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USA. Chicago City Council has voted to award Clear Channel Airports a new five-year contract with five one-year extension options to provide indoor digital media programmes at the city’s two airports, O’Hare and Midway International.
Clear Channel Airports has owned and operated advertising space at both airports since 2002 and the new deal is expected to deliver to the city revenues of US$25 million annually from advertising and sponsorships.
“The new advertising platforms will enhance the look and feel of the global gateways to our city, O’Hare and Midway, with vibrant, dynamic displays and interactive features that set a new world model for other cities and airports to follow,” said Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel.
“It includes cutting-edge technology that will inform and entertain travellers, and help them better navigate Chicago’s airports. The agreements also provide opportunities for disadvantaged business enterprises and will optimise concession revenues to the airport.”
Clear Channel’s programme will feature nearly 400 digital devices and will reach more than 66 million passengers in Chicago annually. Among the company’s plans are:
• The first ever 360 degree digital globe in an airport suspended from the ceiling of Terminal 3.
• Two digital soffits (overhangs) comprising a total of 60 LCD screens creating 412 square feet of dynamic digital surface each.
• A full network of interactive digital directories providing travellers instant access to information on restaurants, hotels, etc.
• Embedded digital tablets available to travellers within sponsored FreeCharge work stations allowing passengers to connect with work or home.
• Various living green foliage walls and a green education area emphasizing the City of Chicago’s commitment to green areas and environmentally friendly practices.
The Chicago contract is one of more than 47 awarded to Clear Channel Airports over the last two years, with similar deals signed at Denver, Philadelphia and Detroit International airports.
Clear Channel Airports Vice President John J. Moyer said: “Clear Channel is excited to continue its partnership with the City of Chicago. Airports across North America are making it clear that Clear Channel is the preferred partner for airport media, and this new contract will give Chicago’s airports the latest digital technologies for advertisers to connect with millions of travellers, on a greater, more meaningful level than before while delivering an additional revenue stream to the city.”
