Dodgy Boxes Skimming 40% from GAA Streaming Services

A company that provides TV streaming services for various GAA organizations in Ireland, such as Cork, Kerry, Tipperary, and Waterford, is concerned about the impact of illegal streaming through ‘dodgy boxes.’ Clubber, which offers GAA streaming in 14 counties and features over 1,500 matches each year, believes that these illegal streaming services are taking away 40% of their revenue.

Founder of Clubber, Jimmy Doyle, shared that the company has “thousands” of subscribers, but the issue of illegal streaming is undermining their business. Mr. Doyle highlighted the importance of supporting counties and clubs through fair compensation for streaming rights. Clubber currently has deals in several counties, including Cork, Offaly, Kilkenny, and Louth.

Illegal TV streaming through ‘dodgy boxes’ and ‘cracked’ Amazon Fire sticks has become a lucrative industry in Ireland, affecting not only companies like Clubber but also the entire broadcasting market. Mr. Doyle emphasized that if the problem persists, live streaming of club matches may struggle to continue. He stressed that illegal streaming is not just harmless fun but a significant threat to businesses like Clubber and the jobs they support.

Despite facing challenges from piracy, Clubber remains dedicated to providing quality GAA streaming services. Mr. Doyle expressed the joy of being involved in sports and the difficulties associated with combating illegal streaming. The company continues to invest in its GAA streaming business but needs subscriber returns to sustain its growth. Dodgy boxes are causing a substantial loss of revenue, with estimates suggesting that 40% of viewers are accessing streams illegally.

To address this issue, it is crucial for viewers to understand the impact of illegal streaming on small businesses and the wider industry. As Clubber strives to navigate this challenge, their commitment to providing engaging and reliable GAA streaming remains unwavering. By supporting legal streaming services, viewers can help ensure the sustainability of businesses like Clubber and the livelihoods they support.