Par Aide

Corporate Headquarters: Lino Lakes, Minnesota

Website: http://www.paraide.com

Category: Turf & Course Suppliers

LEADERSHIP

Steve Garske, CEO

Mike Hilliard, President

Company Overview

Since 1955, Par Aide has established itself as a global leader in golf course accessories and maintenance equipment, providing superior products to golf facilities worldwide. From its humble beginnings as Progress Foundries in St. Paul, Minnesota, the company has grown into an international powerhouse in the golf-accessory industry, with distribution centers in the Netherlands and Singapore serving markets across the globe.

The company’s innovative spirit began with founder Joseph S. Garske, a self-trained pattern maker who revolutionized the industry with his patented ball washer design. Today, Par Aide’s comprehensive product portfolio extends far beyond its iconic ball washers to include tee markers, flags, cups, rakes, maintenance equipment, practice-area products, and a wide range of facility-related supplies.

“Our unwavering commitment to quality and innovation, which began with my father’s vision for a ‘good ball washer,’ continues to drive Par Aide forward,” notes CEO Steve Garske. “We remain focused on improving the golf experience while providing essential value to golf course superintendents worldwide.”

Key Facts:

• Nearly 70 years of industry leadership in golf course accessories
• International presence with warehouses in the Netherlands and Singapore
• Approximately 20% of business conducted internationally
• Distributor-based sales model serving golf courses worldwide
• Provider of the innovative Accuform/Accuseed maintenance equipment line

Business Innovation

Par Aide maintains its position as an industry leader through continuous product innovation and quality manufacturing. The company’s product development focuses on both enhancing the golfer experience and providing practical solutions for golf course superintendents. Recent innovations include:

• 360-degree hole painters
• Core Buster Drag Mats
• Quick-Release Top Stud flag accessories
• Advanced divot mix containers
• Specialized maintenance equipment

Strategic Initiatives

Par Aide maintains its founding principle of selling exclusively through distributors, ensuring professional service and support for end users. The company has expanded its digital presence with a comprehensive video catalog showcasing its entire product line, making it easier for customers to explore and understand their offerings.

The company demonstrates its commitment to the industry’s future through the Par Aide Garske Grant competition, administered by the GCSAA Foundation. This program provides educational opportunities for children and stepchildren of GCSAA superintendents through one-time, one-year grants for college or trade school.

Market Presence

Par Aide serves multiple segments within the golf industry:

• Golf course maintenance departments
• Practice facilities
• Driving ranges
• Private clubs
• Public courses
• Resort properties

Company Culture

Par Aide maintains its die-cast dedication to innovation and quality while honoring the legacy of founder Joseph S. Garske. The company’s culture emphasizes continuous improvement, customer service, and industry leadership through product excellence.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Par Aide continues to build on its nearly 70-year legacy through product innovation and quality manufacturing. The company’s commitment to serving both golfers and course superintendents, combined with its strategic international expansion and dedication to industry education through the Garske Grant program, positions it well for continued growth in the golf course accessories and maintenance equipment market.