Zigit’s Smart Vending Tech Is Revolutionizing the Golf Course Drink Game

In the age of automation, golf courses are embracing technology like never before — from robot ball retrievers to AI-driven tee time optimizers. But there’s one slice of the player experience that’s still a bit... parched: drink delivery.

Enter Zigit, a cutting-edge, app-based alcohol vending solution that’s transforming how golfers quench their thirst on the green. With Zigit’s sleek, self-serve beverage boxes, clubs are unlocking a smarter way to serve drinks — boosting revenue, minimizing overhead, and enhancing player satisfaction.

“It takes just 90 seconds to sign up,” explains Elsbeth Hurry, CEO of Zigit. “You scan your ID, snap a quick face photo, add a payment method — and you’re ready to grab a drink.”

Tapping Into a New Era of Course Concessions

Zigit’s proprietary platform validates a user’s eligibility to purchase alcohol — all within the app. Once verified, grabbing a cold one is as fast as ordering your morning latte on a mobile coffee app.

After a successful test run at the Wells Fargo Championship in Charlotte — where three Zigit units were deployed — the company is doubling down. This year, 12 vending boxes will dot the grounds of the same tournament, and discussions are underway to roll out Zigit units at other iconic stops like the WM Phoenix Open, known for its high-energy fan base (and infamous party scenes).

“We’re working closely with tournament organizers to help manage responsible alcohol service,” Hurry notes. “Our system can actually cap the number of drinks a guest can buy in a day — adding a layer of control without killing the fun.”

Complementing, Not Replacing, the Cart Experience

One concern golf clubs have raised: will this tech replace traditional beverage cart attendants? Not exactly. Zigit is designed to complement existing service, not compete with it.

In fact, Zigit is working on revenue-sharing incentives — such as pooled tips — to ensure that everyone, including on-course staff, benefits from the rollout. Still, some clubs are choosing to replace carts altogether in favor of strategically placed Zigit boxes at comfort stations.

Tech-First, Hardware-Flexible

Zigit isn’t in the business of building vending machines — they’re focused on software. Their platform can integrate with a wide range of hardware, giving golf clubs the flexibility to lease or purchase machines that suit their needs.

“We typically recommend units that can store around 600 beverages,” Hurry says. “And we’re finalizing partnerships to fully outsource the hardware side so we can keep innovating our core product.”

A Clear Focus on Golf (For Now)

Currently, about 50% of Zigit’s business comes from golf — but by year’s end, they expect that number to grow to 80%. As a focused startup, they’re going all-in on the golf market to prove the model and gain traction before expanding.

Long-term, Zigit sees potential in hospitality, events, and even healthcare — envisioning smart locker systems for securely dispensing prescription refills. Discussions with hotels and resorts are already underway.

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Final Thoughts

In a sport where tradition meets precision, Zigit is bringing innovation to an overlooked part of the golf experience: beverage service. By merging convenience, compliance, and customer delight, this nimble startup is teeing up a bold new vision for drinks on the course — one tap at a time.