Adwalker in talks with ‘two of three’ major outdoor firms

Adwalker, the “wearable media” specialist, is in talks about collaborating with a number of major outdoor advertising groups.

Adwalker, the “wearable media” specialist, is in talks about collaborating with a number of major outdoor advertising groups.

Adwalker group chief executive Simon Krisp declined to say who he is in talks with, but confirms: “We’ve spoken with two of the three big global outdoor companies about working with them.”

The three largest outdoor companies – Viacom, JC Decaux and ClearChannel – were not available for comment as Marketing Week went to press. One industry observer says it would mark a significant step change for these companies to be involved in destination advertising, although it would be a natural area for them to expand into.

Krisp says the talks were based around business development opportunities rather than an outright acquisition.

Adwalker claims to be one of the largest media companies working in the retail sector. It has deals covering 100 shopping centres and other venues in the UK, and more than 200 shopping malls in the US.

It uses models, known as “adwalkers”, equipped with computers, touch screens and printers to promote brands and events to consumers in shopping centres and airports. Advertisers who have used the medium include Motorola, Jameson, and Paramount Pictures.