With a contract decision that could see more than $25 million delivered to the ‘windy city’, Chicago’s City Council recently voted to award Clear Channel Airports [1] a new five-year contract with five one-year extension options to provide comprehensive indoor digital media programs at Chicago’s two airports – O’Hare [2] and Midway International [3].
[4]Clear Channel Airports, a division of Clear Channel Outdoor, has a long history in Chicago, having owned and operated advertising space at both airports since 2002.
“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,” says Rahm Emanuel, Chicago Mayor. “It includes cutting-edge technology that will inform and entertain travelers, and help them better navigate Chicago’s airports. The agreements also provide opportunities for disadvantaged business enterprises and will optimize concession revenues to the airport.”
In addition to enhancing the air passenger experience with interactive displays and real-time information, the Clear Channel Airports media technologies are expected to attract local, regional and global advertisers delivering to the City the more than $25 million annually from ads and sponsorships sold in O’Hare and Midway.
Featuring nearly 400 digital devices, Clear Channel’s program will reach more than 66 million passengers in Chicago annually. Using flexible, diverse and interactive technologies, Clear Channel’s planned program includes:
- 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 sq. ft. of dynamic digital surface each;
- A full network of interactive digital directories providing travelers instant access to information on restaurants, hotels, etc.;
- Embedded digital tablets available to travelers 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.
In referring to Clear Channel’s continuing its partnership with the City of Chicago, John Moyer, vice-president, Clear Channel Airports, says, “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 travelers, on a greater, more meaningful level than before while delivering an additional revenue stream to the city.”
The Chicago contract represents one of more than 47 new contracts awarded to Clear Channel Airports over the last two years to provide similar services in airports across the country including Denver, Philadelphia and Detroit International airports.