Golf Channel, Golf Digest Reach Content Partnership Deal

By Jon Show, Staff Writer, SportsBusiness Journal

Golf Channel and Golf Digest publications have agreed to a multi-year content partnership that will allow the cable channel to sell cross-platform advertising similar to that of ESPN. Editors and writers of Golf Digest, Golf World and Golf for Women will be regular contributors on Golf Channel's "Golf Central" news program and will make appearances on other programming. Golf Digest will build a dedicated studio in its Connecticut offices, and offerings will range from reporting to commentary. In turn, Golf Channel's on-air talent will write regular instructional and editorial features for the three publications. There also will be an undetermined Web component. The partnership allows Golf Channel to sell advertising and sponsorships on a larger scale than its current model, which consists of the cable network, Web site and VOD programming. Sources said the network has contemplated launching or buying a print component in the past, but nothing ever materialized. Both outlets draw similar demographics.