SHELTON, Conn. -- Northbridge Equity Partners has formed Summit Golf Brands, a new golf-focused apparel group that includes the Summit-owned Fairway & Greene Ltd. as well as the newly acquired EP Pro, company officials have announced.

In its last three annual surveys, the Association of Golf Merchandisers voted Fairway & Greene as the No. 1 men's apparel company and EP Pro as the No. 1 ladies' apparel company in the golf industry, Northbridge officials said.

The newly assembled company has the financial strength to expand its business and develop new offerings and programs, they said, adding that both the Fairway & Greene and EP Pro brands will continue to focus on developing their relationships with PGA Professionals.

"With F&G's and EP Pro's singular focus on the green grass market, we are both positioned to be an even more significant partner with our golf professionals and buyers," said F&G Executive Vice-President Todd Martin. "The future is indeed very bright with both under Summit Brands' leadership and vision."

"We are very proud to be an important vendor and partner with the country's PGA golf professionals who represent the stewards, ambassadors and innovators of the golf industry," said Northbridge President Gill Broome. "By building brands and programs that are specifically designed for golf professionals, we can play a key supporting role in their efforts to continually elevate the sport and serve their customer base."