand emerged as a post-COVID sensation. You don’t just play golf; you live it in style!

On the flip side, we’ve got Edel Golf: a brand that once revolutionized the game with its innovative fitting systems. Don’t forget, they gained recognition when Bryson DeChambeau won the U.S. Amateur Championship with custom irons crafted in-house—talk about a pedigree!

However, things didn’t pan out perfectly under previous management. Edel Golf struggled to gain traction, which made Mertz’s acquisition even more appealing (and probably a good deal).

Why Mertz Couldn’t Say No

When Mertz talks about why he took the plunge on Edel Golf, it’s clear he saw potential. “We were never going to make shoes, clubs, or balls,” he explains. But when he realized the depth of engineering and the history behind Edel, he knew it was too good to pass up.

A self-made entrepreneur, Mertz has quite the background. Starting his first business in college, he quickly learned that working smart beats studying hard. Now, his mission is to bring Edel back to its custom-crafted roots.

Pumping New Life into Edel Golf

Mertz isn’t just sitting around; he’s taking action. Along with his team, he’s focusing on customizing high-end putters straight from their Austin workshop. “I’m thinking, why aren’t we doing this anymore?” he says, emphasizing how important it is to show off what they can do.

They’re reintroducing bespoke, American-made putters, and even launching a fitting tool called “Aim Check.” This tool helps golfers ensure they’re aligning their putters correctly, taking the guesswork out of aim. Talk about a game-changer!

Revamping Irons and Wedges

Now, let’s talk about pricing. When Mertz took the reins, they made some smart adjustments to keep Edel Golf competitive. The goal is to offer quality products without breaking the bank. Who doesn’t love a solid iron set at a reasonable price?

For example, a custom combo iron set is priced just over $1,000—pretty good for what you get. They’re keeping things high-quality but accessible, so you can still play like a pro without the pro-level price tag.

Merging Two Different Worlds

So how does this quirky partnership work? Pins and Aces and Edel Golf cater to different audiences but share some overlap in clientele. Mertz thinks that’s what makes it exciting! It’s all about finding that audience who wants something a little out of the ordinary.

Plus, he recognizes the heritage of Edel Golf. With a strong following already, people are eager to see how the brand will evolve while staying true to what made it unique in the first place.

Maintaining the Legacy

Keeping connections strong is key. Mertz ensured that Nico Edel, son of the founder, remained part of the business. Nico is not just a legacy; he’s got valuable experience and connections that could help reinvent the brand for a new generation.

“We’re a small business. We’re not huge and we’re not private equity-backed,” Mertz stresses. Supporting smaller, family-run businesses is a big part of their ethos, and that’s something that resonates with many consumers today.

The Future is Bright

The golf industry is booming, and choices are abundant. With the right mix of innovative products and customer-centric approaches, Pins and Aces and Edel Golf have the potential to thrive in today’s market. Whether you’re searching for that flashy golf accessory or a custom-crafted putter, there’s something for everyone.

In Conclusion: A Pairing Worth Watching

So, there you have it! The unexpected team-up of Pins and Aces and Edel Golf might just change the landscape of golf gear. With bold ideas and a commitment to quality, Mertz and his crew are in it for the long haul. Who knows what these two unique brands will dream up next?

If you’re on the lookout for gear that’s not just cookie-cutter but showcases individuality, give Edel Golf a try. The landscape is constantly changing, and with custom fitting and American craftsmanship coming back, you might find just what you need to elevate your game. So grab those clubs and hit the course—it’s a great time to be part of the golfing community!