Industries in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico’s economy has had a long and dynamic history, especially as it relates to its status as a US territory. The island is known especially for the incredible beaches and storied sightseeing destinations. This makes tourism one of its most important economic sectors. However, there is a lot about the industries in Puerto Rico that you may not know.

Up until the mid-1900s, agriculture was the main industry supporting Puerto Rico’s economy. The island, which had limited mineral resources, was largely neglected by Spanish colonial rulers. However, San Juan became a major trade port in the Caribbean. In the decades that followed World War II, factories and manufacturing became very important to the Puerto Rican economy under American rule. This shift happened because of government-sponsored economic development and social welfare programs. These developments supported private business and updated Puerto Rico’s transportation infrastructure.

Now, however, Puerto Rico’s economy has shifted into a service economy, as manufacturing growth has slowed in the past few decades. The services sector, which includes things like trade, tourism, finance, and government work, has quickly become the leading industry in Puerto Rico. The services sector accounts for around half of Puerto Rico’s GDP and employs up to 75% of all workers on the island.

industries in puerto rico

Major Industries in Puerto Rico

Agriculture

The agriculture industry is still alive in Puerto Rico. However, it is nowhere near the most dominant industry. According to recent data, agriculture makes up less than 1% of Puerto Rico’s annual Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Puerto Rico used to have a relatively large sugarcane production industry, but this has mostly ceased to exist. This is in large part due to government regulations on sugar companies in the US and its territories, as well as on producers abroad that import to the US. Puerto Rico does have a thriving rum production industry, but it imports most of the molasses necessary.

The three traditional farm products still produced in Puerto Rico are:

  • Coffee
  • Tobacco
  • Milk

However, due to its tropical climate, many farms also produce tropical fruits including mango, pineapple, and melon. Additionally, there are beef, pork, and poultry farms that serve both local and international markets.

Manufacturing

In 2010, the manufacturing sector made up 46.4% of Puerto Rico’s GDP. However, in the past decade, a few key changes have caused the closure of many Puerto Rican manufacturing plants. Firstly, global competition has increased. This has caused companies to look elsewhere to satisfy their growing demand. Additionally, the repeal of Section 936 ended a decades-long practice where US corporations had a tax exemption on income produced in US territories, including Puerto Rico.

Despite all this, Puerto Rico still has a relatively active manufacturing sector. Over half of the manufacturing industry relates to pharmaceutical production. Pharmaceuticals make up over half of Puerto Rico’s total exports. The pharmaceutical production industry in Puerto Rico is responsible for employing over 18,000 people. Chemical and chemical products, as well as computers and electronics, make up some other large parts of Puerto Rico’s manufacturing sector.

puerto rico economy

Service

The service industry is Puerto Rico’s fastest-growing industry, and it has most recently overtaken manufacturing as Puerto Rico’s primary industry in terms of GDP production.

The three branches of Puerto Rico’s service industry, described in further detail below, are finance and real estate, trade, and tourism.

Finance & Real Estate

Finance, real estate, and insurance produce up to 20% of Puerto Rico’s annual GDP. Puerto Rico benefits from having its financial system fully integrated with the mainland American system, meaning that many American banks, real estate firms, and insurance companies have offices in Puerto Rico. 

Trade

Trade accounts for about 10% of Puerto Rico’s annual GDP. Puerto Rico is included in the USA’s customs system, and the USA is Puerto Rico’s largest trading partner. The island’s key exports are pharmaceuticals, chemicals and chemical products, and computers and electronics. Puerto Rico also has significant trade agreements with Singapore, Japan, Brazil, and the European Union.

Tourism

Tourist interest in Puerto Rico has continued to grow year after year. Tourists from both the mainland United States and from international destinations continue to be drawn to Puerto Rico’s stunning natural beauty, rich history and culture, and gorgeous tropical weather. In addition, many Caribbean cruises include San Juan as a stop. It is estimated that upwards of 5 million visitors stay at a hotel in Puerto Rico every year, with larger numbers of cruise ship passengers visiting annually as well. Tourism supplies an estimate of over $5.5 billion to the Puerto Rican economy every year.

puerto rico industries

Outlook: Which Industries in Puerto Rico are Poised for Growth?

The service industry in Puerto Rico is the most obvious for continuous future growth. Tourism interest will only continue to grow. Additionally, experts project growth in real estate and financial services for the foreseeable future as well. 

Additionally, entrepreneurship is another area with potential for growth. Entrepreneurship is currently is still at the beginning of its growth in Puerto Rico. Nevertheless, many organizations focused on growing small businesses have begun to establish a presence on the island. The Puerto Rican government also has many programs that allow aspiring entrepreneurs to access funding. 

A key factor that many companies tend to overlook is the importance of advertising. Advertising can help convey a brand’s image and desire to new and current consumers. This in turn helps to drive sales and foster brand loyalty. It’s extremely important to understand the local culture of the city, state, town, country, or territory that you hope to advertise in, and there’s no better way to do that than by working with a local advertising group.

How bMedia Can Help

No matter what industry your business operates in, bMedia’s experienced team can help you reach new customers across Puerto Rico. bMedia is Puerto Rico’s leader in outdoor advertising, with over 300 high-impact locations to choose from. Moreover, bMedia’s billboards statistically have the highest consumer traffic in Puerto Rico. bMedia leverages cutting-edge technology and industry-specific leading practices to ensure that your advertisement will be seen and noticed by the right customers. Feel free to contact us with any inquiries you have

OOH Advertising Examples

OOH, or Out-of-Home advertising, refers to any advertising media that targets consumers outside of their homes. This is obviously an extremely broad category, and covers many different types of advertisements. Also, there are many great OOH advertising examples from around the world. Therefore, it’s much easier to break OOH advertising up into 4 key categories:

  • Billboard-Type Advertising
  • Street Furniture
  • Transit
  • Place-Based OOH

ooh advertising examples

Globally, a lot of money is spent on OOH advertising every year. In 2019, more than $39 billion was spent on OOH ads. Many large worldwide companies such as Apple and McDonald’s, and even tech companies like Facebook and Google, still spend heavily on different types of OOH advertisements, even with the rise of other forms of advertising, such as ads on social media. 

Benefits of OOH Advertising 

You may wonder why companies still decide to spend money on OOH campaigns like billboards or advertisements in subways in today’s global age. There are a few key benefits that OOH ads have compared to other forms of advertising. Firstly, online advertising can be frustrating, since so many consumers have ad-blockers in place and the ones that don’t are bombarded with so many ads, none really stand out. However, OOH ads don’t have these problems, as they’re basically unblockable.

Additionally, people tend to be more perceptive of their surroundings outside of the home, and can take in your advertisements, even if they’re not consciously aware of it. This effect can boost your other advertising campaigns.

According to research from Ocean Neuroscience, consumers were 48% more likely to engage with a mobile ad when exposed to the same out-of-home advertisement first.

Read on for some effective OOH advertising examples.

