Newad, an advertising firm from Canada, has announced that in early 2012, it will start the integration of near field communication (NFC) technology into its out-of-home and digital out-of-home networks.
Beginning in January of next year, Newad’s advertising displays will include embedded NFC chips, which will allow the users of smartphones that are NFC enabled to tap their phones against the ad so that they can immediately connect to a plethora of possible materials, such as discount coupons, information, or even the chance to purchase the product in the advertisement.
The company explained that two hundred of the Big Backlit boards by Newad will contain this technology, and they will be positioned on university and college campuses across Canada, where there is a large and growing number of smartphone users.
Newad says that this NFC technology integration into a marketing environment is a first within that country. This technology is being seen as a possible global standard for consumers who want to make purchases without having to bring their wallets with them. Therefore, these advertisements will be offered by Newad in places where both payment and interaction can occur.
For example, movie passes and concert tickets are some of the most obvious examples of how NFC technology can be used for making purchases. The technology can also allow consumers to obtain relevant information, such as store locators, videos, and images, relating to the item being promoted.
President and CEO of Newad, Michael Reha, said that “Not only is this good news for Newad and its advertisers, but for Canada’s entire advertising, marketing and mobility industry.”
