Bottle Inc. Revolutionizes Golf Industry with AI-Powered 'Tee Mart' Platform

South Korean startup Bottle Inc. is leading a digital revolution in the golf industry with its flagship service, Tee Mart. The platform, which automates various aspects of the golfing experience from booking to on-course purchases, is set to redefine the traditionally analog golf market.

CEO Seungsoo Han emphasizes the timeliness of this digital transformation, noting the growing popularity of golf since the COVID-19 pandemic and the sport's potential for growth alongside rising national incomes. Tee Mart's time-deal commerce model, similar to prepayment systems in the lodging industry, offers customers lower prices while helping golf courses maximize revenue and reduce vacancy rates.

The service, which launched its full time-deal commerce model in August 2023, is currently operational in about 30 golf courses, representing approximately 10% of all courses in South Korea. With a 25% repurchase rate, Tee Mart is gaining traction in the market.

Bottle Inc.'s focus on making golf more affordable for Millennials and Gen Z could significantly impact the sport's accessibility. By leveraging AI technology for dynamic pricing, the company aims to boost both golf course revenues and customer satisfaction. This innovative approach has implications beyond South Korea, with potential for expansion into markets like Japan and Southeast Asia, where digital transformation in golf is still in its early stages.

The company's location in Pangyo, known as South Korea's Silicon Valley, provides access to IT talent and government support for startups. This strategic positioning has enabled Bottle Inc. to develop efficient services and positions the company for future growth.

By introducing data-driven IT solutions to the golf industry, Bottle Inc. is not only changing how golf courses operate but also how the sport is perceived and accessed. The shift from post-payment to prepayment models, coupled with AI-driven pricing, could lead to a more inclusive and efficient golfing experience.

As Bottle Inc. continues to expand its services and potentially enter international markets, its impact on the golf industry could be substantial. The company's innovative approach may serve as a model for digital transformation in other traditional sports and leisure activities, potentially reshaping how these industries operate in the digital age.