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FRAMEN, Lumen Research Launch Study on Indoor DOOH Advertising Impact

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FRAMEN, Lumen Research Launch Study on Indoor DOOH Advertising Impact

FRAMEN, a global digital out-of-home (DOOH) advertising platform, has introduced The Attention Pulse, a long-term research initiative developed in collaboration with attention measurement firm Lumen Research. The program aims to quantify how indoor environments influence consumer attention and drive measurable business outcomes for brands, positioning indoor DOOH as a strategic complement to traditional video advertising strategies.

Program Objectives and Methodology
The research will analyze factors such as screen placement, contextual relevance, and creative content to determine their impact on audience engagement and sales lift. By integrating Lumen’s eye-tracking technology and attention data, FRAMEN seeks to provide advertisers with actionable insights to optimize campaign targeting and reduce media waste. Initial findings from live campaigns in Italy and Germany, run in partnership with an unnamed technology brand, will be released in the coming weeks.

Antonella La Carpia, Country Lead of FRAMEN Italy, emphasized the need for a data-driven approach: “DOOH represents the most qualitative alternative to strategies based solely on massive impression volumes, often without tangible results. With The Attention Pulse, we want to demonstrate the unique value that our indoor contexts bring to campaigns and provide specific metrics to guide planning. It’s not just about choosing a screen—it’s about choosing it with a clear strategic perspective.”

The initiative underscores the growing industry focus on attention quality over sheer exposure. Research by firms such as Aryel has shown that prolonged engagement in relevant contexts significantly boosts campaign effectiveness. FRAMEN’s program will test how tailored indoor environments—such as gyms, retail spaces, and hotels—can enhance lower-funnel outcomes like brand recall and conversions.

Michael Tighe, Associate Director at Lumen Research, noted: “Our collaboration with FRAMEN confirms that their strategic indoor placements outperform industry benchmarks in attention and recall. This research will further explore how to translate attention into measurable business results, offering advertisers a clearer path to ROI.”

About Lumen Research
Lumen Research specializes in eye-tracking technology and attention analytics, having measured over 700,000 individuals since 2013. The firm helps brands optimize media investments by aligning ad placements with attention-driven outcomes.

75Media Secures Mercia Funding to Boost AI-Driven OOH Expansion

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75Media Secures Mercia Funding to Boost AI-Driven OOH Expansion

75Media, a UK-based outdoor advertising (OOH) company, has secured a seven-figure investment from NPIF II – Mercia Equity Finance, managed by Mercia Ventures. The funding aims to accelerate the development of its proprietary AI platform, BOB (Billboard Optioning & Booking system), and support its international expansion in markets such as the US, Scandinavia, and the Middle East.

The capital injection will bolster 75Media’s position as a tech-driven leader in the OOH sector. BOB, designed to streamline campaign planning for brands of all sizes, enables data-driven roadside advertising bookings. The platform aligns with 75Media’s goal to democratize access to outdoor advertising while enhancing operational efficiency.

Since its launch in 2020 with two employees and 140 billboard sites, 75Media has grown to become the UK’s second-largest operator of large-format roadside billboards and sixth overall in the OOH market. Strategic acquisitions, including London-based iQ OOH in January 2024, have expanded its portfolio to over 1,200 classic and digital sites nationwide.

Paul Inman, CEO & Founder of 75Media, emphasized the strategic importance of the investment: “Mercia’s support isn’t just about capital. It’s a vote of confidence in our vision to build a tech-enabled outdoor advertising business that prioritizes both innovation and human impact. This partnership allows us to pioneer technologies that set new standards in OOH.”

Chris Borrett, Investment Director at Mercia Ventures, highlighted 75Media’s growth trajectory: “The company combines asset efficiency with digital sales channels. Paul and his team have the creativity and drive to disrupt this sector, and we’re excited to support their ambitions.”

Lizzy Upton, Senior Investment Manager at the British Business Bank, noted regional economic implications: “75Media’s rapid growth underscores Leeds’ emergence as a tech talent hub. Their success aligns with NPIF II’s goal to attract investment to Northern England.”

Leadership Restructure
75Media announced key leadership changes: Paul Inman transitions from Managing Director to CEO & Founder, Joel Turner becomes Managing Director after joining as Commercial Director in 2023, and Joe Lawson moves from Sales Director to Commercial Director.

Advisory and Legal Support
Corporate advisory firm Cerelo Advisory (Jonny Sharp and Mick Morris) facilitated the fundraising. Legal counsel was provided by Freeths (Andy Francey and Farrell Tang) for 75Media and Brabners (Daniel Hayhurst) for Mercia Ventures.

About NPIF II and Mercia Ventures
The £660m Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II), managed by the British Business Bank, provides loans and equity investments up to £5m to SMEs across Northern England. Mercia Ventures, part of Mercia Asset Management PLC, specializes in growth investments across sectors like software and deep tech, with £1.5bn in assets under management as of September 2023.