Examples of OOH Advertising

Digital OOH Advertising

A key innovation in the OOH advertising space has been digital OOH advertising. While there are many digital billboards that could be considered effective OOH advertising examples, the best comes out of New York City. Times Square is saturated with digital billboards that play video advertisements nonstop. Digital OOH ads manage to combine the bright colors, movement, and sound of ads like TV commercials with the size and unblockability of traditional OOH ads. The result of this is a new, hybrid advertisement that blends the benefits of multiple forms of advertising.

ooh advertising billboards

Billboards

Billboards are one of the most common forms of OOH ads. Because of how many billboards there are worldwide, it can be difficult to make a billboard ad that stands out. You aren’t sure if drivers passing by will notice it. To solve this, effective billboard advertising should be creative and memorable. 

One company that’s done a great job with its billboard advertising is Apple. In 2015, Apple launched its “Shot on iPhone” campaign. The campaign offered iPhone users the opportunity to capture images on their phones that would then be used on billboards, commercials, and other ads. Apple’s Shot on iPhone campaign displays the importance of engaging consumers and being thoughtful with image selection.

Another fantastic billboard example was a Formula toothpaste billboard in Indonesia. This remarkably creative advertisement shows a man whose teeth are so strong that he is literally ripping the billboard off of its supporting structure. This billboard is a wonderful example of using creativity to stand out. 

Posters

Posters are another extremely common form of OOH advertisements. Because of their small size and widespread use, it’s extremely important to design a poster that will immediately stand out. Eye-popping colors and creative images will help ensure that your ad will be noticed.

Some tips for effective poster advertising include:

  • Create the poster to cater to a specific audience
  • Use your brand’s color scheme
  • Include a call to action
  • Pick high-quality images
  • Use text sparingly; include only the information that consumers really need

Airports

Airport advertisements are a subset of place-based advertising. Many companies consider airports a gold mine for ads. They are a fantastic place to either stick with traditional billboards or posters, but you can also utilize other aspects of airports, such as conveyor belts, to create incredibly unique advertisements. 

One example of creative airport advertising is at the Venice Marco Polo Airport. The Casino de Venezia decided to turn a baggage collection belt into a life-sized roulette wheel. This fun, unique advertisement did a fantastic job at keeping people engaged during an otherwise mundane activity of waiting for your luggage. In addition, the Casino reported that visits increased by 60% after installing this advertisement. 

Another interactive airport advertisement was installed in the Tokyo Airport in anticipation of the 2020 Summer Olympics. The Tokyo airport turned an entire airport terminal into a running track. This incredibly creative advertisement is a great example of utilizing the entire airport to promote an event.

best examples of ooh advertising

Street Furniture 

The most common use of street furniture advertising is at bus stops or on benches. Advertising on street furniture is a great way to not just engage people waiting for buses, but also gets your ad on the eye-level of everybody walking by. 

Nike is no stranger to creative, thought-provoking advertisements, and its ads on street furniture are no different. Nike added its famous, simple logo — the Nike swoosh — along with the word “RUN” to a bench in New York’s Madison Square Park. They then removed the seat of the bench. This simple ad, paired with the action of taking away the seat of the bench, is eye-catching, memorable, and perfectly aligned with Nike’s vision that everybody is an athlete.

Transportation 

Advertising on public transportation, such as buses or subways, is also extremely common. Many people on public transportation tend to be bored. They are looking for some form of entertainment while they travel.

Startup mattress company Casper realized this, and developed a riddle campaign in the NYC subway system that simultaneously entertained riders while advertising their product.

The riddles they put up engaged subway riders, which helped ensure that their advertisement and company would be remembered.

These are just some of the most effective OOH advertising examples, but there are plenty more!

OOH Advertising with bMedia

Ultimately, OOH advertising can be extremely profitable for your company if you are able to develop a creative and memorable campaign. If you are advertising on the island of Puerto Rico, there is no better company to work with than bMedia.

bMedia is Puerto Rico’s leader in OOH media and advertising, and will work with you to ensure your advertisements are seen and remembered. Contact us today!

Business Opportunities in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico has become a growing market for American businesses. In recent decades, technology has allowed for quicker trade and travel to and from the island. The beautiful Caribbean island draws tourists from around the world for its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture. In 2019 alone, tourism in Puerto Rico generated over five and a half billion US dollars. Thus, it’s no surprise that business opportunities in Puerto Rico have been on the rise.

Puerto Rico is a protected American territory, which means that American businesses are more easily able to develop there rather than go to other countries. Real estate is relatively cheap, corporate tax rates are low, and wage costs are lower compared to the mainland. The recent enactment of Act 20 and Act 22 also provides 100% tax exemption on capital gains, interests and dividends earned.

The island offers some great opportunities for businesses across different sectors, and its proximity to the American mainland makes importing and exporting more efficient than running a business anywhere else in the Caribbean.

Puerto Rico’s Economy

Puerto Rico’s economy is dominated by industry and manufacturing, followed closely by the services sector. The manufacturing sector, which mainly produces drugs, electronics and petrochemicals, accounts for about 50% of the island’s GDP (gross domestic product). Tourism, finance and trade dominate the services sector. Puerto Rico has limited natural resources, but continues to produce agricultural products. Its agriculture sector – making up roughly 0.7% of Puerto Rico’s GDP — produces sugar cane, coffee, pineapple and more.

Next, we will discuss how businesses in Puerto Rico can take advantage of its growing and lively economy.

downtown businesses in puerto rico

Benefits of OOH in Puerto Rico

Billboards and OOH (Out-of-Home) Advertising is one of the best ways to promote your business. This is especially true in Puerto Rico. Not only are locals moving around and about, but the tourists, ready to spend some cash, love the island and flock to it year after year.

OOH advertising is crucial in Puerto Rico especially considering how many outdoor activities that visitors can enjoy. Whether people are sightseeing, lounging on one of many Puerto Rico’s many pristine beaches, or enjoying the lush nature in the area, people are sure to see outdoor advertising.

You can expect high engagement from effective billboard advertising in cities like San Juan, Ponce, Bayamon and Carolina because of the high foot and vehicle traffic in these areas. Here are other reasons why OOH advertising is so effective in Puerto Rico.

Continuous Innovation

Billboards are thought to be traditional, and they are. However, they’re also evolving with the times. Billboards can certainly help you capitalize on business opportunities in Puerto Rico.

“Billboards have adapted to the times and are still one of the most popular ways to advertise.” -Eric Hamilton, Tech Times

Digitized billboards are everywhere these days. Times Square billboards in New York City are a perfect example, and there’s a reason why consumers are so captivated by them. Digital billboards have revolutionized OOH advertising. Unlike static billboards, digital billboards can offer multiple design options and even showcase multiple ads on one ad space.

Smart billboards are also on the rise as a dynamic form of digital billboards. Smart billboards use advanced technologies that allow those who encounter them to engage and interact with the advertisement. Technologies that are implemented on smart billboards include sensors, geotargeting, facial recognition and other interactive features.

growing your business in puerto rico

Urbanization and Traffic

Urbanization continues to expand all over the world, and Puerto Rico is no exception. Puerto Rico’s population is almost 3.2 million. On top of that, people are more mobile than ever. It only makes sense for businesses to place ads where the people will be.

