Q3 ZetaDisplay Interim Report August – October 2024

November 29th, 2024

Adrian J Cotterill, Editor-in-Chief

The Q3 Interim report August – October 2024 for ZetaDisplay AB (publ) is now available here.

Report summary:

JULY – SEPTEMBER 2024

  • Recurring revenue, adjusted for discontinued operations*, increased by 20.6% to SEK 62.8 (52.1) million
  • Recurring revenue, excluding adjustments for discontinued operations, increased by 13.6 % to 62.8 (55.3) million
  • Net sales, adjusted for discontinued operations*, increased by 30.7% to SEK 148.8 (113.8) million
  • Net sales, excluding adjustments for discontinued operations, increased by 28.9 % to SEK 148.8 (115.4) million
  • Gross margin* decreased to 57.9% (62.5%)
  • Adjusted EBITDA* was SEK 22.9 (12.0) million

Read the rest of this entry »

‘Zero Power’ ePaper Deployed In Belgian Restaurant

November 27th, 2024

Adrian J Cotterill, Editor-in-Chief

PPDS, the exclusive global provider of Philips Professional Displays has announced that its multi-award-winning Philips Tableaux ‘zero power’ ePaper Series, has been selected to ‘revolutionise’ in-house communications at the historic Nenuphar restaurant and hotel, by delivering a low cost, highly sustainable, digital alternative to paper.

With a history dating back to 1795 and located on the scenic banks of the river Leie in Afsnee, a sub-municipality of the city of Ghent, Belgium, the Nenuphar is a popular ‘high-end’ destination and overnight retreat for locals and tourists seeking a welcoming and serene atmosphere away from the busy streets of Ghent city centre.

With a focus on blending the past with the present, and an ever-growing desire to enhance its sustainability credentials and reduce its ecological footprint, the Nenuphar owners sought a user friendly digital solution to replace and eliminate paper wastage used to communicate its messaging to visitors.

Local AV integration specialist, TechWorks identified the Philips Tableaux Advanced Colour ePaper digital signage series from PPDS as the clear choice to achieve the owners’ ambitions, with four 25” portable models strategically placed for maximum engagement in – but not limited to – the bar, restaurant, event, and restroom areas.

Guillaume De Breyne, Operational Director at Nenuphar said “Our new Philips Tableaux digital poster displays fit right into the ethos and the aesthetics of Nenuphar, enabling us to take a more sustainable approach that looks great and enhances our brand.”

All were seamlessly integrated into the elegant spaces, without distracting from the curated ambiance and have transformed the way the Nenuphar’s team communicates with its customers, eliminating paper – with near zero power consumption.

Kurt Vangerven, Sales Manager Benelux at PPDS told us “At PPDS, we’re committed to supporting our customers, not only in supplying them with industry leading, and often world first, visual solutions, but also in helping them to achieve their sustainability goals – something as a business we’re incredibly passionate about. It’s always an exciting moment when we are able to help likeminded businesses like Nenuphar achieve their sustainable ambitions and we were delighted they selected Philips Tableaux to revolutionise their in-house communications.”

A technological breakthrough in design and engineering, Philips Tableaux from PPDS is the world’s first ACeP display series to be launched by a global display manufacturer. Ticking all boxes for the Nenuphar team, the display range – which also includes 13” and 32” size variants – delivers unprecedented environmental and energy savings, providing vivid imagery 24 hours a day, seven days a week, unplugged and without using a kW of power for days, weeks, or even years. Minimal power is needed only when changing the image displayed or for remote management.

VIOOH Say Goodbye To #TwiX

November 27th, 2024

Adrian J Cotterill, Editor-in-Chief

VIOOH is the first company in #AdTECH and #OOH or #DOOH (that we know of) to officially announce that it is leaving the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter.

In a tweet (its last we assume) it said …

Important update‼️

We will be closing down this account in the coming weeks and posting solely on LinkedIn. Please follow us on LinkedIn to stay up to date with all things VIOOH ➡️ https://www.linkedin.com/company/viooh/

Thanks to everyone that has supported us on here!
👋 Team VIOOH

Here is their LinkedIn page.

November’s Future of Work @Appspace Webinar

November 27th, 2024

Andrew Neale

Want to create a truly intelligent hybrid workplace where your team loves to work?

In this webinar Appspace and proAV will show you how.

Learn how Appspace, paired with smart building tech and #AI, creates a next-level employee experience with personalized workspaces, intelligent suggestions, and friction-free interactions.