WOO Urges Japan OOH Sector to Prioritize Collaboration at Tokyo Conference

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WOO Urges Japan OOH Sector to Prioritize Collaboration at Tokyo Conference

The inaugural OOH Tokyo Conference, organized by Japan’s Out of Home (OOH) industry in partnership with the World Out of Home Organisation (WOO), convened over 450 delegates at Tokyo Midtown Hall. The event marked WOO’s first engagement in Japan in its six-decade history, spotlighting opportunities and challenges for the sector.

Japan’s OOH Performance and Post-Pandemic Challenges

WOO President Tom Goddard acknowledged Japan’s outsized contribution to global OOH revenues, generating 6% of the total despite representing just 1.5% of the world’s population. However, he noted the industry has yet to recover to pre-pandemic 2020 levels, with its share of Japan’s total advertising expenditure (ADEX) declining by 1.7% since then.

“What has caused this?” Goddard asked. “To me, it’s down to two primary issues: market fragmentation and poor collaboration.” He emphasized that while local competition is fierce, the sector must unite to capture a larger share of advertisers’ budgets. Currently, only 6% of Japanese media budgets are allocated to OOH, leaving 94% to other channels.

“You are both competitors and allies,” Goddard stated. “A 1% increase in sector growth contributes five times more to your bottom line than local growth. Collaboration under a unified trade association is critical to drive this shift.”

Strategies for Growth and Recovery

Goddard outlined actionable measures to revitalize Japan’s OOH sector:

  • Accelerate digitization of inventory, noting Japan operates at half the global average.
  • Align AdTech and data strategies industry-wide.
  • Develop a sustainability roadmap to meet environmental goals.
  • Leverage retail partnerships and AI-driven opportunities.
  • Strengthen OOH’s role in providing civic amenities through municipal collaborations.
  • Promote cost-effectiveness compared to other media.
  • Support creative innovation to maintain audience engagement.

While acknowledging “formidable challenges,” Goddard expressed confidence in Japan’s capacity for recovery, citing strong leadership and untapped potential. “The opportunities are considerable and achievable,” he concluded.

About the World Out of Home Organisation (WOO)
WOO is the sole global OOH trade association, advocating for the industry across research, legislation, and cross-sector collaboration. Its board includes major international firms such as JCDecaux, Clear Channel, OUTFRONT Media, and Lamar, alongside regional leaders like Asiaray (Hong Kong) and oOh!media (Australia). WOO collaborates with regional associations, including the OAAA (US), Alooh (Latin America), and IOAA (India), and is a founding member of ICAS.
For more details on WOO, visit: www.worldooh.org.

NoviSign Partners with BrightSign to Expand Digital Signage Solutions

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NoviSign Partners with BrightSign to Expand Digital Signage Solutions

NoviSign, a cloud-based digital signage software provider, has announced a collaboration with BrightSign, a global leader in digital signage media players. The partnership aims to integrate NoviSign’s platform with BrightSign’s hardware and operating systems, enhancing scalability and flexibility for businesses deploying digital signage across industries.

BrightSign’s media players, powered by its proprietary BrightSignOS™, are recognized for reliability, security, and remote management via BSN.Cloud. The suite includes BrightAuthor:connected , a free software tool for managing content, networks, and devices. NoviSign’s platform complements this infrastructure, enabling users to design, schedule, and deploy dynamic content across displays using interactive features such as touchscreens, real-time data feeds, and IoT integrations.

The combined solution targets sectors like retail, healthcare, education, and corporate communications, offering streamlined content management and reduced on-site maintenance. BrightSign’s hardware also supports real-time diagnostics, self-healing playback, and remote monitoring to minimize operational disruptions.

Gil Matzliah, CEO of NoviSign, emphasized the partnership’s focus on reliability: “This collaboration ensures our customers and partners have access to the most reliable hardware options in the industry, giving them the ability to deliver captivating, high-performance digital signage content, regardless of location or scale.”

Misty Chalk, Vice President of Sales, Americas, at BrightSign, highlighted accessibility: “Our partnership with NoviSign makes it easy for businesses to take control of digital experiences, bringing together the performance and security of BrightSign media players with intuitive, user-friendly content tools.”

The partnership guarantees full compatibility across BrightSign’s product range, ensuring seamless integration with NoviSign’s platform. Businesses can leverage centralized control to manage multi-location deployments, supported by NoviSign’s cloud-based software.

For more info visit: https://www.novisign.com/

JCDecaux Secures 10-Year Advertising Contract for Three Saudi Airports

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JCDecaux Secures 10-Year Advertising Contract for Three Saudi Airports

JCDecaux SE, the global leader in outdoor advertising, has been awarded a 10-year exclusive advertising concession for King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, Al-Ahsa International Airport, and Al Qaisumah International Airport. The contract, granted by Dammam Airports Company (DACO) following a competitive tender process, extends a partnership that began in 2010.

Under the agreement, JCDecaux ATA Saudi will deploy upgraded media solutions across the three airports starting in 2025. The plan includes digitized displays, data-driven advertising tools, and redesigned interior and exterior media spaces aimed at enhancing passenger experience and brand engagement. The initiative aligns with DACO’s growth objectives and international airport standards, emphasizing visual harmony and higher value per advertising site.

