CoasterAds is, quite simply, a company that produces and manages advertising on drinks coasters. It's become a rather unique form of direct marketing in a number of upmarket bars, restaurants and clubs. In Hong Kong, companies now compete to get the monthly 'coaster rights' to select local bars.

The thinking behind the idea's success is that an advertiser's message is in front of a potential client for at least 30 minutes in a sitting.

I've also recently received a coaster in the mail (their product didn't really synch with the night life scene) and whilst it struck me as bizarre at the time I have to say that I look at it at least 6 times a day when I put my mug of coffee back on my desk ... And I have since given the company that sent it to me quite a lucrative contract.

I'm not sure if anyone has ever thought to enquire of the Australian auction companies what their policy is on buying advertising rights for the coasters on the bar at the yearling sales (or indeed the stud managers who host marquees if you are selling a complimentary product e.g. feed suppliers, vet products, racing silks etc) but you might want to consider it (first mover advantage and all that ...).

Coaster advertising is also EXTREMELY cheap (about 10c a coaster to print excluding artwork).

If anyone needs Australian supplier details just send me an email (katrina@AthloneAssociates.com) and I'd be happy to try and source a local contact for you (or you can always buy them cheaply in Hong Kong courtesy of our close proximity to the China market and have them shipped down).