In this webinar learn how you can:-

  • Stay ahead of the curve: Discover the latest workplace trends and how to design spaces that employees love.
  • See tech that actually works together: Learn how smart building tech can help you attract – and keep – top talent
  • Get your message heard: Communicate clearly with your team, no matter where they are.
  • Solve your tech challenges: Learn how Appspace and proAV give you the tools to make work easier.

It takes place this Thursday November 28th, 14:00 GMT and registration can be found here.

Roboshuttles and Autonomous Buses 2024-2044

November 25th, 2024

Adrian J Cotterill, Editor-in-Chief

IDTechEx’s latest report, ‘Roboshuttles and Autonomous Buses 2024-2044‘ predicts that the global sales revenue of roboshuttles and autonomous buses is to exceed USD 67 billion by 2044.

Driverless Routes and Roboshuttles – IDTechEx Discusses Autonomous Buses

Automation can vary from level 0 to level 5 within the automotive industry, from sole reliance on driver control, all the way to completely driverless vehicles. Roboshuttles and autonomous buses will likely strive for level 5 operation as a long-term goal but are currently aiming for level 4, where driverless operation can take place within specific areas. The report provides insights into market developments and predictions for growth in the future.

The roboshuttle market

Unlike most buses, roboshuttles are designed to be small, with not-too-large capacities, making them ideal to deploy in higher numbers within small areas. Operating under level 4 driving conditions, they are driverless, efficient, and comfortable, accommodating up to 22 passengers. Despite being smaller than a minibus, the extra room allowed by having no driver means their 4–6 meter length can hold a greater capacity.

Commercialization can be tricky for roboshuttles, with many being deployed on trial but struggling to make it any further. IDTechEx reports a decline in the number of players from over 25 to just 12 since 2020, with most companies still in the early stages of development in 2023. Lack of government funding and sufficient public interest will make it tricky for roboshuttle players to reach larger trials and head on to commercialization, with many exiting the market after the first, smaller trials.

In Q2 2024, seven out of 11 companies within the roboshuttle sector were manufacturers, with three companies in China participating in large-scale testing over the past two years, which is promising for the roboshuttle industry. Success within these trials could pave the way for other companies and potentially incentivize newer startups to emerge.

Autonomous buses – mini, midi, and city

Mini, midi, and city buses are among the various types of autonomous buses, coming in all shapes and sizes. The higher capacity of buses compared to roboshuttles, at around 100 passengers per city bus, means fewer are likely to be needed within certain areas. Being considered a key part of urban infrastructures, there is a need and desire for significant government support to encourage the development of autonomous buses.

The large number of investments required for autonomous buses to become mainstream is indicated by the limited number of players within the market – even with the help of government subsidies. The regulatory challenges faced by companies, alongside the increased challenges and slow progress of level 4 systems in larger buses, are also factors slowing down commercialization.

Examples of market success

Many passengers per week are transported along a 14-mile autonomous bus route between Ferrytoll and Edinburgh Park, demonstrating these buses’ potential to succeed within cities along medium-distance routes. The autonomous night bus project in South Korea also currently fills a gap in the market where a shortage of taxis might otherwise cause transportation concerns, again highlighting a real-world application for these buses.

Minibus companies continue to increase, according to IDTechEx, despite the declining city bus company numbers. IDTechEx outlines that these smaller buses are more likely to reach commercialization than alternatives such as roboshuttles, due to the government support available. VW’s MOIA minibusses are already operating in Germany for city center coverage, and Aurrigo, within the UK and Singapore, is targeting airport and cargo transportation, highlighting the growing success of autonomous minibusses.

What’s next for the autonomous bus market?

The development of autonomous buses and roboshuttles is likely to continue somewhat slowly due to a lack of funding and regulatory challenges. However, IDTechEx highlights the next stages of developments within their report, and with the already commercialized examples of autonomous city buses and minibusses, success in the industry is increasingly likely. Over the next two years, IDTechEx predicts that roboshuttle trials with safety operators on board will expand, and reports that by 2030 they are likely to be commercialized without the need for operators. Despite bus developments predicted to take longer even with government support, they are likely to see commercial trials by 2030, with driverless operations across specific routes in place by 2035.

LED China 2025, February 17-19 Shenzhen, China

November 25th, 2024

Tristan Cotterill

LED China 2025 takes place February 17-19 in Shenzhen, China.

Founded back in 2005, LED CHINA is the largest tradeshow for LED displays. It’s co-located with Pro Audio, Lighting & Systems Asia 2025 and Digital Signage China 2025.

LED CHINA 2025 presents an expansive showcase of LED displays and related technologies—all under one roof.

More information and registration can be found here.

JOLT Co-Branded Campaign w/ ROLLiN’ Insurance

November 25th, 2024

Tristan Cotterill

JOLT Australia’s sustainable digital out-of-home media and #EV charging network, has launched an exclusive integrated partnership with ROLLiN’ Insurance.