In line with JCDecaux’s 2030 ESG roadmap and Net Zero Carbon Strategy by 2050, the company will prioritize energy-efficient technologies and source 100% renewable electricity for its operations. The focus on sustainability will complement brand-safe solutions designed to align with DACO’s vision for premium, environmentally conscious airport environments.

King Fahd International Airport, Saudi Arabia’s third-largest airport, serves over 10 million passengers annually and spans 776 km², connecting travelers to 65 global destinations. Known for introducing the Kingdom’s first duty-free stores, the airport features luxury retail, dining, and banking facilities. Al-Ahsa and Al Qaisumah International Airports further bolster regional connectivity, supporting DACO’s goal of positioning these hubs as key gateways in the Middle East.

Eng. Mohammed Ali Al Hassany, CEO of DACO, stated: “Our renewed partnership with JCDecaux ATA Saudi marks a significant step in transforming passenger journeys while offering brands exceptional opportunities. By leveraging JCDecaux’s expertise in digital innovation and sustainability, we aim to set new benchmarks in airport advertising and elevate our airports as premium regional gateways.”

Jean-Charles Decaux, Chairman of JCDecaux’s Executive Board, added: “This contract reaffirms our commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative solutions. We will deploy landmark digital media and technologies to enhance passenger experiences and maximize value for advertisers. Our enduring collaboration with DACO reflects a shared dedication to excellence and growth over the next decade.”

Abode Media Launches UK DOOH Network Targeting High-Net-Worth Households

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Abode Media Launches UK DOOH Network Targeting High-Net-Worth Households

Abode Media, a digital out-of-home (DOOH) advertising network, has launched in the UK, focusing on residential areas populated by high-net-worth individuals across London’s most prestigious developments. The network, now operational with over 100 screens in upscale neighborhoods such as Battersea, Canary Wharf, Chelsea, Soho, and the Strand, targets residents with an average household income exceeding £121,000 (approx. $151,000). Abode plans to expand to 650 screens by year-end, up from its current footprint.

Key installations include Marconi House on the Strand and Embassy Gardens in Battersea. The company states its network connects premium brands with high-net-worth consumers at their most receptive moment, reaching 35,000 residents with a combined disposable income of over £1bn (approx. $1.25bn). Abode has secured exclusive, long-term partnerships with developers Ballymore, Galliard Homes, and Canary Wharf Group to install screens in shared residential spaces such as lobbies, lounges, and gyms.

Chaired by Brendon Cook, founder of Australian OOH firm oOh!media, Abode is led by CEO Craig Cohen and Managing Director Chris Earnshaw. Cohen co-founded Executive Channel International, acquired by oOh!media in 2016, while Earnshaw previously held roles at Primesight and Outdoor Plus. Earnshaw highlighted the network’s alignment with consumer behavior: “Britons spend 18.5 hours a day at home, and 88% of purchase decisions are made there. Abode offers brands unprecedented access to this engaged, high-net-worth audience.”

Fiat has partnered with Abode as its inaugural advertiser, using the network to promote its 500e Giorgio Armani Collector’s Edition during London Fashion Week (14–18 September). Sharon Pacitto, Head of Communications and Brand Experience at Fiat and Abarth, said: “We’re thrilled to unveil the new FIAT 500e Giorgio Armani Collector’s Edition through ABODE’s premium residential DOOH network. It’s the ideal way to reach a luxury-focused, urban audience – particularly during London Fashion Week, when style and innovation are top of mind. FIAT is always seeking fresh formats and environments to speak with discerning consumers. ABODE Media’s network ensures we deliver our message in a premium and contextually relevant environment.”

The UK luxury residential market is projected to attract £4bn (approx. $5bn) in annual investment, according to Abode. The company’s expansion aligns with broader OOH advertising trends favoring hyper-targeted, data-driven placements. By concentrating on neighborhoods with high disposable incomes, Abode aims to capitalize on extended home dwell times and consumer spending habits.

For more information on Abode Media, visit: https://www.abode-media.com/.

Wildstone names Carlos Pestaña as new Managing Director for Spain

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Wildstone names Carlos Pestaña as new Managing Director for Spain

Wildstone, a leading owner of outdoor media infrastructure, has named Carlos Pestaña as its new Managing Director for Spain as the company accelerates its strategic growth in the Spanish market. Pestaña’s appointment comes as Wildstone, which entered Spain in 2022 and currently operates over 2,000 outdoor advertising panels nationwide, seeks to expand its portfolio and enhance its digital capabilities in the region.

With three decades of expertise in real estate, Pestaña brings a background in development, asset management, and large-scale investment projects. His career includes senior roles at multinational firms such as Gentalia (Grupo LAR), Oaktree Capital, and Auxideico (ING and ECE member). Since 2011, he has served on the Board of Directors and Executive Committee of the Spanish Council of Shopping Centres and Retail Parks, underscoring his deep understanding of the local market.