In Puerto Rico, the high density of vehicle and foot traffic exposes a large number of the population to billboard advertising. The island’s elaborate highway system increases vehicle traffic even further, offering many placement opportunities for OOH advertising.

High Return On Investment (ROI)

Capitalizing on billboard advertising will help you get the most out of your brand’s advertising budget. Since billboards tend to be located in busy areas, they gather a large number of views and reactions, resulting in a higher return on investment (ROI). The placement of your billboard is just as important as what it looks like. Desirable locations will be more expensive than locations where there is not as much traffic.

Billboard advertising also gives you full control of the ad space, and your ad will always have constant exposure, 24/7. Other forms of advertisement such as TV and radio ads can be costly and won’t reach an audience as large as a billboard would. This makes billboards one of the most cost-effective methods of advertising, as they have a wide reach and are proven to increase brand recognition.

Brand Recognition

Billboards are effective in increasing brand recognition. Billboard advertising is one of the oldest forms of advertising. However, it continues to evolve and remain effective in reaching and captivating an audience. Billboards target a wide demographic in a single advertising tactic. By properly placing an effective ad, businesses have the opportunity to capture any and all potential buyers..

Additionally, there are high chances that people who encounter your OOH advertisement will encounter it more than once, allowing them to remember your brand or product, and even engage with it. Billboards are large and good at capturing the attention of people passing or driving by. Make sure that your billboard is designed with the customer in mind to increase your brand recognition.

business opportunities in puerto rico

Expert Advice at bMedia Group

Both traditional and digital forms of billboard advertising have proven to be one of the most effective and withstanding marketing strategies of all time. At bMedia, our seasoned and well-trained team will help your business get the most out of your OOH advertisement.

With proper insights and strategies, bMedia can help your business set foot in Puerto Rico. bMedia can help to expose your brand to a continuously growing and lucrative market. Contact bMedia Group and we’ll help you maximize your marketing strategy on the island.

Capitalizing on billboard space is capitalizing on business opportunities in Puerto Rico.

Times Square Billboard Cost

Advertising is so much more than just the act of getting your product out in front of your customers’ eyes – it’s an art that balances psychology, sociology, and style. It’s not only about promoting a product or service on a surface level. Your advertising also communicates your values as a business to whoever sees it. The decisions you make with regards to your advertising speak to who you are as a company.

Endless attempts have been made to create effective outdoor advertising that stands out among the rest. These types of media are made specifically for the place and time they are produced in. But what about those advertisements that simply wow with size and spectacle? That’s right, we’re talking about the biggest and most expensive billboard ever — but which billboard, exactly, is the ‘most expensive?’ We’ll talk about a relatively new, massive Times Square billboard cost as compared to the cost of one in Dubai that will blow your mind. Read on to find out more!

Traditional Billboards vs. Digital Billboards

When deciding what kind of OOH advertising methods you will choose to spend your money on, it is important to compare different mediums. Traditional billboards and digital billboards may seem similar, but they differ greatly in terms of cost, as well as in their pros and cons.

digital billboard cost

Traditional Billboards

Billboards are probably one of the first things that comes to mind when you think of out-of-home advertising. Traditional billboards are placed virtually everywhere where people might see them and where they are allowed. Consider how many billboards you see any time you drive on a highway or busy road!

The cost of a traditional billboard will depend greatly on its location, with billboards in rural areas being far less expensive than those in urban areas. That said, it’s important to consider the type of audience you are trying to reach with your advertising when deciding on a location. Traditional billboards are cheaper compared to digital billboards and are effective in reaching a large audience using a very simple message. Because traditional billboards use static images and text, they may not be as effective as digital billboards in grabbing consumers’ attention.

Traditional billboards:

  • Cost less
  • Capture a large audience
  • Have a relatively low cost per impression

Digital Billboards

While traditional billboards have been around for ages, digital billboards are now becoming more popular as technology advances. Digital billboard space is now more accessible than ever. Obviously, digital billboards are going to be more expensive to advertise with than traditional, static-image billboards. Digital billboards can be astronomically expensive in urban and high-traffic areas.

There are some benefits to using digital billboards, though. You can use the space to display video ads or different versions of one ad. Also, you don’t have to pay for your ad to be showing 24/7. Oftentimes, digital billboards will display different ads from different companies throughout the day. You can work out what times you want your ad to be showing to create the most cost-effective strategy.

It’s also normally a quicker and easier process to get your ad up on a digital billboard. Plus, digital billboards timing features allow for more cost-effective targeting. The dynamic, changing nature of digital billboards can also make them more effective than traditional static billboards.

Digital billboards:

  • Are dynamic and may be more effective
  • Allow for more specific targeting
  • Have shorter campaign durations

The Most Expensive Billboard

When we talk about the most expensive billboard in the world, there is a little bit of confusion about whether or not the prize will be taken by North America, or by the increasingly eminent Dubai, long considered a bastion of wealth and opulence in the Middle East. Both locations are known for over-the-top, flashy advertising that is meant to grab the attention of everyone passing by. For as far as the plain facts are considered, though, the most expensive billboard is one that went up in Times Square in the late part of 2014.

times square billboard cost

This Times Square billboard, recently unveiled in the heart of one of the busiest areas of New York City, is longer than a football field. It boasts an unreal 24 million pixel display to embolden the next generation of high-definition advertising. You can see the display dwarfing the crowds below.

Times Square Billboard Cost

So, what does this expensive billboard cost the advertisers of the world to use? A whopping 625k/week. Or, in other words, roughly ~$100,000 a day. The billboard is rented in 4-week periods, meaning that companies will be dropping about $2.5 million for a 4-week advertisement. While this price is pretty much unprecedented, the area sees hundreds of thousands of people a day – people who are likely to notice the gargantuan display that illuminates the marquee above them. For many advertisers, this is a worthwhile investment to make.

While this billboard is one of the largest and definitely the most expensive, it is not the largest in the world. It’s not even the tallest! The distinction of tallest belongs to another Times Square billboard, the uber-iconic vertical one at One Times Square. Meanwhile, the largest billboard in the world is in Saudi Arabia which is the length of almost three football fields!

A Possible Competitor

This Times Square billboard cost may be the highest world with its weekly rate of $625,000, but there is one billboard that has a higher cost in terms of potential. This billboard is none other than the Skydive Dubai billboard that debuted in front of the Burj Khalifa back in 2012, in conjunction with Denver-based Go Fast Sports. Sure, it’s in a prime location… But how does it manage to risk a cost higher than $625k?

The answer lies in the peculiar and creative nature of its presentation. While the billboard is relatively standard, it debuted with a display from a Go Fast jetpack rider – no doubt due to the ties that Go Fast Sports has to the Jetpack International. Since the advertisement debuted with the jetpack rider as a key part of its presentation, it can be considered to be something of a part of the ad itself. See a demonstration in the video here.

cost of billboards

The Times Square billboard cost pales in comparison to this spectacle.

