The Ladies Professional Golf Association In US Appoints CSM Sponsorship Sales Agency of Record

The Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA)in the US has appointed CSM Sport & Entertainment as its sponsorship sales agency of record. The global integrated marketing firm will help the LPGA identify, develop and secure commercial partnerships across entitlement and official marketing partnership opportunities aligned with the longest-running women’s sport organisation in the world.

The LPGA Tour continues to expand its competitive playing opportunities both domestically and internationally, with the CSM partnership set against a full calendar that annually features more than 30 events in more than a dozen countries. The LPGA Tour is broadcast globally in 170 markets and is shown domestically on Golf Channel and NBC.

“We offer an 'always on' platform for leveraging and making an impact through women’s golf at all levels," said Kelly Hyne, LPGA Chief Sales Officer. “Our organisation is uniquely rooted in diversity, equity and inclusion, and our corporate partners have the opportunity to play a critical role in advancing opportunities for women both on and off the course. Having effectively managed the return to play in COVID times, we’re excited to now welcome CSM to the team to help us find likeminded partners that can connect with the LPGA's ecosystem of fans and members to deliver them value.”

Ross Meltzer, President of Properties for CSM North America, said, “We’re thrilled to be starting this journey with the LPGA. Partners will benefit from brand integrations that align their business objectives with the global, competitive, well respected and highly engaged experiences LPGA delivers on and off the course.”

“Only 7% of corporate sponsorship revenue is being invested in women’s sport properties”, added Matt Grandis, Chief Commercial Officer, CSM NA. “This is a phenomenal time and an ideal property for companies to connect their purpose with the passionate LPGA fan base.”

Since the successful restart of its season in late July, the LPGA Tour has played seven events while seven tournaments remain on its 2020 schedule that will finish in December. Among the events still to be played are two major championships and the season-ending CME Group Tour Championship.