In his new role, Pestaña will focus on expanding Wildstone’s Spanish portfolio through acquisitions and partnerships while overseeing the modernization and digitization of existing assets. His appointment aligns with Wildstone’s broader strategy to strengthen its European footprint, particularly in markets like Germany and Australia, alongside its UK home base.

Wildstone’s growth in Spain has gained momentum following its 2023 partnership with Alpha Publicidad Exterior, a major out-of-home (OOH) media operator. The collaboration will soon introduce new advertising locations in Madrid, Alicante, and Córdoba. These developments reflect the company’s commitment to enhancing high-traffic outdoor media infrastructure while integrating advanced digital solutions.

Carlos Pestaña emphasized his alignment with Wildstone’s vision, stating: “I’m excited to lead Wildstone’s growth in Spain and am committed to leveraging my passion and expertise to solidify our leadership in the Spanish market. As I immerse myself in the company, I’m inspired by the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit of Wildstone’s senior leadership team, and by our strong determination to expand and transform the international OOH industry. This is a vision I’m fully aligned with and eager to drive forward.”

Eric Kip, Managing Director Europe at Wildstone, highlighted Pestaña’s credentials: “Carlos has successfully led teams and overseen portfolios worth billions of euros. His leadership and strategic vision make him a tremendous asset as we continue to grow in this key market.”

Wildstone’s expansion in Spain forms part of its broader strategy to digitize outdoor advertising infrastructure across Europe and other key markets. The company’s focus on upgrading traditional billboards to digital formats aims to meet rising demand for dynamic, data-driven advertising solutions.

ZetaDisplay Wins Ruter Contract to Modernize Oslo Transit Digital Signage

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ZetaDisplay Wins Ruter Contract to Modernize Oslo Transit Digital Signage

ZetaDisplay, a leading European digital signage provider, has entered an exclusive five-year framework agreement with Ruter, Oslo’s public transport authority, to upgrade real-time passenger information systems across the city’s transit network. The contract, awarded after a competitive tender, will see ZetaDisplay deliver a turnkey solution for modernizing displays at 370 high-traffic locations.

Ruter, responsible for Oslo’s multimodal network of buses, trams, trains, and ferries, initiated the overhaul to replace aging technology incompatible with 5G standards while improving real-time communication and accessibility. The upgrade aims to streamline travel updates, enhance clarity, and ensure consistent service across all transit modes.

ZetaDisplay will install 37” and 42” weather-resistant, high-resolution stretch screens from Teleste, designed for durability in Oslo’s harsh climate. The displays, with an expected lifespan of at least 10 years, will provide clear visibility of arrival times and service alerts.

Central to the project is ZetaDisplay’s proprietary Engage Suite CMS, a content management platform enabling real-time scheduling and unified control across Ruter’s network. The system will support dynamic content updates, diagnostics, and preventative maintenance, reducing downtime through remote monitoring. This approach minimizes onsite interventions, lowering travel requirements and environmental impact.

Sustainability considerations influenced Ruter’s selection process, with ZetaDisplay’s ISO-accredited sustainability practices and energy-efficient solutions aligning with the authority’s environmental goals. The Engage Suite CMS further supports these objectives by enabling remote troubleshooting and optimizing energy use.

Ola Sæverås, Chief Business Officer at ZetaDisplay, emphasized the platform’s long-term potential: “Beyond delivering enhanced information to passengers, we have future-proofed this next-generation digital signage solution to become a platform for new revenue opportunities by enabling a comprehensive Digital Out-of-Home (DOOH) advertising platform. The Engage Suite CMS platform will support programmatic advertising, allowing dynamic, data-driven ad placements for advertisers looking to reach Ruter’s high-footfall locations.”

He added, “We are excited to partner with Ruter to deliver a smarter, more connected public transport experience for Oslo. This project exemplifies how cutting-edge digital signage can elevate passenger communication, increase accessibility, and create a future-proofed, sustainable public transport infrastructure.”

AFA Decaux and VIOOH Expand Programmatic DOOH Partnership in Denmark

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AFA Decaux and VIOOH Expand Programmatic DOOH Partnership in Denmark

AFA Decaux, Denmark’s largest out-of-home (OOH) advertising provider with a 40% market share, has extended its partnership with VIOOH, a global digital-out-of-home (DOOH) supply-side platform (SSP). The collaboration aims to enhance programmatic advertising capabilities for brands targeting Danish audiences, leveraging AFA Decaux’s network of digital screens and VIOOH’s technology infrastructure.

Under the expanded agreement, advertisers gain direct programmatic access to over 238 premium digital screens operated by AFA Decaux, including high-traffic locations in Copenhagen and other major Danish cities. As part of JCDecaux—the world’s largest OOH advertising network with operations in 80+ countries—AFA Decaux’s inventory includes transit hubs, urban centers, and tourist hotspots, enabling campaigns to reach both local residents and international visitors.

Michael Barfoed, Commercial Director at AFA Decaux, noted: “Advertisers increasingly seek data-driven, flexible solutions for digital campaigns. By deepening our partnership with VIOOH, we can meet this demand while delivering targeted messaging in real time.”