It is estimated that for this billboard to operate at full capacity (that is to say, with a jetpack rider circling it) it would cost a completely unreal $1.3 billion a month to operate. For clarity, that’s operating 24/7, for a whole month. Even still, you might be wondering, how is it so expensive? The answer is that jet-packing is still an incredibly expensive hobby, taking an estimated $500 a second. Until we see those costs drop, this will be without a doubt the most (potentially) expensive billboard in the world.

Reflections On the Two

So here we’ve looked at the two most expensive billboards in the world. One is a massive screen in a key center of the city. Meanwhile, one is in an even more opulent location but requiring an unsustainable display to make the most of itself. They are certainly two different ways to spend, but which one is ‘better?’

Without a doubt, the Times Square billboard is the safer investment. It has a hefty cost, but a great location with a fantastic display. The things that make the Dubai billboard so expensive mostly come down to novelty. While worthy of conversation, these tactics are not a sustainable way to invest in your business. So if you see billboards out in the wild that echo these two, take the option that is the most stable! After all, there is a reason that brands like Google have already sought to place multi-month displays on a display like the one in Times Square.

That being said, it’s important to determine what kind of billboard will be most effective for your advertising strategy. If cost is no issue, or you think your ROI will be worth the higher cost, then a digital billboard in a high-traffic area might be the right choice for your business. If you want to save money and target people in less-populated areas, then a traditional static billboard in a rural area will be well worth your money. The great thing about coming up with your most cost-effective strategy is that there are so many different options to choose from.

Money Better Spent in Puerto Rico

While Times Square is certainly a great spot to advertise if you’ve got the money, advertising elsewhere is probably going to be the better investment. Take somewhere like Puerto Rico, for example. You’re obviously going to have a lower cost and still get lots of eyes on your ad. Tourism is one of Puerto Rico’s leading industries. In 2019 alone, 2.27 million international tourists traveled to Puerto Rico. Additionally, the pedestrian and vehicle traffic is high in density all across Puerto Rico, making billboards a very effective advertising method.

How bMedia Can Help

bMedia specialists in Puerto Rico can help you make the most of your investment in billboard advertising. bMedia will help you find the best location, craft the most effective message, and get more business for your brand. bMedia has extensive experience advertising in Puerto Rico and will be sure to help your business make the most of its advertising budget.

Speak with an outside advertising specialist today to create the most effective billboard strategy. For more information, contact bMedia group: experts in advertising in Puerto Rico.

Clever Billboards

They say that a picture is worth a thousand words, but what about action? It is one thing to say you are capable of doing something, but an entirely different thing to actually demonstrate it. This logic governs the concept of resumes and portfolios in the working world. Unlike day-to-day life, billboard advertising usually relies more on telling than showing due to the restrictions imposed upon by the medium. Clever billboards are catching the attention of passersby, as well as curious insects.

Enter Publicis and their innovative, clever billboard for the insecticide company, Orphea, which has found a creative way of getting around the limitations of physical ads.

Orphea Billboard Bug Killer

Location, Location, Location

First, in order to add a little bit more context to this ad, we must understand its location. While easy to overlook if one isn’t careful, the location of an ad is crucial to reaching your target audience. This very same billboard would not be nearly as effective in say, Antarctica, for instance. Even though it is not present for long, the video does a good job of establishing the climate and conditions of Milan, Italy, with a shot of a nearby cloud of bugs. This communicates the idea that to the locals insects are a constant and troublesome issue during the spring.

Even though most everyone can relate to bugs being annoying, the location for this specific ad caters to an audience with a real and prevalent need.

Orphea Insecticide Billboard

Idea Through Action

In order for Orphea to sell their bug spray they must convey to their audience, “our insecticide is effective at killing insects.” If one were to just look at the original graphics of the billboard though, only the name of the company and the product are displayed. The billboard informs the consumer that the product exists but ultimately fails to get across how effective said product is. Technically, this would mean that a violation of the basic guidelines has occurred.

“Rules are what the artist breaks; the memorable never emerged from a formula” – Bill Bernbach

Compare the live performance of a speech versus the transcription of said speech. Elements such as body language and eye contact are lost when only one form of presentation is utilized. In order to fully analyze the strategy of this campaign, one must look past any individual medium of information and must take in the piece as a whole. In this case, the ad uses action instead of using static images and text to convey the efficacy of the product. This ad doesn’t need to say anything because it directly shows the purpose and result of the product. This creates a wordless and automatic association of action and product within the minds of the audience.

Orphea Bug Trap Billboard

Clever Billboards

Things normally become less interesting the more we experience them. Even someone’s favorite song runs the risk of becoming dull if heard often enough. Billboards are much the same way. A creative and unique billboard might grab your attention the first time, but what if you had to drive past that same billboard on your way to work every day for a month? The novelty wears thin eventually.

Most shopping decisions are made on the move. Drivers stuck in traffic or on a long commute have time to think about their wants and needs. -SmartDataCollective

The temporal aspect of this ad makes it even more effective over time, however. The true nature of this ad isn’t stuck at any one point in time. From the original posting to the final result, none of these are really the “completed” ad. The billboard continues to change and grow in an organic way which adds something new for the consumer every time they may pass it. If this was a part of someone’s morning commute, tracking the progress of the ad would no doubt become a staple of their morning routine while it was around. Simply said, the most clever billboards stand out.

This keeps the ad, and likewise the product, at the forefront of the consumer’s mind. If one secures that very precious spot in the consciousness of the consumer, it becomes much more likely that they will be remembered when a purchasing decision is about to be made.

Where Should I Advertise My Business?

It’s a common problem among young entrepreneurs. You’ve got this great product/service, everyone should be using it – but you just can’t seem to get the word out there. However, you’re probably wondering, “where should I advertise my business?”

Don’t worry, you’re not alone. There’s no shortage of small businesses that have trouble staying afloat because they’re not advertising – or at least not advertising correctly.

where to advertise

Where Should I Advertise My Business?

Advertising is a huge part of running a successful business. Think of McDonald’s – how many advertisements would you say you see a day? Five? Ten?

McDonald’s – and other large, successful businesses – invest so much into advertising for a reason: it works. If it didn’t, that’s not where they would spend their money.

In fact, Statista reported that in 2019 over 240 billion dollars were spent on advertising in the United States. The previous year roughly 223 billion dollars were spent. The United States commands the largest advertising expense and revenue in the world.

But even if your budget is smaller and your company isn’t some giant conglomeration, you still need to be advertising. If no one knows your product exists, it will be hard to sell.

If you’re a smart entrepreneur, you already knew this and are working on advertising your business. Learning about how advertising works best is a great start. You can also contact trusted professionals like bMedia Group to help get started on your advertising campaign.

How, where, and through which medium you advertise will all have a giant effect on sales.

Though each type of advertising has its pros and cons, there are many forms of advertising you might want to consider, as well as location.

Let’s start with types of advertising mediums.

Types of Advertising Media

There is a large collection of ways to advertise your product – the hard part is picking the right ones. Read through this list and think about which will work best for your business.

