Werlien Prosperie III
CEO, Gas Pump TV
Chances are you’ve been standing at a gas pump filling up when suddenly a screen on the pump popped to life, offering you local news, weather, sports or entertainment to amuse you while you wait.
This is Gas Pump TV (GPTV) — the creation of Houma native Werlien Prosperie III.
Back in 2010, while a sophomore at Nicholls State University in Thibodaux, Prosperie had already tried, and failed, to break into the billboard business. It was only then, while pumping gas one day, that he had the idea for a way to reach consumers in a new way.
“Out of my failure, I found success,” says Prosperie, whose product is present at the pumps of most designated market areas in the United States. Now, thanks to a deal announced in April, GPTV is positioned to become the second-largest media company from Louisiana next to Lamar.
In January, Prosperie signed a long-term partnership with Bennett Pump Co. One of the largest fuel dispenser companies in the world, Bennett products are found in more than 85 countries.
Together, the companies are launching a program aimed at helping gas stations recoup some of the costs of new fuel dispensers required to comply with updated credit card authentication standards estimated to cost U.S. retailers between $5 billion and $7 billion by October 2020.
“Fuel dispensers that offer GPTV come with a financial incentive for retailers while also providing them with an opportunity to showcase their own store promotions,” says Prosperie. “We can help reach that age-18-to-48 consumer that is active, on the go and participating in the economy. Plus you’re providing customers with the ultimate fueling experience.”