Introduction of “Viewed Impressions” Measurement

AFA Decaux recently introduced Viewed Impressions, a data currency designed to improve transparency in programmatic trading. The metric uses anonymized, real-time sensor data from digital screens to measure audience exposure while adhering to privacy regulations.

Sylvain Le Borgne, Group Chief Data Officer at JCDecaux, explained: “The system processes mobility data collected every second to model impressions hourly, daily, or monthly. This approach ensures accuracy without compromising individual privacy.”

Developed with third-party analysts, the currency has been operational since August 2024 and is now integral to AFA Decaux’s programmatic offerings.

VIOOH’s SSP platform connects AFA Decaux’s inventory with demand-side platforms (DSPs), streamlining campaign execution for global advertisers. Gavin Wilson, Chief Customer and Revenue Officer at VIOOH, stated: “Denmark’s market holds strategic value for brands. This partnership allows advertisers to leverage programmatic DOOH’s efficiency and scalability in a key European region.”

AFA Decaux has made its entire digital inventory available for programmatic purchase, enabling advertisers to buy campaigns ranging from nationwide coverage (reaching ~36% of Denmark’s population, per Kantar Gallup 2021) to single-screen placements. By integrating AFA Decaux’s local reach with VIOOH’s SSP infrastructure, the partnership aims to attract domestic and international advertisers seeking measurable, real-time campaign solutions.

Vistar Media, Stingray Advertising Launch In-Store Video Ads Across Canada

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Vistar Media, Stingray Advertising Launch In-Store Video Ads Across Canada

Vistar Media, a global provider of technology solutions for out-of-home (OOH) advertising, has partnered with Stingray Advertising to introduce in-store video advertising across Canadian retail locations. The collaboration marks Stingray’s expansion into video advertising, leveraging its existing footprint as North America’s largest retail audio network.

In December, Stingray Advertising launched its video network in 576 METRO grocery stores, including Metro, Super C, and Food Basics banners, across Quebec and Ontario. The initiative will soon extend to METRO pharmacy locations. By adopting Vistar’s platform, Stingray gains the capability to deliver dynamic video ads at entrance kiosks, supported by advanced targeting and real-time analytics.

Ryan Fuss, Senior Vice President of Stingray Advertising, stated, “We’re thrilled to partner with Vistar Media as we introduce in-store video advertising to our Canadian retail media network. Vistar’s reputation for premium technology and customer support made them the clear choice for this initiative. Their platform provides the tools we need to deliver impactful, data-driven campaigns that connect brands with shoppers at the most influential moments.”

The partnership enables advertisers to combine sight and sound for enhanced engagement in high-traffic retail environments. Vistar’s ad-serving technology offers granular audience targeting, operational efficiency, and performance insights, aiming to bridge the gap between digital advertising precision and physical retail reach.

“Stingray Advertising’s decision to partner with Vistar reflects their dedication to pushing boundaries in retail media,” said Eric Lamb, SVP of Enterprise Solutions at Vistar Media. “Our technology’s proven ability to deliver reliable performance, advanced targeting, and actionable insights makes us the ideal partner to power their in-store advertising solutions. We are honored to support Stingray as they enhance how brands engage Canadian shoppers with impactful and innovative campaigns.”

Stingray’s video network is poised to expand into additional retail sectors, signaling a broader shift in Canada’s retail media landscape. The collaboration underscores the growing demand for point-of-sale advertising solutions that deliver measurable impact, offering brands a strategic avenue to influence purchasing decisions during critical shopping moments.

Proto Appoints Todd Bouman CEO, Founder as Chairman to Boost Hologram Innovation

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Proto Appoints Todd Bouman CEO, Founder as Chairman to Boost Hologram Innovation

Proto Inc., a pioneer in hologram technology and spatial computing, announced the appointment of Todd Bouman as its new Chief Executive Officer. Bouman, an electronics industry veteran, succeeds founder David Nussbaum, who transitions to the role of Chairman. The leadership shift aims to propel Proto’s global expansion and technological advancements following a record year of growth.

Bouman joins Proto from Sharp/NEC Display Solutions, Americas, where he served as President, CEO, and Chair. During his tenure, he spearheaded a strategic overhaul that solidified the company’s position as a global leader in display solutions, driving significant revenue growth and doubling profits. He also led the integration of Sharp Electronics’ Americas business into the joint venture. At Proto, Bouman will leverage his experience in scaling consumer and commercial tech enterprises to accelerate the company’s market reach and innovation pipeline.

Nussbaum, who founded Proto and previously served as CEO, will focus on long-term strategy, innovation, fundraising, and strategic partnerships. He retains an active role in brand development and thought leadership, including representing Proto at major industry events.

The leadership transition follows a milestone year for Proto, marked by record revenue, the launch of next-generation hologram devices (the full-size Proto Luma and desktop M2), and expanded adoption of its AI tools across finance, healthcare, education, retail, and entertainment sectors. Proto plans to initiate its Series B fundraising round in Q2 2024 to fuel development and global market expansion.