Broadcast Advertising

By far the most easily recognizable, broadcasted advertisements reach a humungous audience. If you’ve got a TV, you’re aware of the number of commercials. Statista reported that 69.6 billion dollars were spent on television ads in North America in 2019. The number dropped slightly in 2020 due to the pandemic.

Another form of broadcast advertising is through radio ads. Though the times of the radio being the main source of entertainment and information are long gone, radio ads still have their place in the advertising world. Radio ad spending is expected to pass 18 billion dollars by 2023.

Depending on the audience you want and the product you have, broadcast advertising can be a great way to advertise – but there are some downsides.

Television commercials are generally short and often require the complete attention of the viewer. It’s also quite costly when compared to other advertising mediums and runs the risk of being too repetitive.

As for radio advertisements, the issue is that fewer and fewer people are listening to the radio.

Reasons for this include the multitude of audio options in modern vehicles, music streaming services, podcasts, and – you guessed it – the number of advertisements on radio stations.

print advertisingPrint Advertising

One of the oldest forms of advertisements, print advertising has been an option for entrepreneurs for centuries. In fact, one of the first print advertisements can be dated back to 1477.

The print ads back then were certainly different than what we have now – generally speaking, print advertisements are those in newspapers and magazines. Other examples include flyers and brochures.

Print advertisements have been the most popular form of advertising for some time – though that trend seems to be changing. Still, though, print ads have their place.

For example, ads in the local paper can really help drive local business. Conversely, advertisements of your product in a magazine with a specific target audience can help drive business as well.

The main issue in advertising through print is thisfewer people are reading the printed word.

Through advancements in technology, newspaper and magazine subscriptions have been in a steady decline, and it doesn’t seem as though that will change.

Online Advertising

This type of advertising has just recently exploded. As the Internet is now integral in the lives of most citizens, businesses and advertising agencies have seen the market for online ads. There are several different types of online ads, including:

  •         Banner advertisements
  •         E-mail marketing
  •         Social media ads
  •         Playable video advertisements

These are just some examples of online advertising.

The prosit’s relatively cheap and very easy to track.

The conssome people fear sharing their data on the Internet and people have become less susceptible to online ads. 

Online advertising is a market that will continue to grow exponentially as new technological advancements come into play.

where should I advertise my business

Outdoor Advertising

Outdoor advertisements are all around us. You’ll find them on bus stops, cabs, and – most notably – billboards.

The budget for outdoor advertising reached over 39 billion dollars worldwide in 2019. Though there are some that worry about the decline of out-of-home (OOH) advertisements, their efficacy still remains.

Outdoor ads are on 24/7. They are always working, always seen, help create a captive audience. They can’t be turned off by the consumer.

The Outdoor Advertising Association of America reported that people spend nearly 70 percent of their day away from home. This makes outdoor advertising a great way to reach people where other ads won’t.

Take a look at some of the pros of advertising on a billboard:

  •         OOH advertising is generally cheaper than other forms.
  •         Billboards help drive local business – the location of the billboard is key.
  •         Consumers can’t turn off a billboard as they can a television or radio.
  •         Billboards don’t need any other form of action – the consumer doesn’t have to watch television or buy a magazine – the ad is always there.
  •         The Return-On-Investment (ROI) is generally very high for billboard advertisements.

OOH advertising is a great way to showcase your business. It allows for creativity in the message, location, and appearance.

Why Should I Advertise In Puerto Rico?

For those who don’t know, Puerto Rico is an unincorporated territory of the United States.

It’s a great market to introduce your product where others likely aren’t.

There are over three million citizens living in Puerto Rico, so the market is there. With a smart, successful advertising campaign, a business could have the lion’s share of sales in Puerto Rico.

Contact bMedia group to get started on your new advertising campaign.

OOH Advertising Trends

With COVID-19 keeping us all indoors and separated for the greater part of 2020, it was assumed that Out-of-Home Advertising (OOH) would fall short in terms of Return on Investment (ROI) for businesses everywhere. However, with vaccination programs in place, and a better understanding of safety protocols and social distancing — people are eager to return outdoors. What does that mean for OOH advertising and what trends can we expect to come from this?

OOH advertising trends

What is OOH Advertising?

Out-of-home advertising refers to any type of communications medium that a consumer encounters when they are outside of their homes.

Despite the pandemic putting a screeching halt on what would’ve been a breakthrough year for out-of-home advertising, it hasn’t tampered with its longevity in being one of the most effective and popular forms of marketing.

OOH ads can communicate to the masses faster and more effectively. It also allows brands to be flexible and creative with their marketing and outreach without limits.

As the world slowly returns to “normal,” more people will be exposed to out-of-home advertisements—meaning it’s going to be a good year for OOH advertising and the businesses that take advantage of it.

Brands have the opportunity to be innovative with their approach and design when it comes to out-of-home advertising. New ideas, concepts, and advertising trends continuously emerge that engage and entertain potential customers who come across these mediums. Here are some trends we can expect from the OOH sector in 2021.

New Media Types

Today, virtually any outside space can be transformed into some sort of OOH advertisement.

We are now seeing new media types such as car wraps, murals, art installations, and digital signage emerging all around us. It’s assumed that out-of-home advertising ends with static billboards and transit posters, but that is far from the truth.

The digital shift has made out-of-home advertisements incredibly innovative.

We now see digital billboards, street furniture, light shows, and transit signage that light up metropolitan areas all around the world.

Digital-Out-of-Home advertising (DOOH), is becoming incredibly popular with some of the world’s largest companies. You can find digital ads at shopping malls, medical waiting rooms, transit hubs, and alongside major roadways and highways.

Unlike static billboards, digital signage allows for moving images and interactivity. Movement is great at grabbing the attention of passerby-ers, resulting in greater impact. Digital signage also allows for a variety of content to be displayed on the same medium, some ads are programmed to change at specific time intervals. The variety will keep viewers interested and more receptive to your ad’s message.

Geotargeting and Mobile Integration

Mobile integration paired with an out-of-home advertisement is known to bring impressive results for any business strategy. Billboards are now using geotargeting technologies that allow companies to generate data that points them to the right demographic, the right location, and the right times to display their advertisement. By targeting the right audience, there is a better chance of a conversion.

Geotargeting delivers content and advertisements to consumers based on their geographic locations. This could include geographical proximity to a mobile billboard or proximity to a store, and etc.

Analytics and data surrounding your marketing campaign ensure adequate media planning. Another benefit to geo-targeted ads is that it allows companies to track and monitor their campaign’s performance.

Interactive Brand Communication

Interactive advertising can be expdigital advertising signserienced through store displays, kiosks, and digital signage everywhere. Interactive advertising encourages consumer participation, allowing them to provide feedback and become part of your ad’s dialogue.

Because these types of out-of-home advertisements are incredibly innovative, consumers are excited to engage with the ad, increasing their conversion and ROIs. These types of advertisements are eye-catching and can become an experience in itself for the consumer.