This collaboration combines ROLLiN’s comprehensive car insurance offering with JOLT’s EV charging services, creating a compelling offer appealing to both current and future EV owners.

Through this unique co-branded campaign, ROLLiN’ harnesses the strength of JOLT’s trusted EV charging brand and its contextual media network to boost brand visibility across JOLT’s broadcast digital out-of-home screens. Simultaneously, ROLLiN’ engages directly with customers through JOLT’s in-app experience, featuring clickable static and video ads designed to drive awareness, consideration, and conversion during charging sessions.

Brendan Griffiths, Executive Manager at ROLLiN’ was quoted as saying “As we continue to see a shift toward electric vehicles, ROLLiN’ is committed to meeting the changing needs of customers and doing things a little differently. It’s why we’ve designed a product that includes cover for electric vehicles as well as their batteries, cables, wall boxes and adapters. Our latest promotion with JOLT adds charging to the mix, and we’re joining customers for the ride and supporting their needs at every turn.”

Throughout the (Australian) summer campaign, new ROLLiN’ EV customers will get a free six month JOLT Plus Flex membership, valued at $89.94. This collaboration highlights the value of brand synergy, aligning seamlessly with the shared audience focus of both ROLLiN’ and JOLT.

As a customer-centric brand, JOLT is constantly listening to its charging customers’ needs and preferences. This ongoing connection has enabled JOLT to develop strategic brand partnerships that bring mutual benefits to both customers and brand partners. As the only out-of-home media owner to have access to rich first-party data insights, JOLT identified car insurance as a valuable addition to the JOLT Plus offering, enhancing the EV ownership experience in a way that directly supports what subscribers care about most.

Michael Selden, Head of Sales and Platforms at JOLT, told us “ROLLiN’ recognises the affinity we have with automotive brands, and more importantly the future growth of where their customers will come from. This industry first, integrated partnership really demonstrates the value we can bring by providing a platform to engage with our highly valuable audiences in an extremely strong contextual environment for auto insurance. Delivering part of the campaign programmatically, ROLLiN’ can target their audiences on their terms, building brand awareness, and then one-on-one engagement within the in-app environment to target the qualified EV owners and provide the opportunity to switch to ROLLiN’.”

JOLT recently announced the launch of Spark Intelligence, an industry-first data platform designed to re-power the way out-of-home media is planned, traded and reported on. JOLT also continues to grow its multi-channel advertising offering and network, adding video and rich media ads to its suite of mobile advertising products, and recently launching in Canada.

Q3 2024 Revenue Increase Says @YourOAAA

November 25th, 2024

Adrian J Cotterill, Editor-in-Chief

Out of home advertising revenue increased 4.3% in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the previous year, accounting for USD 2.04 billion, based on figures released by the Out of Home Advertising Association of America (OAAA).
This marks the highest third-quarter volume ever for OOH, placing year-to-date growth at 4.6%, building on a strong year of growth for the medium.

“We are excited to see another record-breaking quarter for OOH, underscoring its enduring relevance and effectiveness in today’s media landscape,” said Anna Bager, President and CEO, OAAA. “With digital OOH driving significant gains and urban formats reflecting return to office trends, we’re seeing OOH’s unique ability to adapt and thrive in changing environments. Increased investment from top brands and tech leaders across diverse industries further cement OOH’s position as a critical component of modern marketing strategies. As we look ahead, the industry’s momentum and broad-based growth signal exciting opportunities for advertisers to connect with audiences in impactful, innovative ways.”

Key findings for the third quarter are noted below.

Digital OOH Key Growth Driver
Digital OOH, which accounted for 33.2% of quarterly sales, increased 7.3% from a year ago.
Urban Formats Mirror Increased Return to Office Mandates

The Transit category generated the greatest growth compared to the third quarter of 2023, increasing by 8.3%, followed closely by Street Furniture at 7.3% growth.

OOH Growth Across Diverse Industries Reflects Broad Appeal

Four of the top ten product industries generated double-digit growth: Automotive Dealers & Services +18%, Retail +17.7%, Local Services & Amusements +13.4%, and Government, Politics & Organizations +11%.