“As the founder, Proto is like a child to me,” said David Nussbaum, Founder and Chairman of Proto Inc. “Entrusting it to someone else wasn’t a decision I took lightly. Todd Bouman is the transformational leader who can take my vision to the next level. His dynamic leadership will help make Proto Hologram technology an essential part of daily life.”

Bouman’s Track Record in Tech Leadership
Bouman brings over two decades of executive experience, including roles at Samsung and HP, where he drove product innovation and market growth. At Samsung, he led initiatives that expanded the company’s footprint in consumer and commercial notebooks, while at HP, he grew the ultralight notebook category into key commercial markets.

“Proto is poised to revolutionize how we interact with digital content,” said Todd Bouman, CEO of Proto Inc. “My experience in scaling transformative technologies will help accelerate Proto’s mission to make holographic innovation accessible globally.”

Recent Momentum and Industry Impact
Proto has secured multiple high-profile partnerships and deployments in recent months, including:

  • The first live doctor-patient hologram consultations at UC Berkeley, now expanding across the West Cancer Center network.
  • A hologram advertising network launched at 30 Simon Mall locations, scaling to 100 by Q4 2024.
  • Collaborations with major brands such as AARP, Accenture, BestBuy, CBS, and Verizon.

The company has also gained recognition at CES, NRF, and AWS re:Invent for innovations like autonomous AI hologram agents.

“We’re bringing people together across space and time—William Shatner called Proto a Time Machine,” said Nussbaum. “With our Series B raise, collaborations, and development roadmap, we’ll keep pushing to make Proto the solution for tomorrow’s needs.”

Clear Channel Sells Mexico, Peru, Chile Operations to Global Vía Pública

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Clear Channel Sells Mexico, Peru, Chile Operations to Global Vía Pública

Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc. announced the completion of its sale of operations in Mexico, Peru, and Chile to Global Media US LLC, operating as Global Vía Pública, in a simultaneous sign-and-close transaction. The deal, finalized on [insert date], underscores Clear Channel’s ongoing efforts to streamline its portfolio and bolster liquidity.

The company received 20 million in cash at closing, based on a 20 million in cash at closing, based on a 34 million enterprise value. An additional $1.25 million earn-out is contingent on future performance, with final consideration subject to customary adjustments. Proceeds from the sale are earmarked to strengthen Clear Channel’s liquidity position.

Scott Wells, CEO of Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, stated, “The sale of our Mexico, Peru, and Chile businesses further demonstrates the progress we are making to optimize our portfolio and focus on growing our America and Airports segments while strengthening our balance sheet.” Wells also acknowledged the contributions of employees in these markets, emphasizing their “commitment and dedication.”

Global Vía Pública’s President, Federico Diez, highlighted the transaction’s alignment with his company’s regional strategy. “This transaction strengthens our established Latin American business,” Diez said. “We are excited about the opportunity to continue driving growth and leverage our media platform and teams to deliver dynamic outdoor advertising campaigns.”

Clear Channel confirmed that the sales process for its remaining Latin American asset in Brazil is ongoing. No timeline or further details were provided.

The divested businesses will be reported as discontinued operations starting with Clear Channel’s fourth-quarter 2024 financial results. Under U.S. GAAP, assets, liabilities, and results from these operations will be presented separately in consolidated financial statements, with prior-period amounts restated for consistency.

About Global Vía Pública: Part of Global Media US LLC, specializes in outdoor advertising across Latin America, focusing on innovative media solutions and customer-driven campaigns.

UK Out of Home Advertising Revenue Hits Record £1.4bn in 2024

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UK Out of Home Advertising Revenue Hits Record £1.4bn in 2024

The UK Out of Home (OOH) advertising sector achieved its highest-ever annual revenue of £1.4 billion ($1.77 billion) in 2024, marking a 7.7% year-on-year increase, according to data released by Outsmart, the industry’s trade body. The growth was driven by strong performance in Digital Out of Home (DOOH) advertising, though Q4 faced headwinds linked to economic uncertainty.

Total OOH revenue for 2024 surpassed the previous record of £1.3 billion set in 2023, with DOOH revenue rising by 10.2% and Classic OOH (non-digital formats) growing by 3.0%. DOOH now accounts for 66% of total OOH revenue, up from 61% in 2023, reflecting sustained advertiser investment in dynamic, data-driven campaigns.

Despite annual gains, Q4 2024 saw a 2.2% year-on-year revenue decline to £387.3 million, attributed to reduced business and consumer confidence following the UK government’s October budget announcement. DOOH contributed £260 million to the quarterly total, maintaining its dominance but reflecting broader sector volatility. Outsmart noted the downturn could extend into early 2025.

Segment Breakdown and Trends
  • Transport Advertising (e.g., airports, rail networks) remained the largest contributor, generating £721 million in 2024, nearly double its 2010 revenue (£329 million).
  • Roadside Advertising grew modestly to £203 million (from £187 million in 2010).
  • Retail, Leisure, and Point-of-Sale (POS) advertising rose to £183 million, up 83% since 2010.

