iGotcha tees up golf-focused Digital OOH network

July 12, 2011 by Dave Haynes

Several companies have, over the years, had runs at installing Digital OOH ad networks in the high traffic areas of nicer golf courses out there – the theory being the audience skews high on household incomes and luxury tastes, so what a great way to reach them.

Not a lot, if any, have thrived as far as I know – the problem being the actual traffic is not all that high and in many parts of Canada and the U.S., there’s this irritating thing called snow.

That said, companies are still having a run at this – the latest being Montreal’s iGotcha Media.

The company has announced a partnership with the National Golf Course Owners Association (NGCOA) of Canada for what is called the iGotcha Golf Network. “The iGotcha Golf Network uses the Web and large digital flat screen televisions to inform and entertain golfers. Strategically positioned in club houses, pro shops and other high traffic locations, these screens also provide a compelling platform for advertisers to reach a qualified, affluent and captive audience.”

“The iGotcha Golf Network delivers Web-based content that is updated on a daily basis, including: golf tips, golf trivia, news, weather, sports, and advertising – both network-wide and golf club specific. Entirely advertiser-supported, offering the iGotcha Golf Network represents absolutely no cost to participating golf clubs. Standard implementations include: two 42-inch monitors, all other equipment, installation, maintenance and all online content.

“The iGotcha Golf Network delivers information simply and effectively,” says Alain Laforge, Regional Director, NGCOA Canada, Quebec Chapter. “For example, easy access to an up-to-date weather forecast is very relevant to a golfer about to tee-off. Also, the network facilitates direct communication. As examples, golf clubs may promote their clubhouse menus or the inventory in their pro shop. And, of course, what makes integrating the iGotcha Golf Network an easy decision is the cost – entirely free to golf course operators.” 

Sixteen courses in Quebec are so far on board.

“Using this network will give advertisers direct access to one of the most affluent and coveted demographic target groups in the country,” says Greg Adelstein, President, iGotcha Media.  “With the iGotcha Golf Network already operational at 16 clubs, we look forward to rolling out our network at golf clubs across the country – with our NGCOA partners receiving extra network time to promote their clubs at no additional cost.”  

I dunno. But I do know Adelstein a little and know he has been around the digital signage and Digital OOH space a long time, and done some interesting stuff. Unlike some of the people I have spoken with in the past who got into golf clubs as a media vehicle, who were clearly clueless about media sales, Adelstein is no knucklehead.

He wouldn’t be going down this cart path unless he saw a workable revenue stream and overall business model. The good news is that unlike previous networks, the capital costs of putting in such networks are far lower now.

 

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