Computer Software Leads Product Category Growth
With a remarkable 50% increase compared to the same period last year, the Computer Software category spearheaded the charge. Chain Food Stores & Supermarkets, Architects, Contractors & Engineers, and Legal Services also posted impressive double-digit growth compared to a year ago, growing 23.8%, 18.1%, and 17.7%, respectively.
The top 10 OOH product categories in volume for the third quarter were:
  • Legal Services
  • Hospitals, Clinics & Medical Centers
  • Consumer Banking
  • Domestic Hotels & Resorts
  • Quick Serve Restaurants
  • Local Government
  • Colleges & Universities
  • Chain Food Stores & Supermarkets
  • Computer Software
  • Architects, Contractors & Engineers
Record Political Media Spend Also Seen in OOH

OOH political spend increased 31.6% compared to the third quarter of the last presidential cycle in 2020. Campaigns for ballot issues, U.S. House and Senate races, and the presidential race all grew significantly, increasing 60.7%, 184.3%, and 4075.8%, respectively.

Top Brands Investing in OOH

Ranked in order of OOH spending, the top 10 advertisers in the third quarter were McDonald’s, Apple, Verizon, Amazon, Anheuser-Busch, Morgan & Morgan Attorneys, Heineken, Coca-Cola, Universal Pictures, and T-Mobile.

StackAdapt, which was number 11 on the top brands list, drove the Computer Software category growth with a quarterly increase of over $4.5 million in OOH spend.

“Digital out of home advertising continues to gain momentum as advertisers increasingly seek precision targeting and scalable solutions. Programmatic DOOH empowers brands to execute real-time, impactful campaigns that connect physical and digital experiences seamlessly,” said Greg Joseph, VP of Inventory Development at StackAdapt. “With advertisers recognizing its potential for driving measurable outcomes, DOOH has seen a surge in demand, highlighting its role as a critical component of modern marketing strategies.”
Among the top 100 OOH advertisers, over half increased their OOH spend from Q3 2023, and 17 more than doubled their spend including (listed by spend % increase): Party City, Smart & Final, Johnson & Johnson, Nestle, GlaxoSmithKline, Walmart, ABC, David Yurman, Nike, StackAdapt, Verizon, Total Wine & More, Meta, Sixt, Heineken, Max and 7-Eleven.
Technology and DTC Brand Adoption

Over one-fifth of the top 100 OOH spenders were technology or direct-to-consumer brands, including these eleven brands which finished among the top 30 (according to spend): Apple, Verizon, Amazon, T-Mobile, StackAdapt, Uber, Paramount+, Samsung, Netflix, Comcast, and Hulu.

OAAA issues full industry pro forma revenue estimates that include, but are not limited to, Miller Kaplan and MediaRadar/Vivvix (which is not adjusted to reflect changes in data sources), and member company affidavits. Cinema September data was not included in the quarterly analysis because it was unavailable from Vivvix. Revenue estimates include digital and static billboard, street furniture, transit, place-based, and cinema advertising.

For more information about specific category spend, please contact Steve Nicklin at snicklin@oaaa.org or (202) 833-5566.

New 2025 @AVIXA Board of Directors

November 25th, 2024

Andrew Neale

AVIXA has announced the election results for the 2025 AVIXA board of directors and leadership search committee.

Mradul Sharma, founder & MD, 3CDN Workplace Tech, has been elected as secretary-treasurer of the board by AVIXA membership.

AVIXA members also elected Kristin Bidwell, CEO, Audiovisual Consulting Team (AVCT), and Nicholas Cox, director, IT-AV, Support Team Lead, Mizuho Americas.

The Leadership Search Committee (LSC) appointed John Bailey, SVP, technology & innovation, AVI-SPL, and Tom Shen, president & CEO, SM&W, to AVIXA’s board of directors.

Mike Stead, director of global partnerships, GPA, has been elected by AVIXA members to the leadership search committee.

Cathryn Lai, chair of the AVIXA board of directors, has appointed Virginia Daugherity, Poly SLED collaborations specialist, HP Poly, and Lainie Mataras, senior director of the consultant architecture and design group, Planar, to the leadership search committee.

The 2025 AVIXA Board of Directors is as follows:-

LSC Chair: Cathryn Lai, Las Vegas Sands Corp.
Chair of the Board of Directors: Jatan Shah, QSC
Vice Chair: Tobias Lang, Lang
Secretary-Treasurer: Mradul Sharma, 3CDN Workplace Tech
Directors: John Bailey, AVI-SPL; Kristin Bidwell, Audiovisual Consulting Team; Christian Carrero, Kern & Stelly Medientechnik GmbH; Nicholas Cox, Mizuho Americas; Laila Hede Jensen, Zenova; Gale Moutrey, Steelcase; Kaushik Mukhopadhyay, AVID India & AVID UAE; and Tom Shen, Shen Milsom & Wilke.

Commercial Integrator Expo, September 3-6, 2025

November 24th, 2024

Andrew Neale

Save the date, the Commercial Integrator Expo is returning to Denver, CO, on September 3-6, 2025.

More information can be found here.

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