Justin Cochrane, Chair of Outsmart, stated: “2024 is a real milestone for OOH, and we celebrate our best year. Brands continue to recognise that for broadcast strategies, OOH plays a vital role by offering unrivalled reach, creative dynamism and real-time targeting.”

Dan Bunyan, Partner at PwC, which compiled the data, added: “Whilst there have been macro headwinds to navigate, the UK OOH market remains in good health and has delivered strong growth for 2024 vs other media. New investment into OOH infrastructure remains strong and this should underpin future industry revenue growth.”

The sector’s resilience is bolstered by ongoing infrastructure investments and adoption of programmatic advertising tools. However, analysts caution that macroeconomic pressures, including inflation and fluctuating consumer spending, may temper short-term growth.

For more information, download the original report from the Outsmart website: https://www.outsmart.org.uk/site/userfiles/File/20250213105417_UK_Out_of_Home_Revenue_-_2024_Q4.pdf

Sony and Stella McCartney Partner to Digitize Global Flagship Stores with BRAVIA Displays

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Sony and Stella McCartney Partner to Digitize Global Flagship Stores with BRAVIA Displays

Sony has announced a collaboration with fashion designer Stella McCartney to integrate its BRAVIA BZ40L, BZ35L, and BZ30J Professional Displays across 11 of McCartney’s global flagship stores. The initiative aims to enhance retail storefronts with dynamic digital displays promoting the brand’s Winter 2024 collection while emphasizing sustainability.

Each flagship store required customized configurations based on window size and layout. Stella McCartney prioritized a flexible, easily installable solution capable of adapting to future reconfigurations. Digital integrator Trison UK facilitated the installation of Sony’s BRAVIA Professional Displays, which were selected for their adaptability and premium design.

The partnership builds on an existing collaboration that began in early 2024, when Sony’s displays showcased Stella McCartney’s Winter 2024 runway show during Paris Fashion Week. The BZ40L models, featuring 45% Deep Black Non-Glare coating technology, were chosen to mitigate reflections in high-light retail environments. Meanwhile, the compact 32” BZ30J displays offer 4K resolution and enhanced color accuracy to highlight intricate design details.

“Our global flagships embody our brand essence, so delivering premium visual quality was critical to showcasing the Winter 2024 campaign’s creativity,” said a Stella McCartney representative. “Sony’s technology aligned with our vision while reflecting shared values in sustainability and innovation.”

Peter Critchley, UK CEO of Trison, added: “Leveraging our global expertise to deliver a premium solution for Stella McCartney’s stores was exciting. This project underscores the synergy between Trison, Sony, and the capabilities of the BRAVIA BZ-L series.”

Mark Stanborough, Sony Europe’s Business Development Manager, noted: “Following the success of Stella McCartney’s Paris showcase, we’re proud to support their retail innovation. Our displays combine exceptional image quality with sustainable design principles.”

Both companies emphasized environmental responsibility. Stella McCartney’s focus on reducing ecological impact aligns with Sony’s “Road to Zero” initiative, which targets a zero environmental footprint by 2050. Sony has reduced virgin plastic use by up to 60% in its devices through SORPLAS™, a recycled material, while optimizing energy efficiency and packaging.

Fifteen BRAVIA Professional Display models, including the BZ40L series, incorporate sustainable features such as recycled plastics, reduced ink usage on packaging, and an Eco dashboard to monitor energy consumption.

VMO Expands Retail Media Network with New LED Screens in New Zealand

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VMO Expands Retail Media Network with New LED Screens in New Zealand

Out-of-home advertising provider VMO has installed a new double-sided LED screen at Barrington Community Shopping Centre in Spreydon, Christchurch, as part of its ongoing expansion across New Zealand’s retail hubs. The screen, measuring six metres in height and two metres in length, is positioned in the centre’s main thoroughfare, aiming to capture consumer attention during peak shopping periods.

This follows VMO’s December 2023 launch of a four-metre double-sided screen at Highbury Birkenhead, a busy entertainment and dining precinct in Auckland’s Birkenhead Village. The Highbury location, anchored by Woolworths and Live Wire Super Park—New Zealand’s largest indoor playground—serves as a strategic site for brand visibility.

Rob Forsyth, Commercial Director of VMO New Zealand, emphasized the company’s focus on retail-centric growth. “These new sites are another great example of VMO’s commitment to giving brands more opportunities to connect with consumers across the retail space,” he said. “It also expands our growing large-format network, which is being deployed in key strategic retail locations nationally. After successfully launching our first site at Ormiston Town Centre, we have more sites in the pipeline set to roll out across the year.”

Since entering New Zealand’s retail media market in August 2023, VMO has secured advertising rights to over 20 shopping centres in major cities, including Auckland, Christchurch, and Wellington, as well as regional hubs such as Invercargill, Queenstown, Hastings, and Taupō. The company’s current portfolio includes large-format screens and supermarket proximity displays.

By the end of 2025, VMO plans to expand its network to more than 50 locations, blending high-traffic retail zones with community-focused areas. The initiative aligns with broader industry trends prioritizing targeted, location-based advertising to engage shoppers closer to purchase decisions.