Through the use of hashtags and interactive games, the consumer becomes involved in the ad, making the branding process more compelling and effective.

Brand Storytelling

Storytelling is a way for brands to create a human connection with their audience. An advertising campaign with a capturing narrative can impact the subconscious, ultimately creating a relationship between the brand and consumer. A consumer-brand relationship is important because you want to have dedicated consumers who’ll remain loyal to your product or service.

When storytelling with OOH ads, brands can design billboards or digital displays that tell only a part of the story, leaving consumers wanting and waiting around for the next saga of your campaign. This creates excitement and hype around your campaign, which later translates into increased ROI and brand awareness.

Increased Budget and Investment for OOH Advertising

The arrival of smartphones saw companies turn more to mobile and web advertising, thinking out-of-home advertising was a thing of the past when in fact, OOH advertising has seen steady growth since 2012.

Many companies are catching on to the reliability and growth that OOH ads can bring and are increasing their budgets for this form of advertising. Out-of-home advertising represents a large portion of advertising spending. In 2017, OOH advertisements represented $29 billion across key markets globally — some of the companies spending the most on OOH advertisements include Apple, Google, and Amazon.

Additionally, major companies such as Netflix and Alibaba are investing big in outdoor ad companies as out-of-home advertising formats are becoming increasingly valuable forms of commercial real estate.

smart technology billboards

SMART Advertising

Consumers are becoming more and more tech-savvy every day, resulting in more of us relying on our smart devices more and more. There are smartphones, smart TVs, smartwatches, and beyond. It’s no question that almost every technological device is transitioning to SMART technology, and it’s the same for billboards and other outdoor signage.

We are now seeing the integration of billboards and SMART technology, known as SMART billboards, which can further increase the visibility of your brand.

Some features of SMART billboards are:

  • Built-in cameras and computer databases.
  • Analytical tools that can pull information from databases and social media to change visuals on the billboard in real-time.
  • Using social media apps like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to provide relevant content that engages the consumer.
  • Providing live updates on weather and traffic.
  • Built-in sensors to trigger ads.
  • Personalized content based on consumers’ reactions and activities.
  • High-tech LED lights and sound systems.

Ultimately, the driving factor for steady out-of-home advertising growth is its ability to keep up with change and global digitalization. This ever-evolving advertising strategy proves this “traditional” means of advertising is here to stay. If you’re seeking to maximize your marketing strategy, it’s best to include billboards and other forms of out-of-home advertising.

At bMedia, we provide our expertise to ensure your brand gets the most out of your OOH advertisement. With proper insights and strategies, bMedia can help your advert resonate and capture the attention of your targeted audience, resulting in increased revenue and visibility for your brand.

What is the Best Type of Advertising?

Advertising indefinitely surrounds us everywhere – it’s on our mobile phones, the radio, park benches, the television, and beyond. Companies now have endless channels to reach target consumers, the next step is determining which type of advertising is best for your business. So, what is the best type of advertising?

To properly determine which advertising route your brand should go with, businesses need to decide where they’ll be able to reach a large number of their target audience, what the costs are for each platform, and how to reach consumers at every sales level. 

Advertising in the digital age is an innovative and creative way for companies to reach large audiences. However, ‘traditional’ advertising mediums, such as billboards also prove to be effective in increasing sales and brand awareness.

types of advertising

Out-of-Home Advertising (OOH)

Billboards have been around since the birth of advertising. This well-established form of advertising works 24/7 and its effectiveness remains unquestioned. Although some might consider this traditional form of advertising as ‘old school’, billboard advertising continues to creatively thrive amidst the global digital shift.

Billboard advertising is doing particularly well in keeping up with technological advancements and rapid urbanization. Billboards now showcase digital signage and 3-D images – doing a better job at capturing the consumer’s attention in high traffic areas. Because billboards are located in busier areas, they gather the highest number of reactions which result in a proven high return on investment (ROI) for businesses.

There are also endless billboard opportunities for brands and businesses. The USA alone has between 425,000 and 450,000 billboards spread throughout the country. Businesses can choose to place a billboard in a specific location that better serves their niche market and gives them access to a large percentage of their target audience.

Additionally, billboards and other types of OOH advertising can cost-effectively result in higher brand recognition and exposure. The broad reach, sheer visibility, and creative impact of OOH advertising can provide results in large-scale growth for companies.

Other types of OOH advertising Include:

  • Transit Advertising
  • Street Furniture
  • Interactive Signage
  • Posters
  • Stunt Advertising

social media advertising

Social Media Advertising

Social media advertising is an obvious route for any brand or business. Social media is being used by everyone, and constantly. Social media marketing strategies use major social platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Youtube, Snapchat, and even Tik Tok to connect your brand with an audience. This can help build your brand, increase sales and boost website traffic. 

Another benefit of social media advertising is that it’s a cost-effective way to build brand recognition. However, this type of advertising doesn’t just end at running an ad online. It involves consistently and strategically publishing compelling content, engaging with followers, and analyzing trends.

paid search advertising

Pay-Per-Click Advertising

Pay-per-click or PPC advertising is a type of online advertising structure where advertisers pay each time users click on one of their online ads. This advertising model allows for the businesses running ads to be charged only when someone clicks on their link or ad.

A common type of PPC is the paid search ad. These are the ads that appear when people use online search engines like Google to help them make purchases. For ads to appear on the Search Engine Results Page or SERP, they are subjected to an automated process used by Google and other major search engines called Ad Auction. This software helps determine if an advertisement is relevant and trustworthy to the user’s search.

Other types of PPC include display advertising through banner ads and remarketing.

mobile advertising

Mobile Advertising

A well-placed mobile advertisement will give a business a reach up to half the world’s population at any given time. People always have their phones on hand which is why mobile advertising has become a billion-dollar industry. This advertising route can reach people in real-time and creates data that can be instantly tracked, giving your company insights and metrics to specific advertising campaigns.

Although mobile advertising is innovative and efficient, it can interrupt the consumer’s mobile experience, resulting in some frustration. According to a report by HubSpot, 70% of people who use cellphones dislike receiving mobile advertising.

Companies considering mobile advertising campaigns must analyze their target demographic, their specific wants and needs, and determine if carrier costs are worth the investment. 

Print Advertising

Similar to billboard advertising, one might assume print advertising isn’t as effective as other digital advertising routes.

However, this is simply false.

The print and publishing industry is continuing to thrive amidst the global digital transformation.

Print advertisements are known to leverage credibility through the ‘halo effect’. Brands that strategically place ads in respected publications are viewed as trustworthy because the reader already has a trust associated with the publication itself.

If your brand is seen as reliable, it can quickly generate leads and increase revenue for your business. 

Broadcast Advertising

Television ads are the most prevalent advertising platforms in America. Despite switching to subscription services such as Netflix, fifty-nine percent of American adults still turn to cable broadcast channels for their primary TV consumption.

This advertising medium continues to win audiences across the globe, there’s a reason why we still love and look forward to Superbowl commercials every year. Concise and memorable commercials leave a lasting impression on the consumer’s mind. A good commercial can result in an emotional response from the viewer — whether it’s shock, laughter, or sadness, the emotional factor can help your message sink in more effectively.

