Jul 01, 2011 at 01:44 PM
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Omega Expands U.S. Golf Presence To Promote Rapid Retail Expansion

OMEGA, the Swiss maker of prestige watches, and The PGA of America, have agreed to a 5-year strategic marketing and sponsorship agreement that will carry through 2016 and make the brand the "Official Timekeeper" of the PGA. The brand has been increasing its retail presence in the United States , opening nine new OMEGA flagship boutiques in 2010 with 20 more slated to open in 2011. The PGA alliance will help the brand spread its presence on the U.S. golf scene, much as it has done overseas through events such as the OMEGA European Masters, the OMEGA Mission Hills World Cup of Golf and the OMEGA Dubai Desert Classic.


"With our tournaments in Europe and Asia, OMEGA has long supported the growth of golf as a global game," said Stephen Urquhart, president of OMEGA, "and we are looking forward to being involved in the great events organized by The PGA of America. This partnership also gives us a fantastic platform to develop the brand in the important American market."

The luxury watchmaker will receive advertising on golf telecasts of PGA championship events, provide marketing support for the PGA's player development efforts and extend benefits to PGA members and their facilities. At events, OMEGA will be:

  • The Official Timekeeper of the Senior PGA Championship, PGA Championship and PGA Grand Slam of Golf
  • The Official Licensee of the 2012 and 2014 Ryder Cup
  • Presenting Sponsor and Official Timekeeper of the PGA Professional National Championship, and
  • The Official Timekeeper of PGA Golf Properties OMEGA will also commit to having corporate hospitality at all PGA major championships, and OMEGA clocks will be positioned at PGA Golf Properties -- PGA Golf Club, the PGA Center for Golf Learning & Performance, PGA Country Club, and Valhalla Golf Club.

    "The PGA thanks OMEGA for its excitement in promoting the game and our brand, as well as OMEGA's recognition of the important role PGA Professionals play in the growth of the sport," said PGA of America Chief Executive Officer Joe Steranka. "We are delighted that OMEGA will become the Official Timekeeper, delivering quality service and technical support at our premier spectator and member championships."

    In addition to its golf partnerships, OMEGA is the Official Timekeeper of the Olympic Games through 2020.

    #newstag