Wildstone Secures 13 Key London Digital Billboards in £80M TfL Deal

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Wildstone Secures 13 Key London Digital Billboards in £80M TfL Deal

Wildstone, a leading owner of outdoor media infrastructure operating across the UK, Europe, and Australia, has finalized a £80 million (approx. $97 million USD), 99-year lease agreement with Transport for London (TfL) to acquire 13 high-profile digital advertising installations across the British capital. The deal, one of the largest of its kind, grants Wildstone control over premium sites in iconic locations, including Euston Road underpass, Old Street Roundabout (“Silicon Roundabout”), Chiswick Towers, and Wandsworth Roundabout.

The acquisition strengthens Wildstone’s portfolio of over 5,000 digital and traditional billboards in the UK and Europe while providing TfL with critical revenue to reinvest in London’s transport infrastructure. Combined, the sites attract over one million vehicles daily, offering advertisers access to high-traffic arterial routes such as Leytonstone underpass, A40 underpass in Ealing, and key corridors toward Heathrow Airport.

The agreement underscores a broader trend of public-sector entities collaborating with private firms to generate revenue while upgrading urban infrastructure. For TfL, the deal delivers financial support as it seeks diversified funding streams. Chris Reader, TfL’s Head of Commercial Media, stated: “We’re pleased to have worked with Wildstone in this long-term agreement, which will give advertisers the opportunity to reach thousands of people every day with innovative and creative designs. The money received through this work will be reinvested into the transport network, helping more people travel safely and efficiently across the city.”

Wildstone plans to upgrade the newly acquired sites, enhancing their appeal to advertisers and road users. Media sales for the digitized billboards will continue to be managed by incumbents Clear Channel, Global, JCDecaux, and Ocean Outdoor.

Damian Cox, Wildstone’s Founder & Global CEO, emphasized the strategic value of the deal: “This acquisition reinforces Wildstone’s commitment to redefining digital outdoor advertising. We’re excited to bring fresh innovation to these iconic sites, working with talented architects to elevate their appeal to advertisers. A huge thank you to the incredibly dedicated team at TfL, without whom this project wouldn’t have been possible.”

The transaction aligns with Wildstone’s ambitions to expand its global footprint in the Out of Home (OOH) advertising sector. Analysts note the growing demand for digital billboards in high-visibility urban areas, driven by their ability to deliver targeted, dynamic content.

Kevel Acquires Nexta to Enhance Retail Media Platform with AI-Driven Automation

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Kevel Acquires Nexta to Enhance Retail Media Platform with AI-Driven Automation

Kevel, a provider of API-based retail media ad-serving technology, has acquired Nexta, an automated self-serve advertising platform. The move aims to combine Kevel’s on-site ad tech with Nexta’s off-site automation tools, offering retailers a unified solution to manage multi-channel campaigns, optimize performance, and unlock new revenue streams.

Kevel’s Retail Media Cloud™ enables retailers to build custom ad platforms in-house, while Nexta’s AI-driven ad manager streamlines workflows for operations teams. The integration of Nexta’s technology into Kevel’s platform will provide a full-stack retail media solution, enhancing ad personalization, operational efficiency, and customization options.

“This acquisition reinforces Kevel’s commitment to transforming the retail media landscape by enabling retailers to launch custom programs that drive revenue,” said James Avery, CEO of Kevel. “Nexta shares our ethos of making advertising accessible to all advertisers on a level playing field.”

Nexta’s AI capabilities focus on simplifying ad management for retailers, marketplaces, and publishers. By merging Kevel’s API-driven infrastructure with Nexta’s user interface, the combined solution will allow retailers to manage on-site, off-site, and in-store ads within a single platform.

Martin Jensen, Founder and Chairman of Nexta, called the merger “a match made in heaven,” citing Kevel’s global reach and complementary offerings. “Together, we’re positioned to create a game-changing solution in retail media,” he added.

The global retail media market is projected to grow to $170 billion by 2025, according to WARC, as retailers increasingly leverage first-party data and closed-loop attribution to engage customers.

Jesper Urban, CEO of Nexta, emphasized alignment with Kevel’s vision: “Our focus on AI-driven automation and scalable advertising mirrors Kevel’s goals. Combining our tech will drive the industry forward.”

Kevel’s COO, Puja Rios, highlighted the importance of API-led solutions: “Retailers need control across on-site, off-site, and in-store ads. This integration meets that demand while offering tailored UIs for their teams and advertisers.”

Under the agreement, Nexta’s products will be integrated into Kevel’s Retail Media Cloud™, creating a customizable, data-driven platform. Existing and prospective customers can access the enhanced solution later this year.

About Kevel
Kevel provides AI-driven ad tech APIs through its Retail Media Cloud™, empowering retailers to build customizable ad platforms while retaining control of first-party data. Clients include The Home Depot, Chewy, and Lyft. Learn more at www.kevel.com.

About Nexta
Nexta specializes in AI-driven self-serve advertising tools, streamlining ad management for retailers and publishers. The platform emphasizes automation, scalability, and measurable insights.

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