Despite its effectiveness in capturing an audience, TV advertising can be costly as they are the most expensive to produce. From creating content to airing the commercial, the costs can quickly add up.

Time is also a factor to consider when choosing broadcast advertising as production may result in longer hours.

print advertising

Direct Mail Advertising

Direct mail gets noticed, opened, and read. It is also more tangible and personal, which can be beneficial for your marketing strategy. Through direct mail advertising, companies can also target and personalize their marketing message to increase their effectiveness. A recipient is more likely to open mail personally addressed to them.

Direct mail results in better response rates, increased visibility, and creative opportunities. It is also a familiar form of advertising for consumers and can build trust for less tech-savvy recipients.

Knowing the pros and cons of each advertising platform will result in the best and most cost-effective decision for your business. bMedia Group is here to support you in choosing the most suitable form of advertising for your company. Together, we can increase brand growth and reach unlimited success.

Don’t hesitate to contact bMedia Group for more information on the right type of advertising for your business. 

How to Measure OOH Advertising

Advertising surrounds us everywhere we go, whether it’s in our homes, cars, or even outdoors. With the advancement of technology, advertising has become even more effective, as it is easier to measure the results. We can collect data on the number of viewers, impressions, clicks, and so on. However, how do we measure outdoor advertising, such as billboards? Out-of-home advertising has survived centuries of advertising methods and is still evolving. In this article, we will explain how to measure OOH advertising and why it is worth investing in it.

how to measure OOH advertising

What is Out-of-Home Advertising?

Out-of-home (OOH) advertising refers to any advertising that people come across while they are outside of their homes. It includes advertisements on billboards, in transit stations, on public transport, and at other outdoor locations. According to the Cambridge Dictionary, OOH advertising is a form of advertising that people see or hear while they are out and about. It is worth noting that this form of advertising is a significant contributor to the advertising industry, with approximately 29 billion dollars being spent on out-of-home advertising each year.

Types of Out-of-Home Advertising

The Out of Home Advertising Association of America (OAAA) has identified several types of outdoor advertising. This category is quite broad and encompasses numerous types of advertisements. There are many excellent examples of OOH advertising from around the world. As a result, it is easier to divide OOH advertising into four primary categories:

  • Billboard-Type Advertising
  • Street Furniture
  • Transit
  • Place-Based OOH

These advertising methods are widely used by businesses to reach out to their target audience and enhance their brand visibility.

Why Use It?

Almost everyone encounters out-of-home advertising, whether it’s during their commute, while running, or shopping for groceries. According to the OAAA, individuals spend around seventy percent of their day outside of their homes, which makes them highly susceptible to outdoor advertising during a significant portion of their day.

According to a study conducted in 1975 by the Institute of Outdoor Advertising, which was later changed to the OAAA, the name recognition of the current Miss America increased by an astounding 940 percent when it was advertised on a billboard. This demonstrates the significant impact that out-of-home advertising can have on the average consumer. Billboards currently dominate the landscape of outdoor advertising, accounting for approximately 65 percent of all examples.

Another important facet is that out-of-home advertising has the advantage of holding a captive audience, since unlike many digital ads, billboards and other outdoor ads cannot be closed.

Measuring the Effectiveness of OOH Advertising

Measuring the effectiveness of out-of-home (OOH) advertising has been a difficult task for many years, just like with other types of advertisements. Nonetheless, several techniques have been devised by companies to assess the success of outdoor advertising, demonstrating that it is a highly effective way to promote their business.

Traffic Data

Out-of-home advertising is typically placed in areas with high traffic, which guarantees a large audience for any advertisement. According to the American Driving Survey conducted by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, the average American driver spends approximately fifty minutes behind the wheel each day. The survey also revealed that drivers collectively traveled over 2.6 trillion miles in 2016 and 2017, with these numbers representing an increase from previous years. This suggests that more people are driving longer distances, indicating that out-of-home advertising will only become more prevalent over time.

In 2009, the Arbitron National In-Car Study found that 98 percent of U.S. residents aged 18 or older traveled in a car over the previous month. It was also found that 71 percent of drivers looked at billboards they passed along the road. This shows that an enormous amount of eyes glance over billboards each day. Another finding was that viewers retained the information from billboards, including going to a restaurant or watching a show because of one.

Return On Investment

Another way businesses are measuring the effectiveness of billboards is by checking the Return On Investment (ROI). ROI is defined as a performance measure used to evaluate the efficiency of an investment. The research found that for every dollar spent on billboard advertising, nearly six dollars were generated in profit.

Giant companies like Amazon and McDonald’s have found that an overall increase in sales often follows advertising through billboards in a particular region. A company in Phoenix, AZ found that after campaigning using billboards, 64 percent of consumers reported learning of them through their OOH advertising, leading them to keep investing in outdoor marketing.

Unique Advertisements

Companies have also started to use specific phone numbers, QR codes, and custom landing pages to evaluate how well their advertising is working. By placing a phone number only found on the out-of-home advertisement, a business can gauge exactly how many people have found them because of that exact ad.

The same can also be done with a unique QR code and digital tracking. A custom landing page for a company website found only on an outdoor advertisement also helps a company calculate an ad’s performance. Another example of this is displaying a distinct slogan only found on an out-of-home advertisement and analyzing how often those words pop up in a company’s analytics.

Case Studies

Over the years, many case studies have been conducted to show that out-of-home advertising is a viable way to grow a business and increase sales. In 2019, the Nielsen Out of Home Advertising Study found that 33 percent of their interviewees looked up a website because of an out-of-home advertisement. It was also found that close to a quarter of the interviewees talked about an advertisement that they had seen away from home with a friend.

At bMedia, we understand that measuring the success of OOH advertising campaigns can be complex. However, we are confident in our ability to demonstrate the lasting impact of our campaigns on the marketing industry. Let us show you tangible results that speak to our expertise and enthusiasm for this field.

what is OOH advertising

OOH Advertising Trends

Today, virtually any outside space can be transformed into some sort of OOH advertisement.

There are new forms of media emerging all around us, such as car wraps, murals, art installations, and digital signage. Out-of-home advertising no longer ends with static billboards and transit posters. Thanks to the digital shift, it has become incredibly innovative. Digital billboards, street furniture, light shows, and transit signage are now lighting up metropolitan areas all around the world.

Digital signage offers more flexibility than traditional static billboards. It can display moving images and interactive content, which is great for catching the attention of passerby-ers and making a greater impact. Additionally, digital signage allows for multiple ads to be displayed on the same medium, with some ads programmed to change at specific time intervals. This variety keeps viewers engaged and receptive to your ad’s message.

Geotargeting and Mobile Integration

Mobile integration paired with an out-of-home advertisement is known to bring impressive results for any business strategy. Billboards are now using geotargeting technologies that allow companies to generate data that points them to the right demographic, the right location, and the right times to display their advertisement. By targeting the right audience, there is a better chance of a conversion.

