| Moodie Davitt Snapshots – The UK’s second-busiest airport parts company with its long-time advertising concessionaire, Global. – The transition, effective 1 April next year, brings the whole business in-house. – The move is optimally timed following government approval to progress the Northern Runway Programme. – London Gatwick says the change will allow it to work more directly and creatively with brands and agencies. – The development will be closely monitored by the airport and OOH sectors worldwide, especially given VINCI Airports’ status as the world’s leading private airport operator |
UK. In big breaking news, London Gatwick is to bring the management of its airport-wide advertising estate in-house, giving brands a direct route to one of the UK’s largest and most valuable travel audiences.
The business is currently managed by British OOH and radio company Global Media & Entertainment Limited (Global), which retained contract for Gatwick Airport for five years in 2022, consolidating its position as the UK’s largest airport media owner.
The transition, effective 1 April 2027 will enable London Gatwick to work more closely with advertisers and agency partners, the airport company said.
This will drive the creation of campaigns that better connect with the airport’s 40 million-plus global passengers and “make the most of the airport environment”, London Gatwick added.
Over recent years, London Gatwick has invested heavily in its media estate, expanding a portfolio of more than 250 premium digital screens, high-impact advertising sites and passenger engagement opportunities throughout the airport.
As its passenger numbers continue to grow, London Gatwick said it offers brands access to a large, diverse and highly engaged audience at key moments in their journey, whether travelling for business, leisure or visiting friends and family.
The move comes at an exciting time, the company noted, as the airport has received government approval to progress its Northern Runway Programme. This will enable London Gatwick to welcome up to 80 million passengers a year upon completion.
London Gatwick Head of Airport Access, Marketing & Commercial Products Oliver Bedford said: “London Gatwick gives brands the opportunity to reach millions of consumers in a unique environment, at a time when they’re engaged, making decisions and preparing for their journey.
“Bringing our advertising estate in-house will allow us to work more directly with brands and agencies, develop more creative opportunities and build partnerships that deliver value for everyone involved.
“We would also like to thank Global for their support and partnership in managing the airport’s advertising estate over many years.” ✈
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Comment: This is an intriguing move by London Gatwick, especially considering its ownership base – VINCI Airports owns a 50.01% stake in the airport, with Global Infrastructure Partners managing the remaining 49.99%, writes Martin Moodie.