Geotargeting delivers content and advertisements to consumers based on their geographic locations. This could include geographical proximity to a mobile billboard or proximity to a store, and etc.

Analytics and data surrounding your marketing campaign ensure adequate media planning. Another benefit to geo-targeted ads is that it allows companies to track and monitor their campaign’s performance.

Interactive Brand Communication

Interactive advertising can be experienced through store displays, kiosks, and digital signage everywhere. It encourages consumer participation, allowing them to provide feedback and become part of your ad’s dialogue.

Because these types of out-of-home advertisements are incredibly innovative, consumers are excited to engage with the ad, increasing their conversion and ROIs. These types of advertisements are eye-catching and can become an experience in itself for the consumer.

Through the use of hashtags and interactive games, the consumer becomes involved in the ad, making the branding process more compelling and effective.

Brand Storytelling

Storytelling is a way for brands to create a human connection with their audience. An advertising campaign with a capturing narrative can impact the subconscious, ultimately creating a relationship between the brand and consumer. A consumer-brand relationship is important because you want to have dedicated consumers who’ll remain loyal to your product or service.

When storytelling with OOH ads, brands can design billboards or digital displays that tell only a part of the story, leaving consumers wanting and waiting around for the next saga of your campaign. This creates excitement and hype around your campaign, which later translates into increased ROI and brand awareness.

Increased Budget and Investment for OOH Advertising

The arrival of smartphones saw companies turn more to mobile and web advertising, thinking out-of-home advertising was a thing of the past when in fact, OOH advertising has seen steady growth since 2012.

Many companies are catching on to the reliability and growth that OOH ads can bring and are increasing their budgets for this form of advertising. Out-of-home advertising represents a large portion of advertising spending. In 2017, OOH advertisements represented $29 billion across key markets globally — some of the companies spending the most on OOH advertisements include Apple, Google, and Amazon.

Additionally, major companies such as Netflix and Alibaba are investing big in outdoor ad companies as out-of-home advertising formats are becoming increasingly valuable forms of commercial real estate.

SMART Advertising

Consumers are becoming more and more tech-savvy every day, resulting in more of us relying on our smart devices more and more. There are smartphones, smart TVs, smartwatches, and beyond. It’s no question that almost every technological device is transitioning to SMART technology, and it’s the same for billboards and other outdoor signage.

We are now seeing the integration of billboards and SMART technology, known as SMART billboards, which can further increase the visibility of your brand.

Some features of SMART billboards are:

  • Built-in cameras and computer databases.
  • Analytical tools that can pull information from databases and social media to change visuals on the billboard in real-time.
  • Using social media apps like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to provide relevant content that engages the consumer.
  • Providing live updates on weather and traffic.
  • Built-in sensors to trigger ads.
  • Personalized content based on consumers’ reactions and activities.
  • High-tech LED lights and sound systems.

The steady growth of out-of-home advertising is driven by its adaptability to change and global digitalization. This dynamic advertising strategy demonstrates that “traditional” advertising methods are still relevant in today’s market. If you want to maximize your marketing strategy, it’s wise to include billboards and other forms of out-of-home advertising.

OOH advertising trends

OOH Advertising Examples

A key innovation in the OOH advertising space has been digital OOH advertising. While there are many digital billboards that could be considered effective OOH advertising examples, the best comes out of New York City. Times Square is saturated with digital billboards that play video advertisements nonstop. Digital OOH ads manage to combine the bright colors, movement, and sound of ads like TV commercials with the size and unblockability of traditional OOH ads. The result of this is a new, hybrid advertisement that blends the benefits of multiple forms of advertising.

Billboards

Billboards are one of the most common forms of OOH ads. Because of how many billboards there are worldwide, it can be difficult to make a billboard ad that stands out. You aren’t sure if drivers passing by will notice it. To solve this, effective billboard advertising should be creative and memorable.

One company that’s done a great job with its billboard advertising is Apple. In 2015, Apple launched its “Shot on iPhone” campaign. The campaign offered iPhone users the opportunity to capture images on their phones that would then be used on billboards, commercials, and other ads. Apple’s Shot on iPhone campaign displays the importance of engaging consumers and being thoughtful with image selection.

Another fantastic billboard example was a Formula toothpaste billboard in Indonesia. This remarkably creative advertisement shows a man whose teeth are so strong that he is literally ripping the billboard off of its supporting structure. This billboard is a wonderful example of using creativity to stand out.

Posters

Posters are another extremely common form of OOH advertisements. Because of their small size and widespread use, it’s extremely important to design a poster that will immediately stand out. Eye-popping colors and creative images will help ensure that your ad will be noticed.

Some tips for effective poster advertising include:

  • Create the poster to cater to a specific audience
  • Use your brand’s color scheme
  • Include a call to action
  • Pick high-quality images
  • Use text sparingly; include only the information that consumers really need

Airports

Airport advertisements are a subset of place-based advertising. Many companies consider airports a gold mine for ads. They are a fantastic place to either stick with traditional billboards or posters. You can also utilize other aspects of airports, such as conveyor belts, to create incredibly unique advertisements.

One example of creative airport advertising is at the Venice Marco Polo Airport. The Casino de Venezia decided to turn a baggage collection belt into a life-sized roulette wheel. This fun, unique advertisement did a fantastic job at keeping people engaged during an otherwise mundane activity of waiting for your luggage. In addition, the Casino reported that visits increased by 60% after installing this advertisement.

Another interactive airport advertisement was installed in the Tokyo Airport in anticipation of the 2020 Summer Olympics. The Tokyo airport turned an entire airport terminal into a running track. This incredibly creative advertisement is a great example of utilizing the entire airport to promote an event.

Street Furniture

Street furniture advertising is most commonly seen at bus stops or on benches. Advertising on street furniture can be a great way to engage those walking by. Nike is well-known for its creative and thought-provoking advertisements, and its ads on street furniture are no exception. In one example, Nike placed its iconic swoosh logo along with the word “RUN” on a bench in Madison Square Park in New York. They then removed the seat of the bench. This simple yet eye-catching ad, combined with the action of removing the seat, is memorable and perfectly aligned with Nike’s message that everyone is an athlete.

Transportation

Advertising on public transportation, such as buses or subways, is also extremely common. Many people on public transportation tend to be bored. They are looking for some form of entertainment while they travel.

Startup mattress company Casper realized this, and developed a riddle campaign in the NYC subway system that simultaneously entertained riders while advertising their product.

The riddles they put up engaged subway riders, which helped ensure that their advertisement and company would be remembered.

These are just some of the most effective OOH advertising examples, but there are plenty more!

OOH Advertising with bMedia

Looking to increase your company’s profits? Consider investing in OOH advertising. With a creative and memorable campaign, you can attract more customers and increase your bottom line. And if you’re advertising in Puerto Rico, there’s no better partner than bMedia, the island’s top OOH media and advertising company.

We’re passionate about helping your business succeed, and we’ll work closely with you to ensure your ads are effective and memorable. So why wait? Contact us today and let’s get started.